Armadillo Recommendations

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Flintsack

Flintsack

Member
Aug 19, 2019
2,139
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Minnesota, United States
I have a friend, who I’m talking into buying his first air rifle. We are going to start out with a springer, for all the obvious reasons. That is sincerely the only type of rifle I’m looking for input on for this thread. He’s down in Florida, and he has problems with armadillos. He has alligator alley behind his 🏡 house. So he does not need to worry about damage. Obviously an air rifle would be more neighbor friendly than a powder burner.

Based upon my knowledge, I am recommending a lightly used R1 in 20 or 22 cal. This rifle would also be used to do some target shooting with his two boys.

Here is the feedback I’m looking for: does the R1 have enough power to knock down and kill a Florida armadillo inside of 35 yards? The R1 rifles are extremely accurate, and have wonderful triggers. Shot placement can be excellent out to 50 yards. In either 20 or 22 an R1 will be in the 20 foot pound neighborhood.

Has anyone killed armadillos with a similar powered air rifle? Or any other springer for that matter?

What is the best aim point for an armadillo?

Thanks!

Mike


 
An armadillo is essentially a rat with armor plating.

A head shot is perfect, otherwise mid-shoulder torso will take him out. I've dropped them with 700 fps .177 beeman heavy pellets back in the 1970's within 30 meters. They are not that difficult to kill. The body shot may take some time to finish it off, unless you are in the 18gr-21gr range for .22 pellets, or better yet... use some hollow point slugs from NSA. ($25 per 400 ct shipped CONUS...I just ordered a batch)

Armadillo's are a biological nuisance to landscaping and other living creatures. They carry a number of diseases including rabies and leprosy. No one I've ever met had an urge to kiss one on the lips, so don't let guilt stop you from using a well placed body shot. In fact, dig out the slug and post some pics!!! (...just don't lick your fingers afterwards!)



Senile, but still blood-thirsty...Kindly 'Ol Uncle Hoot




 
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Only a brain shot will stop them in their tracks. Problem is, they have very small heads, and brains about the diameter of a dime or penny. 

Body-shot dillos will usually run, often far enough to escape recovery. This big one got only 20 yards though, after taking a 28 grain .22 pellet at about 600 FPS.

1581751150_2704083385e479b6e94fcb2.85416492_AR6 armadillo.JPG



 
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RWS 350, 48,52,54 gamo magnum hatsan 135. but for the price id just go for the gamo magnum in .22
Click to expand...

GW got some good hints. Personally, I owned an RWS side-lever back "in the day" it was well built and bloody powerful. My neighbor bought one recently and it chronied 800 fps in .22 caliber. The 48 would make a good slug gun! Lots of knock down power.



Hoot
 
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Yes your gun will kill one. I have killed countless numbers with weaker air guns. Most are inside 15 yds.

At the base of the ears they have no protection. Shot there at the correct angel you can kill with very low power. Its a tiny target and always moving so i get just as close as i can often only a few feet away.

Find a dead one shoot it from close and far here and there.Then you will know what will and wont work. Hope it helps good luck!
 
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