Airguns are Legal to Hunt Small and Upland Game in Idaho – Update 2026

Beeman Airgun with Quail (not Idaho)

Yes, airguns are legal to use for small and upland game in Idaho. Yes, this includes migratory game birds (with certain restrictions) New Idaho Fish & Game rules include migratory game birds and waterfowl.  At this time, there are no limits on caliber, or any recommended foot pounds of energy minimums for all game animals / game birds. There are some caliber and types of pellet restrictions for waterfowl and migratory game birds, as well as turkey (.30 caliber or larger). 

Airguns are legal for the take of Small Game, Non-Game Animals, Upland Game Birds, Waterfowl and Migratory Game Birds. 

Traditional Airguns, such as break-action (aka: Springers), pump & PCP are allowed, with no caliber restrictions (.30 caliber is now the minimum requirement for Turkey).

– Calibers include .177, .20, .22, .25, .30, <.

– We recommend quality airguns and pellets for ethical kills (higher FPE).  We here at Varminter do not recommend the cheap types of airguns found at Walmart (ie: Red Rider BB gun, etc).

– Airguns are not classified as “firearms” by the State of Idaho.

18-3302.(1)(d): “Firearm” means any weapon that will, is designed to, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;.

Idaho is already allowing big bore airguns for hunting big game animals (see text of law below).  This clarification on small and upland game makes Idaho one of the best States for airgunners who hunt!

Airgun Hunting for Big Game in Idaho

Stay-Tuned for an upcoming article on recommended beginner airguns for hunters.

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Loren Lunsford

Writer - Predator Hunting / Custom Rifles at Varminter Magazine

Loren is a long-time predator hunter from Southwest Idaho.His experience spans decades, where he has hunted every state in the West, from Arizona to Montana, as well as Canada and Africa.His insight on predator hunting, small caliber builds and using the AR15 as a hunting rifle, will help educate both the experienced and inexperienced.

Latest posts by Loren Lunsford (see all)

• African Plains Game Hunt of a Lifetime – Howa 1500 HS Precision Rifle in .300PRC - November 18, 2025
• Airguns are Legal to Hunt Small and Upland Game in Idaho – Update 2026 - September 17, 2019