To determine which air rifle caliber is better, first find out what your gun will be used for. Next, consider what the performance metrics you are most concerned about. Target shooting tends to be done using.177 rifles while hunting uses.22 guns more frequently. While the.177 caliber is faster with less muzzle energy and a lower initial velocity, the.22 caliber offers more muzzle power. Both calibers are great. You just have to decide what the main purpose of your gun will be before you choose a caliber.