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Yes, a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel if used with the right pellet, proper shot placement, and sufficient power.
Many people ask if a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel because it’s one of the most popular and affordable air rifles on the market.
The Daisy Powerline 880 is a multi-pump pneumatic that can produce muzzle velocities up to 750 fps with BBs and around 715 fps with pellets.
When you’re wondering can a Daisy Powerline 880 kill a squirrel, the answer depends on several key factors we’ll break down in this post.
In this guide, we’ll explore exactly what it takes for a Daisy Powerline 880 to kill a squirrel, including power, pellet choice, and shot placement.
Let’s get into it.
Can a Daisy Powerline 880 Kill a Squirrel? The Short Answer
A Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel, but it’s not a guaranteed outcome with every shot.
The Daisy Powerline 880 is powerful enough to kill a squirrel when you use the correct ammunition and aim for a vital area.
Here’s why this air rifle can get the job done under the right conditions.
Power and Velocity
The Daisy Powerline 880 delivers enough energy to kill a squirrel if you pump it the maximum 10 times.
At 10 pumps, the muzzle velocity with a pellet can reach about 715 fps, which yields roughly 7 to 8 foot-pounds of energy.
This energy level is borderline but sufficient for squirrel-sized game when the shot is placed precisely.
Many small game hunters consider 6 foot-pounds the minimum for ethical squirrel hunting, so the Daisy Powerline 880 sits just above that threshold.
Pellet Selection Matters
Using the right pellet is crucial if you want a Daisy Powerline 880 to kill a squirrel effectively.
Flat-nosed or hollow-point pellets transfer more energy on impact than round-nosed BBs or pointed pellets.
BBs are usually not recommended for killing squirrels because they often pass through without causing enough shock.
A high-quality .177 lead pellet weighing around 7.9 to 10.5 grains gives the Daisy Powerline 880 the best chance to kill a squirrel humanely.
Shot Placement is Critical
Even with the right pellet, a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel only if you hit the brain or the heart/lung area.
A body shot that misses the vitals may wound the squirrel instead of killing it outright, which is unethical.
For the Daisy Powerline 880 to kill a squirrel cleanly, aim for a dime-sized spot behind the eye or just behind the shoulder.
Practice your accuracy at distances between 15 and 25 yards, where the rifle’s trajectory stays flat enough for reliable hits.
Factors That Determine If a Daisy Powerline 880 Can Kill a Squirrel
Several variables affect whether a Daisy Powerline 880 can actually kill a squirrel in the field.
Understanding these factors helps you decide if this air rifle is the right tool for the job.
Distance and Accuracy
The Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel only at ranges where you can consistently hit vital zones.
Beyond 25 yards, the pellet’s energy drops significantly, making it harder for the Daisy Powerline 880 to kill a squirrel with one shot.
At 30 yards or more, even a well-placed pellet may not have enough force to penetrate the skull or reach the heart.
Keep your shots under 20 yards for the best chance that a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel quickly.
Squirrel Size and Health
A smaller eastern gray squirrel presents a different challenge than a larger fox squirrel.
The Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel that weighs under a pound more easily than a two-pound bruiser.
A healthy adult squirrel with thick fur and strong bones may require a perfect shot for the Daisy Powerline 880 to kill a squirrel outright.
If you’re targeting larger squirrels, consider upgrading to a more powerful air rifle for reliable kills.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Before you try to use a Daisy Powerline 880 to kill a squirrel, check your local hunting regulations.
Some states have minimum energy requirements for small game, and the Daisy Powerline 880 may not meet those standards in every location.
Ethical hunting means only taking shots you are confident will result in a quick, humane kill.
If you can’t guarantee that a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel with your current setup, it’s better to pass on the shot.
Tips for Using a Daisy Powerline 880 to Kill a Squirrel Humanely
If you decide that a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel in your situation, follow these tips to maximize effectiveness.
Choose the Right Pellet
Pick a heavy, domed or hollow-point .177 lead pellet designed for hunting.
Avoid steel BBs entirely when you want a Daisy Powerline 880 to kill a squirrel because they ricochet and lack stopping power.
Test several pellet brands to see which ones group best in your specific Daisy Powerline 880 barrel.
Practice Your Aim
Spend time at the range shooting from the same positions you’ll use in the field.
A Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel only if you can hit a one-inch circle consistently at your intended distance.
Use a scope if possible; the Daisy Powerline 880’s fiber-optic sights work but a scope improves precision for small targets.
Know Your Limits
Don’t attempt a shot if the squirrel is moving, partially obscured, or beyond 20 yards.
A clean kill is always better than a wounded animal, so be patient and wait for the right opportunity.
Remember that a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel, but it’s not a high-powered hunting rifle—respect its limitations.
So, Can a Daisy Powerline 880 Kill a Squirrel?
A Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel, but only when you combine maximum pumps, a heavy hunting pellet, and a careful shot to the vitals.
The Daisy Powerline 880 is capable of killing a squirrel under ideal conditions, yet it demands more skill and precision than a more powerful air gun.
We’ve seen that the Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel if you respect its power limits and choose your shots wisely.
Hope this post has given you a clear answer to whether a Daisy Powerline 880 can kill a squirrel and how to do it ethically.