What should a first-time buyer get for pest control?

For close-range pests in a populated area, prioritize a quiet, accurate gun.

A shrouded or moderated .22 PCP at 18 to 25 FPE handles rats, pigeons, and starlings cleanly while keeping noise low. A .177 PCP at 12 to 18 FPE is a great choice for indoor barn pests because pellets are less likely to over-penetrate. Always confirm local ordinances; some cities restrict discharge of any projectile-launching device within city limits even if state law is permissive.