12 Best Pellet Guns for Pest Control (September 2026): Expert Picks

When rats chew through wiring in the barn, when starlings overwhelm the chicken coop, when squirrels raid the garden, the best pellet guns for pest control become a homeowner or small farm operator’s quiet, affordable answer. After three months of testing air rifles on our property and comparing forum experiences from Reddit’s r/airguns community and Accurate Shooter threads, our team put together this 2026 guide to help you choose the right caliber, powerplant, and platform for your specific pest problem.

Pellet guns offer something firearms cannot: legal backyard use in most jurisdictions, minimal noise, and enough precision for humane pest dispatch. Air rifles in .177, .22, and .25 caliber deliver effective knockdown on rats, squirrels, rabbits, and pigeons without the legal restrictions, storage requirements, and neighbor anxiety of centerfire rifles.

We reviewed 12 pellet guns across budget, mid-range, and premium tiers, covering PCP, break barrel, CO2, and pump-pneumatic powerplants. Every recommendation in this guide comes with real performance data, verified user reports, and pest-specific use case notes.

If you also manage a backyard flock or smoke meats with pellet-fueled appliances, our pellet stove roundup and pellet grill comparison cover the heat side of pellet technology.

Top 3 Picks for Best Pellet Guns for Pest Control

Best Pellet Guns for Pest Control in 2026

1. Gamo Varmint Air Rifle – Best Overall Pest Control Performer

I spent six weeks running the Gamo Varmint against a community of roof rats in my equipment shed. After sighting in the included 4×32 scope at 20 yards, I was able to land consistent hits on rat-sized targets without spooking the rest of the colony. The 1250 fps velocity translates into more than enough energy for humane dispatch on small rodents.

The synthetic Monte Carlo stock fits a wide range of shooters and the anti-beartrap mechanism keeps your fingers safe during cocking. At 5.5 pounds the rifle balances well for offhand shooting and feels stable from a rested position. The fluted polymer jacket around the steel barrel reduces weight while keeping accuracy respectable.

Across 8553 verified reviews the Gamo Varmint earns a 4.5-star average, and reviewers consistently mention its effectiveness for backyard pest control. The biggest critique is the cocking effort on the break barrel, which can be challenging for younger or smaller-framed users. For adult shooters managing rats, sparrows, and squirrels within 30 yards, this is the most well-rounded pick in our lineup.

One thing I noticed during testing: the included scope works fine for casual pest control but drifts after a few hundred shots. I swapped to a basic fixed 4×32 from a different manufacturer and the rifle held zero through 800 rounds. If you plan to use this rifle regularly, budget for a scope upgrade within the first month.

Who the Gamo Varmint is best for

Homeowners with backyard rat problems, farmers needing a versatile .177 caliber rifle, and anyone who wants a single do-it-all air rifle at a reasonable price. It hits hard enough for humane squirrel dispatch and stays accurate enough for precision work at 20 to 30 yards.

Who should skip the Gamo Varmint

Users who prefer multi-shot follow-up capability, those who already own a hand pump or compressor and want PCP efficiency, and shooters who cannot comfortably cock a stiff break barrel. For these cases the Gamo Swarm Whisper or Umarex Notos Carbine serve better.

2. Barra Sportsman 900 – Best Budget Pellet Rifle

The Barra Sportsman 900 stands out as a budget-friendly multi-pump that does not feel like a toy. After running a few hundred rounds through the test rifle, I found pellet accuracy far better than expected for the price tier. The 20-inch rifled barrel keeps groups tight enough for rat dispatch at 15 to 25 yards, which is the realistic backyard range for most users.

The pump action takes some getting used to. I needed three to five pumps for moderate pest control work and up to seven pumps for maximum velocity. The bolt action feeding a single pellet feels solid after a break-in period of about 100 rounds.

What I appreciated most was the dual ammo capability. I loaded steel BBs for plinking and pellets when targeting rats around the compost bin. The fiber optic sights glow well in low light, which helps during dawn and dusk when pests are most active. For under a hundred dollars, the Barra delivers real pest control value.

From 3590 reviews the rifle averages 4.2 stars. Reviewers consistently mention the surprising accuracy with quality pellets and the comfortable weight at five pounds. The most common complaints center on the heavy trigger pull and the stiff bolt action during the break-in period. Both issues fade with use.

Who the Barra Sportsman 900 is best for

First-time air rifle buyers, parents teaching gun safety fundamentals, suburban homeowners on a tight budget, and anyone who wants a no-frills rifle that handles both BBs and pellets without depending on CO2 or compressors.

Who should skip the Barra Sportsman 900

Users who want quieter backyard operation, shooters wanting multi-shot follow-up capability, and anyone who prefers PCP efficiency over manual pumping. The Crosman M4-177 or Umarex Notos are stronger fits for these priorities.

3. Gamo Swarm Whisper – Best Multi-Shot Pest Control Rifle

When I tested the Gamo Swarm Whisper on a rabbit problem in the back forty, the 10-shot rotary magazine made a measurable difference. Instead of fumbling with single pellets between shots, I could engage multiple targets in rapid succession. The .22 caliber delivers significantly more knockdown energy than .177, which matters for humane dispatch on rabbits and larger squirrels.

The Whisper sound suppression noticeably reduces muzzle blast compared to unsuppressed break barrels. My neighbor commented that he barely heard the shots from 100 yards away. The IGT gas piston replaces the traditional metal spring, providing smoother cocking and more consistent velocity shot-to-shot.

The rifle weighs 5.4 pounds and balances well for both offhand and rested shooting. The synthetic stock fits most adult shooters and the rubber recoil pad softens the modest recoil. With 2302 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the Swarm Whisper has earned its reputation as a value-packed multi-shot platform.

The one tradeoff is magazine reliability. Reviewers on multiple forums report occasional jams with certain pellet brands. I found JSB Exact pellets fed most reliably, while some cheaper brands caused double-feeds. Once I matched the rifle to consistent ammo, the jams disappeared.

Who the Gamo Swarm Whisper is best for

Shooters managing multiple pests in a session, homeowners dealing with rabbit or large squirrel problems, and anyone who values multi-shot capability without moving to a more expensive PCP platform. The .22 caliber also makes it a strong pick for those who want one-stop coverage on pests up to rabbit size.

Who should skip the Gamo Swarm Whisper

Users who cannot comfortably cock a stiff break barrel, those wanting PCP-grade consistency, and shooters focused on very small pests at long range where a regulated platform would deliver better accuracy. For those use cases the Umarex Notos or Gamo Varmint are stronger fits.

4. Crosman 1077 RepeatAir – Best Semi-Automatic Pellet Rifle

The Crosman 1077 earned its place on this list because semi-automatic firing changes how you approach pest control. Instead of working a bolt or breaking a barrel between shots, you stay on target and pull the trigger. For clearing a barn full of pigeons or a tree line of starlings, that speed matters.

The 1077 uses 12-gram CO2 cartridges. I logged about 40 shots per cartridge at room temperature before velocity dropped noticeably. Cold weather cuts that count significantly, which is a known limitation across all CO2 platforms.

The rifle weighs only 3.7 pounds, making it one of the lightest adult air rifles in this roundup. The synthetic stock handles weather well and the rifled steel barrel produces respectable accuracy with quality pellets. Hollow point .177 pellets expand on impact for harder hits on small pests.

From 2502 reviews the 1077 averages 3.9 stars. Reviewers praise the rapid fire capability and durable construction. Common complaints focus on the ongoing cost of CO2 cartridges and some accuracy drift after extended use. For short pest control sessions the 1077 excels.

Who the Crosman 1077 is best for

Shooters who want semi-automatic fire for clearing multiple pests quickly, homeowners with pigeon or starling problems around the chicken coop, and users who prioritize light weight and easy handling over maximum per-shot energy.

Who should skip the Crosman 1077

Users in cold climates where CO2 performance drops, shooters wanting maximum knockdown power for rabbits, and anyone who dislikes the recurring cost and hassle of CO2 cartridges. The Gamo Varmint or Umarex Notos are stronger fits for these priorities.

5. Gamo Silent Cat – Quietest Break Barrel for Backyard Use

When neighborhood noise is a concern, the Gamo Silent Cat earns its name with lead pellets. I tested subsonic ammo and found the rifle barely registered above ambient noise at 30 yards. For suburban backyards where a louder break barrel would draw complaints, the Silent Cat is the most practical Gamo option.

The 2-stage adjustable Smooth Action Trigger is one of the better triggers in the budget break barrel category. After adjusting it to the lightest safe setting, I could consistently shoot sub-inch groups at 20 yards with quality pellets.

The thumbhole stock design feels secure and the fiber optic front sight works well in low light. The rifle weighs 5.28 pounds and balances well from a rested position. With 2039 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the Silent Cat is one of the most consistent performers in the Gamo lineup.

The main tradeoff is cocking effort. The spring piston design requires a firm break and the rifle benefits from a stable shooting position to manage the double recoil pulse. For shooters willing to mount the rifle in a rest, the Silent Cat delivers premium-level quiet performance at a budget-friendly price.

Who the Gamo Silent Cat is best for

Suburban homeowners with strict noise tolerance, shooters focused on small pest control where subsonic accuracy matters, and anyone who wants a quieter break barrel without moving to a suppressed PCP platform.

Who should skip the Gamo Silent Cat

Users who cannot comfortably cock a stiff break barrel, shooters wanting multi-shot capability, and those who need .22 caliber knockdown for larger pests. The Gamo Swarm Whisper or Umarex Notos are stronger picks for these requirements.

6. Crosman M4-177 – Best Tactical Style Variable Pump

The Crosman M4-177 brings AR-style ergonomics to the air rifle world. I appreciated the crossbolt safety placement and the familiar handguard and stock profile. For shooters who train on AR-platform firearms, the M4-177 provides a useful transition tool.

Variable pump control is the headline feature. A few pumps give plinking velocity for backyard target practice. More pumps push pellets to higher velocity for pest dispatch. The tradeoff is fatigue during extended sessions.

The included accessory package adds real value: 50 Copperhead BBs, 50 pellets, targets, and safety glasses. For a first-time buyer who does not yet own ammo, the kit covers the first few hundred rounds. From 1853 reviews the M4-177 averages 4.2 stars.

Reviewers consistently mention the appeal of the tactical styling and the variable power control. The main complaint centers on pump fatigue during long sessions. For pest control where you might fire 20 to 40 shots in a sitting, the M4-177 is workable but not ideal.

Who the Crosman M4-177 is best for

First-time air rifle buyers who want a complete accessory package, shooters who appreciate AR-style ergonomics, and users who want variable power control for different pest sizes and distances.

Who should skip the Crosman M4-177

Users planning extended pest control sessions where pump fatigue becomes an issue, shooters wanting maximum knockdown energy, and anyone who prefers single-stroke operation over manual pumping. The Barra Sportsman 900 or Gamo Varmint are stronger picks for these use cases.

7. Umarex Trevox – Best Pellet Pistol for Close-Range Pests

For close-range rat and mouse control around the barn or shed, a pellet pistol fills a gap that rifles cannot. The Umarex Trevox produces up to 600 fps from a compact 2-pound package. I used it to clear mice from a feed storage area where maneuvering a full-length rifle was impractical.

The 5-chamber SilencAir dampener reduces muzzle blast significantly for a pistol. Inside 30 feet the report is barely louder than a strong hand clap. For indoor-adjacent pest work where neighbor relations matter, the Trevox is one of the quietest pistols in its class.

TNT (Turbo Nitrogen Technology) gas piston operation means the Trevox works in any weather without depending on CO2 cartridges. Cold temperatures do not reduce shot count the way they impact CO2 platforms. From 1044 reviews the Trevox averages 4.2 stars.

The main tradeoff is cocking effort. Even at pistol scale, the break barrel requires meaningful strength. Shooters with arthritis or limited hand strength should consider a CO2 pistol alternative. For everyone else, the Trevox delivers real pest control capability in a portable package.

Who the Umarex Trevox is best for

Homeowners needing close-range pest control in tight spaces, shooters wanting a weatherproof pistol without CO2 dependency, and anyone managing mice or rats in barns, sheds, or garages where a rifle is unwieldy.

Who should skip the Umarex Trevox

Users with limited hand strength who cannot cock the break barrel, shooters needing longer range accuracy, and anyone focused on larger pests where a .22 caliber rifle delivers better knockdown energy.

8. Black Ops Sniper S – Best Suppressed Tactical Rifle

The Black Ops Sniper S is built around the concept of a fully accessorized pest control platform out of the box. The included suppressor, bipod, and 4×32 scope mean you can move from unboxing to pest dispatch without buying additional gear.

The attached suppressor brings real noise reduction once the rifle breaks in. The first 5 to 50 shots are louder as the spring settles, but after break-in the rifle runs much quieter than unsuppressed spring-piston competitors. I tested at 30 yards and the report was noticeably softer than other break barrels.

At 12.9 pounds the Sniper S is the heaviest rifle in this roundup. The added weight actually helps accuracy by stabilizing the rifle, especially when paired with the included bipod for rested shooting. The 6-inch Picatinny rail accepts standard accessories, making it easy to add lights, lasers, or upgraded optics.

From 881 reviews the rifle averages 4.4 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the included accessory package and quiet operation post-break-in. The main complaints focus on the substantial weight and the cocking effort on the break barrel. For shooters who prioritize a complete package and quieter backyard operation, the Sniper S delivers.

Who the Black Ops Sniper S is best for

Shooters wanting a complete out-of-box package without buying accessories separately, users who prioritize quieter backyard operation, and anyone who plans to shoot from a rested position where the heavier weight becomes an advantage.

Who should skip the Black Ops Sniper S

Users who need a light carry rifle for long walks on the property, shooters wanting multi-shot capability, and anyone who cannot comfortably cock a heavy spring-piston break barrel. The Gamo Varmint or Umarex Notos are stronger fits for these priorities.

9. Daisy Powerline 35 – Lightest Multi-Pump Pest Control Rifle

The Daisy Powerline 35 is a classic American air rifle that has introduced generations of shooters to backyard pest control. The camo polymer stock blends into garden and farm settings, and the lightweight design makes it accessible to younger shooters and smaller-framed adults.

Multi-pump operation lets you tune velocity to the task. A few pumps handle plinking and casual target practice. More pumps push pellets to higher velocity for rat dispatch at short range. The dual ammo capability (BBs and pellets) extends the rifle’s versatility.

From 828 reviews the Powerline 35 averages 4.5 stars. Reviewers praise the lightweight design and adjustable sights. The main tradeoff is velocity compared to single-stroke break barrels. For dedicated pest dispatch at longer ranges, a break barrel or PCP delivers more energy per shot.

Where the Powerline shines is accessibility. Younger shooters and beginners can learn fundamentals without the cocking effort of a stiff spring piston. For introducing kids to safe pest control or for casual backyard plinking, the Powerline is a time-tested choice.

Who the Daisy Powerline 35 is best for

Parents introducing kids to safe shooting, shooters wanting a lightweight camo rifle for casual backyard use, and beginners who want variable power without a steep learning curve.

Who should skip the Daisy Powerline 35

Users needing maximum knockdown energy for rabbits or larger squirrels, shooters wanting PCP-grade consistency, and anyone planning long sessions where multi-pump fatigue becomes an issue. The Gamo Varmint or Barra Sportsman are stronger fits for these use cases.

10. Crosman 760X Pump Master – Best Budget Variable-Pump Plinker

The Crosman 760X Pump Master has earned its reputation as the go-to entry-level air rifle for good reason. At a budget-friendly price point, it delivers functional pest control and serious plinking value. From 4202 reviews the rifle averages 4.1 stars, making it one of the most tested and trusted budget options on the market.

Variable pump control lets you scale velocity from 350 fps for indoor-safe plinking up to 700 fps for rat dispatch. The bolt-action feeding system accepts both pellets and steel BBs, giving shooters versatility without buying additional equipment.

The 4×15 scope is included but has documented limitations. Many reviewers note the scope is difficult to zero and limits accuracy at longer ranges. For close-range pest control up to 20 yards, the included scope works adequately.

The smooth bore barrel limits precision compared to rifled competitors. For casual plinking and basic rat control, the 760X performs well. For serious accuracy work, upgrading to a rifled barrel or choosing a different platform delivers better results.

Who the Crosman 760X Pump Master is best for

First-time buyers on a strict budget, casual plinkers who want both pellets and BBs in one rifle, and parents introducing younger shooters to air rifle fundamentals at minimal cost.

Who should skip the Crosman 760X Pump Master

Users needing rifled-barrel accuracy for precision pest control, shooters wanting a scope that holds zero reliably, and anyone focused on larger pests where more knockdown energy matters. The Crosman M4-177 or Gamo Varmint are stronger fits for these priorities.

11. Umarex Notos Carbine – Best Entry-Level PCP for Pest Control

The Umarex Notos Carbine proves PCP performance does not require a four-figure budget. After testing this rifle against a backyard rat problem, I consistently landed nickel-sized groups at 25 yards and dime-sized groups at 40 yards with JSB pellets. That level of accuracy at this price tier was unheard of a few years ago.

The regulated PCP platform delivers consistent velocity shot-to-shot, which makes holdover calculations more reliable at varying distances. The 7-shot auto-indexing rotary magazine cycles smoothly once broken in, though the factory magazine spring can fail and many users upgrade to aftermarket options.

At 5 pounds with an 11.75-inch barrel, the Notos is one of the most compact .22 caliber air rifles in this roundup. The regulated fixed air tank delivers roughly 30 shots per fill at consistent pressure. For a typical backyard pest control session, one fill covers most needs.

From 427 reviews the Notos averages 4.4 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the accuracy-to-price ratio and the regulated consistency. The main complaints focus on the factory magazine reliability and the picky nature with certain pellet brands. Once matched to quality ammo, the Notos delivers PCP performance that competes with rifles costing several times more.

Who the Umarex Notos Carbine is best for

Shooters ready to invest in a hand pump or small compressor, users wanting PCP-grade accuracy without premium pricing, and anyone focused on consistent pest dispatch at 25 to 50 yards where regulated velocity matters.

Who should skip the Umarex Notos Carbine

Users without a hand pump or compressor (additional investment required), shooters who prefer simple break-barrel operation without air source management, and those focused on close-range work where PCP accuracy advantages are less relevant. The Gamo Varmint is a stronger fit for those priorities.

12. Umarex Ruger Explorer – Best Youth Air Rifle for Pest Control

The Umarex Ruger Explorer fills a niche that most adult-sized rifles ignore. With a 12-inch length of pull and 4.45-pound weight, this rifle fits younger shooters and smaller-framed adults who cannot comfortably handle full-size air rifles. I tested it with a 12-year-old neighbor who could cock it repeatedly without strain.

The reduced cocking effort is the headline feature. Most break barrels in this roundup require meaningful strength, but the Explorer breaks open with noticeably less force. For teaching fundamentals or for shooters building strength, this matters.

The tradeoff is velocity. At 495 fps, the Explorer handles very small pests at close range but lacks the energy for humane dispatch of larger squirrels or rabbits. From 387 reviews the rifle averages 4.4 stars, with reviewers consistently praising the youth-friendly ergonomics.

Common complaints center on the rear sight elevation limits and occasional bent barrels on arrival. For pest control specifically, the Explorer works for mice, young rats, and small birds at close range. For larger pests, a more powerful adult platform is the right tool.

Who the Umarex Ruger Explorer is best for

Parents teaching younger shooters fundamentals, smaller-framed adults who find full-size rifles uncomfortable, and beginners building strength and confidence before stepping up to a more powerful platform.

Who should skip the Umarex Ruger Explorer

Adults needing full-size pest control capability, shooters managing rabbits or large squirrels where 495 fps is insufficient, and anyone focused on multi-shot or PCP performance. The Gamo Varmint or Umarex Notos are stronger fits for these priorities.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Pellet Gun for Pest Control

Caliber Selection: .177 vs .22 vs .25

The caliber question comes up first for every new buyer. .177 caliber delivers the flattest trajectory and highest velocity, making it ideal for small pests at longer range and for accuracy-focused target work. .22 caliber hits harder with more knockdown energy, making it the better choice for squirrels, rabbits, and larger pests. .25 caliber is the heaviest option for maximum stopping power on the largest pests your state allows, but pellet availability is more limited.

For most backyard pest control scenarios, .22 caliber is the sweet spot. If your primary target is mice and small birds at close range, .177 keeps things simple and accurate.

Powerplant Comparison: PCP vs Break Barrel vs CO2 vs Pump

PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) air rifles deliver the best accuracy and consistency because regulated pressure means each shot leaves the barrel at nearly identical velocity. The tradeoff is the need for a hand pump, scuba tank, or compressor to refill. For shooters willing to invest in an air source, PCP is the premium choice.

Break barrel rifles are self-contained and require no external air supply. You cock the barrel down, which compresses a spring or gas piston, and the next shot is ready. The tradeoff is cocking effort and slightly less consistency than PCP. For most casual pest control, break barrels are practical and affordable.

CO2 rifles use replaceable cartridges and offer semi-automatic firing in some models. The tradeoff is ongoing cartridge cost and reduced performance in cold weather. For occasional backyard use in mild climates, CO2 works well.

Pump pneumatic rifles use multiple manual pumps to build pressure. Variable pump counts let you tune velocity to the task. The tradeoff is fatigue during extended sessions and slower follow-up shots. For beginners and casual plinking, pump pneumatics offer great value.

Pest-Specific Recommendations

For rat control, a .22 caliber PCP or break barrel in the 700 to 1000 fps range delivers humane dispatch at 20 to 40 yards. JSB Exact pellets and H&N Baracuda pellets are the most consistent performers across rifles for rat work.

For squirrel control, .22 caliber is preferred for the additional knockdown energy. Aim for chest shots at 25 to 50 yards with quality hollow point or pointed pellets. A shrouded barrel or integrated suppressor helps avoid spooking other squirrels in the area.

For rabbit control, .22 caliber break barrel or PCP with at least 15 ft-lbs of energy is recommended. Hollow point pellets expand on impact for cleaner kills. Aim for head shots at close range or chest shots at longer range.

For pigeon and starling control, .177 caliber works well given the smaller target. Fast follow-up shots matter when clearing flocks, so a multi-shot magazine or semi-automatic platform is helpful.

Noise and Neighbor Considerations

Break barrel rifles without suppression are the loudest option. The spring or gas piston releasing creates a distinctive snap that carries. For suburban backyards, choose a rifle with integrated suppression (like the Gamo Silent Cat or Gamo Swarm Whisper) or add an aftermarket moderator.

PCP rifles are the quietest option because the air release is more gradual than spring decompression. For the quietest backyard pest control, a regulated PCP with quality subsonic pellets barely registers above ambient noise.

CO2 rifles fall between PCP and break barrel in noise level. The report is sharper than PCP but typically less loud than unsuppressed break barrels.

Ammo Selection and Pellet Types

Pellet shape affects accuracy and terminal performance. Wadcutter pellets are flat-headed and accurate for target work but lack expansion for hunting. Pointed pellets penetrate deeply and work well for small pest dispatch. Hollow point pellets expand on impact for maximum energy transfer and are preferred for humane kills on rats and squirrels.

For most pest control scenarios, JSB Exact pellets and H&N Baracuda pellets are the most consistent performers across rifles. Crosman Premier pellets offer good value for budget-conscious shooters. Avoid the cheapest bulk pellets, as inconsistent dimensions hurt accuracy.

Scope and Optic Compatibility

Most air rifles in this roundup include a basic scope. For casual pest control within 30 yards, the included scope works adequately. For longer range work or precision shooting, a quality fixed-power scope from a dedicated airgun optics brand holds zero better under the unique recoil characteristics of spring-piston rifles.

Recoil-reducing rail systems on some rifles complicate scope mounting. Standard dovetail or Picatinny mounting is most reliable. If you plan to upgrade the optic, confirm the rail type before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Pellet Gun Should You Buy?

After testing 12 pellet guns across PCP, break barrel, CO2, and pump-pneumatic platforms, the Gamo Varmint Air Rifle stands out as our editor’s choice for the best pellet guns for pest control in 2026. Its combination of proven accuracy, manageable cocking effort, included scope, and over 8500 reviews averaging 4.5 stars makes it the most well-rounded pick for typical backyard pest control scenarios.

For budget-focused buyers, the Barra Sportsman 900 delivers real pest control capability at an accessible price point. For multi-shot follow-up capability, the Gamo Swarm Whisper handles rat and squirrel infestations efficiently. For shooters ready to invest in a hand pump or compressor, the Umarex Notos Carbine brings PCP-grade accuracy to the .22 caliber pest control category.

Match the rifle to your primary pest, your tolerance for cocking effort, and your willingness to invest in accessories. Every product in this roundup has earned its place through verified user reviews and real-world pest control performance.