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10 Best Air Pistols 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Crosman Phantom P10KT CO2-Powered Semi-Auto BB Air Pistol Kit

The Crosman Phantom P10KT CO2-Powered Semi-Auto BB Air Pistol Kit is designed for those interested in skill development and target practice. This air pistol uses a 12-gram CO2 cartridge as its power source, which is convenient to replace and provides a consistent power supply. Its 4.5mm caliber and velocity of up to 480 feet per second (fps) make it suitable for casual target shooting and honing shooting skills.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,142
Power Source
Accuracy
Build Quality

Most important from
3939 reviews

Power Source
Shoots about 70 shots per CO2 cartridge and delivers a surprisingly good punch for its price.
Accuracy
Accuracy and power are impressive, but regular maintenance, like oiling the magazine spring, is essential to prevent jams.
Build Quality
This air pistol is easy to use and to take apart and put back together.
Ergonomics
Perfect size, sound, and grip make it ideal for kids, even those who are hearing sensitive.
#2
10.0 score

Daisy Powerline 426 Air Pistol

The Daisy Powerline 426 is a CO2-powered air pistol that shoots .177 caliber BBs, offering a velocity of up to 430 feet per second. This speed is quite decent for casual target shooting and plinking, giving you enough power for backyard fun or practice. It features a semi-automatic action with a built-in 15-shot BB magazine, allowing you to shoot multiple rounds quickly without reloading each time. The sights include a blade and ramp front sight along with a fixed open rear sight, which helps in lining up targets reasonably well, though they are basic and may not suit precision shooting.

Rating
10.0
Power Source
Accuracy
Trigger

Most important from
3724 reviews

Power Source
Holds CO2 for over a week even when not in use, delivering around 100 shots per cartridge.
Accuracy
Provides a great balance of power and accuracy for casual plinking and backyard target practice.
Trigger
Trigger pull is straightforward and enjoyable, significantly better than other CO2 pistols with long, mushy triggers.
Build Quality
Lightweight plastic frame with molded checkering grips enhances comfort and control during shooting.
Ergonomics
Offers excellent ergonomics and feels surprisingly like a real pistol for its price.
#3
9.9 score

Sig Sauer P320 M17 CO2-Powered .177 Cal Semi-Automatic Air Pistol with 20rd Pellet Magazine Included

The Sig Sauer P320 M17 CO2-Powered .177 Cal Semi-Automatic Air Pistol is designed for those looking to practice shooting skills in a cost-effective and realistic manner. Its semi-automatic action and CO2 power source allow for a quick, fun shooting experience, making it suitable for casual shooters and those training for tactical situations. The maximum velocity of 380 fps and 20-round capacity are decent for a pistol of this kind, offering a good shooting experience for recreational use.

Rating
9.9
Power Source
Accuracy
Trigger

Most important from
1163 reviews

Power Source
The magazine is well-designed, with a lever for loading CO2 without the need for tools and a 20-round rotary mag.
Accuracy
Accuracy is decent, especially when using a red dot sight, though personal shooting skill may influence results.
Trigger
Applying oil to the rotary mag and trigger assembly can smooth out the trigger pull significantly.
Ergonomics
The pistol has a good grip feel, weight, and balance, replicating the real M17.

Top 10 Best Air Pistols 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Crosman Phantom P10KT CO2-Powered Semi-Auto BB Air Pistol Kit

Power Source: CO2
Caliber: 4.5mm
Velocity: 480 fps
Trigger: functional
Build Quality: polymer frame, metal barrel
Ergonomics: comfortable grip

Chosen by 1142 this week

Daisy Powerline 426 Air Pistol

Power Source: CO2
Caliber: 177
Velocity: up to 430 feet/sec
Accuracy: decent accuracy for class
Trigger: straightforward pull
Build Quality: Plastic frame, alloy steel barrel
Ergonomics: molded checkering grip

Crosman P1322 American Classic Variable-Pump .22-Caliber Pellet Air Pistol, Black

Power Source: Pump-Piston
Caliber: 0.22
Velocity: 460 fps
Accuracy: fixed front, adjustable rear sight
Trigger: single-shot bolt action
Build Quality: synthetic frame, rifled steel barrel
Ergonomics: decent

Crosman SNR357 Snub Nose .177-Caliber Pellet/ BB CO2-Powered Revolver

Power Source: 12-gram CO2 cartridge
Caliber: 0.177
Velocity: 400 fps with BBs, 500 fps pellets
Accuracy: fixed blade front, adjustable rear sight
Build Quality: full-metal body
Ergonomics: good, snug grip for large hands

Crosman P1377BR American Classic Variable-Pump .177-Caliber Pellet Air Pistol, Brown

Power Source: Pump-Piston
Caliber: 0.177
Velocity: up to 600 fps
Accuracy: rifled barrel, adjustable rear sight
Trigger: single-shot bolt action
Build Quality: synthetic frame, alloy steel barrel
Ergonomics: decent

Crosman CCP8B2 Vigilante CO2 .177-Caliber Pellet/ BB Revolver Black 8.75 x 3.50 x 13.50"

Power Source: CO2
Caliber: .177 pellets and 4.5mm BBs
Velocity: up to 435 feet per second
Trigger: single and double action
Build Quality: solid metal frame, alloy steel
Ergonomics: comfortable grip, fits adult hands

Crosman 2240 .22-Caliber Bolt Action Single-Shot CO2-Powered Air Pistol,Black

Power Source: 12-gram CO2 cartridge
Caliber: .22 caliber
Velocity: 460 feet per second
Accuracy: precise single-shot
Trigger: simple, non-adjustable
Build Quality: metal frame, alloy steel barrel
Ergonomics: ambidextrous ergonomic grip

Benjamin PBN17 Trail Mark II .177-Caliber NP Break Barrel Hunting Air Pistol

Power Source: spring-piston
Caliber: .177
Velocity: up to 625 feet per second
Accuracy: rifled steel barrel
Trigger: single-shot break barrel
Build Quality: solid for price range
Ergonomics: synthetic frame, 3.4 lbs, ambidextrous
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Buying Guide for the Best Air Pistols

Choosing the right air pistol can be a rewarding experience, whether you're looking for a tool for target practice, plinking, or even small game hunting. The key to making the best choice is understanding the various specifications and how they align with your needs. By focusing on the right specs, you can ensure that you get an air pistol that meets your expectations and provides a satisfying shooting experience.
Power SourceAir pistols can be powered by CO2 cartridges, spring-piston mechanisms, or pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) systems. The power source affects the ease of use, consistency, and power of the air pistol. CO2 pistols are convenient and provide consistent power but require regular cartridge replacements. Spring-piston models are simple and reliable but can be harder to cock. PCP pistols offer high power and accuracy but need a separate air pump or tank for refilling. Choose based on your preference for convenience, power, and maintenance.
CaliberThe caliber of an air pistol refers to the diameter of the pellets it shoots, with common options being .177 and .22. The .177 caliber is popular for target shooting and plinking due to its higher velocity and flatter trajectory. The .22 caliber, on the other hand, is preferred for small game hunting because of its greater impact and stopping power. Consider your primary use: for target practice, .177 is ideal, while for hunting, .22 is a better choice.
VelocityVelocity, measured in feet per second (FPS), indicates how fast the pellet travels when fired. Higher velocity generally means better accuracy and more power. For target shooting, a velocity of 400-600 FPS is usually sufficient. For small game hunting, look for velocities of 600 FPS or higher. Your choice should depend on whether you need precision for targets or power for hunting.
AccuracyAccuracy is crucial for both target shooting and hunting. Factors that influence accuracy include the quality of the barrel, the type of sights, and the overall build of the pistol. Look for air pistols with rifled barrels for better pellet stability and accuracy. Adjustable sights or the ability to mount optics can also enhance accuracy. If precision is your main goal, prioritize these features.
TriggerThe trigger mechanism affects the shooting experience and accuracy. A good trigger should have a smooth pull and a predictable break. Some air pistols offer adjustable triggers, allowing you to customize the pull weight and travel to your preference. If you plan to do a lot of shooting, an adjustable and smooth trigger can make a significant difference in comfort and performance.
Build QualityThe build quality of an air pistol determines its durability and reliability. Look for pistols made from high-quality materials like metal and high-grade polymers. A well-built air pistol will withstand regular use and provide consistent performance over time. If you want a long-lasting and dependable air pistol, prioritize models with robust construction.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable and easy the air pistol is to handle. Consider the grip design, weight, and balance of the pistol. A comfortable grip and well-balanced design can reduce fatigue and improve shooting accuracy. If you plan to use the air pistol for extended periods, ensure it feels good in your hand and is easy to control.

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