Best Air Pistols of 2026

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Air pistols are a type of air gun that uses compressed air to shoot pellets or BBs. They are popular among hobbyists, target shooters, and hunters alike due to their accuracy, ease of use, and affordability. Air pistols come in various shapes and sizes, from classic revolvers to modern semi-automatic models. Some are powered by CO2 cartridges, while others use a spring or pump action mechanism. They can be used for plinking, pest control, or even competitive shooting. Overall, air pistols offer a fun and practical way to enjoy shooting sports without breaking the bank.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Cover #TOP 1
Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Umarex GLOCK 17 Air Pistol Cover #TOP 2
Umarex GLOCK 17 Air Pistol
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Umarex XBG .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Cover #TOP 3
Umarex XBG .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Air Pistols

Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol

2255200
Black
One Size
Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Cover
Umarex Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol

The Glock 19 Gen3 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol is a 15-shot, .177 caliber BB air pistol powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge. It shoots .177 caliber steel BBs at up to 410 FPS and features an integrated Weaver rail for easy mounting of accessories, fixed Glock-style sights, and officially licensed Glock markings. This air pistol is made of metal and plastic and is suitable for ages 16 and up.

What We Like
Realistic design and feel
Good weight and balance
Accurate target shooting
Durable construction
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Magazine loading can be tricky
#TOP 2

Umarex GLOCK 17 Air Pistol

2255208
Black Gen3
One Size
Umarex GLOCK 17 Air Pistol Cover
Umarex GLOCK 17 Blowback .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol, Gen3

The Umarex GLOCK 17 Air Pistol is a .177 caliber BB gun with 18-shot capacity and realistic blowback action. It can shoot up to 365 fps with .177 caliber steel BBs and is powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge (not included). The pistol features a full metal slide, drop-out metal magazine, and realistic controls. It also has fixed Glock-style sights and officially licensed Glock markings, making it compatible with most aftermarket duty holsters.

What We Like
Realistic look and feel
Strong power and accuracy
Durable build quality
Fun blowback action
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Minor CO2 leakage issues
BB loading can be finicky
#TOP 3

Umarex XBG .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol

2254804
Multi
One Size
Umarex XBG .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Cover
Umarex XBG .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol , Black (pack of 1)

The Umarex XBG .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol is a lightweight and durable air pistol powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge. It shoots .177 caliber steel BBs at up to 410 fps and features an integrated Picatinny accessory mount for easy addition of optics, lasers, or lights. It has a 19-shot drop-free metal magazine and a lightweight, compact design. Customers have found it to be accurate and powerful, with an average of 150 shots per CO2 cartridge.

What We Like
Lightweight and ergonomic design
Budget-friendly price
Easy to use for beginners
Decent power and velocity
19-round metal magazine
What We Don't Like
Long trigger pull
Limited long-range accuracy

Crosman SNR357 Pellet/BB Revolver

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

The Crosman SNR357 is a sleek, full-metal body, .177-caliber pellet and 4.5mm BB CO2-powered snub nose revolver. It is powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge, delivering speeds up to 400 fps with BBs and 500 fps with .177 caliber pellets. It features a slide safety, a fixed blade front sight and adjustable rear sight, and is ideal for skill development training. Customers have praised its realistic feel, power, and accuracy, though some have reported jamming issues.

What We Like
Realistic weight and feel
Strong shooting power
Easy CO2 loading
Accurate for an airgun
Solid build quality
What We Don't Like
Grip can be fiddly
Trigger pull is strong
#TOP 5

Crosman P10 CO2 Powered Semi Auto BB Air Pistol

P10KT
Multi
Crosman P10 CO2 Powered Semi Auto BB Air Pistol Cover
Crosman Phantom P10KT CO2-Powered Semi-Auto BB Air Pistol Kit

The Crosman P10 Kit CO2 Powered Semi Auto BB Air Pistol is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable air pistol. It features a steel barrel, removable grip for easy replacement of Co2, quick release, 20 round drop-out magazine, and an under barrel accessory rail. The kit includes P10, Copperhead BBs, 2 Co2 cartridges, and Shooting glasses. Customers have praised the kit for its accuracy and power, and it's a great choice for target practice or as a gift for a pre-teen.

What We Like
Fast semi-auto firing
Great value for price
Realistic look and feel
Lightweight and comfortable grip
Comes with accessories
What We Don't Like
BB loading a bit tedious
BBs less effective than pellets
#TOP 6

Umarex Colt Defender Semi Automatic Metal Frame .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol

2254020
Black
Medium
Umarex Colt Defender Semi Automatic Metal Frame .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Cover
Umarex Colt Defender Semi Automatic Metal Frame .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol

The Umarex Colt Defender Semi Automatic Metal Frame .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol is a powerful and realistic air pistol that shoots .177 caliber steel BBs at up to 410 fps. It has a durable and realistic all metal frame and slide, fixed front sight and adjustable rear sight, and an integrated accessory rail. It is powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge (CO2 NOT included) and holds up to 16 shots. Customers have praised its accuracy, weight, and realism, though some have noted that it can be prone to jamming and leaking air.

What We Like
Realistic look and feel
Good accuracy and consistency
Solid build quality
Efficient CO2 usage
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Plastic grip feels lightweight
BB loading mechanism can jam
#TOP 7

Smith & Wesson M&P 40 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol

2255051
Dark Earth Brown
One Size
Smith & Wesson M&P 40 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Cover
Umarex Smith & Wesson M&P 40 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol, Dark Earth Brown, Standard Action

The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol in Dark Earth Brown is a great option for both training and backyard plinking. It shoots .177 caliber steel BBs at up to 410 fps, has a manual safety, 19-shot drop-free mag, and fiber optic sights. Additionally, it features an integrated accessory rail for adding a tactical light or laser easily. The pistol is powered by a single 12-gram CO2 cartridge housed in the grip.

What We Like
Accurate shooting
Good price value
Realistic appearance
Decent power
Fun for plinking
What We Don't Like
Occasional BB misfire
Mostly plastic build
#TOP 8

Byrna SD Kinetic Projectile Launcher

Black
Byrna SD Kinetic Projectile Launcher Cover
Byrna SD [Self Defense] Kinetic Projectile Launcher Ultimate Bundle - Non Lethal , Home /Personal Defense (Black) | Proudly Assembled in The USA

The Byrna SD Launcher upgrades the popular Byrna HD series with a straight trigger that offers better control, helping you aim and shoot more accurately. Its ergonomic honeycomb grip provides a comfortable hold, making it easier to handle during stressful situations. Improved sights allow you to quickly line up your target, which is essential for fast response. Plus, the launcher is designed as a non-lethal self-defense tool, so you can protect yourself safely without causing fatal harm. With the Byrna SD Launcher, you get a reliable, user-friendly device for personal protection.

What We Like
Improved trigger control
Ergonomic honeycomb grip
Enhanced sights for accuracy
Non-lethal self-defense
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
Bulkier than alternatives
#TOP 9

Umarex MCP Air Pistol Kit

2252118
Multi
One Size
Umarex MCP Air Pistol Kit Cover
Umarex MCP .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Kit - Includes BBS, CO2 Cartridges, and Safety Glasses

The Umarex MCP .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Pistol Kit is the perfect choice for those looking to get into air guns. This kit includes everything you need to go to the range, including a BB gun air pistol, 100 steel BBs, two 12-gram CO2 cartridges, and safety glasses. It shoots .177 caliber steel BBs at up to 410 fps and runs on easy-to-find 12 gram CO2 cartridges. Customers have praised the bundle for its accuracy and power, as well as its great price.

What We Like
Excellent accuracy
Powerful performance
Solid build quality
Easy BB loading
Good value
What We Don't Like
Magazine release issue
Minor quality concerns
#TOP 10

Sig Sauer P365 Air Pistol

AIR-P365-BB
Black
.177
Sig Sauer P365 Air Pistol Cover
Sig Sauer P365 4.5mm Steel BB Cal. CO2-Powered Semi-Automatic Air Pistol - 20rd BB Magazine & Green High Visibility 3-Dot Fixed Sights Included

The Sig Sauer P365 Air Pistol is a high-quality air pistol designed to resemble the popular Sig Sauer P365 9mm firearm. With a caliber of 0.177 and a velocity of 295.00 ft/sec, this air pistol delivers great accuracy and power. It comes with a 1-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for the users. The Sig Sauer P365 Air Pistol is perfect for target practice, plinking, and honing your shooting skills. Its realistic design and performance make it a great option for both beginners and experienced shooters. Whether you're a gun enthusiast or just looking for a fun and reliable air pistol, the Sig Sauer P365 Air Pistol is a fantastic choice.

What We Like
Realistic weight and feel
Accurate at 10 meters
Generous magazine capacity
Reliable CO2 performance
Great for training practice
What We Don't Like
Magazine may leak slightly
Minor barrel seal shifting
Buying Guide Image

The Right Air Pistols for You

When choosing an air pistol, the most important factor to consider is the type of pistol that best suits your needs. There are several types of air pistols available, including CO2-powered pistols, break-barrel springers, and pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) guns. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand what each offers before making a purchase decision.

CO2-powered pistols are powered by disposable carbon dioxide cartridges and offer a high rate of fire with relatively low recoil. They are ideal for target shooting and informal plinking but lack accuracy at longer distances compared to the other types of air pistols. Break-barrel springers require manual cocking for each shot, but provide good accuracy and excellent power. They are great for hunting, target shooting, and field target competitions. PCP guns require a separate air tank and offer the highest level of accuracy and power of any type of air pistol. However, they are more expensive and complex than the other types.

Once you've chosen an air pistol, it's important to properly maintain it to ensure peak performance. This includes regularly cleaning the barrel with a soft-bristled brush and lubricating all moving parts after every use. Additionally, store your gun in a cool dry place away from dust or moisture to avoid corrosion or wear on any metal components. If you're using a CO2-powered pistol, make sure to replace the cartridges periodically so your gun will always function properly. With proper maintenance and care, you can enjoy your air pistol for many years to come.

In addition to the tips above, it's also important to practice safe shooting techniques when using an air pistol. Always wear eye protection when handling or shooting a gun, and ensure that the area around the target is clear of people or other animals before pulling the trigger. Moreover, if you're having trouble with accuracy or performance, consult a qualified gunsmith for advice on how to improve your results. By following these steps and taking good care of your air pistol, you can continue enjoying its use for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are there lethal air pistols?

While common air pistols are generally considered toys, there is a small chance that they can be lethal. However, it is important not to play with them or use them for self-defense. Piston-powered air pistols are typically the most powerful, although there are also powerful CO2 and pneumatic models available.

2. Are air pistols good for self-defense?

No, air pistols are not recommended for self-defense purposes. Using an air pistol for self-defense can result in charges of assault with a deadly weapon, regardless of whether the attacker has a weapon. Even if some air pistols are powerful enough to inflict harm, it is crucial to understand that they are not suitable or legal for self-defense.

3. Are air pistols effective?

The effectiveness of air pistols can be a controversial topic. Some air pistols, such as the Gamo PT-85 Blowback CO2 Pistol or the SPA CP1-M CO2 Pistol, can potentially harm an aggressor due to their high power. However, caution must be exercised when handling any type of air pistol.

4. How powerful is a .22 air pistol?

Most air pistols and replicas have a power range of 2-3ft/lbs, as they are not designed to be highly powerful. The Crosman 2240 is considered one of the most powerful .22 air pistols, with a power output of around 5-5.5ft/lbs.

5. What damage can an air pistol do?

Air pistols have the potential to cause serious injuries. Cardiac injuries can be fatal, while penetrating abdominal injuries involving organs or blood vessels require immediate medical attention. If possible, intracranial air weapon pellets should be removed. Pellets lodged in the lung or muscle can typically be left in place, but there is a risk of infection.

6. How far can an air pistol shoot?

The effective range of an air pistol varies depending on factors such as shooting technique and the specific model. Most shooters find a limit of around 20-30 yards for consistent hunting accuracy. However, some skilled shooters can accurately hunt beyond 50 yards with certain air pistols.

7. What are the disadvantages of air guns?

One of the main disadvantages of air guns, specifically PCP air rifles, is that their reservoirs need to be filled using a compressor or a special pump. Hand pumps require a significant number of strokes to reach the required pressure of 2,000-3,000 psi. This can be time-consuming and physically demanding.

Editor's Notes

During our air pistol research, we found 24 air pistol products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 226,577 customer reviews through our big data system to write the air pistols list. We found that most customers choose air pistols with an average price of $75.58.

The air pistols are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of air pistols, including Umarex, Crosman, Byrna, Sig Sauer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.

Air Pistols Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Umarex Umarex Umarex Crosman Crosman Umarex Umarex Byrna Umarex Sig Sauer
Color Black Black Gen3 Multi Black/Grey Multi Black Dark Earth Brown Black Multi Black
Rounds 15 18 19 6 20 16 19 5 19 20
Item Weight 1.6 Pounds 1.5 Pounds 0.7 Pounds 2 Pounds 1.3 Pounds 0.82 Kilograms 12 Grams 1.1 Pounds 1 Pounds 0.81 Pounds
Air Gun Power Type CO2 CO2 CO2 CO2 CO2 CO2 CO2 CO2 CO2 CO2
Barrel Material Type Metal Metal Metal Alloy Steel Metal Metal Metal plastic Alloy Steel Metal
Frame Material Polymer Metal Plastic Plastic Plastic Metal Plastic Plastic Plastic Alloy Steel, Metal
Team Name Air Pistol Air Pistol Air Pistol - Air Pistol Air Pistol - Byrna Bbs P365
Caliber 0.177 - - 0.177 4.5 - - 0.68 - 0.177
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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