10 Best Air Pistols 2025 in the United States

The Beretta 92FS Nickel, Wood Grips air pistol is a highly realistic replica that appeals to both air gun collectors and shooting enthusiasts. One of its standout features is its all-metal construction, showcasing high-quality German craftsmanship, which ensures durability and a premium feel. Powered by 12-gram CO2 cartridges, this air pistol shoots .177 caliber pellets at a velocity of up to 425 fps, making it a powerful option for target practice or casual shooting.

It's important to note that CO2 cartridges are not included and it's recommended to use Umarex-brand cartridges for optimal performance and a proper seal. The adjustable rear sights and manual safety enhance its usability, providing better accuracy and safety during use. Additionally, the package includes two 8-shot rotary magazines and a foam-lined plastic gun case, making it convenient for transportation and storage.

While the trigger quality and ergonomics of this air pistol are generally good, some users might find the weight of 1.54 kilograms slightly heavy, which could affect prolonged usage. Customer reviews are largely positive, with a 4.0 out of 5 stars rating based on 322 ratings. This air pistol is well-suited for those who appreciate a realistic, high-quality design and are looking for a reliable CO2-powered option with decent performance and accuracy.

The P2P HDP50 by Prepared 2 Protect is a .50 caliber air pistol designed mainly for less-lethal home defense. It uses CO2 power, which is common for easy and quick firing, but keep in mind this pistol requires 12g CO2 cartridges (not included). Its ability to shoot different ammo types—pepper rounds for self-defense, rubber balls for practice, and powder balls for realistic training—adds versatility for both protection and training needs. The pistol holds six rounds in an integrated magazine, making loading straightforward and quick. The trigger has a safety mechanism that disengages when pulled, helping prevent accidental firing.

Made with a polymer frame and stainless or alloy steel barrel, the build feels solid but keeps the weight light at about 1.5 pounds, which supports easier handling and better ergonomics for most users. The size is compact enough for home use but feels substantial in hand. The design and .50 caliber suggest it’s effective at close range, typical for home defense situations. Some users appreciate the less-lethal approach, but remember this is not a traditional firearm and should be used with awareness of its limitations.

This air pistol is suitable for those wanting a practical, less-lethal option for personal protection with decent build quality and ease of use, while also considering ongoing costs like CO2 cartridges and specific ammo.

The Beeman Protect BP50 is a CO2-powered air pistol designed primarily for home and personal defense, featuring a large .50 caliber black projectile. It delivers a velocity of about 385 feet per second, which is decent for an air pistol in this caliber, offering an effective range up to 150 feet. Its semi-automatic operation with an 8-round magazine allows multiple shots without reloading each time, which is handy for quick response situations. The pistol includes an automatic trigger safety for added security.

In terms of build, the BP50 has a metal barrel which contributes to durability, but the frame is made from plastic. This helps keep the weight light at 1.35 pounds, making the pistol easy to carry and handle, though plastic may feel less sturdy compared to metal frames. The ergonomics are generally good for most users, with a design that fits well in the hand and a tool-free quick CO2 activation system that simplifies use.

The trigger is automatic safety-enabled, enhancing safe handling, though some users may find it less refined than triggers on pricier models, which could affect precision shooting slightly. Accuracy is reasonable given the caliber and velocity, suitable for defense and casual target practice but not for highly precise shooting. It is a solid choice for those needing a powerful, easy-to-use air pistol for personal protection, with a moderate price and features that make it accessible and practical, especially for beginners or casual users focused on home defense.