10 Best Air Pistols 2025 in the United States

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.

The 20-round BB magazine allows for continuous shooting without frequent reloads, which is ideal for extended practice sessions. However, the polymer frame, while durable and lightweight, may not appeal to those seeking a more realistic or heavier feel in their air pistols. The metal barrel is a positive aspect, contributing to better accuracy and longevity. The inclusion of a Picatinny rail offers customization options with accessories like lasers or flashlights, adding to the versatility of the pistol.

Additionally, the kit comes with safety glasses, BBs, and targets, making it beginner-friendly. The trigger is functional but may not offer the precision or smoothness that experienced shooters might expect. The ergonomics of the pistol are decent, allowing for a comfortable grip. This product is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate users looking for an affordable and reliable option for target practice and skill development.

The Crosman SNR357 Snub Nose is a solid choice for those looking for an air pistol that combines functionality with a realistic feel. With its heavy-weight, full-metal body, it gives a sturdy and authentic experience for users. The power source is a 12-gram CO2 cartridge, allowing it to reach impressive speeds of up to 400 fps with BBs and 500 fps with .177 caliber pellets, making it suitable for both target practice and skill development training. The pistol is versatile as it can use either traditional steel BBs or .177-caliber pellets, and it comes with reusable cartridges for both types.

When it comes to handling, the fixed blade front sight and adjustable rear sight help ensure accuracy, which is a plus for beginners and experienced users alike. The inclusion of a slide safety feature adds an important layer of safety, making it suitable for responsible handling.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The CO2 cartridges are not included, which means additional costs for users as they will need to purchase them separately. Also, while the pistol’s build quality is high, it weighs about 2 pounds, which may be a bit heavy for some users, especially during prolonged use. In terms of ergonomics, the design is generally good, but those with larger hands might find the grip a bit snug. This air pistol is ideal for adults looking to engage in air power adventures or improve their shooting skills, making it a suitable option for hobbyists and training purposes. Just be prepared to invest in some CO2 cartridges to get started.

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.

In terms of build quality, the M17 features a full blowback metal slide, which enhances authenticity and realism in handling. The frame is made from plastic, which may raise concerns about long-term durability, but it helps keep the pistol lightweight at just 2.1 pounds. With dimensions of 10 x 2.5 x 9.5 inches, it's compact and manageable, fitting well in most hands due to its ergonomic design.

The trigger pull weight of 6.25 lbs is reasonable for most users, though some might find it slightly heavy. The option to add a reflex sight and the inclusion of an accessory rail for customization can be attractive for enthusiasts looking to enhance their shooting experience. It's essential to note that to achieve optimal performance, users should stick to premium pellets, which might add extra costs to the shooting hobby. The Sig Sauer P320 M17 air pistol suits a wide range of users, from beginners wanting to practice shooting skills to seasoned enthusiasts looking for an authentic training tool. While it has some minor drawbacks, its strengths make it a solid choice in the air-pistol category.