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 Crosman P1377 American Classic is a solid choice for those interested in learning air pistol shooting or practicing target skills. It uses a pump-piston power source, which means you manually pump it to build air pressure—this lets you control the velocity up to about 600 feet per second, giving you flexibility depending on your shooting needs. The caliber is .177, the most common size for air pistols, suitable for accurate shooting at short distances. It has a rifled steel barrel that helps improve accuracy, paired with fixed front and adjustable rear sights to help you aim better. The trigger is single-shot bolt action, which makes cocking and loading straightforward, especially for beginners. The pistol’s frame and grip are made from synthetic materials, making it lightweight (around 1.9 pounds) and easy to handle, though it might not feel as solid or premium as metal-framed pistols. Ergonomically, the grip is designed for comfort during extended use, which is good for training sessions.

Safety is covered with a crossbolt safety feature, ensuring safer handling. On the downside, because it’s a manual pump type, it requires some effort to use repeatedly, and its plastic build might not appeal to those wanting a more rugged or professional feel. Velocity is decent but not the highest available, so it’s better suited for casual plinking or learning rather than high-powered shooting or hunting. The Crosman P1377 is a dependable, user-friendly air pistol that works well for beginners and casual shooters looking to improve their skills without breaking the bank.