10 Best Air Pistols 2025 in the United States

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.

The pistol’s barrel is a smooth bore made of alloy steel, which is standard for BB guns and contributes to decent accuracy for its class, but it won’t match the pinpoint precision of rifled barrels. The frame is made of plastic, keeping the pistol lightweight at just under 1 pound, which also makes it easy to handle for most users. The molded checkering grip improves comfort and helps maintain a steady hold, enhancing control during shooting sessions. However, the plastic construction means it may not feel as sturdy or durable as metal-framed air pistols, and heavier use could show wear over time. Trigger details are typical for this model with a straightforward pull, without advanced trigger customization.

This pistol suits beginners or casual shooters who want an affordable, easy-to-use air pistol for informal target practice or an introduction to airsoft-style shooting. It is not designed for competitive shooting or hunting but performs well enough for recreational purposes with a good balance of power, capacity, and handling.

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.

The Crosman P1322 American Classic Variable-Pump .22-Caliber Pellet Air Pistol is a solid choice for those interested in skill development and target practice. It features a robust synthetic frame and grip with a rifled steel barrel, ensuring good durability and build quality. The pump-piston power source allows for variable pumping, giving you the flexibility to control the velocity up to 460 fps, making it versatile for different shooting needs.

The single-shot bolt action aids in easier cocking and loading, which is user-friendly for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Safety is enhanced with a crossbolt safety mechanism, and the fixed blade front sight along with an adjustable rear sight help maintain accuracy. However, being a single-shot pistol, it might not be suitable for rapid-fire scenarios.

Weighing 1.88 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle, though some users might find the size a bit bulky. The ergonomic design is decent, but prolonged use might still require getting used to. This air pistol is best suited for adults looking to improve their shooting skills or for recreational shooting, rather than for advanced competitive use.