CO2 AIRSOFT PISTOLS

What Is a CO2 Pistol?

Beginner airsoft players often gravitate toward a CO2 pistol as their first platform. These CO2-powered airsoft pistols make a great starter for players who don’t want to mess with green gas, charge up lipo batteries for an automatic electric gun (AEG), or carry around a high-pressure air (HPA) tank. 

With that said, CO2 pistols can also be just as much fun for experienced players as those new to the field. 

CO2 pistols offer stable performance in semi-auto and full-auto firing modes. More stable in colder temperatures than green gas, CO2 airsoft pistols are powered by CO2 cartridges that are widely available and easy to swap in and out. 

Shooters looking for a new challenge beyond plinking with their Daisy or Crosman often graduate from airguns or pellet pistols to affordable CO2 pistols like the Umarex BERETTA M96A1 - 6mm CO2 Airsoft Pistol (Black) (by KWC).

How Does a CO2 Pistol Work?

CO2 pistols are powered by CO2 cartridges that insert into the magazine. A screw within the magazine pierces the cartridge with a thin nozzle pin. When the CO2 is released from the magazine, it shoots the ammo out of the barrel and cycles the slide on a CO2 BB pistol. 

On a CO2-powered bolt-action airsoft rifle, the CO2 gas also cycles the bolt. CO2 pistols are typically higher power than gas-powered pistols, even gas blowback (GBB). However, CO2 pistols can be more expensive to run than GBB pistols due to the nature of the CO2 cartridges. It’s ideal to start each airsoft game with a fresh CO2 cartridge so you don’t run out, but the velocity (measured in feet per second, or FPS) drops as the CO2 expels from the cartridge. 

CO2 pistol counterparts include gas-powered pistols and electric airsoft pistols. If you prefer a revolver, CO2 versions like the double- and single-action ASG Dan Wesson Revolver 715 4 inch 6mm - Matt Black (by Wingun) can be a lot of fun on the field. This airsoft revolver works similarly to a CO2 pistol but on slightly older gun technology. 

What Are Some Popular CO2 Pistols?

Airsoft players can choose from several brands when selecting a CO2 air pistol platform, including Novritsch, Sig Air, EMG, and KSC. 

Here are a few of our favorite CO2-powered pistols: 

• Umarex USP CO2 Airsoft Pistol 6mm Version (by KWC): As seen on Heat and 24 (in real steel, of course), this CO2 pistol replica has a metal slide, double-action trigger, and adjustable hop-up that’s perfect for close-quarters battle (CQB). 
• KJ Works CZ Shadow 2 CO2 Airsoft Pistols (ASG Licensed): This beginner-friendly CO2 pistol can fire up to 100 rounds per cartridge and features full-metal construction that dutifully replicates the real-steel version. 
• Cybergun Colt 1911 CO2 Airsoft Pistol: With fully licensed markings from Colt, this CO2 pistol features a Picatinny rail, metal slide, and adjustable hop-up. 
• RWA Nighthawk GRP Recon CO2 Airsoft Pistol - CNC Steel Limited Edition: Considered one of the most realistic 1911s available, this CO2 pistol comes pre-upgraded with impressive recoil. It’s a bit more expensive than others on our list, but it’s perfect for the experienced airsoft enthusiast. 
• Umarex Glock 22 Gen 4 CO2 Airsoft Pistols (by Wingun) - 6mm Version (Fixed Slide): Fans of the Glock 17 Gen 3 and Glock 19 will appreciate this non-blowback version that’s as efficient as it is powerful. As a bonus, this CO2 pistol will also work with Glock accessories, such as lights and holsters. 
• SIG Sauer M17 P320 CO2 Airsoft Pistols - TAN (by SIG AIR & VFC) - 6mm: This 1:1 replica features a new hop-up adjustment, highly realistic recoil, and plenty of aftermarket upgrades to choose from. 

RedWolf has the best selection of airsoft pistols, including affordable and custom CO2 pistols and many other airsoft guns from Remington, Smith & Wesson, Walther, and more best sellers. If you’re unsure which CO2 airsoft pistol to purchase, check out our 10 Best Co2 Airsoft Pistols from Beginner to Professional: 2024 Ultimate Guide. Find everything airsoft and more at RedWolf.