Top 10 CO2 Airsoft Pistols for All Skill Levels: The Ultimate 2024 Guide

Posted by Manish on 09/01/24

With the help of actual type feel, dependable power, and great performance, the CO2 airsoft pistols are ruling the hearts of players all over the world. These pistols are suitable not only for experienced players but also beginners, as the pistols provide an exciting and practical feeling in all airsoft games. Search for the Co2 pistols that will take your airsoft experience to the next level, whether you are a beginner or want to improve your armory.

What is a C02 Airsoft Pistol?

Carbon dioxide gas powers the CO2 airsoft pistol of the airsoft gun. They are duplicates of real firearms and shoot plastic bullets called BBs, used mainly for entertaining shooting games or the purpose of training. The pistol works by storing CO2 in a small container or cartridge that is put in a gun. When the trigger is pulled, a controlled explosion of CO2 happens which pushes the BBs through the barrel. CO2 pistols are popular for their semi-automatic firing abilities which allow constant shooting every time the trigger is pulled till the gas or the magazine is exhausted. These pistols are preferred as they are easy to use, reliable, real-like handling, copying the design and the functions of the actual firearms, thus improving the realness of the shooting experience.

How Much Do the Best Airsoft Pistols Generally Weigh?

The best airsoft pistols come in around 900 grams of weight. It is not the weight of the pistols that makes them great. The CO2 makes some pistols powerful and heavy while some pistols are lightweight and easy to handle. Light and heavy pistols perform in a similar way, thus it depends on your choice.

Are CO2 Airsoft Pistols Good for Beginners and Experts?

CO2 airsoft pistols are indeed suitable for experts as well as beginners. They use CO2 for power but function like green gas pistols. You get stable performance by using Co2 pistols in all conditions. It is tricky to install the CO2 capsules, which is the only disadvantage as it needs to be done carefully. We shall have a look at the 10 best CO2 airsoft pistols that are suitable for beginners and also experts.

How Does A Co2 Airsoft Pistol Work?

The CO2 airsoft pistols work by using compressed carbon dioxide (CO2) gas that fires plastic BBs. The pistol has a chamber where a small CO2 cartridge has pressured CO2. When you put the CO2 cartridge in the correct way, the piercing function punctures it and allows the gas to flow into the internal chamber of the pistol. The magazine of the pistol has BBs and a spring-loaded follower that puts the BBs into the barrel. The firing action causes an explosion of CO2 gas that happens after the trigger is pulled, and it pushes the BB out of the barrel with Kinetic energy. Till the CO2 cartridge gets empty and requires to be changed, the process continues. Proper maintenance, handling, and storage are also included.

Top 10 CO2 Airsoft Pistols of 2024

Our list is made based on reviews from the experts, user feedback, and general performance. Here are the top 10 best airsoft pistols 2024:

1. ASG CZ Shadow 2 CO2 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol, Black / Blue

The Shadow 2 airsoft pistol is the best for beginners as it mixes affordability and high-quality make. The model has a fiber-optic front sight for quick target attainment and a CO2-effective design that enables around 100 shots in each cartridge. It has an all-metal body and a 26-round magazine that is fit for competitive cooling and entertaining playing.

You can add enhancements through the Picatinny rail under the muzzle, holding accessories such as lasers or strategic lights. Reload of every magazine includes a new CO2 cartridge which guarantees reliable performance. The Shadow 2 closely copies its real twin in weight and handling, which helps in counterattack and accuracy. The changed design of the slide provides increased surface area for easy handling and a more noticeable row for a safe grip. Inside, the hop-up unit matches the TM specifications and it accepts the Shadow 1 magazines, improving the usefulness and upgrade possibility.

Pros

ā— All metal construction

ā— Great gas efficiency

ā— Works well in a wide range of temperature environments

ā— Licensed by CZ

ā— Realistic

ā— Accurate hop-up system

ā— Works well with both HFC134a and Green Gas

Cons

Low profile slide, making racking techniques difficult to execute

Quite heavy

2. Colt 1911 Special Combat NBB CO2 Airsoft Pistol, Black

The Colt 1911 Special Combat NBB CO2 Airsoft Pistol was introduced in 2016 and is licensed by Cybergun. It is a masterpiece due to its design and efficiency. The authentic Colt markings and the traditional all-metal make this model stand out and provide a real feeling of toughness and genuine feeling. It is designed for reliability and accuracy and it has a non-blowback system that increases CO2 usage which allows more shots per cartridge.

The 1911 Special Combat comes with a 16+1 capacity magazine that can handle 6mm BBs and uses a standard 12g CO2 capsule put away nicely in the grip for a clean look. The pistol displays a tough firing system, an effective backfire effect, and a loud statement with speeds ranging from 390-400 FPS using 0.2g BBs. To improve long-range accuracy, an adjustable hop-up system is included.

The airsoft pistol is made in an excellent way and is a cheap option in place of models with higher prices, giving high performance even in cooler temperatures. Its design makes sure that it matches standard holsters which makes it a useful choice for competitive players and admirers.

Pros

ā— Picatinny rail mount

ā— Amazing and accurate hop-up system

ā— Realistic

ā— Metal slide

ā— Licensed by Colt

Cons

ā— Not many aftermarket parts

ā— Depending on the climate, the slide cycle can get sluggish

3. KWC Colt 1911 Full Metal Co2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol, Black

KWC is famous for its genuine airsoft duplicates that resemble the function and toughness of the real steel firearm which is affordably priced. Their gas-powered Colt 1911.45 caliber model fully copies the fill-sized M1911 which is popular all over the world for its historical military use. The airsoft version of theguns co2 has a full metal body, real explosion action, and is powered by CO2 within a 17-round magazine. It has a 20 mm accessory rail under the front of strategic add-ons, sidelock, grip safety, and thumb safety are fully functional, improving its genuineness. The pistol stands out due to its performance and dependability because of the high-quality parts inside it and an easily adjustable hop-up system. It becomes the top choice for serious airsoft players as the pistol is compatible with KWC Colt and Elite Force 1911 magazines. The Colt 1911 is a suitable choice for people searching for an airsoft guns that has historical importance and dependability.

Pros:

ā— Full Metal Construction

ā— CO2 Powered

ā— Realistic Blowback Feature

ā— Highly Detailed Replica

ā— Adjustable Hop-Up

Cons:

ā— Higher CO2 Consumption

ā— Requires Regular Maintenance

ā— Heavy Recoil

ā— Sensitive to Extreme Weather

ā— Louder Noise Level

4. Beretta M92 A1 CO2 Blowback Semi/Full-Auto Metal Pistol

The Umarex Beretta M92 A1 Co2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol is the officially licensed Beretta M92 A1 sidearm, a perfect 1:1 copy of one of the best Beretta pistols. The M92 A1 variant has hard CO2-powered explosion action that gives satisfactory backfire with every semi-shot and has licensed trademarks on both slide and checkered grips. The metal body makes this sidearm reliable. This sidearm has an adjustable hop-up and 345 FPS with 0.20 BBs and has range along with accuracy on which you can rely on during airsoft fights. The lower frame is railed with the idea of attaching aftermarket optics like lights and laser combos for the purpose of night fights.

Pros:

ā— Full-metal construction

ā— Realistic blowback action

ā— Semi and full-automatic modes

ā— High velocity (up to 330 FPS)

ā— Under-barrel accessory rail

ā— Durable design

Cons:

ā— High CO2 consumption

ā— Heavier weight

ā— Recoil affects accuracy in full-auto

ā— Limited upgradeability

ā— Louder operation

5. ASG CZ P-09 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol w/ Threaded Outer Barrel

The CZ P-09 CO2 airsoft pistol is a dependable and tough sidearm. Its strong make comes from its firm nylon-strengthened lower and all-metal slide. It officially features the licensed CZ trademarks on the frame, slide, and grip, making the sidearm almost a perfect copy of the real-steel sidearm. It gives a satisfying snap for backfire with its CO2-powered explosion action while firing within CQB limits at 330 FPS with 0.20g BBs. Its dotted grip allows maximum control with or without any gloves. The two-handed safety of this pistol enables it to be carried with the hammer cocked and locked. On the lower frame, there is an accessory rail that is big enough to fit nearly all pistol lights and laser accessories.

Pros:

ā— Realistic blowback action

ā— Durable build with metal slide and polymer frame

ā— High-capacity magazine (25 rounds)

ā— Adjustable hop-up system

ā— Threaded outer barrel for attachments

Cons:

ā— High gas consumption in cooler conditions

ā— May be too large or heavy for some users

6. Dan Wesson 715 6" Steel Grey CO2 Airsoft CQB Revolver

The Dan Wesson revolver by ASG tops in the airsoft market due to its tough and visually amazing single-action wheel gun. With a striking silver finish, the long barrel design demands attention and also improves performance and accuracy. It is suitable for revolver lovers as the model has a visual charm and practical usefulness. It differs from the semi-automatic models as the revolver mainly focuses its gas power on pushing the BB, which results in a more impactful shot without losing the energy related to cycling the slide. A louder noise and powerful shooting experience are delivered due to this efficient use of gas, and it makes the Dan Wesson Revolver a top choice for those searching for performance and style in airsoft sidearms.

Pros:

ā— Licensed by Dan Wesson

ā— Realistic metal shell loading

ā— Full metal construction

ā— Includes speed loader

ā— Great gas efficiency

ā— Extremely realistic and fun to use

ā— High power

Cons:

ā— Remove CO2 capsule after completely depleted

ā— Low round count for skirmishing

ā— No external upgrades

ā— Not many options of holsters

7. KWC Magnum Research Licensed Metal Desert Eagle L6 CO2 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol, Two-Tone

This KWC Metal Desert Eagle L6 CO2 Gas Blowback airsoft pistol is an official duplicate of the Magnum Research Desert Eagle. You get a strong aluminum alloy slide with muzzle brake for real type backlash and tough polymer for comfortable grip. It also comes with a 21+1 round magazine that supports CO2 power for steady performance. The best thing - it fires with an efficient triggering function at 300-340 FPS with 0.20g BBs. for a good experience You can switch between safe, semi-auto, and full auto-firing modes with an adjustable hop-up for improved accuracy. An attached picatinny rail gives you room for extra attachments.

Pros:

ā— Tough slide with improved backlash

ā— CO2-powered performance

ā— Semi/auto firing modes for extra safety

ā— Picatinny rails for accessories

ā— Sharp trigger response

Cons:

ā— The heavy build can make you uncomfortable for long gameplay

ā— Needs frequent cartridge change due to high CO2 use

8. Glock G17 Gen4 Co2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol by VFC / Elite Force, Black

The leading firearm maker, VFC, has a licensed duplicate airsoft pistol URAMEX Glock G17 CO2, popular for its dependability and simple make. This Generation 4 model has a real-like blowback that adds a genuine feel to your gameplay. It is best for Glock lovers and also for beginners searching for a high-quality practice gun at a low price.

Pros:

ā— Co2 Powered

ā— Realistic Blowback Action

ā— Adjustable Hop Up

ā— Functional Glock Trigger Safety

ā— Enlarged Magazine Catch

ā— Realistic Replica

ā— Fully Authentic Licensing by Glock

ā— Mounted Iron Sights

ā— Full Metal Slide

ā— Mounted Accessory Rail

Cons:

ā— Uncomfortable for long use due to the heavy weight

ā— Frequent CO2 cartridge replacements increase operating costs

9. Elite Force 1911 Tac Co2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol (Stainless)

The Classic Elite Force 1911 features a full metal design and stainless finish to provide you durability and a good aesthetic appeal in one package. This airsoft pistol gives a real-like firing experience with complete blowback action and different strategic improvements.

Pros:

ā— CO2 full blowback action

ā— Adjustable hop-up

ā— 15 round drop free magazine

ā— Single action trigger

ā— Under barrel accessory rail

ā— Threaded muzzle (14mm CCW)

ā— Stainless finish

ā— Full metal frame and slide

ā— 345 FPS with .20g BBs

Cons:

ā— A little heavier

ā— Dependencs on CO2

10. H&K USP CO2 Airsoft Pistol, Black/Tan

The H&K USP CO2 Airsoft Pistol is powerful but lightweight. It is quite good for players who need reliable performance in close combats. The compact gun weighs around a pound and gives a maximum velocity of 300 FPS, a real deal for pro players. The full metal body guarantees unmatched strength and the NS2 system assures steady performance. The fixed adapter provides you options for accessories. You also get a threaded barrel for mock suppressor attachments. The pistol has slide rows and comes with semi-auto mode, which make it a good choice for CQB environments.

Pros:

ā— Lightweight

ā— Easy to move

ā— Tough metal build

ā— Steady NS2 performance

ā— Threaded barrel for attachments

ā— Built-in accessory rail

ā— Semi-auto rapid firing

ā— Easy slide cocking

Cons:

ā— Lower FPS for outdoor

ā— Smaller size preference

ā— Requires frequent gas refills