Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting

Whether you are a first-time buyer or want to renew an old hobby, buying an air pistol requires some amount of research and consideration. Air pistols are often termed as air guns, BB guns, and pellet guns. The name air gun origins from the fact that the unit fires a projectile through the power of compressed gas or air. The projectiles fired can be made out of plastics or metallic BBs. Air pistols are cheaper and easy to use and are used for a variety of reasons which include target practice. In fact, air pistol target shooting has been an Olympic sport since the 1980s and even though you may not want to be a professional shooter you can always have some fun.

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No matter what your purpose of buying, keep in mind the firearm laws in your area to be on the safe side. So to help you out, in this article we will review the best air pistol models that you will find in the current market so that the first time buyers can find some guidance. In addition, we will also list down some of the points that should be kept in mind while making the purchase best air pistols for target shooting.

Table of Contents

Guide To Buying Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting

The following factors need to be noted while buying an air pistol.

The purpose of use

This type of a pistol can be used for shooting games, pest control and obviously for target practice. The shooting range affects the type of pistol that you need to buy. For example, for shooting within 15 yards of the distance you might need a variable pump piece while for 20-yard distances, CO2 models are a better choice. For even higher distances, the PCP gun models are the best options. The type of model you choose will also affect the price of the pistol.

Trigger quality

The responsiveness of the trigger is an important factor while choosing the air pistol. The majority of the guns are designed for 3 pounds of pull and they can be typically fine-tuned to a range of 1 to 1.5 pounds of pull. In case you need a model with a lighter pull, there are models that offer only a few ounces of trigger pressure. This will depend on your purpose of use and the type of target that you want to hit.

Power source

The two main types of air pistols are the CO2 power ones and the pneumatically powered ones. The CO2 powered units are cheap, free from recoils and lighter in weight. Though they have an inconsistent level of performance, they are ideal for beginners. The pneumatic pistols are recoilless, come in a variety of models that you can choose as per your need and are more accurate than the other variety. They have the disadvantage of being costly and the trouble of buying accessories for charging the cylinder.

The caliber

Most pistols come with a fixed caliber and it is an important factor to choose while making a purchase. If you use a pellet of the wrong caliber you will definitely not get the desired results. Each caliber has its own advantages. The smaller ones like .177 are used for pest control while the .20 and .22 calibers are used for larger targets over a longer distance.

The budget

The budget is an important aspect when you are planning to buy an air pistol as there are a variety of choices on the offering. Air pistols are usually of the beginner variety, the mid-level variety, and the highest level variety. You need to keep in mind that the pistols also need accessories like pellets, sights, holsters, light and cleaning kits.

Daisy Powerline 415 Pistol Air Gun Kit

This is a gas-powered model with good construction and a comprehensive kit that offers the right range of features to make it the ideal choice for all kinds of shooters.

Daisy Powerline 415 Pistol Air Gun Kit _ Sports & Outdoors

Overview

This is a very well-designed model that you will surely love at first glance. The unit is built very nicely and has the right weight to make it feel solid in your hands. It is also made with quality materials and comes with a whole range of functional accessories.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

 

Feature and Benefits:

Well designed

The unit comes with a smooth steel barrel and a molded black grip that makes handling the unit easy. It also has a built-in magazine and a manual trigger block safety.

Superior power

Operated by three CO2 cylinders, this unit delivers up to 500 fps of maximum velocity. The pistol is ideally designed to provide you the enjoyable experience of semi-automatic shooting.

Versatile

The unit comes with a .177 Cal and 21 shot built-in BB magazine that is perfect for shooting a wide range of targets. It is also very well balanced and will serve both experienced and newbie shooters.

Effective front sight

The unit comes with a front sight that not only looks cool but is also highly effective. Being a fully usable feature, it provides the right level of accuracy.

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .177
  • Velocity: 500 fps.
  • Power: Three CO2 powered cylinders.
  • Magazine: 21 shots.
  • Weight: 1.5 pounds.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • A well designed pistol.
  • Comes with a range of accessories.
  • Gives a balanced feel in hand.
  • Easy to load and install cartridges.
  • The trigger feels good.
.
Cons
  • Long term durability issues.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

This little gun is extremely durable and great fun to use for a wide range of users, making it a very good choice for first timers.

Crosman Vigilante CO2 Caliber .177 Pellet & BB Revolver

If you want to take the target practice to the next level, this air pistol with its great design and a full range of features is an ideal choice for you.

Crosman CCP8B2 Vigilante CO2 .177-Caliber Pellet and FFP BB Revolve

Overview

This is a double-action, semi-automatic revolver that shoots pellets and BBs and offers a good level of accuracy. It is also built out of a die-cast frame and the finger molded grips make it easy for handling. On the whole, this is a very good choice for a backyard target practice session.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Good build quality

The unit comes with a 6-inch rifled steel barrel and the body is a mix of plastic and metal. The overall effect is pleasant and the unit is robust and nicely balanced in terms of weight.

Good trigger pull

The trigger pull is good both for single and double action of the pistol. It has a lighter but well- balanced single action, while the double-action is relatively heavier.

Stylish looks

The unit is designed after the Colt Python 357 Magnum and replicates the original fairly well. Tough inbuilt, the main design is a throwback to the ’80s and it looks good enough for target practice.

Effective features

The unit can use a 10-shot pellet clip and 6-shot BBclip. There is also a fixed blade front sight and adjustable rear sight along with dual accessory rails for necessary mountings.

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .177
  • Velocity: 430 fps.
  • Power: CO2 powered cylinders.
  • Magazine: Rotary type.
  • Weight: 2.0 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • A good looking pistol.
  • Good construction with metal parts.
  • It offers great accuracy.
  • Fully adjustable rear sight.
  • A high capacity magazine.
.
Cons
  • Not ideal for small handed shooters.
  • Does not come with pellets and BBS.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

This is a high-quality pellet revolver that is available at a very good price, making it a great blend of power and accuracy.

 

Gamo 611138054 P-25 Blowback CO2 Powered .177 Caliber Air Pistol

This is a very well designed air pistol with the right amount of versatility and offers a very good level of accuracy to satisfy amateur target practitioners.

Gamo 611138054 P-25 Blowback CO2 Powered .177 Caliber Air Pistol _

Overview

This is a very well designed model from Gamo, a company that has about 120 years of experience in this field. It has been precisely crafted to provide the right balance of speed, power, and accuracy. An authentic look and a reliable performance make this a good choice in all aspects.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Authentic action

The pistol comes with a blowback action to provide a true look and feel. A small portion of the gas is used to move the slide backward during the shooting, providing a realistic touch to the model.

Good trigger pull

The two-stage trigger pull is smooth and long. The first stage serves a rotary action by moving the pellet in the right place and the second stage makes it even lighter and easier.

Durable build

The unit comes with a lightweight synthetic frame that is strong enough to withstand rough use. It is also supplemented with metal parts in the slide, hammer, trigger, and the internal areas.

Good accuracy

The pistol provides good accuracy even when one is shooting quickly in freehand double action. The unit also has the right weight and feel which makes it a great unit for handling.

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .177
  • Velocity: 450 fps.
  • Power: CO2 powered cylinders.
  • Action: Semi-automatic.
  • Weight: 1.5 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • A well-made pistol.
  • Heavy blowback action.
  • Respectable accuracy.
  • The sights are easy to use.
  • A realistic design.
.
Cons
  • The sights are not adjustable.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

This pistol is a real pleasure to grip and shoot and the balance of power and accuracy is fine tuned to provide an enjoyable experience for the shooters.

 

Umarex TDP45 .177 Caliber Steel BB

With a good level of power built within it, this pistol is ideal for targeting a wide range of objects with a considerable level of accuracy.

Umarex TDP45 .177 Caliber Steel BB _ Hunting Air Pistols _ Sports &

Overview

The pistol is great for shooting continuously and the drop-free metal magazine makes fast shooting easier. It is also very well balanced in terms of built and weight and is suitable for all types of hands. If you want to have some fun while shooting, this is a very good choice.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Fast action

The pistol is a semi-auto BB gun that fires as fast as you can pull the trigger. The solid feel of the gun makes it easy to handle and ideal for beginners too.

Large magazine

The pistol comes with a 19 round magazine that makes it a real joy to use. The high number of pellets makes it easier to enjoy the shooting without the need to reload frequently.

Accurate

The pistol provides a very good level of accuracy and the sights are very effective while shooting. It can be pretty accurate in distance between 30 to 40 feet.

Advanced features

The unit comes with fixed front and rear sights to assist in shooting. It also has an effective CO2 canister hidden in the grip to provide enough power for a pellet speed of 410 fps.

 

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .177
  • Velocity: 410 fps.
  • Power: CO2 powered cylinder.
  • Action: Semi-automatic.
  • Weight: 15.2 ounces.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • Robust build quality.
  • Ergonomic body design.
  • Very good accuracy.
  • It offers value for money.
  • Has a realistic look.
.
Cons
  • Some users didn’t like the trigger pull.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

This is a fun to use air pistol that is ideal for some fast shooting action and offers a good package of features at a very reasonable price.

 

Crosman 2240 Bolt Action CO2-Powered Pistol

This is a well-engineered air pistol that balances the fun of shooting with some effective features that makes it ideal for all type of shooters.

Crosman Quick Shot 2240 CO2 Pistol Air Pistol _ Hunting Air Pistols

Overview

With an improved bolt action that is backed by a good level of power, this air pistol is a lot of fun. It is a favorite of enthusiasts who appreciate the simple design and the customizable features of the model. On the whole, a very good pistol to choose if you enjoy shooting.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Good build

The unit is marked by the rifled steel barrel and the ergonomically designed ambidextrous grip. It has the right strength and durability to last for years without damage.

Customizable features

The pistol is unique in the sense that its parts can be upgraded as per the need of the user. The breech, the barrel, and the trigger and hammer assemblies can all be changed as needed.

Powerful unit

The CO2 cylinder provides sufficient power to propel the pellet at a speed of 460 feet per second of power. This is coupled with the high level of accuracy that the pistol delivers.

Ergonomic design

Apart from the comfortable grip that provides great balance and the improved bolt design for easier cocking and loading, the pistol also comes with a rear sight that is completely adjustable.

 

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .22
  • Velocity: 460 fps.
  • Power: CO2 powered cylinder.
  • Action: Bolt action.
  • Weight: 1.81 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • Simple and effective design.
  • Smooth bolt action mechanism.
  • Very good accuracy.
  • Ideal for enthusiasts.
  • Highly customizable.
.
Cons
  • The report is quite loud.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

If you are looking for a practical and easy to use pellet gun, then this affordable model with its smooth and effective performance is a very good choice.

 

Crosman P1322 American Classic Multi-Pump Pneumatic Air Pistol

With a sleek and modern design and an easy operation, this pistol offers the right blend of style and functionality for enjoying a perfect day of shooting.

Crosman P1322 With Shoulder Stock, Black air pistol _ Sports & Outd

Overview

This is a pistol that is based on the popular 1377 pistol which is an American classic. It comes in a shooter’s kit loaded with accessories and delivers a great range of power and kinetic energy. It is also very well priced making it a real value for money purchase.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Fun to use

The pistol is a real joy to use as you can vary the velocity of the pellet by the number of pumps. So without the need for any extra power, you are ready for a whole range of shooting.

Great design

The pistol is very well-designed which makes it easy to handle and the overall build quality is good. It also has a rifled steel barrel for increased accuracy at long ranges.

Consistent accuracy

The pistol delivers a great level of accuracy and hitting targets at a distance of 10 and 15 yards is quite easy. The pistol maintains the accuracy levels even after repeated use.

Additional features

The pistol comes with a fully adjustable rear end open sight and a fixed blade front. The removable plastic stock is very well-built and contributes to accuracy.

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .22
  • Velocity: 460 fps.
  • Power: Pneumatic pump action.
  • Action: Bolt action.
  • Weight: 1.88 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • Very well-designed.
  • Great accuracy levels.
  • It can be customized easily.
  • Well, balanced and good grip.
  • Smooth trigger action.
.
Cons
  • Pumping mechanism takes practice.
  • The breach is made of plastic.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

Apart from the sturdy construction and user-friendly design, this pistol also offers impressive features at this price range, making it a great choice.

 

Legends M712 2251807 BB Air Pistol

With its realistic design and great performance, this air pistol is a very good choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.

M712 2251807 BB Air Pistol 0.177cal, 360fps _ Sports & Outd

Overview

This pistol is a close replica of the Mauser Model 1932 firearm, which has an iconic status. Apart from the impressive design, the unit also delivers a good level of accuracy and has a blowback action that captures the complex mechanism of the original.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Good build quality

The unit has been crafted with full metal parts that makes it durable. The plastic has been used thoughtfully and the overall combination gives the pistol the right amount of mass.

Decent trigger pull

The trigger pull of the pistol is decent and short and offers a medium weight of around 5-6 pounds This makes the speedy back-to-back shots complete ease.

Efficient optics

The rear sight is totally customizable and if you insert a laser sight, the unit offers great accuracy. No matter what the target is, you will find this gun always up to the task.

Additional features

The unit has a semi-automatic action and manual safety. It also has a drop-free magazine that houses the CO2 cylinder for more effective handling.

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .177
  • Velocity: 360 fps.
  • Power: CO2 cylinder operated.
  • Action: Semi-automatic action.
  • Weight: 3.6 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • A very good replica.
  • Sturdy build quality.
  • 18 round magazine.
  • Manual safety checking.
  • Good level of accuracy.
.
Cons
  • Fully automatic mode uses up gas fast.
  • The price is on the higher side.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

If you want a uniquely modeled pistol that has a classic touch along with top-class functionality and reliability, then you cannot go wrong with this unit.

 

Crosman Benjamin Marauder .22 Call Air Pistol BP2220

This pistol is an excellent choice for hunting and target practice and has some of the best features you can get in any air pistol of this category.

 

Crosman Benjamin Marauder .22 Call Air Pistol BP2220

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Overview

This is an air pistol with an exceptional level of precision and accuracy and is the right choice if you are planning for some small game hunting. The unit generates a good feel in the hand and is exceptionally quiet making it ideal in any circumstance.

Feature and Benefits:

Good build quality

The pistol uses precision grade heat-treated metal components to construct the body. It is durable but also light enough to ensure easy handling.

Power-packed

The unit comes with a compressed air propulsion system that delivers 3000 psi of power that brings up speeds to 700 FPS. It also comes with an integrated pressure gauge.

Ultra-quiet

Even with the high levels of power, this pistol is very quiet during shooting. It comes with an internal noise dampening shroud that prevents it from getting too loud.

Advanced features

The unit comes with an interchangeable shoulder stock, an 8-shot clip and a 12-inch choked and shrouded barrel for enhanced accuracy.

 

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .22
  • Velocity: 700 fps.
  • Power: Pre-charged pneumatic.
  • Action: Bolt action.
  • Weight: 1.0 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • A powerful pistol.
  • Good build quality.
  • High accuracy levels.
  • Quiet performance.
  • Can be customized easily.
.
Cons
  • Some users did not like stock.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

With a high level of power and very good portability, this air pistol is a very good choice to carry around for sports and recreational purposes.

 

Beeman Sportsman Series Deluxe Air Pistol

Accurate and easy to use, this pistol is a very good choice for experienced as well as novice shooters and offers great value for money.

Beeman Sweet 17 Bundle (Beeman P17 Air Pistol) air pistol _ Sports

Overview

This single stroke pneumatic pistol is an excellent performer and is a very dependable air pistol. It comes with some very good features and is an excellent example of compact engineering. On the whole, this pistol represents very good value for money product.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Good build

The unit is built from a black synthetic compound that forms a hard shell and is very nice to hold. It is also. It is ready for rough use and will surely serve you for years.

Adjustable sight

The front sight of the pistol is fixed while the rear sight is adjustable. It can be easily adjusted with the help of a screwdriver to make the aiming procedure suit your needs.

Ergonomic design

The unit has been thoughtfully designed and the grip has the right amount of contours to fit snugly in your palms. It also comes with a spacious trigger guard, ideal for those with large hands.

Good features

The unit comes with a safety catch and a well-balanced trigger. It also has a simple cocking action and the little pistol delivers very good levels of accuracy.

 

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .177
  • Velocity: 410 fps.
  • Power: single stroke pneumatic.
  • Trigger: Two stage, non-adjustable.
  • Weight: 1.8 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • A well-designed model.
  • Durable construction.
  • Delivers high accuracy levels.
  • Simple to use.
  • Value for money
.
Cons
  • Long term durability issues.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

If one is looking for a simple and hassle free air pistol with a very reasonable price, then this unit is a very good choice from all aspects.

 

Umarex Legends Luger P.08 .177 Air Pistol

This exquisitely designed air pistol based on a legendary model is a very good choice due to its efficiency and also as it is great fun to use.

Umarex Legends Luger P.08 .177 Air Pistol _ Tactical Flashlights _

Overview

The pistol is very well-designed and delivers a great level of accuracy and ease of handling. It also has a fine built and offers a great realistic look. The unit is real fun to use and offers a top class blowback action. If you want a real feel while shooting, this is the model to choose.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 1

Feature and Benefits:

Good build

The unit is built with metal components except for the grip, making it very durable from all ends. The finish is excellent and the black-greyish satin paint job is very well done.

Fine accuracy

The unit offers a good level of accuracy while hitting targets from distances between 20 to 30 feet. The sites are non-adjustable but very well set, to make shooting easier.

Effective trigger pull

Being on the heavier side, the double-action trigger gives the right feel when pulled. The unit is a good choice as a double-action handgun training aid and learning trigger control.

Realistic looks

The realistic look of this unit and how closely it matches the original real steel P08 is a big draw. In fact when placed side by side with the original, it can very well look like a mirror image.

Key Specifications:

  • Calibre: .177
  • Velocity: 410 fps.
  • Power: Single CO2 cylinder.
  • Magazine: 21 round metal stick.
  • Weight: 1.7 pounds.

 

Pros and Cons:

Pros
  • Offers a realistic look.
  • Durable metal construction.
  • The realistic magazine release and safety.
  • High capacity CO2 cartridge.
  • Good accuracy levels.
.
Cons
  • Finish wears of quickly on high points.
  • Heavy trigger action.

Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting 2

Based on a classic model, this unit delivers good built quality and a high level of consistency along with authentic looks to please all air pistol buyers.

 

Conclusion

So these are some of the Best Air Pistols For Target Shooting that you can choose from the current market. These models deliver a high level of accuracy and very good build quality that will satisfy both amateur and experienced shooters. These pistols are very well balanced in terms of weight and feel and gives the right feel during use. They are also available in a wide range of prices that will suit a variety of buyers. So to choose one particular unit from the list, we can go for the Daisy Powerline 415 Pistol Air Gun that is a simple but very effective model from all aspects.

This semi-automatic pistol is CO2 powered and delivers high levels of power through its steel barrel. The grip is very good to hold and the 21 round magazine makes continuous firing great fun. The unit also has front and rear sights and comes with a kit that has a range of accessories. This is a very good unit to choose for a fun session of target practice and it also comes at a very good price to make it a really good product.

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