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10 Best Pistols 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

SIG SAUER P226 MK-25 CO2-Powered .177 Cal Semi-Auto Black Airgun Pellet Pistol with 16rd 8x2 Rotary Magazine

Caliber: 0.177
Size and Weight: 8 inches length, 2.4 pounds
Action Type: Semi-automatic
Capacity: 16-round rotary magazine
Ergonomics: Comfortable design like original P226
Sights: Fixed white dot sights

Chosen by 1175 this week

Umarex Glock 19X Blowback 6mm BB Pistol Airsoft Gun, Glock 19X GBB

Caliber: 6
Size and Weight: 12"L x 3"W x 8"H, 1.45 lbs
Action Type: Blowback
Capacity: 20
Ergonomics: Gen4 Glock frame, no finger grooves
Sights: Traditional Glock-style, not adjustable

Sig Sauer P320 M17 CO2-Powered .177 Cal Semi-Automatic Air Pistol with 20rd Pellet Magazine Included

Caliber: 177
Size and Weight: 10"L x 2.5"W x 9.5"H, 2.1 lbs
Action Type: Semi-automatic
Capacity: 20
Ergonomics: Well-balanced, comfortable
Sights: Reflex sight readiness

T4E Glock 17 Gen 5 .43 Caliber Paintball Gun Marker, Multi, One Size

Caliber: .43
Size and Weight: 2.15 x 8.66 x 11.81 inches
Action Type: Blowback
Capacity: 8
Ergonomics: Polymer frame, ambidextrous slide stop

Umarex GLOCK 19X Half Blowback 6mm BB Pistol Airsoft Gun, Glock 19X Airsoft Gun

Caliber: 6mm
Size and Weight: 8.9x6.75x1.5 inches, 12 grams
Action Type: Half Blowback
Capacity: 20 rounds
Ergonomics: Gen4 frame, no finger grooves
Sights: Traditional GLOCK sights

Springfield Armory 1911 Mil-Spec. CO2 BB Gun Air Pistol, 177 Caliber

Caliber: 0.177
Size and Weight: 10"L x 2"W x 7"H, 2 lbs
Action Type: single-action trigger, blowback
Capacity: 12
Ergonomics: functioning grip safety
Sights: fixed 3-dot sights

Beretta M 92 FS All Metal .177 Caliber Pellet Gun Air Pistol, Black, One Size

Caliber: .177 Caliber
Size and Weight: 11"L x 2.25"W x 4.73"H
Action Type: 8-shot rotary magazine
Capacity: 8
Ergonomics: Beretta-style grip, manual safety
Sights: Adjustable rear sights
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SIG SAUER P226 MK-25 CO2-Powered .177 Cal Semi-Auto Black Airgun Pellet Pistol with 16rd 8x2 Rotary Magazine

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,175
Caliber
Size and Weight
Action Type

Most important from
1152 reviews

Caliber
The unique 16-round rotary magazine cleverly allows firing both BBs and pellets, though using pellets is recommended to preserve barrel rifling and maintain accuracy.
Size and Weight
This air pistol offers an incredibly realistic feel and weight, closely matching the handling of the original SIG P226, making it ideal for authentic training and casual shooting.
Action Type
The full-metal construction combined with blowback action delivers a satisfying recoil and loud report, enhancing the immersive shooting experience.
Capacity
The unique 16-round rotary magazine cleverly allows firing both BBs and pellets, though using pellets is recommended to preserve barrel rifling and maintain accuracy.
Ergonomics
Despite some minor finish differences from the firearm prototype, the tight assembly and solid feel compensate, offering a premium air pistol experience in its price range.
Sights
Fixed white dot sights are functional for quick aiming but lack adjustability, which limits precision at longer distances and may frustrate those needing fine sight tuning.

The SIG SAUER P226 MK-25 is a CO2-powered air pistol designed for training and casual shooting, modeled after the popular SIG P226 firearm. It shoots .177 caliber pellets and has a semi-automatic action with a 16-round rotary magazine, allowing multiple shots before needing to reload—ideal for practice sessions. Weighing about 2.4 pounds and measuring just over 8 inches in length, it offers a balanced feel that mimics the handling of the real firearm, making it useful for users wanting realistic training.

The pistol features a plastic frame with an alloy steel barrel, helping keep it lightweight but sturdy enough for regular use. It has fixed white dot sights which are simple but effective for aiming at close to moderate distances. Additionally, the built-in Picatinny rail lets you add accessories like lights or lasers if desired. It runs on 12-gram CO2 cartridges, which require replacement after some use, and its pellet velocity tops out around 380 feet per second—suitable for target practice but not for high-power shooting needs.

The trigger pull is around 5.5 pounds, which is on the heavier side and may affect precision for some shooters. Ergonomically, the design is intended to feel comfortable and familiar, closely matching the original P226 experience. For those seeking an affordable and reliable air pistol for training, target shooting, or honing skills with a realistic feel, this model is a strong choice. However, if higher power or competition use is desired, exploring other options may be advisable.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,175
Caliber
Size and Weight
Action Type

Most important from
1152 reviews

Caliber
The unique 16-round rotary magazine cleverly allows firing both BBs and pellets, though using pellets is recommended to preserve barrel rifling and maintain accuracy.
Size and Weight
This air pistol offers an incredibly realistic feel and weight, closely matching the handling of the original SIG P226, making it ideal for authentic training and casual shooting.
Action Type
The full-metal construction combined with blowback action delivers a satisfying recoil and loud report, enhancing the immersive shooting experience.
Capacity
The unique 16-round rotary magazine cleverly allows firing both BBs and pellets, though using pellets is recommended to preserve barrel rifling and maintain accuracy.
Ergonomics
Despite some minor finish differences from the firearm prototype, the tight assembly and solid feel compensate, offering a premium air pistol experience in its price range.
Sights
Fixed white dot sights are functional for quick aiming but lack adjustability, which limits precision at longer distances and may frustrate those needing fine sight tuning.
#2

Umarex Glock 19X Blowback 6mm BB Pistol Airsoft Gun, Glock 19X GBB

Rating
9.4
Size and Weight
Action Type
Capacity

Most important from
921 reviews

Size and Weight
The weight strikes a good balance—not too heavy nor overly light—though adding accessories can help improve front-end balance.
Action Type
The takedown lever feels less robust than a real Glock’s and can be a bit loose, but disassembly remains easy.
Capacity
The magazine is compatible with actual Glock 19X pistols, adding a humorous and practical crossover feature for enthusiasts.
Ergonomics
The ambidextrous slide release and frame ergonomics closely mimic the real Glock 19X, enabling users to replicate their grip and handling comfortably.
Sights
Standard Glock-style sights are basic and not adjustable, yet they are functional enough for typical airsoft scenarios.

The Umarex Glock 19X Blowback is a lightweight airsoft pistol designed to closely mimic the look and feel of the real Glock 19X handgun. It shoots 6mm plastic BBs powered by green gas, providing a realistic blowback action that adds to the experience. Weighing about 1.45 pounds and measuring 12 inches long, it’s easy to handle and carry during games or training sessions. The polymer frame and aluminum slide make it durable yet light. With a 20-round capacity, it offers enough shots before needing to reload for typical airsoft play.

The pistol features Glock’s Gen4 style frame ergonomics, but without finger grooves, which some users might find more comfortable depending on hand size. The sights are traditional Glock-style, which are simple and effective though not adjustable for precision shooting. This model is a good pick for airsoft enthusiasts wanting a realistic training tool or a fun, functional pistol for casual target shooting. Since it runs on green gas (not included), you’ll need to buy that separately and keep refilling to maintain performance.

It’s important to note that this pistol is not suitable for actual self-defense or shooting real bullets, as it’s strictly an airsoft replica. This licensed Glock replica delivers decent power, good handling, and reliable performance for sport and practice.

Rating
9.4
Size and Weight
Action Type
Capacity

Most important from
921 reviews

Size and Weight
The weight strikes a good balance—not too heavy nor overly light—though adding accessories can help improve front-end balance.
Action Type
The takedown lever feels less robust than a real Glock’s and can be a bit loose, but disassembly remains easy.
Capacity
The magazine is compatible with actual Glock 19X pistols, adding a humorous and practical crossover feature for enthusiasts.
Ergonomics
The ambidextrous slide release and frame ergonomics closely mimic the real Glock 19X, enabling users to replicate their grip and handling comfortably.
Sights
Standard Glock-style sights are basic and not adjustable, yet they are functional enough for typical airsoft scenarios.

Buying Guide for the Best Pistols

Choosing the right pistol can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to firearms. It's important to consider what you'll be using the pistol for, whether it's for self-defense, target shooting, or competition. Understanding the key specifications and how they align with your needs will help you make an informed decision. Here are some key specs to consider when selecting a pistol and how to navigate them.
CaliberCaliber refers to the diameter of the pistol's barrel and the size of the ammunition it uses. This is important because it affects the pistol's stopping power, recoil, and suitability for different purposes. Common calibers include .22, 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. For beginners or those looking for a low-recoil option, a .22 or 9mm might be ideal. For self-defense, many prefer the 9mm or .40 S&W for their balance of power and manageable recoil. Larger calibers like .45 ACP offer more stopping power but come with increased recoil.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of a pistol can greatly affect its usability and comfort. Full-size pistols are generally easier to shoot accurately and have less recoil, making them suitable for home defense and target shooting. Compact and subcompact pistols are lighter and easier to conceal, making them better for concealed carry. Consider how you plan to use the pistol and choose a size that fits your needs. If you plan to carry it daily, a lighter, more compact model might be best. For home defense or range use, a full-size pistol could be more appropriate.
Action TypeThe action type of a pistol refers to how it operates and includes options like single-action (SA), double-action (DA), and striker-fired. Single-action pistols have a lighter trigger pull but require the hammer to be cocked manually. Double-action pistols have a heavier trigger pull but can be fired without manually cocking the hammer. Striker-fired pistols offer a consistent trigger pull and are popular for their simplicity and reliability. Your choice will depend on your comfort level and intended use. Striker-fired pistols are often recommended for beginners due to their ease of use.
CapacityCapacity refers to the number of rounds a pistol can hold in its magazine. This is important for self-defense and competition shooting, where having more rounds can be advantageous. Standard capacity for many pistols is around 10-15 rounds, but some models can hold more or fewer. Consider how many rounds you feel comfortable with and what your intended use is. For self-defense, a higher capacity might provide peace of mind, while for target shooting, capacity might be less critical.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how well the pistol fits in your hand and how comfortable it is to shoot. This includes the grip size, shape, and texture, as well as the placement of controls like the safety and magazine release. A pistol that feels comfortable and natural in your hand will be easier to control and shoot accurately. It's important to handle different models to see which one feels best for you. Consider factors like grip angle, texture, and overall feel when making your decision.
SightsSights are the aiming devices on a pistol and can greatly affect your accuracy. Common types include iron sights, night sights, and red dot sights. Iron sights are standard and reliable, while night sights glow in low light conditions, making them useful for self-defense. Red dot sights offer quick target acquisition and are popular in competition shooting. Choose sights based on your intended use and personal preference. For self-defense, night sights might be beneficial, while for target shooting, you might prefer a red dot sight.

FAQ