Last updated July 26, 2026 · By Nick Hall. For the big picture, start with our complete air rifle buying guide.
Air pistols are the most fun-per-dollar you can have in shooting. Whether you want a realistic CO2 replica for backyard practice, a purpose-built target pistol, or a small-game plinker, there is an air pistol for you, and most cost less than a box of centerfire ammo. Here are the best air pistols in 2026.
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Quick Answer: The best all-around air pistol is the Crosman 2240, a .22 CO2 pistol that is cheap, accurate, and endlessly modifiable. The best PCP air pistol is the Benjamin Marauder Pistol, the best budget pick is the single-stroke Beeman P17, and the best CO2 revolver is the Crosman Vigilante. Choose CO2 for convenience, PCP for power, or a single-stroke pneumatic for match accuracy.
Best Air Pistols in 2026
Best Overall: Crosman 2240 From ~$70
Best PCP: Benjamin Marauder Pistol From ~$350
Best Budget: Beeman P17 From ~$45
Best CO2 Revolver: Crosman Vigilante From ~$60
Best Multi-Pump: Crosman 1377 American Classic From ~$70
Types of Air Pistol
- CO2: the most popular, powered by 12-gram cartridges. Convenient and great for plinking and realistic replicas, but temperature-sensitive.
- Multi-pump pneumatic: you pump the pistol to set the power. Self-contained, variable-power, and a modding favorite.
- Single-stroke pneumatic: one pump per shot delivers consistent, match-grade power. The choice for serious target pistols like the Beeman P17.
- PCP: pre-charged for the most power and multi-shot capability, like the Marauder Pistol. Needs a fill source. Learn more in what is a PCP.
Air Pistol FAQ
What is the best air pistol?
The Crosman 2240 is the best all-around air pistol for most people: a cheap, accurate, endlessly modifiable .22 CO2 pistol. The Benjamin Marauder Pistol is the best PCP option, and the Beeman P17 is the best budget target pistol.
What is the most accurate air pistol?
Single-stroke pneumatic target pistols like the Beeman P17 are among the most accurate air pistols for the money, delivering consistent, match-grade power. Purpose-built 10-meter match pistols are the most accurate overall but cost far more.
Are air pistols good for target practice?
Yes, air pistols are excellent, low-cost practice tools. CO2 replica pistols in particular let you train real-gun controls and trigger skills in the backyard for a fraction of the cost of firearm ammunition.
What is the difference between CO2, pneumatic and PCP air pistols?
CO2 pistols run on 12-gram cartridges and are convenient but temperature-sensitive. Pneumatic pistols are pumped by hand for self-contained power. PCP pistols are pre-charged for the most power and multi-shot capability, but need a fill source.
Can you hunt with an air pistol?
Small pests can be taken at close range with a powerful air pistol like the .22 Benjamin Marauder Pistol, but air pistols generally lack the energy and accuracy of a rifle for hunting. For hunting, an air rifle is the better tool.
How much do air pistols cost?
Air pistols range from about $45 for a Beeman P17 or basic CO2 pistol to around $350 for a PCP pistol like the Benjamin Marauder Pistol. Most quality CO2 pistols cost $60 to $150.
Want a realistic replica for backyard practice? See our best CO2 pistols guide. Prefer a long gun? Start with our complete air rifle guide.
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