A CO2 pistol uses measured bursts of carbon dioxide (CO2) to power its internals and fire airsoft BBs down range. Similar to green gas-powered airsoft guns, CO2 pistols feature either a non-blowback (NBB) or gas-blowback (GBB) action.

Many airsoft players start with a CO2 pistol and graduate to a green gas-powered pistol after getting used to the blowback action.

What Is a CO2 Pistol?

CO2 pistols use carbon dioxide to propel airsoft BBs down range at opponents. The CO2 that gives these pistols their name exits at a higher pressure than green gas. It’s also more stable and offers greater power than green gas pistols in colder temperatures.

How Does a CO2 Pistol Work?

When you pull the trigger on a CO2 pistol, the hammer strikes a valve that releases a short burst of compressed carbon dioxide before closing. This CO2 charge then propels the BB down range. Each trigger pull repeats this process until the CO2 cartridge is empty.

Some CO2 pistols can actually accept CO2 and green gas — although not simultaneously. The ability to switch between these gases can make an airsoft pistol more versatile, but they require a gas charge either way.

CO2-powered pistols tend to last for at least an entire magazine, if not more, depending on the specific pistol you choose.

What Are Some Popular CO2 Pistol Models?

Some of the most popular CO2 pistols come from KWC, Umarex, and KJW. However, finding the CO2 pistol that best suits you and your airsoft gameplay style often takes first-hand experience.

Check out these popular CO2 pistol models:

KJ Works (ASG) CZ Shadow 2 CO2 Airsoft Pistol (Threaded Barrel): Fans of the CZ Shadow 2 will appreciate KJW’s attention to detail with this CO2 pistol. With an adjustable and Tokyo Marui-compatible hop-up, threaded barrel, and blue aluminum grip covers, it’s ready to rock any airsoft field.
KWC .50 Desert Eagle L6 CO2 Airsoft Blowback Pistol: This CO2 blowback pistol has a metal slide, outer barrel, and front and rear sights. It also incorporates a rail for attaching a tactical flashlight or laser sight.
SIG AIR (VFC) P320 M17 6mm CO2 Version GBB Pistol: This CO2 pistol comes fully licensed from SIG Sauer, complete with an RMR cut perfect for SIG AIR red dot sights. It also sports the SIG SAUER M17 marking.
KWC P08 4.5mm CO2 Blowback Air Gun: A replica of the Luger P08, this KWC CO2 pistol features a strong recoil and realistic weight. The craftsmanship is evident in almost every detail.

Want to learn more about airsoft pistols? Check out our guide to choosing your first airsoft pistol for additional tips and insight.