10 Best Pistols 2025 in the United States

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.

The Beretta M 92 FS All Metal .177 Caliber Pellet Gun is a great choice for air gun collectors and shooting enthusiasts who appreciate realistic replicas. It shoots .177 caliber pellets at a decent speed of up to 425 feet per second, which is suitable for target practice and light plinking. The pistol's all-metal construction gives it a solid, authentic feel and adds durability, making it stand out compared to plastic models. Weighing about 2.8 pounds and measuring 11 inches long, it has a comfortable size that balances realism with manageable handling. It operates on CO2 power using easy-to-find 12-gram cartridges, and using recommended brands helps maintain performance.

The action type uses an 8-shot rotary magazine, which offers a reasonable capacity for an air pistol, though it means manual reloading after those eight shots. Ergonomics are typical for a Beretta-style pistol, with an emphasis on a good grip and manual safety for secure handling. Adjustable rear sights allow some flexibility in aiming, which is helpful for improving accuracy. This pistol is not suited for high-powered airsoft battles or hunting small game due to its pellet speed and capacity. It is more of a collector’s piece or casual plinker with an emphasis on realism and build quality. For those seeking a faithful replica that also performs well for basic shooting fun, this model fits the bill.

The Daisy Powerline 426 is a .177 caliber CO2-powered BB pistol designed mostly for casual target shooting and practice. It's lightweight at just under a pound, making it easy to handle, especially for beginners or younger users. With a semi-automatic action and a 15-shot magazine, it offers decent capacity and quick follow-up shots. The pistol features a plastic frame with a steel barrel, which keeps it affordable but may not feel as solid as metal-frame pistols. Its sights are simple but useful: a blade front and fixed open rear sight help line up targets, suitable for basic aiming needs. The grip has molded checkering which improves hold and comfort during use.

It shoots BBs at around 430 feet per second, providing enough power for plinking and casual backyard fun but not for serious competitive shooting or hunting. While the smooth bore barrel is standard for BB guns, it limits precision compared to rifled barrels found on pellet guns. The compact size and low weight make it handy for newcomers, but more experienced shooters might find the plastic build and limited accuracy less satisfying. The included one-year warranty adds some peace of mind.

This pistol is well suited for anyone seeking an affordable, easy-to-use BB pistol for casual shooting and target practice rather than a serious firearm replica or high-performance airgun.