Air Pistols for Sale

Buying Air Pistols in the UK

Air pistols are incredibly versatile, offering an affordable entry point into shooting sports without the need for large ranges. However, the variety of mechanisms available can be overwhelming. Understanding the difference between a "blowback" replica and a "single-stroke pneumatic" is key to buying the right tool.

Understanding the Power Sources

Just like air rifles, pistols are defined by how they propel the pellet or BB.

• CO2 Pistols (Replicas & Multishot): These are currently the most popular type on the market. Powered by 12g CO2 capsules, they often function as semi-automatics (firing as fast as you can pull the trigger). Many are fully licensed replicas of real firearms (like Glocks, Berettas, or Colts) and feature "Blowback" action, where the slide cycles with every shot for realistic recoil. They are perfect for fast-paced plinking and training.
• Spring & Gas Ram Pistols: The traditional choice. You cock the gun manually (usually by breaking the barrel) for each shot. While they have a slower rate of fire and some recoil, they are self-contained, consistent, and excellent for learning fundamental trigger control.
• PCP & Single Stroke Pneumatic (SSP): The choice for precision target shooting. These guns use compressed air to fire the pellet with zero recoil and no vibration. If you are looking to punch paper targets with pinpoint accuracy at 10 metres, this is the platform you need.

Ammo Types: BBs vs. Pellets

• Steel BBs (4.5mm): Usually found in smoothbore CO2 pistols. They are durable and great for smashing tin cans, but they are prone to ricochets and are less accurate at distance.
• Lead Pellets (.177 & .22): Found in rifled barrels. Pellets are aerodynamic and softer, making them safer (less bounce-back) and significantly more accurate for target work.

Intended Use: Targets vs. Pest Control

It is important to note the legal power difference. In the UK, air pistols are limited to 6 ft·lb of muzzle energy (half that of a rifle).

• Target Shooting: This is the primary use for air pistols. From informal garden cans to Olympic 10m disciplines, pistols are challenging and rewarding to master.
• Vermin Control: generally, air pistols are not recommended for hunting. The 6 ft·lb limit makes it very difficult to ensure a humane, clean kill on even small pests like rats. If you are looking for pest control, we strongly recommend browsing our Air Rifles category for a sub-12 ft·lb rifle.

Legal Requirements Buying an air pistol in the UK is subject to strict safety laws:

• Age Limit: You must be 18 or over to purchase an air pistol.
• The VCR Act: New air pistols cannot be sent directly to your door from a shop. They must be collected face-to-face or sent to a local Registered Firearms Dealer (RFD). Second-hand sales between private individuals (face-to-face) are permitted.
• Location: You can only use air pistols on private land where you have permission. Projectiles must never leave your boundary.

Top Brands to Look For

For realistic replicas, look for Umarex and Sig Sauer. For precision and reliability, Weihrauch and Gamo are excellent choices. For high-end competition, look for listings from Steyr.

Whether you are a collector of historic replicas or a competitive shooter, Gunstar’s active community adds new listings daily, ensuring you can find the right pistol at the right price.