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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

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,221
Caliber
Size and Weight
Action Type

Most important from
1123 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.
#3
9.9 score

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

The T4E Glock 17 Gen 5 is an officially licensed paintball marker that offers a realistic experience for paintball fans. At .43 caliber, it’s designed for both fun and competitive play, making it suitable for various users, especially those looking for an authentic handling experience similar to that of a GLOCK firearm. Its CNC-machined aluminum slide and blowback feature enhance the shooting experience, providing a reliable performance in matches. With an 8-round magazine and compatibility with CO2 cartridges, the marker is easy to use and maintain, allowing quick swaps in the heat of action.

Rating
9.9
Caliber
Size and Weight
Ergonomics

Most important from
189 reviews

Caliber
Fires .43 caliber paintballs with consistent accuracy, and the smooth action makes for a satisfying experience each time.
Size and Weight
The T4E Glock 17 Gen 5 closely mirrors the real Glock 17 Gen 5 in both weight and feel, adding a level of realism that's hard to find elsewhere.
Ergonomics
Ergonomic grip fits comfortably in the hand, and the familiar controls make it easy to use right away.

Top 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 1221 this week

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

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

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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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.

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