2024’s Best Airsoft Pistol | Our Guide to the #1 Gas Blowback Handgun

There are hundreds of airsoft pistols on the market. Let our decades of airsoft experience tell you which are the best choices.

*Last updated (03/01/2024)

One of the first airsoft guns I owned was a scrappy spring pistol (an M9). I remember being in love with how cool it looked and how realistic it felt in my hands. This pistol was my gateway into the world of airsoft guns, really, even before I picked up airsoft rifles.

Since then, I’ve played in 1000+ airsoft games (all the way from casual to speedsoft) and been on dozens of MILSIM events. I’ve never gone to an airsoft battle without a trusty sidearm. In fact, for a good chunk of indoor close quarters games, I’ve ditched my airsoft rifle and gone solely with a gas blowback airsoft pistol as my primary weapon with a few extra magazines and my favorite battle belt.

While I was working in the airsoft industry I got to test fire and run 50+ (no lie) various pistols and handguns (and I’ve got my fair share of the real deal too). We’re fired the crappy Combat Zone Enforcer Co2 powered pistol all the way up to the most upgraded TM Hi Capa.

So, let me save you a ton of money by telling you which are the best airsoft pistols on the market so you can skip on the junk pieces.

best airsoft pistol gas blow back handgun buyer's guide

Our Breakdown of the Top 5 Airsoft Pistols:

Bottom Line
 

Best Value

KWA ATP
Bottom Line
Very high quality at an affordable price.
NS2 Gas System
Fits perfectly in Glock Holsters
Best Overall
KWA PTP M9 Airsoft Pistols for our best airsoft pistol blog

Best Overall

KWA M9
Bottom Line
Functioning Safety / Decocker
Strong Blowback
Outstanding Performance

Editor’s Favorite

Umarex GLOCK Gen 3 G19
Bottom Line
Fully licensed by GLOCK
1:1 Replica
High level of Performance

Remember, the writers at Airsoft Core easily have had thousands of hours gunrunning with these pistols and we’ve really put them through the paces.

As a heads up as well, we did NOT include any spring pistols in this list. Unless you’re looking for a cool looking piece to just goof off with; there really isn’t a place for spring pistols of any kind of competitive list. Additionally, we avoided all non gas blowback pistols & electric airsoft pistols – you’ll find that they simply don’t match up to the GBB variants.

Factors we considered

We took the below 5 of the best airsoft pistols and put them under the microscope paying most attention to these following factors:

Shooting Performance

We want this airsoft pistol to be able to do the following things:

  • Muzzle velocity has consistent FPS – our standards are a +/- 20 FPS variance in 3 rounds bursts.
  • Hit man sized targets at airsoft combat distances – we aim for a maximum 12 inch grouping at 60 feet.
  • Adjustable hop up – this is key to a good backspin on the BB
  • High quality bucking – we want consistent backspin on our BB’s.

Reliability

We want this airsoft pistol to not only look and feel durable, but actually BE durable.

  • Full metal construction – this is key, we ideally want at least the slide to be full metal
  • It will work under tough circumstances – we want the gun to function in high (100+ degrees) and low (60 degrees) temperatures
  • Precision construction – the internal metal parts must be well constructed and well fitted to ensure function during an airsoft match.

Internal Build Quality

The internals should be well fitted and made with precision.

  • High quality bucking – the bucking is essential to your range and accuracy so this should be of good quality.
  • Solid hop up– the hop up unit should be adjustable and well fitted. You can tell a well made hop up because it doesn’t readjust itself with use.
  • Rubber seals are good – having good rubber seals ensures great gas efficiency.
  • Smooth inner barrel – the inner barrel should be smooth and the crowning should be flawless.
  • Well designed air nozzle – the air nozzle should seal very well in the hop up unit.
  • Smooth trigger parts – sloppy trigger breaks will ruin any chance at combat accuracy.
  • Good gas efficiency – at minimum we should be getting a full magazine’s worth of BB’s from a single fill. Ideally we should be getting multiple BB refills – between 2-5 magazines worth.
  • Large gas reservoir – related to the above, if a magazine has a huge gas reservoir it’ll ensure that you can fire off many rounds without needing a gas refill.

External Build Quality

The externals should be made of top level metal or steel & the pistol will get a plus for real deal features such as:

  • Cocking serrations – front and rear cocking serrations are nice to ensure racking the pistol is as easy as it can be (less important than in the real steel counterpart – but still).
  • Skeleton triggers & hammers – lightweight parts help keep the handgun nice and easy to manuever.
  • Comfortable grip – the pistol grip itself should feel good in your hands. We expect excellent ergonomics, but luckily since these guns are replicas of the real deal, they’re going to be pretty good here.
  • Tactical rail – this will allow you to add attachments like lasers, flashlights, and more.
  • Iron sights – the iron sights should be easy to acquire & be rock solid (if your sights move during use… that’s not good).

Value

What you buy should be worth the money being spent.

  • Features to cost ratio – the more features per dollar spent, the better.
  • Performance to cost ratio – the high overall performance of the airsoft pistol, the better.
  • Customer Service of the Manufacturer – The manufacturer’s warranty and customer service reputation should be good to ensure that IF you receive a lemon, it’ll be covered.

Keep these 3 tips in mind when purchasing

  • What is the reputation of the manufacturer? Much like other industries the airsoft hobby has budget companies & excellent companies making airsoft products. Ensure that you’re purchasing a product from one of the more well known companies in the industries. Luckily, every option we present here has been manufactured by a top level airsoft company.
  • Does it come with a warranty – the warranty can be provided by either the manufacturer or the retail store. Always check with the specialty store you’re purchasing from to determine if they will cover damages. In general, most airsoft specialty shops will do free repairs within a certain timeframe. Always look at their policies closely.
  • Use the right kind of ammo and propellant – if you put garbage in, you’ll get garbage out. Only use high quality, perfectly spherical 6mm BB’s into your airsoft guns. Additionally, you’ll want to use well known green gas canisters from the reputable manufacturers.

With that said – let’s start:


KWA ATP-LE Adaptive Training Pistol

KWA ATP Trainer Pistol for our best airsoft pistol blog

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Airsoft Pistol Specs

Type:
Green Gas
Blowback:Yes
Construction:Metal Slide / Polymer Frame
FPS:330 FPS w/ 0.20g
Magazine Capacity:23 Rounds
Action:Semi Auto
Iron Sights:3 Dot
Gas Consumption:Excellent

8.9Expert Score
KWA ATP Adaptive Training Pistol

Shooting Performance
8.5
Reliability
8.5
Build Quality
9.0
Value
9.5
PROS
  • KWA grade at a much lower cost.
  • Solid out of the box performance.
  • Simple 3 dot rear sights.
  • Fits perfectly in Glock 17 / 19 Holsters.
  • Front accessory rail accommodates tactical attachments.
  • 5,000+ BB rounds through this and it is still going.
  • Solid NS2 gas piston / system allows for many shots per gas fill (100+ BBs per fill!)
  • Top level customer service.
  • Smooth trigger pull.
  • Real Glock 17 style features like slide catch, takedown lever, and more.
CONS
  • ATP's magazine base plate is annoying too thick, making green gas refills more of a pain than it needs to be.
  • Doesn't really match a real-life pistol in terms of looks.
  • Utilizes proprietary hop up and bucking.
  • Threaded barrel is not too strong.

Did you know, that Glock airsoft guns were once.. illegal?

Well, not actually, but Glock was not at all friendly to the industry and would forward a cease & desist to any manufacturer who made a Glock airsoft product. Then came KWA, known for making some of the best airsoft handguns on the market at the time, and they made the ATP.

This is known as the Adaptive Training Pistol and it was meant to be a full-scale alternative to a full-size Glock 17. It was designed to fit in Glock 17 holsters and was meant to be a training tool alternative to actual firearms to those who wanted to use a full-size Glock airsoft pistol (ex. law enforcement agencies). It even includes a functional trigger safety!

Just avoid the Gen I version of this gun.

We ran a Gen II for many years and after thousands of BB’s fired through it we can say with experience that it is easily one of the top airsoft handguns we’ve ever used while being extremely gas efficient. The latest technology in NS2 system with improved blowback unit is simply impressive.

This pistol still shoots nearly as well as the day we got it. The muzzle velocity is extremely consistent despite variant temperatures. The nice thing is that it comes in at a much lower price tag when compared to a similar KWA blowback pistol ($125ish at the time of this writing – which is STEAL for a KWA).

Check out our KWA ATP review here for performance tests. Check out, especially, how gas efficient this airsoft pistol is, we’re impressed.

Who is this gun for?

Someone looking to get the best bang for your buck. Excellent performance at a price that is VERY reasonable. There is a version of the ATP with a full auto feature… we say to avoid that one.


Elite Force 1911 TAC Co2

Umarex 1911 Co2 for our best airsoft GBB pistol blog

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Pistol Specs

Type:
Co2
Blowback Action:Yes
Construction:Metal Slide / Metal Frame
FPS:350 FPS w/ 0.20g
Magazine Capacity:14 Rounds
Action:Semi Auto
Iron Sights:3 Dot
Gas Consumption:Good

8.3Expert Score
Elite Force 1911 TAC Co2 Pistol

Shooting Performance
8.5
Reliability
8.0
Build Quality
8.0
Value
8.5
PROS
  • Solid out of the box performance.
  • Has all 1911 safety features like functional grip safety and ambidextrous controls.
  • Ambidextrous safety.
  • Co2 gives this airsoft pistol a lot of feedback for realistic blowback action.
  • Smooth skeleton trigger pull.
  • Front &amp
  • rear slide serrations.
  • Adjustable hop up.
  • Front picatinny rail for mounting accessories.
CONS
  • Low pistol magazine capacity (all single stack 1911's are like this).
  • Co2 cartridges makes the metal magazine especially not drop safe.
  • We had issues with a sticky magazine release (took time to break in).

Umarex / Elite Force really knocked it out of the park with this 1911. OEMed by KWC (known for making good Co2 gas pistols) this is a 1:1 replica of the famous M1911 Tactical. Why is it tactical? This pistol features a front accessory rail system for the attachment of tactical accessories as well as having front and rear serrations for easier slide racks.

Check out our full review here.

This replica also comes with the 1911 safety pistol features you can expect, a beavertail safety, ambidextrous safety lever, even a hammer safety (although the hammer is mostly non-functional).

Performance-wise this pistol stacks up with some of the best airsoft 1911 handguns on the market. Co2 is known for having impressive power in terms of muzzle velocity, but most of the top-tier airsoft sidearms don’t use it. We’d say that this particular choice is the exception.

One of our writers has several KWA 1911 PTP’s and he found his experience with this Co2 airsoft pistol a whole lot of fun. This is especially because the Co2 really gives this airsoft gun the strongest blowback, more so than the GBB airsoft variants. So, that makes this 1911 a fun shoot. Strong blowback does put more wear and tear on the body, but you’ll see below just how long it’s lasted us.

We put down about 2,000 rounds and have only had a few failures (mostly due to Co2 cartridges running low & the slide lock not engaging). This is one of the most popular 1911’s we see on the field. After using this airsoft gun, chances are we’re not going back to the green gas version. This pistol fires GREAT.

Who is this gun for?

A player looking for a snappy full size 1911 utilizing Co2. This is easily the best Co2 pistol available.


KWA M9 PTP Full Metal

KWA PTP M9 GBB airsoft pistols

See Updated Prices (Without Rails)

See Updated Prices (With Rails)

Airsoft Gun Specs

Type:
Green Gas
Blowback Action:Yes
Construction:Full Metal Slide / Full Metal Grip Frame
Muzzle Velocity:
350 FPS w/ 0.20g
Magazine Capacity:25 Rounds
Action:Semi Auto
Iron Sights:Blade
Gas Consumption:Excellent

9Expert Score
KWA Semi Automatic M9

Shooting Performance
9.5
Reliability
9.0
Build Quality
10
Value
7.5
PROS
  • Excellent full metal slide &amp
  • general metal construction makes for great heft.
  • Outstanding gas consumption due to NS2 system.
  • Functional safety decocker and thumb safety like the real gun.
  • Excellent hard hitting performance and features realistic blowback action.
  • Fully adjustable hop up.
  • Solid Customer Service.
  • Comfortable GBB pistol grip w/ ambidextrous controls.
CONS
  • Pricey - but you get what you pay for.
  • Utilizes proprietary adjustable hop up and bucking.

Wow.

This is the M9 that all other green gas Beretta M9’s aspire to be. The KWA grade full metal construction can be felt immediately from picking up this popular gas blowback pistol. The KWA M9 is made of better steel than most airsoft pistols and you can FEEL it as you squeeze the trigger.

The full metal construction on this gas blowback pistol isn’t just outstanding, but is realistic is too. Exactly like its Beretta counterpart, the safety has a functioning decocker on the slide. These features really sets the full metal design of this green gas powered pistol apart from the other TM, KJW, or WE-Tech M9 style airsoft pistols.

But, it isn’t just the exteriors that make this gun outstanding, the excellent performance out of the box is just fantastic. The sights are well aligned and we were easily smashing targets out at 90 feet easily (the BB actually goes further, but we’re talking effective distance here).

Additionally, KWA’s NS2 system is really effective at great gas efficiency. Firing most of our rounds at a consistent 350 FPS with minimal variance is quite a feat for GBB pistols. They’ve even modified the green gas magazine a bit to better ensure a good seal during firing.

The fact is, if you’ve got the dough, just go with this pistol and don’t look back. One of our editors (who served with US armed forces during Operation Enduring Freedom) uses this gas-powered airsoft handgun almost exclusively and it would not be an exaggeration to say he’s put over 5,000 rounds through it. It is still slinging airsoft BBs as well as the day he bought it. I’m a huge fan of this realistic replica of an M9.

Check out our full KWA M9 PTP Tactical Review here.

Who is this gun for?

Someone looking for the one of the best pistols money can buy. Most KWA gas blowback pistols are solid choices, and this M9 sits at the top of the pack (chances are it’ll be like that for quite a bit longer).

KWA M9 PTP (With Rails)

More Expensive – but able to attach tactical accessories to the front.
Disclaimer text….

Umarex GLOCK Gen 3 G19

VFC Umarex G19 Glock for our best GBB pistol blog

See Updated Prices

Pistol Specs

Type:
Green Gas
Blowback:Yes
Construction:Full Metal Slide / Polymer Frame
Muzzle Velocity:
300 FPS w/ 0.20g
Magazine Capacity:20 Rounds
Action:Semi Auto
Iron Sights:Dot & Bucket
Gas Consumption:Great

8Expert Score
Umarex GLOCK Gen 3 G19 GBB Pistol

Shooting Performance
8.5
Reliability
8,5
Build Quality
8.5
Value
7.0
PROS
  • High end construction.
  • Solid out of the box performance.
  • Authentic markings and features similar to the G19.
  • Front accessory rail for tactical attachments.
  • Metal slide and barrel length
  • The BEST G19 replica currently available with fully licensed trademarks.
  • Adjustable hop up
  • Functional trigger safety.
  • Compact barrel length.
CONS
  • Pricey.
  • FPS is lower than we'd like.
  • Extra magazines are a real pain to find.
  • Blowback housing is proprietary.

Good news! Glock is back being on good terms with the airsoft industry!

This is about as close to the real Glock 19 as it gets. The real gun is famous for its popularity with law enforcement agencies worldwide. I really think this is an outstanding pistol.

It absolutely has everything to do with the fact that I own and train with the real G19. So, when it comes to finding a realistic replica that looks and feels like the real firearm I own, nothing comes close except the Umarex GLOCK 19.

I, in fact, run this pistol with the same grip tape modifications on the grip & slide like on my real steel (absolutely not needed). This is easily the most advanced airsoft Glock today with high-quality internals and precision level railed frame + metal slide. The fact that is fully licensed is quite a big plus.

This particular airsoft gun is OEMed by VFC, known for making some of the older Glock pistols in the past (back when Glock was absolutely not on friendly terms with the airsoft community). The VFC variant of the G19 is similar to the TM design, but with a lot of functional improvements for general performance making this gun gas efficient yet having strong blowback. Hot or cold weather, this pistol shoots 60-70 rounds per magazine fill.

My experience, overall, with this pistol is that is simply outstanding. I’ve had almost as much fun using it as I’ve done with the real deal.

Who is this gun for?

Someone looking for a no-nonsense airsoft pistol modeling after the most popular real steel pistol in the world. Is it the best Glock series airsoft pistol? It just might be….

Umarex Glock Gen 3 G19
Umarex Glock Gen 3 G19

Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1

tokyo marui hi-capa 5.1 1911

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Airsoft Pistol Specs

Type:
Green Gas
Blowback Action:Yes
Construction:Plastic Slide / Plastic Frame
FPS:300 FPS w/ 0.20g
Magazine Capacity:31 Rounds
Action:Semi Auto
Iron Sights:Blade
Gas Consumption:Great

8Expert Score
Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1 Semi Automatic GBB Pistol

Shooting Performance
9.0
Reliability
8.0
Build Quality
8.0
Value
7.0
PROS
  • It's a TM - it is indeed a great product.
  • Smoothest slide cycle we've felt.
  • Functional 1911 safety features.
  • No nonsense sights.
  • Gigantic gas reservoir.
  • Tons of upgrades available like hop up, bucking, trigger, outer barrel, full metal kits, blowback housing, etc
  • Ambidextrous controls.
  • Enlarged magazine release.
  • Magazine has a high round count.
  • There are so many variants coming with tons of different sights, triggers, accessories, rails, etc.
CONS
  • Pricey.
  • FPS is lower than we'd like.
  • Plastic construction makes it less friendly to green gas.
  • Grip texture is a bit too smooth for us.

Tokyo Marui is an absolutely LEGENDARY Japanese manufacturer and they have a reputation for some of the highest performing guns on the market…. 20 years ago. It’s no secret that we think TM is still great, but they’re easily running up against great competitors in the manufacturing world.

There is one place, however, that many airsoft enthusiasts say they still reign supreme, and that is in the airsoft handgun world. Almost all airsoft competitive shooters will tote just how great Tokyo Marui pistols are.

The TM Hi Capa (Hi Capacity) line is known to be the most upgradeable and customizable gas-powered airsoft pistol platform to date. At the same time, there are hundreds of aftermarket parts available to this semi-automatic pistol (buckings, seals, fiber optic sights, textured grips, etc) and some airsoft players have built some absolutely great builds, especially competitive shooters. Modeled after a double stack 1911, you’ll find the pistol grip to be a bit wider than the single stack replicas (this is to accommodate more BBs and a larger gas reservoir). For some with larger hands, this actually makes for quite a comfortable grip.

We’ve fired our fair share of TM, and we do agree the pistol shoots well compared to other metal pistols.

Who is this gun for?

An airsoft player looking for a gun that will take upgrades like a champ, and is willing to take time fine-tuning it. For style-conscious shooters, there are absolutely tons of external upgrade parts to personalize the gun.

Read our Tokyo Marui 1911 5.1 Hi Capa review here.

Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1
Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1

SIG Sauer ProForce P226 MK25 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol

Sig sauer p226 airsoft pistol

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Airsoft Pistol Specs

Type:
Green Gas
Blowback Action:Yes
Construction:Full Metal Slide
FPS:320 FPS w/ 0.20g
Magazine Capacity:18 Rounds
Action:Semi Auto
Iron Sights:3 Dot
Gas Consumption:Great

8.1Expert Score
SIG Sauer ProForce P226 MK25 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol

Shooting Performance
8.5
Reliability
8.0
Build Quality
8.5
Value
7.5
PROS
  • Fully licensed by Sig Sauer.
  • Mk25 variant includes unique slide color.
  • Functional SIG Sauer P226 features.
  • Functional decocker lever.
  • Solid blowback.
  • Front rails for accessories.
CONS
  • Not a huge fan of the P226 slide release location.
  • DA/SA action doesn't quite work for airsoft.

The Sig Sauer Proforce P226 is an airsoft pistol that replicates the design and ergonomics of the real P226, a renowned firearm often used by military and law enforcement agencies worldwide.

The Proforce version is specifically designed for airsoft enthusiasts and training purposes. It features a metal slide and frame, mimicking the weight and feel of the actual firearm.

Utilizing green gas or CO2 as a propellant, it offers a blowback action that simulates the recoil of a real gun.

The Proforce P226 provides users with a realistic shooting experience, making it an excellent choice for training scenarios or airsoft skirmishes.

Who is this gun for?

For airsoft players who want a unique pistol to complete a 2000’s Navy SEALs loadout.

SIG Sauer ProForce P226 MK25 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol
SIG Sauer ProForce P226 MK25 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol

H&K Umarex Full Metal USP Full Size Airsoft Pistol

Hk umarex airsoft pistol USP Full Size

See Updated Prices

Airsoft Pistol Specs

Type:
Green Gas
Blowback Action:Yes
Construction:Full Metal Slide
FPS:320 FPS w/ 0.20g
Magazine Capacity:18 Rounds
Action:Semi Auto
Iron Sights:3 Dot
Gas Consumption:Great

8.3Expert Score
H&K Umarex Full Metal USP Full Size Airsoft Pistol

Shooting Performance
8.5
Reliability
8.5
Build Quality
9.0
Value
7.0
PROS
  • Fully licensed by Heckler and Koch.
  • Ambidextrous controls.
  • Functional decker lever.
  • Upgraded slide release.
  • Outstanding performance.
  • OEMed by KWA - so you know there's quality in the build.
CONS
  • One of the more expensive airsoft pistols.
  • Requires an additional upgrade to add a front rail.

The H&K USP airsoft pistol by KWA is a masterclass in precision and authenticity. Officially licensed by Heckler & Koch, this airsoft sidearm mirrors the legendary design and formidable presence of its real-steel counterpart.

Powered by green gas, it offers a robust blowback action that provides a tangible sense of realism with every shot. The polymer frame and metal slide ensure durability while keeping the weight balanced and comfortable for extended play.

The H&K USP by KWA stands out as a premium choice for both enthusiasts and professionals alike. Experience the blend of craftsmanship and performance that only KWA can deliver.

Who is this gun for?

For those who pine for the days of Counterstrike playing as a counter-terrorist.

H&K Umarex Full Metal USP Full Size Airsoft Pistol
H&K Umarex Full Metal USP Full Size Airsoft Pistol

The Winner of Best Airsoft Pistol is:

Well, after firing tons of pistols and going out to multiple airsoft games to stress test them, we really think the best airsoft pistol is the KWA M9. The rugged construction really sets this gun apart from even the other choices on this list – the moment you pick this GBB pistol up it FEELS right. Now if it just didn’t fetch for high prices….

This pistol makes a perfect choice for the best overall airsoft handgun in our eyes. The KWA M9 is the best overall pistol available on the airsoft market, and for good reason.

KWA M9 PTP (Without Rails)

Cheaper – but unable to attach accessories.

KWA M9 PTP (With Rails)

More Expensive – but able to attach tactical accessories tot he front.
Disclaimer text….

So, we wanted to give a shoutout to the KWA ATP. The Adaptive Training Pistol is just absolutely GREAT for the value players receive. Cheaper than the M9 PTP and provides nearly the same performance and excellence of build. The KWA ATP is the best value pistol on the list and will serve you well in any close quarters airsoft battle.

KWA ATP Adaptive Training Pistol
KWA ATP Adaptive Training Pistol
Best Value

However, as mentioned earlier, if you choose ANY of the pistols on this product list you’re in for a real treat. The quality of these gas airsoft pistols is placed at the top 25% of any airsoft sidearm we’ve ever shot. The perfect sidearm for you will depend on what you enjoy aesthetically in addition to your budget.

Perhaps one day we will end up making a list of cheaper pistol products with lower prices, but until then you can enjoy our list of the best airsoft revolvers.

*Edit* – Looks like we got around to doing that. Check out our list of the best cheap airsoft pistols under $100.


The Final Breakdown:

KWA M9 PTP
KWA M9 PTP
Best Overall Airsoft Pistol
Umarex Glock Gen 3 G19
Umarex Glock Gen 3 G19
Editor's Favorite
KWA ATP Adaptive Training Pistol
KWA ATP Adaptive Training Pistol
Best Value
Elite Force 1911 TAC Co2
Elite Force 1911 TAC Co2
Best Co2 Powered Pistol

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the best brands for green gas airsoft pistols?

We will bucket the main brands into 4 main categories. There are several manufacturers in the airsoft world that fall into each, all fetching different prices.

Entry Level Brands

These airsoft options usually have prices around $100, and they’re the bare minimum we’d even consider recommending. At this price range you can at least expect them to be gas blowback pistols vs non blowback pistols (like a combat zone enforcer co2).

WE-Tech guns have gotten better, but we’d need more time on them to determine if they get upgraded into the intermediate brand section. This might not be a bad option for those looking to do hand to hand sparring in addition to firearms training.

  • HFC
  • WinGun (WG)
  • WE-Tech / WE-USA

Intermediate Brands

These airsoft products are actually fairly decent and we’d feel confident with any green gas blowback airsoft pistol from here. You can except the prices here to be around $120 – $140. Many GBB pistols here feature the ability to use both green gas or Co2.

  • KJW
  • KWC
  • VFC

High Class Brands

These bad boys are about as good as it gets. The best airsoft pistols are in this category and we’d be confident taking these reliable sidearms to an airsoft game. Prices here will end up running $130+. Some of these airsoft pistols are good enough to train real steel with.

  • KWA
  • KSC
  • TM

Wild Card Brands

These brands don’t actually make their airsoft products. Instead, they’re usually rebranded (OEM) from one of the manufacturers listed above, or sourced from a place with zero reputation or quality assurance. Sometimes their airsoft guns are great, and sometimes they’re not – it depends on each individual product line.

The main advantage of these brands is that they have official licenses (like Sig Sauer, Dan Wesson, etc). Fully licensed stampings can look pretty dang cool.

  • Elite Force / Umarex
  • APS
  • ASG
  • Cybergun
  • Sig Sauer Pro Force
  • UTG Sport line

If you want a more in-depth breakdown, we have a guide on the best airsoft brands here.

Co2 and Green Gas – which is better?

It depends really. We prefer green gas version of airsoft pistols, but there’s an argument to be made for Co2 as well. Check out our article on green gas vs co2 for more info, but we think most of the best airsoft pistols are green gas-based.

Can I remove the orange tip?

The United States has federally mandated that all airsoft products are to be sold with the orange tip. This is really for your own safety as you don’t want any police agencies believing you have a real weapon (which the orange tip helps ID it as an airsoft product). You’d hope that the United States law enforcement agencies would be able to tell the difference between a replica and real firearms, but it is not really reasonable for them to assume. This is why the orange tip is essential due to local laws and removing them can create a problem.

With that said, you’ll find a lot of players violating local laws and end up removing their orange tip. Hopefully, they know the risks involved. Ultimately, we want you to be safe, and the airsoft hobby/sport truly does NOT need any tragedies and you want to reduce dangerous situations as much as you can.

By removing the orange tip you can create other legal concerns with local law as well.

Timothy Hackett
Timothy Hackett

Tim has been playing airsoft since 1994. With over a thousand (no lie) airsoft games under his belt he has spent countless hours testing various airsoft guns and tactical gear. He's gotten hundreds (still no lie) of people into the airsoft hobby and is more than willing to spread the love of slinging 6mm plastic to any new player.

2 Comments
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  1. Great guide!

    This helped me decide between an Elite Force 1911 and a KWA PTP.

    What’s your thoughts on the new Cybergun 1911 AEP? Does the mosfet help?

    • We’ve never had a good experience with an AEP. They typically fire at a terrible FPS, are made of bad materials, and generally aren’t well made. They’re fun, but in no way should you consider them competitive.

      I did once see someone run one at an indoor field a few years ago – but he also admitted it was more for lulz.

      With that said, I actually haven’t fired that particular Cybergun. Just be aware that Cybergun doesn’t actually make any products, so you’d need to do more research to find out who actually manufactured the AEP.

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