10 Best Pump Pistol 2025 in the United States

The Crosman P1322 American Classic is a unique option in the pump-pistol category, especially tailored for beginners and those interested in honing their shooting skills. One of its standout features is the variable pump mechanism, allowing users to control the velocity of the pellets up to 460 fps, which is quite impressive for an air pistol of this type. This flexibility can enhance shooting practice, making it suitable for skill development training. The single-shot bolt action makes cocking and loading straightforward, which is a significant advantage for newcomers.

In terms of build quality, the synthetic frame combined with a rifled steel barrel offers a sturdy feel, although it may lack the premium finish some users might expect from higher-end models. Weighing in at 1.9 pounds, it’s relatively light, which contributes to comfortable handling and ease of use over extended sessions.

The fixed blade front sight and adjustable rear sight are beneficial for targeting, although some more experienced shooters might wish for enhanced optics. Safety is prioritized with the crossbolt safety feature, ensuring that handling remains secure during use. On the downside, there's the limitation of being a single-shot pistol, which might deter users who prefer faster follow-up shots. Also, while the pump-action can be a fun and engaging experience, it may not be as quick as other semi-automatic options available in the market. The construction materials, while functional, may not appeal to those looking for a high-end finish.

The Crosman P1377BR American Classic is a .177 caliber pump-piston air pistol designed mainly for beginners and those interested in skill development. It offers variable pump power, allowing you to control the velocity of pellets up to about 600 feet per second, which is quite good for target shooting and light plinking. The single-shot bolt action makes loading straightforward, though it might slow you down if you want rapid firing.

Weighing just under 2 pounds with a synthetic frame and a rifled steel barrel, it balances durability with lightweight handling, making it comfortable to hold and use for practice. Its fixed front blade sight paired with an adjustable rear sight helps with aiming, though it does not come with optics options out of the box. The build uses plastic for the frame and alloy steel for the barrel, which keeps the price reasonable but may not feel as solid as metal-framed pistols. The crossbolt safety is a helpful feature to prevent accidental firing.

Though it is not the most powerful or feature-rich air pistol, its simplicity, variable power, and reliable performance make it a solid choice for newcomers and casual shooters looking to develop basic air pistol skills.

The P2P HDP50 Compact Gen 2 is a CO2-powered air pistol designed for less-lethal home defense, firing .50 caliber pepper, rubber, or dust rounds. It offers a decent velocity of 425 feet per second, providing enough stopping power for personal protection without lethal harm. The pump mechanism is internal and combined with a tool-free quick pierce knob to activate the CO2 cartridge, making it fairly simple and quick to ready for use. The grip features improved texture for better control and an ergonomic design aimed at snag-free deployment in stressful situations. Weighing just over 1 kilogram, it's light enough for easy handling and quick aiming.

The pistol's frame and barrel are made from polymer, which keeps it lightweight and resistant to corrosion, but this may feel less solid compared to metal options. The internal magazine holds 4 rounds, which is a bit limited if you expect multiple shots during an encounter. It includes 10 rubber and 10 inert dust rounds but does not come with pepper rounds—you'll need to buy those separately. The channel sight system allows for quick target alignment, which is crucial for fast reaction, though it might not offer the precision of advanced optics.

This pistol suits anyone looking for a compact, user-friendly, less-lethal option mainly for home defense. Its build and performance balance ease of use with sufficient power, but users should note the low magazine capacity and reliance on CO2 cartridges, which require regular replacement. It is a practical choice for those seeking something straightforward and effective for creating distance from a threat without lethal force.