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 Sig Sauer P320 M17 is a CO2-powered semi-automatic air pistol designed to closely mimic the look and feel of the U.S. Army's M17 pistol, making it a good choice for those who want a realistic training tool. It shoots .177 caliber pellets with a velocity up to 380 feet per second, which provides decent power for target practice or casual plinking. The gun uses a 20-round magazine, allowing for extended shooting without frequent reloads. Its semi-automatic action means you don’t have to pump between shots, offering quicker follow-up shots compared to pump-pistols.

In terms of build, the pistol features a metal barrel and slide with a plastic frame, striking a balance between durability and manageable weight (about 2.1 pounds). The full blowback slide adds to the realistic shooting experience. Ergonomically, its size and weight are similar to the actual M17, which is comfortable for most users. It also includes an accessory rail for attachments and is ready for a reflex sight, which can help improve aiming.

A few considerations include its reliance on CO2 cartridges, requiring extra gas canisters and potentially less consistent performance in very cold weather. While the velocity is sufficient for casual use, it’s not suitable for serious pest control or long-range shooting. The plastic frame may feel less sturdy compared to full-metal options, and the moderate trigger pull weight might affect precision for beginners. This pistol is ideal for users seeking affordable, realistic training or fun target shooting rather than competition or hunting, with semi-automatic action and good ergonomics supporting quick and comfortable shooting.

The Benjamin Marauder BP2220 is a .22-caliber PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) air pistol that offers solid performance for those interested in small game hunting or target shooting. It uses compressed air at up to 3000 psi to propel pellets at speeds reaching about 700 feet per second, which is quite powerful for an air pistol and helps deliver good accuracy and impact. The 12-inch rifled steel barrel is designed to improve pellet stability and is shrouded to reduce noise, making it quieter than many other air pistols. This model features an 8-shot rotary magazine with bolt action, allowing for relatively quick follow-up shots without reloading each time. The trigger is a two-stage, drop-sear type, known for providing a smooth and controllable pull, which benefits accuracy.

Weighing about 0.45 kilograms, this air pistol is fairly lightweight and its synthetic stock helps keep it balanced and comfortable to hold during use, although those with larger hands might find the grip a bit small given its compact size. Build quality is generally good, with metal framing and alloy steel barrel materials adding durability. However, it lacks advanced sights or optics, relying on basic iron sights, so users who want precision aiming might consider adding aftermarket optics. The integrated pressure gauge is a handy feature for monitoring air levels, avoiding surprises during use.

Being a PCP air pistol, it requires access to a high-pressure air source for refilling, which might be less convenient compared to spring-piston or CO2 models. This air pistol is well suited for enthusiasts looking for a quiet, accurate, and fairly powerful option for pest control or casual hunting, while beginners should be aware of the need for proper equipment to maintain it.