10 Best Pump Pistol 2026 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 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.

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.