Best Airsoft Pistols You Can Get
Airsoft pistols are everything you want in a secondary. They’re light, reliable, and easy to carry. Here are the best airsoft pistols you can buy this year.
Here Are Our Picks for the Best Airsoft Pistols (Updated List)
- Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1 – Best Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol
- Tokyo Marui MK23 –Best Gas Non-Blowback Airsoft Pistol
- Cyma G18C – Best Automatic Electric Airsoft Pistol
- ASG CZ-P09 – Best Airsoft Pistol Under $100
- Umarex H&K Licensed P30 – Best Airsoft Pistol Under $50
When primary weapons malfunction or empty, a trusty sidearm can play a key role in survival. In many instances, players may opt to use a high-quality pistol as their primary weapon. Making the right purchase goes a long way in helping players remain battle ready.
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Not sure whether you should get gas or electric airsoft pistols? Read our guide on the different types of airsoft guns and learn the pros and cons for each one.
Best Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistols
Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1
One of the most-reliable gas options available, the Hi-Capa will fire without fail time after time. A crowd favorite, this pistol is capable of growing alongside you.
Price
This is one of the pricier airsoft pistols on our list, though you’re paying for outstanding quality. If budget isn't an issue, you’ll struggle to find better options than the Hi-Capa. The Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1 currently sells for under $200.
Aftermarket Parts
Due to its popularity, the Hi-Capa has plenty of aftermarket parts readily available. It’s quite easy to fix or upgrade if needed. Many manufacturers have since released their own hi-capa pistols based on Tokyo Marui’s design, flooding the market with interchangeable components.
Quality
The pistol will last you a long time and is a worthy investment, not simply a purchase. Though internal components are top quality, the external frame is plastic, hampering overall durability. Thankfully, key pieces like the slide are solid and offer little play.
Summary: Tokyo Marui is a highly-regarded manufacturer of gas powered, blow-back airsoft pistols. Accordingly, the Hi-Capa 5.1 is one of the most popular airsoft pistols currently available.
Performance is quite good – the Hi-Capa shoots at 280-300 FPS. Accuracy has always been Tokyo Marui’s strength, and owners report exception sharpshooting without upgrades. It accepts both duster gas and green gas, yet can be adapted for propane. Its magazine holds 31 rounds.
ASG CZ-P09
Straight away, this gun is a treat for all players seeking great performance in a unique package. The ASG CZ P-09 performs exceptionally at a price that doesn’t induce cardiac arrest.
Price
Sitting comfortably in the mid-range market, the CZ-P09 is a great option if you’re working with a moderate budget. You’re paying for an officially licensed, 1:1 replica of CZ’s tactical pistol. The ASG CZ-P09 sells for under $150, though its Dark Earth variant can be had for substantially cheaper.
Aftermarket Parts
The P-09 platform isn’t nearly as popular as the 1911/Hi-Capa platform, thus upgrade parts are harder to find. However, they are available. Though veteran tinkerers may feel underwhelmed, this isn’t a pistol that warrants multiple upgrades to function well.
Quality
Featuring a multi-textured grip, along with an aggressive frame and slide serrations, the P-09 is intimidating. It has a metal slide atop a nylon-fiber frame, the former being especially important for a gas sidearm. Though the gun is quite durable, the paint will chip with repeated drops.
Summary: With stock components, the CZ P-09 really shines. Using CO2, the pistol shoots in excess of 370 FPS. These numbers drop to about 350 FPS when using green gas. We recommend using heavyweight BBs.
Accuracy is a strong point of the P-09. Without touching the hop up, heavier rounds tend to fly straight and long. Depending how you dial it in, the pistol becomes a respectable mid-range weapon despite its form factor.
KWA HK45
Perfect for all players, the KWA HK45 is a solid weapon that will perform day in and day out. Fully licensed by Heckler & Koch, it’s a modern pistol with tactical features that will appeal to many. Using KWA’s patented NS2 gas system, this pistol will shoot reliably and efficiently for countless matches to come.
Price
In line with the airsoft world’s premium brands, the KWA HK45 carries a hefty price tag. This gun is for advanced players, or at least those for whom money is no object. That being said, that cost includes impressive build quality and performance. The KWA HK45 costs $155-200 depending on seller and add-ons.
Aftermarket Parts
It’s fairly easy to order replacement parts using KWA’s website. However, upgrade parts are quite challenging to find. Thankfully, the only thing that truly requires a swap is the outer barrel, which is plastic.
Quality
The KWA HK45 is comfortable to hold and well-balanced. While not particularly heavy, it’s sturdy. The frame is polymer and the slide’s completely metal. However, the outer barrel is plastic. Avoid dropping your HK45 – the polymer frame can chip against hard surfaces.
Summary: The KWA HK45 shines in most every area, receiving positive marks for velocity, accuracy, and efficiency. It fires BBs at 340-350 FPS, sufficient for close quarters combat and shorter ranges. The pistol uses green gas but can also be tapped for propane.
The pistol’s orange tip is threaded with 16mm threads and accepts silencers. This makes the HK45 a great sidearm for sniping loadouts. Reliable and unique, its blend of power and sharp accuracy will outshoot opponents with relative ease.
Best Non-Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistols
Tokyo Marui MK23
The Tokyo Marui MK23 is a top SOCOM replica that deserves serious recognition. Built for snipers and run-and-gunners alike, this quiet pistol is engineered with gas efficiency in mind. Complete with a silencer and detachable, bottom-mounted flashlight, this is an exceptional package.
Price
Great airsoft pistols beget premium price tags, and the MK23 is no exception. Thankfully, the package offers good value thanks to the quality and quantity of add-ons included. The Tokyo Marui MK23 costs $140-200 depending on the retailer.
Aftermarket Parts
Since the MK23 is a Tokyo Marui product, replacement parts are relatively easy to come by. However, the MK23 is no Hi-Capa in regards to upgradeability. Because its role is so niche, despite its excellent performance, upgrade parts are difficult to come by.
Quality
As expected, fit and finish are of top quality. Though the gun is externally a blend of metal and plastic, it’s sturdy. It’s gas powered, but the plastic slide avoids heavy wear due to its fixed nature. Important internals are metal which aid in longevity.
Summary: In short, the Tokyo Marui MK23 is a field sniper’s dream. It’s well-suited to stealthy engagements but offers respectable power. The pistol shoots 300-320 FPS using green gas and is whisper quiet. You also enjoy this performance in a handsome sidearm.
The MK23 does have a rather large footprint though, thanks to a silencer that nearly doubles the length of the gun. Finding a proper holster may be a challenge. However, a 28-round magazine ensures continuous shooting, allowing you to keep your MK23 handy for extended periods.
KJW MK-1
A budget-friendly option, the KJW MK-I is a surprising top performer for lovers of competition pistols. Its unique, elongated form factor turns heads, and its hard-shooting nature will keep enemies at bay with ease.
Price
Made primarily for beginners and competitive plinkers, the MK-I is a nice little pistol for those spending under $50. Considering its gas operation and performance, this is a fantastic value. You can purchase the KJW MK-I for only $45.
Aftermarket Parts
KJW is generally pretty good about offering replacement parts through their online store. However, the MK-I platform is fairly proprietary, thus not many pistols share its design. Because it performs quite admirably at a cheap price, we don’t anticipate upgrading to be very popular.
Quality
The MK-I is well-balanced without being too hefty, weighing only 1.6 pounds. The gun is made of polymer, but is durable despite this. A non-blowback gas system ensures efficiency and longevity, as long as it’s taken care of. Internals are made of metal to handle the gas mechanism.
Summary: A highly-competent sidearm that defies its price tag, the MK-I shoots a whopping 350-450 FPS. Its gas system is relatively efficient, allowing for repeated shooting. Despite its long frame, it retains its portability and will surprise many opponents during battle.
A metal hop up ensures accurate flight from one shot to the next. The MK-I includes a 17-round magazine, perfectly serviceable but not high capacity.
Best Electric Airsoft Pistols
While AEPs often receive mixed reviews within the airsoft community, a trusty electric pistol may be exactly what’s needed to compete in certain environments. Many gas pistols struggle in colder environments and are too powerful for close-quarters combat. AEPs are reasonable solutions to these problems, and they don’t break the bank. In addition, they require little maintenance apart from recharging or replacing batteries.
We’ve compiled our short list of the best electric pistols available below, based on value, overall performance, and reliability. If you’re considering adding a quality AEP to your loadout, you should certainly consider these solid picks:
Note: We’re aware that Glock replicas like the G18c from CYMA and Tokyo Marui are quite popular. However, many retailers have sold out or discontinued these items, due to difficulties with shipping them to the United States. They may be most available on the secondary market.
Cyma G18C
Capitalizing on the Glock-replica trend, the CYMA G18C is a high-quality sidearm that deserves high praise. Ditching gas due to its AEP designation, the G18C is perfect for players wanting to spray a large volume of rounds downfield in short order.
Price
Compared to their gas cousins, AEPs tend to be less expensive, and the CYMA G18C is no exception. Though shipping can be a challenge with Glock replicas, the G18C can be picked up for about $60. This makes it a great option if you have a restrictive budget.
Aftermarket Parts
The aftermarket parts selection for the G18C is somewhat limited, though internal components share similarities with Tokyo Marui’s Glock replicas. In that sense, some parts are interchangeable. Players seeking upgrades will want to look into lithium-polymer battery pack upgrades, which are common and affordable.
Quality
The pistol is made of polymer, featuring a modern design akin to many of Glock’s authentic firearms. That being said, the gun is weighty and well-balanced. Its finish is also high quality. Many internal parts are metal, especially beneficial given the fully-automatic firing mode. This gun should stand the test of time, within reason.
Summary: Rate of fire is the CYMA G18C’s bread and butter. Though paired with relatively-low power at 220 FPS, the sheer volume of BBs fired make up for it. This gun is not meant for long-range exchanges, but really shines in CQB. When up against multiple opponents in tight spaces, it becomes a formidable sidekick.
If you’re feeling restrained, semi-automatic fire is available. Owners may find the 30-round magazine depletes quite rapidly, though extra magazines aren’t overly expensive. The pistol is a good performer for beginner and casual players.
CYMA Advanced Hi-Capa
The CYMA Hi-Capa, though not the cheapest option available, does offer superb build quality that other manufacturers don’t match. It’s a great option for CQB or players seeking to get out of tight jams. It does offer wiggle room for upgrades, making the Hi-Capa a flexible platform that will stand the test of time. Beginners will love this pistol and it may also appeal to some intermediate players.
First Impressions
One of the higher-end AEPs available, the CYMA Hi-Capa’s build quality is worthy of its price tag. While the pistol’s frame is polymer, it’s both ergonomic and textured around the grip. Critical components such as the slide, magazine, magazine well, selectors, and inner barrel are fully metal. Together, these materials account for a solid, weighty feel in hand. This pistol is built to last both internally and externally. It’s non-blowback with a fixed slide and is roughly 9.8 inches long.
CYMA offers the pistol in a black finish. It’s designed like other Hi-Capa models, with a slightly-modernized 1911 form factor. You can easily access all switches and selectors. The CYMA Hi-Capa AEP does not include a tactical bottom rail for accessories. However, it does use a 7.2-volt AEP battery. Included in the box is the Hi-Capa pistol, a 29-round magazine, a battery, and a charger. Some owners have also received a speed loader and a small pack of BBs.
Performance
As with all AEPs, muzzle velocity numbers are not jaw-dropping with the Hi-Capa. The pistol fires at 190-210 FPS, which is right about average for its class. We recommend using .20g BBs or just a tad heavier for optimal performance. The included hop up is adjustable, so you won’t have to worry about lighter rounds sailing off target. A precision bore also boosts accuracy. While range shouldn’t be your primary concern with the CYMA Hi-Capa, we’d recommend it for engagements within 60 feet. This is perfect for closer combat.
Based on the Tokyo Marui’s AEP system, this pistol is made to be reliable. This comes with another added bonus: easy upgradeability. CYMA’s gearbox is compatible with all Tokyo Marui AEP internal components. Thankfully, these are fairly accessible and relatively inexpensive. A select fire option allows you to choose between semi and full-auto modes. Lastly, a detachable magazine and on-frame release are great quality-of-life features which will aid you in the field.
Tokyo Marui Full-Size M92F Military
We don’t get to say this very often, but Tokyo Marui’s M92F is a great option for beginner players with a tighter budget. The pistol’s true calling card is its reliability, authentic styling, and solid build. These qualities should resonate with anyone looking to purchase a quality sidearm.
First Impressions
Though its name precedes it, the Tokyo Marui M92F is a solid weapon that deserves additional recognition. Built to the M92’s exact specifications, Tokyo Marui’s offering is a perfect 1:1 replica of the U.S. Army’s standard sidearm. It’s has an ABS plastic frame, though the pistol does have a solid feel. The grip panels are textured for confident handling. Built within that grip is the safety switch, which is easily accessible. However, some players may find this a little too easy to bump accidentally.
The M92F comes in a black finish. It’s relatively-lightweight, weighing in at 0.66 pounds. The pistol is 8.5 inches long. Tokyo Marui includes the M92F pistol and a 15-round magazine in the box. Batteries aren’t included. In contrast to the traditional 7.2-volt AEP battery used in many pistols, the gun instead requires four AAA batteries. These do power a blowback action, however.
Performance
The M92F is in the middle of the pack in terms of velocity, firing BBs at 190-220 FPS. Again, this level of power is well-suited to close encounters. For this reason, the range is not a huge factor for the M92F. We recommend .20g BBs, or perhaps a tad heavier, depending on your pistol’s performance. While Tokyo Marui includes a quality hop up, this has a fixed setting, making ammo choice a hair more important.
Though an AEP, there is only one firing mode: semi-automatic. While this throws a wrench in the spray-and-pray CQB strategy, you will use less ammo. This may be important, considering the M92F has a 15-round magazine. No matter the mechanism, you’ll benefit from Tokyo Marui’s reliable AEP system. This transforms the pistol from a budget option to a long-lasting battle buddy.
CYMA Heavy Weight 1911 (Tokyo Marui clone)
We’ll echo what other reviewers have been saying: the CYMA 1911 is a surprise, and a pretty nice one at that. It offers good performance in a durable package, albeit with some minor flaws. If beginner and intermediate players are willing to look past those, this is a solid sidearm.
First Impressions
A popular option amongst AEP users, the CYMA Heavy Weight 1911 is a solid pistol that is slightly oversized. Compared to the original 1911 design, CYMA’s version is larger than 1:1. The pistol is roughly 9.8 inches long. This added size carries added weight, yet offers a more premium feel. We’ll admit the HW 1911 is not the prettiest gun in the world. However, its durable metal construction helps offset any lack of sex appeal. Internal components are also metal. The pistol has a black finish, with brown, textured grip plates.
The 1911 has a detachable magazine and an on-frame safety. Since it’s wider than a traditional 1911, finding a suitable holster will be a bit more challenging. Included in the box is the CYMA 1911 pistol, a 29-round magazine, a 7.2-volt AEP battery, and a charger. You can also pick up extended magazines which hold about 100 rounds.
Performance
Velocity is average yet serviceable for an AEG, at about 190-210 FPS. As such, you will want to keep engagements within about 60 feet. The real standout feature of the Heavy Weight 1911 is the fire rate. Owners report a very high automatic firing rate, incredibly useful for CQB and taking down multiple enemies in one sitting. You can also use a semi-automatic mode. A robust, metal gearbox stands up to the rigors of sustained shooting, and is compatible with Tokyo Marui components. Upgrades are also available.
The hop-up system is adjustable, allowing you to dial in optimal settings for your environment. Thankfully, it’s also easy to access under the slide, which easily detaches. Switching to a lithium polymer battery may be recommended, as the included battery can perform inconsistently at times. Included magazines can be a little on the cheap side and thus double feed. However, this is not a common problem.
Best Airsoft Pistols Under $100
WE-Tech Full Metal Hi-CAPA Gas Blowback
The WE-Tech Hi-CAPA 5.1 (and its siblings) is a great gas pistol for beginners and intermediate players alike. Though experienced players may be enticed to game Tokyo Marui’s version, the 5.1 is extremely capable. For a solid mix of performance and longevity, you’ll be hard pressed to find better value at under $100. Though some players say shaking the gun can produce wobbling, this not cause problems.
First Impressions
With a variety of models to choose from, the WE Full-Metal Hi-CAPA is a formidable option for gas-pistol enthusiasts. The Hi-CAPA comes in 3.8 Officer, 4.3 Commander, 5.1 Government, and 5.1 P14 models. Each has unique styling. The pistols primarily accept CO2 and green gas, but may also use red gas and propane. Though we favor the 5.1 Government for its aggressive styling, players cannot go wrong with any choice. Keep in mind that some models may exceed the $100 threshold. Overall, this is an extremely-popular pistol that receives excellent feedback from owners.
For the purposes of our review, we’ll assess the 5.1 Government from here onward. Like its siblings, it features a full-metal slide, frame, and barrel. This construction gives the gun a weighty, solid feel. Its textured, polymer grip ensures confident handling. A bottom rail provides a mounting point for accessories. The Hi-CAPA 5.1 is modeled after the traditional M1911 design, yet incorporates a high-capacity magazine. Internals are reinforced to reduce wear and tear, adding to the sidearm’s outstanding durability. The package includes the 5.1 Government pistol and a green gas magazine. That magazine holds 30 rounds.
Performance
We-Tech rates the Hi-CAPA at 300-330 FPS, a solid velocity for multiple playing conditions. With standard BBs, the pistol has an effective range of 70-100 feet. Opting for heavier rounds can help increase this range and boost accuracy. The 5.1 receives high marks for its impressive accuracy, the importance of which diminishes during close-quarters combat.
Despite being a strong blowback pistol, gas efficiency is surprisingly good. Players report shooting in excess of 60 rounds on a single charge. Be sure to keep the 5.1 Government properly lubricated to prevent leaks and lockups. If players do so, it will fire reliably time after time. The trigger pull isn’t too heavy, allowing players to fire off consecutive rounds with relative ease. The slide cycles very smoothly as well. Owners using propane will need to use an adapter, though that shouldn’t be a deterrent.
Colt 100th Anniversary M1911 A1 by KWC
The Colt M1911 A1 is a superb pistol for players of all levels. It has great power and accuracy, adaptable to many fields and situations. However, replacement magazines are quite expensive.
First Impressions
An accurate 1:1 replica of the original M1911, KWC’s A1 is licensed by Colt and has an authentic feel. Constructed completely of metal with a serrated slide, the M1911 A1 is hefty and durable. It has a beaver-tail safety on frame plus a working hammer and hop-up. This is a blowback CO2 pistol that kicks heavily. Furthermore, it has a magazine release and fixed top sights. For the M1911 A1 enthusiast, this is a masterpiece. Internally it retains its superior attention to detail, making it easy to disassemble and reassemble.
The gun is easy to clean and maintain, though not a stickler for constant upkeep. No matter what environment you fight in, the gun is sturdy enough to stand up to drops, dirt, and the like. It’s relatively low maintenance, especially friendly for players who simply like to point and shoot. The box includes the KWC M1911 A1 and a 17-round magazine. This magazine is full metal and has a standard capacity.
Performance
The Colt M1911 A1 is a fairly-hot weapon, shooting at 340-360 FPS. Some owners event report that their pistols shoot harder, as there’s some natural variance from gun to gun. We are reviewing the 350 FPS version – KWC sells a 370 FPS version as well, though it’s more expensive. Our model is likely better for a greater variety of fields, especially those with strict regulations. With heavier BBs, the pistol is capable of being quite accurate up to 100 feet. Its power and hop-up help extend its range past other options at its price point.
The M1911 A1 is very gas efficient, using 12-gram CO2 cartridges. The pistol can shoot about four full magazines before it needs a new CO2 cannister. This longevity means greater flexibility and firing time. Magazines are very durable due to their construction, but can be tricky to reload for those with short fingernails. The retention tab can be somewhat difficult to reach. Overall, the firing mechanism is smooth and reliable – a characteristic that will endure for years.
WE-Tech CQB Master 1911 MEU Gen. 2
WE-Tech’s CQB Master is a great option for beginner and intermediate players. While build quality is mostly superb, a fragile safety and flimsy stock magazines prevent it from receiving top marks. With solid performance and value, this pistol will serve players well over time.
First Impressions
Hugely popular amongst the airsoft community, the WE CQB Master is an excellent gas-blowback pistol. It features authentic M1911 styling with some visual tweaks that give it a modern look. It has a heavyweight design fashioned entirely from aluminum alloy. The grip has a molded rubber wrapping, making the gun comfortable and easy to wield. While the front sight is fixed, the pistol’s rear sight is adjustable. Though its beaver-tail safety is traditional, its enlarged and ambidextrous – righties and lefties will feel right at home using the CQB Master. However, this safety can begin to feel a little loose with time.
The pistol is gas blowback, accepting green gas and red gas. With an adapter, players can also use propane if they prefer. Green gas cannisters may also require some sort of magazine extension. It comes in four finishes: Black, Dark Earth, Desert, and OD Green. The black finish may chip with use. If players want a bottom rail, they will exceed the $100 mark, as this is optional. OD Green is the most expensive color scheme, rail or not. The barrel is threaded and tightly bored, measuring at 6.03 millimeters. The box includes the WE-Tech CQB Master pistol and 16-round magazine.
Performance
The CQB Master performs very well, firing BBs at a velocity of 300-330 FPS. Its blowback system kicks reasonably hard, yet consumes gas fairly efficiently. Owners say they can fire 3-4 magazines prior to replacement – quite serviceable. Accuracy is strong with the CQB Master, due in part to its tight barrel. Rated for 70-100 feet, this gun reliably hits human targets. However, some players rate accuracy as good out to about 50 feet, which could depend on one’s unique setup.
The hop up system is adjustable but located under the slide – players must remove it to gain access. The trigger pull is smooth without demanding a lot of effort. This makes rapid fire easier, especially useful while clearing rooms. The pistol is loud when it fires, which will intimidate opponents.
ASG CZ P-09
Though not a top performer, the ASG CZ P-09 is a reliable and capable weapon when used on the right fields. It has a high-quality feel and finish that lasts when treated well. The gun does exactly what it should – fires well – and remains a solid choice for beginner to intermediate players.
First Impressions
Hugely popular amongst the airsoft community, the WE CQB Master is an excellent gas-blowback pistol. It features authentic M1911 styling with some visual tweaks that give it a modern look. It has a heavyweight design fashioned entirely from aluminum alloy. The grip has a molded rubber wrapping, making the gun comfortable and easy to wield. While the front sight is fixed, the pistol’s rear sight is adjustable. Though its beaver-tail safety is traditional, its enlarged and ambidextrous – righties and lefties will feel right at home using the CQB Master. However, this safety can begin to feel a little loose with time.
The pistol is gas blowback, accepting green gas and red gas. With an adapter, players can also use propane if they prefer. Green gas cannisters may also require some sort of magazine extension. It comes in four finishes: Black, Dark Earth, Desert, and OD Green. The black finish may chip with use. If players want a bottom rail, they will exceed the $100 mark, as this is optional. OD Green is the most expensive color scheme, rail or not. The barrel is threaded and tightly bored, measuring at 6.03 millimeters. The box includes the WE-Tech CQB Master pistol and 16-round magazine.
Performance
The CQB Master performs very well, firing BBs at a velocity of 300-330 FPS. Its blowback system kicks reasonably hard, yet consumes gas fairly efficiently. Owners say they can fire 3-4 magazines prior to replacement – quite serviceable. Accuracy is strong with the CQB Master, due in part to its tight barrel. Rated for 70-100 feet, this gun reliably hits human targets. However, some players rate accuracy as good out to about 50 feet, which could depend on one’s unique setup.
The hop up system is adjustable but located under the slide – players must remove it to gain access. The trigger pull is smooth without demanding a lot of effort. This makes rapid fire easier, especially useful while clearing rooms. The pistol is loud when it fires, which will intimidate opponents.
Matrix Elite Tokyo Marui Clone M9
For those desiring an authentic M9 replica, this is a great sidearm with upgrade potential to boot. It performs admirably under a variety of conditions, and is quite reliable despite its price point. With a solid build it should last quite a while. Just keep an eye out for wobbling magazines, which can happen occasionally.
First Impressions
A replica of the M92FS, the Matrix Elite M9 is an attractive pistol that feels great in the hand. Its grip is roughly textured for secure handling. With a full-metal frame, slide, and barrel, the gun is hefty and stands up to abuse. It has a functional safety on the slide. The Matrix Elite M9 also has a lanyard loop below the grip, especially useful for secure handling under adverse conditions. It comes in two finishes: Black and Silver. Each of these external finishes has both a polymer and a full-metal variant. Owners report that paint tends to chip fairly easily on the Black model.
Because the M9 is based on the M92FS, it is designed to be easily stripped and reassembled. Those comfortable with the gun should have no trouble performing maintenance. Because it’s built from the Tokyo Marui platform, the M9 does accept upgrades, elevating it from a cheaper base gun to a worthy investment. The box includes the Matrix Elite M9 pistol and a 26-round magazine.
Performance
The pistol fires a respectable 300-330 FPS, perfect both for medium range and close-range engagements. It is a blowback pistol designed to handle green gas, red gas, and propane. Gas efficiency is decent. Many players seem to fire about two magazines of shots before a new canister is needed. This is perfectly serviceable, though not superb.
The gun does possess solid accuracy and has the ability to hit targets out to 100 feet. Keep in mind that these results are not always consistent, however, with true effective range being around 75 feet. Players who dial in their hop up can achieve straight and predictable BB flights. The gun is loud when fired and thus can intimidate opponents.
Umarex Walther P99 Gen. 2
The Umarex Walther P99 is a surprise, and a fine example that good performance can come in a cheap package. While not without its minor flaws, the pistol pairs respectable power with solid build quality. Those factors alone will make it an attractive sidearm in the eyes of beginner players.
First Impressions
A budget-friendly option rounding out our list, the Umarex Walther P99 is a well-made pistol that deserves a look. It’s a quality replica with a polymer frame and metal slide. The P99 features a CO2 blowback action. The grip is slotted and textured for surehanded gripping, and the gun has a balanced weight that isn’t excessive.
It comes in a black finish that’s pretty durable and resistant to scratches. It has an ambidextrous magazine release, friendly to all players. Included in the box is the Walther P99 pistol and two 15-round magazines. However, these magazines are proprietary. On the positive side, they’re drop free, making reloading easier in the field. Instead of storing CO2 cartridges in the magazine, CO2 is kept in the grip itself. While this makes reloading challenging at times, replacement mags are notably cheaper.
Performance
The Walther P99 shoots at a muzzle velocity of 300-330 FPS, a respectable speed for CQB and short-mid ranges. Owners report that it’s accurate in most situations, and that trigger pull is smooth. It has a double-action trigger, however, which elongates the pull distance. This may be a turn off for some players.
The hop up is there but fixed, which leaves players a little more locked in. Thankfully, the P99 is an accurate gun despite this. The range is not fantastic but should be perfectly adequate for most situations. The gun is loud when fired with a unique sound, due to how the slide is constructed. Some players may find it jarring, but it has no bearing on the function of the pistol. Gas consumption is pretty good, allowing players to stretch out each cartridge prior to replacement.
Best Airsoft Pistol Brands
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite pistol manufacturers. We considered the following while choosing these brands:
- Popular appeal and community reviews
- Reliability and performance
- Parts availability and upgrades
Without further ado, here are the top brands players should consider when purchasing a new sidearm:
Tokyo Marui
Since Tokyo Marui first began producing airsoft guns, the brand has earned a reputation for outstanding performance and quality control. Although their one of the more-expensive manufacturers, Tokyo Marui is a brand that many airsofters hold in high regard. That demand extends to their range of pistols. Their sidearms mainly appeal to intermediate and advanced players, though they’ll serve any player well.
The brand has received heaps of praise for its MK23 SOCOM and Hi-Capa models. Players can also pick up their own 1911 or M92 variants. These are some of the most-reliable options the brand offers, though others are perfectly serviceable. Accordingly, Tokyo Marui sells a wide variety of pistols in premium designs and finishes. For those looking to stand out, a number of custom options allow players to do just that.
Though players will pay more, these pistols will last if cared for. Blending premium feel with outstanding performance, players should seriously consider choosing one of these as a secondary weapon. Those seeking either blowback and non-blowback gas pistols will find great options. Some of Tokyo Marui’s lower-end models don’t shoot the fastest compared to other brands, but reliability and build quality are typically excellent.
Upgrades are also widely available. By virtue of its popularity, Tokyo Marui has one of the largest aftermarket parts selections available. Stock internals are already high quality, but owners can find many replacements. For this reason, Tokyo Marui pistols are great platforms that can evolve to suit their owners’ changing needs. This is especially useful for owners that play in a variety of fields. If players work within the confines of joule limits and FPS restrictions, they can configure their pistol rather easily.
WE-Tech
With probably the largest selection of airsoft pistols and upgrade parts available, WE-Tech makes sidearms for every type of airsoft player. The company makes 27 models of gas blowback pistols. Offering traditional mainstays and modern spins on famous platforms, players can wield their favorite weapon. WE-Tech is known for offering high-performing pistols that are budget friendly. At the expense of some build quality and quality control, players gain access to solid sidearms. With proper care, these should last a long time.
WE-Tech does make some crowd favorites: the Glock 17/19, the CQB Master, and select Hi-Capa/M1911 models. Budget players can snap these up relatively easily from a variety of sellers. Furthermore, these incorporate fully metal or partially-metal frames. External build quality is solid in most cases, the same being true for WE-Tech’s additional models. These select models are also accurately built to original specifications. For that reason, WE-Tech makes quality replicas that don’t feel shoddily designed.
Let’s jump back to the topic of upgrades. Because WE-Tech makes models such as the 1911 and Hi-Capa, pistols readily accept a variety of internal, aftermarket components. Though many of its pistols are inexpensive, they are good base guns that will improve with minor tweaks. This is important when considering another factor: durability. Although WE-Tech pistols have good external durability, the internals aren’t quite as solid. Loose or plastic components aren’t always built to last. Since gas blowback pistols ask a lot of their internal components over time, this may be a consideration. As mentioned, many designs are well-known replicas, thus making them easy to disassemble and reassemble.
If players make minor changes, they’ll have a reliable secondary weapon for many matches to come. WE-Tech pistols are just as renowned for their potential as their price tags.
KJ Works (KJW)
KJW is a quality brand that fits squarely in the intermediate market, making solid pistols that offer good construction and performance. That being said, KJW’s popularity amongst players revolves around its replica pistols, which offer solid value.
The brand claims ownership of some of the most widely-used gas blowback pistols on the market. It makes one of the most highly rated mid-range 1911 replicas in the business – truly a feat, given almost all manufacturers have similar models in their arsenals. KJW also makes solid Glock replicas that perform well and share parts compatibility with other manufacturers. While KJW doesn’t quite match the sheer selection of other brands, what they do make is pretty high quality.
External and internal build quality are both superb, especially with gas options. KJW regularly incorporates fully-metal externals and fully reinforced internal components. When buying a blowback pistol, these improvements are quite important. These build upgrades also allow pistols to work with a wider range of gas types, including red gas, CO2, and propane. Players with specific preferences can rest assured knowing that KJW has options for them.
Finally, upgradeability is a big plus with KJW pistols. While a wide selection of first-party replacement parts is available, owners can seek components made by other manufacturers. Since KJW pistols tend to be replicas, they are compatible with both Tokyo Marui and WE-Tech internals. Owners can install these parts quite easily, making these pistols great base guns with room for growth. With upside and great value, KJW should not be overlooked.
KWA
Makers of hard-hitting, performant pistols, KWA offers a sizeable range of quality pistols. Aimed at the mid-to-high range markets, these pistols are intended for players serious about owning a reliable companion. KWA pistols are highly rated, and partnerships with sites like Evike have produced some promising models. The company also makes a full-auto gas blowback pistol, an uncommon sight in the gas pistol realm.
KWA makes quality replicas of the M9A1 and ATP platforms. Somewhat unique to KWA is their training weapon replicas, such as the M9 PTP. While the brand makes heavy use of metal in its sidearms, KWA’s polymer options are also superbly made. Overall, these are solid, hefty pistols with outstanding ergonomics and build quality. Almost all KJW pistols shoot at or above 300 FPS, meaning performance will never be a concern.
For those looking to upgrade, aftermarket and first-party components are available for purchase. Major online retailers regularly stock key internals, which owners can buy relatively cheaply.
ASG
Offering a wide range of pistols covering budget to high-range price points, ASG makes reliable pistols for all airsoft players. It also makes some crowd favorites – the CZ P-09 and SP-01 – which are highly rated. In most cases, ASG pistols have respectable to great power within a solid package. Players seeking a high-power gun (and likely one illegal in many fields) can even pick up infamous STI Duty One, which slings rounds at 440-499 FPS. This equates to 2 joules.
ASG does have some partnerships with official brands such as CZ, allowing them to create accurate 1:1 replicas of famous firearms. Players looking for authentic looks and strong performance will be at home here. With textured polymer or metal frames, these pistols feel extremely solid in hand and can take plenty of abuse.
ASG sells replacement parts through third-party online retailers and their own online store.