Co2 gun

Buying a CO2 Pistol? Everything you need to know before you choose

A CO2 pistol is a popular air weapon that is winning over more and more shooters - from beginners to advanced. At Barrel and Boar, we notice daily how great the demand is for reliable, powerful and affordable models for training, recreation and collecting. They are powerful, fast and easy to use. In this article, you will read all about how a CO2 gun works, its advantages, what to look out for and which models we recommend most.

What is a CO2 Pistol?

A CO2 gun is a type of air gun that uses carbon dioxide gas (CO2) to fire a projectile. In the gun, you place a CO2 cartridge, often weighing 12 grams. As soon as you pull the trigger, the gas is released and the projectile is fired forcefully through the barrel.

This type of air gun is ideal for anyone looking for ease of use without having to pump or cock. CO2 guns are wildly popular among recreational shooters, sports shooters and collectors - thanks in part to the realistic design of many models. At Barrel and Boar, you will therefore find several replicas that are almost indistinguishable from real firearms.

How does a CO2 Pistol work?

How it works is simple: you insert a CO2 cartridge into the gun, usually in the grip or a special compartment. On pulling the trigger, a small amount of gas is released, firing the projectile. All this happens at lightning speed and without any extra handling - ideal for people who want to shoot smoothly and accurately.

Depending on the model and ambient temperature, you get an average of 40 to 80 shots from one cartridge. Then you replace the cartridge, and you're good to go again. This makes a CO2 gun not only easy, but also efficient to use. Exactly what many shooters look for in a reliable air gun.

Difference between CO2 Pistols and other air guns

At Barrel and Boar, we often get the question, "So what's the difference with a spring gun or pump model?" Here are the main differences:

-Veer guns require you to tension the spring before each shot. This takes strength and time.

-Pump models have to be manually inflated for each shot, which can be intensive.

-A CO2 gun is ready to use immediately and shoots with constant force without manual effort.

-In other words, do you want convenience, speed and consistency? Then a CO2 model is the logical choice.

-Blowback vs Non-Blowback

-Within the range of CO2 guns, you also have the choice between blowback and non-blowback models:

-Blowback pistols mimic the recoil mechanism of a real firearm. With every shot, the slide moves backwards with it, providing a realistic experience.

-Non-blowback models have no moving slide. They are more gas-efficient and often deliver slightly more power and shots per cartridge.

For those looking for a realistic experience, a blowback CO2 gun is ideal. If you mainly want to shoot economically with maximum efficiency, then non-blowback is the better choice. Both variants are in stock with us - and we are happy to help you choose.

Plastic or metal?

Many shooters wonder: should I choose a plastic model or a full-metal model?

Plastic models are lighter, more economical and ideal for beginners.
Solid metal pistols offer more weight, sturdiness and often a more realistic feel in the hand.

At Barrel and Boar, you will find both options, with clear information on weight, material and finish for each model.

What should you look out for when buying?

Before you buy a CO2 gun, there are some points to think carefully about:

-Purpose of use - recreational, training or collection?

-Calibre - most models use 4.5 mm steel BBs or pellets.

-Blowback or non-blowback - do you want realism or economy?

-Magazine capacity - do you want one shot at a time or several in quick succession?

-Realistic design - want a gun that looks like a real weapon?

Our webshop offers clear filters to help you choose. Do you prefer personal advice? Then feel free to contact us - we are happy to think along with you.

Accessories for CO2 Pistols

To get the most out of your purchase, various accessories are available:

-Extra magazines - for faster reloading while shooting

-CO2 cartridges - available separately or in economy packs

-Target discs - ideal for exercise and recreation

-Focusers and lasers -for extra precision

-Maintenance oil and cleaning kits - for a long service life

Everything you need can easily be ordered along via Barrel and Boar's webshop.

Use in practice: tips from the specialist

-Let the gun acclimatise at room temperature for optimum pressure

-Use only high-quality cartridges and ammunition

-Never target people or pets, even "for fun"

-Test regularly in a safe location to stay familiar with your weapon

-Check whether there is still pressure on the system after use

Our experts will be happy to help you with instructions, maintenance tips and tailor-made advice. So your CO2 gun stays in top shape.

BBs or pellets - what do you choose?

A common question when buying a CO2 gun is whether you should opt for a model that shoots steel BBs or instead uses lead pellets (diabolos).

BBs are small round steel balls. They are inexpensive, suitable for fast shots and often used in blowback replicas. Note that they are less accurate and can cause ricochets.

Pellets (diabolos) are bullet-shaped lead projectiles designed for precision. They are ideal for target shooting and are often used in non-blowback pistols with smooth or drawn barrels.

Are you planning to train seriously for accuracy? Then a pellet model is an excellent choice. Do you mainly want to shoot fast and experience realism? Then a BB model will suit your needs better.

Tips for novice shooters

Are you just starting out in shooting sports or recreational use? Then we at Barrel and Boar have some practical tips:

-Start with a reliable entry-level model such as the Crosman 2240 or Gamo PT-80.

-Exercise in a safe environment with a sturdy backboard or ball catcher.

-Use quality bullets to avoid malfunctions and wear.

-Always keep a CO2 cartridge in the gun as long as there is pressure on it -prevent leaks by installing properly.

-Practice with calmness and concentration. Your technique is more important than strength or speed.

Our specialists will be happy to help you with your first purchase and give you tips for safe and successful use.

Who is a CO2 gun suitable for?

Recreational shooters: for those who just want to have fun in the garden or at a shooting range. Fast firing, low maintenance and low entry cost make a CO2 weapon very suitable.

Sport shooters and trainers: for those who want to practice precision, technique or posture. Preferably choose a pellet model with adjustable trigger and aimers.

Collectors: for fans of realistic replicas of well-known firearms. At Barrel and Boar, you will find many detailed models, often with working slide, weight and dimensions of the original.

Whether you are just starting out or have been shooting for years, we have the right CO2 gun for your purposes.

Why Barrel and Boar?

At Barrel and Boar, you buy with confidence. We are more than just a webshop - we are your partner in shooting sports. What you can expect from us:

-Only proven brands and models we have tested ourselves

-A large range with clear specifications and photos

-Fast delivery from own stock

-Personal advice via e-mail, phone or chat

- Plenty of accessories and ammunition to get started right away

-Regular new models, competitive offers and bundle deals

Choosing Barrel and Boar means choosing experience, reliability and commitment.

Popular models

At Barrel and Boar, we only select models that have proven themselves in practice:

-Crosman 2240 - simple, powerful and popular with beginner shooters

-Umarex Beretta 92 FS - realistic blowback experience in a familiar design

-Gamo PT-85 - semi-automatic, tightly finished and very precise

These models are almost always available from stock - including warranty and personal advice.

Legislation and safety

In the Netherlands, you may own a CO2 pistol if you are 18 years of age or older and the weapon has less than 7.5 joules of muzzle energy. No licence is required, but you must use and transport the air weapon safely.

Safety tips:

-Always wear safety glasses when shooting

-Storage your gun in a locked cabinet or gun case

-Use a bullet catch when shooting at home

-Never let children handle it unsupervised

When in doubt about laws and regulations: contact us. We will explain to you exactly what is and is not allowed.

Conclusion

A CO2 pistol is an excellent choice for anyone looking for shooting fun, precision training or a realistic replica. Its ease of use, speed of reloading and wide range of models make this type of air pistol wildly popular.

At Barrel and Boar, you benefit from:

-A wide range of CO2 weapons
-Expert and personal advice
-Fast delivery from own stock