11 best airsoft pistols 2026

Welcome to our definitive guide on the 11 best airsoft pistols of 2026! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the airsoft scene, choosing the right airsoft pistol can elevate your gameplay significantly. In this blog, we've compiled a comprehensive list of hand-picked airsoft pistols that we rate as the best on the market today. From high-performance models to budget-friendly options, our selection covers various needs, including the finest choices available in the UK. We aim to help you find the best airsoft pistol suited to your style and budget. Dive in and discover which airsoft pistols made our prestigious list this year!

What are airsoft pistols?

Airsoft pistols are replica firearms designed for use in airsoft games, where players engage in tactical combat simulations using non-lethal plastic BBs. These airsoft pistols meticulously mimic real firearms in appearance and functionality, making them popular among enthusiasts and players alike. Available in various styles and mechanisms—such as gas blowback, electric, and spring-powered versions—airsoft pistols cater to different preferences and gameplay styles. In the UK, airsoft remains a popular recreational activity, with many players seeking the best airsoft pistols to enhance their performance on the field. Whether you’re looking for reliability, accuracy, or style, there's an airsoft pistol that fits every airsoft player's needs!

Do airsoft pistols hurt?

When it comes to airsoft pistols, one common question is whether they hurt when fired. While airsoft pistols shoot plastic BBs at relatively low velocities, getting hit by one can cause a slight sting, especially at close range. However, the impact is generally much less painful than that of a paintball or airgun. Safety is key in airsoft, and players often wear protective gear, such as goggles and face masks, to minimize any discomfort. In the UK, airsoft is regulated, ensuring that airsoft pistols are designed to be safe for recreational use. Overall, while you may feel a minor sensation when struck, most agree that the thrill of the game far outweighs any brief discomfort associated with getting hit by an airsoft pistol.

How do we Choose the Best Airsoft Pistols?

Choosing the best airsoft pistols involves a careful evaluation of various factors to ensure players get the highest quality. We assess performance by evaluating accuracy, velocity, and overall reliability to guarantee a great gameplay experience. Build quality is essential, so we consider the materials and construction to ensure durability against the rigors of intense play. User reviews play a significant role; we analyze feedback from the airsoft community to understand real-world satisfaction levels. Additionally, unique features such as adjustable hop-up systems and ergonomics are taken into account, as they can enhance the shooting experience. Value for money is also evaluated, ensuring that whether budget-friendly or higher-end, the airsoft pistols provide excellent performance relative to their price. Lastly, by keeping up with market trends, we can identify new models gaining popularity and positive feedback. By incorporating these criteria, we compile our list of the top airsoft pistols, helping players find options that meet their needs and enhance their airsoft experience.

Our picks for the 11 best airsoft pistols 2026

Umarex Glock 17 Gen4 Co2 Blowback Pistol (VFC)

The original GLOCK 17 Gen4 enjoys an excellent reputation among militaries worldwide, making it a top choice in the realm of airsoft pistols. Its non-slip grip ensures reliability as a service weapon, even in challenging weather conditions like rain. This licensed replica accurately mirrors the original with interchangeable back straps, allowing for customizable grip comfort to suit hands of any size. The Umarex GLOCK 17 Gen4 CO2 blowback pistol boasts a heavy zinc alloy metal slide that enhances realism and features blowback action for a powerful recoil. Additionally, it can be easily disassembled for inspection. With a muzzle energy of up to 1 joule and an adjustable hop-up system, this airsoft pistol fires 6mm bbs with impressive accuracy over long distances, solidifying its place as one of the best airsoft pistols on the market.

Elite Force Umarex 1911 TAC Co2

The Elite Force 1911 Tac CO2 blowback airsoft pistol is a top-tier, full metal replica that delivers ultra-high performance, setting a new standard among airsoft pistols. With its perfect weight, grip, and authentic appearance, this airsoft pistol feels incredibly realistic, easily outperforming other CO2 models on the market. Designed for players who value realism, this 1911 features the strongest recoil available, providing an immersive shooting experience. Its consistent accuracy, robust full metal construction, and impressive recoil make it one of the most sought-after 1911-style airsoft pistols, ideal for both enthusiasts and competitive players alike.

Umarex Glock 18C Semi/Full Auto Gas Blow Back (GBB) Pistol

The Umarex Glock 18C Semi/Full Auto Gas Blow Back (GBB) pistol is an outstanding choice for airsoft enthusiasts seeking authenticity and high performance. Featuring a switchable full-auto mode, it allows for rapid-fire action—perfect for high-stakes skirmishes where every shot counts. Its sturdy metal slide enhances durability and contributes to a realistic feel, making it a true replica in both appearance and function. Equipped with a Picatinny rail, the Glock 18C offers customization options for accessories like tactical flashlights and laser sights. The adjustable Hop-Up system enables precision shooting, allowing players to fine-tune their aim for various ranges and conditions. Operating on green gas, this authentic airsoft pistol provides a smooth and responsive shooting experience. Its high-capacity magazine holds an impressive 50 rounds, reducing the need for frequent reloads, and it's compatible with most Umarex Glock 17 magazines, ensuring you're always ready for action. Measuring 198mm in length and weighing 654g, the Glock 18C strikes a balance between manoeuvrability and stability, making it easy to handle during fast-paced gameplay. With energy output under 1.0 Joule, it delivers a velocity of approximately 290-300 FPS with 0.20g BBs, offering an engaging shooting experience without sacrificing safety. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the airsoft scene, the Umarex Glock 18C is designed to elevate your gameplay, making it an essential addition to your airsoft arsenal.

Tokyo Marui Thousand Guns Licorice Recoil Chisato's Handgun GBB Pistol

Calling all fans of the anime "Licorice Recoil"! Tokyo Marui presents a meticulously recreated airsoft pistol inspired by Chisato Nishikigi's favorite handgun. This GBB pistol captures the anime's design elements, making it both a collector's item and a fantastic choice for airsoft enthusiasts or cosplay events. What makes this airsoft pistol unique? First, it features anime-accurate details, including a strike face integrated compensator that adds tactical flair based on reference materials from the series. The grip design is faithfully reproduced to match the anime, providing a comfortable hold for fans. Additionally, the custom sights offer a clear sight picture while maintaining the aesthetics of the show. The unmarked slide, just like in the anime, gives the pistol a clean and sleek look, enhancing its collectible nature. The included magazine complements the overall anime-inspired design, further elevating this airsoft replica. Owning this Tokyo Marui GBB pistol is more than just having an airsoft gun; it’s a piece of "Licorice Recoil" memorabilia. It allows fans to experience the thrill of wielding Chisato's signature weapon while honing their airsoft skills or showcasing their passion at cosplay events, truly making it an essential addition to any airsoft collection.

Mk23 Socom Co2 Blowback Pistol

The KSC MK23 SOCOM is a large and heavy airsoft pistol known for its excellent balance, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor airsoft games, particularly in CQB (close-quarters battle) scenarios. This pistol features numerous realistic details, including a working slide stop, a removable magazine, and an adjustable hop-up unit, enhancing its functionality. With a polymer slide, a polymer frame, and realistic blowback action, the MK23 SOCOM offers a magazine capacity of 27 rounds and operates using 12g CO2 cartridges, delivering a velocity of approximately 250 FPS. Measuring 245 mm in length and weighing 950 g, this high-quality airsoft pistol is suitable for both experienced players and beginners alike. Manufactured by KSC, a leading Japanese company known for producing durable and accurate airsoft guns, the MK23 SOCOM is a powerful option for anyone in search of a reliable and realistic airsoft pistol for their collection.

KSC Bulgarian PM Skeleton HW Gas Blowback Pistol - Limited Edition

The Bulgarian production model airsoft pistol showcases exquisite craftsmanship with lively export engravings and attention to detail, including a magazine with a finger rest for enhanced grip during magazine changes and a square trigger guard made from metal parts. One of the standout features is the mirror sticker that mimics the "cartridge" visible from the side of the magazine, paired with a skeleton grip that allows players to see this unique detail. While the bullet remaining display is a dummy, it adds to the overall aesthetic without affecting the gas capacity. The smooth recoil is delivered by the System 7 gas blowback system, providing an engaging shooting experience for airsoft enthusiasts. This well-designed airsoft pistol combines realism and functionality, making it a top choice for players looking to elevate their gameplay.

1911 Kimber LAPD SWAT Custom II GBB Pistol

The VFC LAPD style 1911 is a remarkable airsoft pistol inspired by the iconic weapon wielded by former SWAT operators, gaining fame from its appearances in films like "SWAT" and "The Negotiator" featuring Samuel L. Jackson. With exceptional build quality, fit, and finish, this airsoft pistol offers an outstanding feel, and its ergonomics meet the high standards expected from all 1911 models, particularly with its highly readable front and rear sights that are easy to track. As VFC's first entry into the 1911 market, this pistol excels in FPS consistency, accuracy, recoil impulse, and stability. Additionally, it features VFC's signature guide hop system, which allows players to make hop-up adjustments on the fly without the need to remove the slide, making it a top choice for both seasoned airsoft players and newcomers alike.

RWA Nighthawk Custom TRS Comp GBB Pistol

The Nighthawk Custom TRS Comp represents the pinnacle of precision and performance in the Nighthawk Customs lineup, being a double-stacked 1911 crafted from real steel that seamlessly merges innovation with tradition. RWA has embraced the challenge of creating an affordable, high-quality airsoft replica of this masterpiece, featuring a striking all-black color scheme while mirroring many aesthetic qualities of its real-steel counterpart, including the compensator and Nighthawk Customs markings. Equipped with raised suppressor-height sights and an optic-ready plate, the RWA Nighthawk Custom TRS Comp offers a three-dot sight picture that allows for the installation of red dot optics compatible with RMR, RMSc, or K footprints, enhancing sight alignment speed. The front and rear slide serrations aid in racking the slide, facilitating essential manipulations such as clearing jams or performing takedowns for maintenance. Additionally, the flat trigger provides a smooth and crisp pull, while the internals adhere to reliable Tokyo Marui specifications, ensuring compatibility with most standard Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa parts and aftermarket upgrades for consistent and accurate performance. This airsoft pistol stands out as a top choice for enthusiasts seeking excellence in both form and function.

Evolution E911 Defender Gas Blowback Pistol

The Evolution E911 is a versatile airsoft pistol based on the classic 1911 design, catering to those who demand both performance and adaptability. This robust firearm features a Picatinny rail, allowing users to attach various accessories such as flashlights and lasers, enhancing functionality and precision. Built with quality you can trust, the E911 combines traditional reliability with modern enhancements, making it ideal for competitive shooting or recreational use. Each E911 is encased in a durable hard case, providing optimal protection and making transport effortless. Elevate your shooting experience with the Evolution E911, and enjoy unmatched performance and customization options that cater to all airsoft enthusiasts.

KSC M93R Second Version - Co2 Blowback Pistol

The third instalment of the KSC CO2 Blowback Series introduces the highly anticipated M93R, a powerhouse in the airsoft pistol market. This model features a slide and frame engraved with precise markings based on the real gun, offering an authentic look and feel. With shooting modes that include semi-auto and 3-burst, the M93R delivers an exciting shooting experience. The combination of CO2 power and a lightweight ABS slide produces a strong blowback effect, adding to the realism of this airsoft pistol. One of the standout features of this CO2 model is its ability to provide stable shooting performance, regardless of the season, making it an excellent choice for airsoft enthusiasts year-round.

Tokyo Marui Desert Eagle 50AE Gas Blowback Pistol

Channel your inner action hero with the Tokyo Marui Desert Eagle Black—a remarkable airsoft pistol that serves as more than just a weapon; it's a statement piece. This iconic replica offers exceptional realism, performance, and firepower, making it a favorite among players and collectors alike. Experience the thrill of every shot with the powerful hard kick gas blowback system, where the slide slams back with satisfying force, replicating the feel of the real firearm and enhancing your airsoft experience. Crafted from high-quality ABS plastic with metal components, the Desert Eagle features a meticulous matte black finish that exudes sophistication and tactical prowess, while intricate engravings and markings are faithfully reproduced to make it nearly indistinguishable from the actual firearm. Known for its precision, Tokyo Marui ensures that the Desert Eagle delivers consistent, tight shot groupings, making it perfect for both plinking and taking down opponents in close-quarters combat, establishing it as a top choice for any airsoft enthusiast.