CO₂ rifles | Precision and Autonomy for Sports Shooting

Which type of CO₂ air rifle are you looking for?

Appearance does not define the action. A replica may fire pellets or BBs, and having a magazine does not necessarily make it semi-automatic. Check each characteristic separately.

Diabolo pellets and BBs are not interchangeable

Calibre is not the only consideration. Two rifles marked 4.5 mm (.177) may require different ammunition. Diabolo pellets have a different shape from spherical BBs, and the barrel and feeding system must be designed for the ammunition used.

Use only the projectile type, material and calibre specified by the manufacturer. Do not load steel BBs into a pellet-only rifle or pellets into a magazine designed exclusively for BBs.

Single-shot, multi-shot, manual repeating and semi-automatic

• Single-shot: one projectile is loaded for each shot.
• Multi-shot: several projectiles are held in a magazine; the term alone does not describe how the action operates.
• Manual repeating: a lever, bolt or other control must be operated to prepare the next shot.
• Semi-automatic: the mechanism automatically completes the loading cycle for the next shot, firing once per trigger pull.

On some CO₂ systems, the trigger pull itself operates internal mechanisms or indexes the magazine. Check the technical description rather than relying on a sales label. Blowback describes the movement of a component to simulate recoil; it is not another term for multi-shot operation.

12 g capsules and 88 g cartridges: the rifle determines the format

The weight in grams indicates the mass of CO₂ inside, not the filling pressure. A larger cartridge does not, by itself, increase the rifle’s muzzle energy.

Our CO₂ cartridges and capsules category lets you choose the consumable specified for your model. Compare format, pack size and unit price without assuming that another rifle’s shot count will apply.

Shot count, temperature and rate of fire

There is no universal shot count per capsule. CO₂ capacity, the mechanism’s gas consumption, temperature, rate of fire and seal condition all matter. The number of shots with consistent performance may also differ from the total possible before the capsule is completely exhausted.

CO₂ is sensitive to temperature. Gas expansion cools the system, and closely spaced shots can intensify this effect, influencing velocity and operation. Stay within the temperature range given in the manual and do not heat capsules or cartridges to compensate for reduced performance.

Compare brands and rifle styles

A brand helps you find a range, but the action and required consumables must still be checked for each model.

• Crosman air rifles: explore the CO₂ models and distinguish them from the other power systems in the range.
• Walther CO₂ air rifles: compare the versions, paying attention to the action, magazine and capsule format.
• Umarex CO₂ air rifles: check the ammunition and operating mechanism of each platform before choosing by appearance.

CO₂, PCP, spring or gas ram: choose your power system

CO₂ suits shooters looking for a particular recreational platform powered by compatible replacement capsules. If your priorities are different, compare these systems:

• PCP air rifles: these store compressed air in a reservoir and require suitable filling equipment. Compare reservoir capacity, fill pressure, regulation and the model’s shot count.
• Spring-powered air rifles: cocking stores energy in a spring. Consider cocking effort, trigger and how the rifle behaves during the firing cycle.
• Gas-ram air rifles: a gas strut drives the compression piston. These rifles do not use CO₂ capsules and also require cocking.

Accuracy, muzzle energy and shot count are not determined by the power system alone. Rifle design, suitable ammunition and operating conditions also influence the result.

Complete your CO₂ air rifle setup

To fit an optic, check the rail, mounts, mounting height and available clearance. When comparing air rifle scopes, also consider the minimum parallax adjustment distance and magnification for your usual shooting distance.

Choose shooting targets suitable for your ammunition and rifle’s muzzle energy, with an appropriate backstop or pellet trap. Steel BBs can ricochet from hard surfaces: wear eye protection and follow the target manufacturer’s instructions.

For equipment care, browse our airgun cleaning and maintenance products and use only those suitable for your model’s seals, valves and barrel. Lubrication points and maintenance intervals depend on the rifle’s instructions.

Frequently asked questions about CO₂ air rifles

What do I need to get started with a CO₂ air rifle?

The rifle, its specified CO₂ format, compatible ammunition, eye protection and a target with a suitable backstop. Check the package contents: capsules, ammunition and optics are not included with every model.

Does a CO₂ air rifle need a pump or compressor?

Models using compatible CO₂ capsules or cartridges do not need PCP filling equipment. Do not connect an air compressor to a rifle designed for CO₂ or substitute another gas.

Can I replace an 88 g cartridge with 12 g capsules?

Only if an expressly compatible adaptor is available and the manufacturer permits the combination. A thread that appears to fit is not enough: the connection design, available space and operating requirements must also match.

Does a larger CO₂ cartridge give more power?

Not simply because it contains more CO₂. A larger cartridge provides more gas, but muzzle energy depends on the rifle’s design and operating conditions. Always use the specified format.

How many shots can I get from one capsule?

That depends on the model, capsule, temperature and rate of fire. Check the manufacturer’s figure and its test conditions. Another rifle’s shot count is not a reliable guide, even if it uses the same capsule size.

Why does performance drop during rapid shooting?

Cooling caused by CO₂ expansion can reduce the available pressure. A capsule nearing empty may also contribute. If operation becomes abnormal, stop using the rifle and follow the manual; do not heat the capsule to raise its pressure.

Are all CO₂ air rifles semi-automatic?

No. The range includes single-shot and manually operated repeating models, among other designs. “Multi-shot” means that several projectiles are available in the magazine; it does not confirm a semi-automatic action.

Can I use BBs and pellets if both are 4.5 mm?

Only if the manufacturer expressly approves both types for that model. Sharing a nominal calibre does not guarantee compatibility with the barrel or magazine.

Are CO₂ air rifles suitable for target practice?

Yes, with a suitable target and in a location where shooting is permitted. Compare sights, trigger, ergonomics and ammunition. Recreational replicas are not necessarily designed around the same priorities as precision target rifles.

Can I store the rifle with a CO₂ capsule fitted?

Follow the storage instructions for the model. There is no universal time limit that applies to every valve system. When removing a capsule, follow the manufacturer’s procedure and do not improvise by unscrewing pressurised components.

Can disposable CO₂ capsules be refilled?

No. Capsules and cartridges marked as disposable are not designed for refilling. Do not puncture, modify or adapt them for reuse.

What should I do if CO₂ is leaking?

Stop using the rifle, keep it pointed in a safe direction and consult the manual or technical support. Do not dismantle pressurised components or add unspecified lubricants in an attempt to seal the leak.

Are CO₂ and gas ram the same system?

No. In a CO₂ rifle, gas from the capsule propels the projectile. In a gas-ram rifle, a gas strut drives the piston that compresses air during the shot. Their consumables and cocking mechanisms are different.