CO₂ air rifles: simple operation and fast follow-up shots
CO₂ air rifles use pressurised carbon dioxide as their power source. They do not require a spring to be cocked or a high-pressure reservoir to be filled before each shooting session, making them a practical option for recreational shooting, plinking and target practice.
The category includes traditional rifles, repeaters, multi-shot models, semi-automatic platforms and realistic CO₂ replicas. The exact operating system, compatible projectile and CO₂ capsule format depend on the individual model.
How does a CO₂ air rifle work?
A CO₂ air rifle uses carbon dioxide stored under pressure in a compatible capsule or cartridge. When the trigger is operated, the mechanism releases a measured quantity of gas that propels the projectile through the barrel.
Unlike a spring-powered or gas-ram air rifle, the system does not need to be mechanically compressed before every shot. It also differs from a PCP air rifle, which stores pre-charged compressed air inside a refillable high-pressure reservoir.
This operating principle makes CO₂ particularly suitable for rifles designed to provide straightforward handling, limited mechanical movement and rapid follow-up shots.
Why choose a CO₂ air rifle?
- Simple operation: the power source does not need to be manually compressed before each shot.
- Rapid follow-up shots: many models use magazines or other multi-shot feeding systems.
- Limited mechanical movement: there is no heavy spring or piston moving during the shot.
- Varied designs: the market includes conventional rifles, modern platforms and licensed replicas.
- Different CO₂ formats: depending on the model, the rifle may use 12 g or 88 g capsules.
- Recreational versatility: CO₂ is widely used for plinking, informal target shooting and training.
12 g or 88 g CO₂: what is the difference?
Not every CO₂ air rifle uses the same power source. Two of the most common formats are compact 12 g CO₂ capsules and larger 88 g CO₂ capsules.
| Feature | 12 g CO₂ | 88 g CO₂ |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Compact capsule | Larger-capacity capsule |
| CO₂ content | 12 grams | 88 grams |
| Size | Small and easy to replace | Larger and heavier |
| Available gas | Lower total capacity | Greater total capacity |
| Typical application | CO₂ pistols and many compact or recreational rifles | Air rifles specifically designed for the 88 g format |
12 g CO₂ capsules
The 12 g CO₂ capsule is one of the most widely used formats in the airgun market. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for many CO₂ pistols and air rifles.
It is a practical choice for compatible models when a small and easily replaceable power source is preferred.
88 g CO₂ capsules
An 88 g CO₂ capsule contains considerably more gas and is intended for rifles specifically designed around this larger format.
Its greater capacity can extend a shooting session and reduce the frequency of capsule changes, although the actual result always depends on the rifle and how efficiently it uses the gas.
You can find compatible formats in our CO₂ cartridges and capsules category.
How many shots can a CO₂ capsule provide?
There is no universal figure. The number of available shots depends on the rifle, capsule size, calibre, gas consumption, ambient temperature and rate of fire.
Two rifles using the same capsule format can therefore provide different results. The technical specifications and instructions for the particular model should always take precedence over general estimates.
Does temperature affect a CO₂ air rifle?
Yes. CO₂ pressure is directly influenced by ambient temperature. Changes in temperature can affect the available pressure and therefore alter the rifle’s behaviour, consistency and number of usable shots.
This sensitivity is an important characteristic of CO₂ and should be considered when the rifle is used under significantly different environmental conditions.
Repeaters, multi-shot rifles and semi-automatic CO₂ models
CO₂ works particularly well in air rifles designed for recreational and dynamic shooting. Depending on the model, the category may include:
- Magazine-fed repeating rifles.
- Rotary multi-shot systems.
- Lever-action replicas.
- Semi-automatic CO₂ platforms.
- Models with brand-specific feeding mechanisms.
These terms are not interchangeable. A multi-shot or repeating rifle is not necessarily semi-automatic, so the precise action and loading method should be checked on the individual product page.
Crosman CO₂ air rifles
Crosman is one of the best-known manufacturers of pneumatic and CO₂ airguns. Models such as the Crosman 1077 have helped establish the brand within the recreational multi-shot segment.
The manufacturer is not limited to CO₂. Its range also includes Multi-Pump, Nitro Piston and PCP systems. You can explore the complete selection in our Crosman air rifles category.
CO₂ replicas from Umarex, SIG Sauer and other brands
CO₂ technology is particularly suitable for replica-style air rifles. Since a conventional spring system is not required, manufacturers can develop platforms whose dimensions, controls and appearance are inspired by recognised firearm designs.
Umarex is especially prominent in this market and produces numerous licensed replicas. SIG Sauer also offers CO₂ platforms intended for recreational shooting and training, with ergonomics inspired by established SIG designs.
Models such as the Beretta CX4 Storm and SIG Sauer MPX illustrate the appeal of this category: replica styling, intuitive handling and rapid follow-up shots on platforms designed to provide them.
CO₂ air rifle or PCP air rifle?
Both systems use stored gas or air to propel the projectile, but their operation and supporting equipment are different.
| Feature | CO₂ air rifle | PCP air rifle |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Pressurised carbon dioxide | Pre-charged compressed air |
| Storage | Compatible disposable capsule | Refillable high-pressure reservoir |
| Filling equipment | Not normally required | Hand pump, air bottle or PCP compressor |
| Temperature sensitivity | Particularly relevant | Less dependent on the thermodynamic behaviour of CO₂ |
| Common applications | Recreational shooting, plinking, repeaters and replicas | Precision shooting, greater adjustability and higher shot capacity, depending on the model |
If you want to compare pre-charged pneumatic platforms, visit our PCP air rifles category.
CO₂, spring, gas ram or PCP?
CO₂ is only one of the power systems available within the air rifle market. Each technology provides a different shooting experience:
- CO₂: straightforward operation and a wide choice of repeaters and replica-style platforms.
- Spring: a self-contained mechanical system that is cocked before each shot.
- Gas ram: a break-barrel system that replaces the conventional coiled spring with a gas strut.
- PCP: compressed air stored in a refillable high-pressure reservoir.
To compare all four systems, visit our main air rifles category.
Calibres and projectiles for CO₂ air rifles
.177 calibre (4.5 mm) is widely used in CO₂ air rifles intended for recreational shooting and target practice. Other calibres may also be available depending on the manufacturer and platform.
The calibre alone does not determine which ammunition can be used. Some rifles fire diabolo pellets, others use steel BBs, and certain models rely on a specific magazine or feeding system.
In pellet-firing models, the weight, shape and head size of the pellet can influence the results. Testing several compatible options can help identify which ammunition performs best with the particular barrel.
For compatible pellet-firing rifles, browse our JSB pellets.
Can a scope be fitted to a CO₂ air rifle?
A scope can be fitted when the rifle has a compatible mounting rail or interface. Before choosing an optic, check the type and width of the rail, the required mounts, the available clearance and the shooting distances for which the rifle will be used.
Browse our air rifle scopes for compatible models and mounting options.
Safety and maintenance
Always follow the instructions supplied by the manufacturer. Use only the specified CO₂ format and compatible ammunition, and check the condition of seals and contact surfaces as described in the product manual.
Do not apply universal lubrication or cleaning intervals to every rifle. Maintenance requirements vary between manufacturers and mechanisms. Products not specifically approved for CO₂ airguns can damage seals or internal components.
Handle every air rifle responsibly, use a suitable backstop and wear eye protection, particularly when firing steel BBs because of their greater potential to ricochet from hard surfaces.
Frequently asked questions about CO₂ air rifles
What is a CO₂ air rifle?
A CO₂ air rifle is an airgun that uses pressurised carbon dioxide stored in a compatible capsule or cartridge to propel the projectile.
What is the difference between 12 g and 88 g CO₂?
The main differences are the size of the capsule and the amount of CO₂ it contains. A 12 g capsule is compact, while an 88 g capsule holds considerably more gas. The rifle must be specifically compatible with the selected format.
How many shots can a CO₂ capsule provide?
There is no fixed number. Shot count varies according to the rifle, capsule size, calibre, temperature, gas consumption and rate of fire.
Are all CO₂ air rifles semi-automatic?
No. The category includes single-shot, repeating, multi-shot, lever-action and semi-automatic systems. The operating mechanism must be checked for each model.
Do CO₂ air rifles use pellets or steel BBs?
It depends on the rifle. Some models use diabolo pellets, others fire steel BBs, and certain platforms may accept a particular projectile through a dedicated feeding system. Always follow the manufacturer’s specifications.
Does temperature affect a CO₂ air rifle?
Yes. Ambient temperature affects CO₂ pressure and can therefore alter the behaviour, consistency and number of usable shots provided by the rifle.
Buy CO₂ air rifles at CARBIN
At CARBIN, you can compare CO₂ air rifles for recreational shooting, including repeaters, semi-automatic platforms and replicas from recognised manufacturers such as Crosman, Umarex and SIG Sauer.
Before choosing a model, compare its calibre, action, magazine, compatible projectile, mounting rail and required CO₂ capsule format.
Complete your equipment with CO₂ cartridges, JSB pellets and air rifle scopes.
If you are still comparing technologies, return to our main air rifles category.
