CO₂ Revolvers

What is a CO₂ revolver and how does it work?

A CO₂ revolver uses the gas stored inside a cartridge to propel the projectile through the barrel. Once the cartridge has been installed and pierced, the CO₂ supplies the valve system. A controlled quantity of gas is released with each shot.

The power source is similar to that used in a CO₂ pistol, but the revolver retains characteristic features such as a rotating cylinder, hammer and single-action or double-action operation. Many replicas also use individual reusable shells.

A large proportion of these models use 12 g CO₂ cartridges, normally housed inside the grip. However, you should always check the cartridge size and installation procedure specified by the manufacturer.

Compatible cartridges are available in our CO₂ cartridges collection.

Pellet or steel BB CO₂ revolver: what is the difference?

Two revolvers described as .177 calibre or 4.5 mm may not accept the same ammunition. Before purchasing or loading a revolver, check whether it is designed for Diabolo pellets, steel BBs or both projectile types.

CO₂ revolvers for lead pellets

CO₂ pellet revolvers fire projectiles with the characteristic Diabolo shape used in airguns. When a model has a rifled barrel, the rifling causes the pellet to rotate and helps stabilise it during flight.

These revolvers are an interesting option for shooters who want to combine the appearance and operation of a revolver with a projectile more closely associated with target shooting.

If ammunition type is your main consideration, you can compare more technologies in our range of pellet air pistols.

CO₂ revolvers for steel BBs

Other models are specifically designed to fire spherical 4.5 mm steel BBs. This configuration is common among replicas intended for plinking and recreational shooting, particularly those that use individual shells.

A steel BB and a Diabolo pellet differ in shape, dimensions, material and behaviour inside the barrel. Although both may be marketed under the nominal .177 calibre or 4.5 mm designation, they are not automatically interchangeable.

Cylinders, shells and loading systems

The loading system is one of the features that most clearly distinguishes a CO₂ revolver from other air pistols.

Revolvers with reusable shells

On many replica revolvers, the cylinder swings out and accepts individual reusable shells. Depending on the design, the pellet or BB is inserted into the front or rear of each shell before the shells are placed inside the cylinder.

Revolvers with rotary magazines

Other models use a fixed or removable rotary magazine or cylinder-style system. The pellets or BBs are loaded directly into the available chambers without using separate shells.

Before choosing a model, check how it is loaded, which ammunition it accepts, the cylinder capacity and whether compatible spare shells or magazines are available.

Single action and double action

Depending on its design, a CO₂ revolver may operate in single action, double action or both modes.

On historically inspired replicas, the action type is an important part of the authentic handling. Many modern revolvers allow the user to fire in either single-action or double-action mode.

Colt, Dan Wesson and other CO₂ revolvers

One of the main attractions of CO₂ revolvers is the variety of designs inspired by historical and contemporary revolvers. The range may include families such as the Colt Python, Colt Peacemaker, Dan Wesson, Smith & Wesson and Crosman Vigilante, together with Schofield replicas and other platforms.

Different models offer different characteristics. Some place greater emphasis on realistic appearance and individual shells, while others provide adjustable sights, modern grips or accessory rails.

The availability of individual brands, versions and finishes may change according to stock.

Which barrel length should you choose?

CO₂ revolvers are available with several barrel lengths. Depending on the model family, options may include approximately 2.5, 4, 6 or 8 inches.

A longer barrel does not automatically make a revolver better. The right choice depends on the preferred balance, dimensions, replica appearance and intended type of shooting.

Do CO₂ revolvers have Blowback?

Blowback is not a typical feature of CO₂ revolvers, as they do not have the moving slide associated with certain semi-automatic CO₂ pistols.

The realistic mechanical feel of a revolver normally comes from cylinder rotation, hammer movement, single- and double-action operation, reusable shells, the opening mechanism, materials and weight.

If you specifically want a replica with a moving slide, visit our CO₂ air pistols category and check which models incorporate Blowback.

How many shots does a CO₂ cartridge provide?

There is no figure that applies to every revolver. Shot count depends on the cartridge size, valve system, muzzle energy, ambient temperature, shooting pace and the overall design of the model.

CO₂ is sensitive to temperature changes. Firing many shots in quick succession can cool the cartridge and temporarily reduce the available pressure, which may affect the consistency of subsequent shots.

For this reason, refer to the specifications and operating guidance provided for the individual model.

How to choose a CO₂ revolver

CO₂ revolver or CO₂ pistol: which should you choose?

Both systems can use CO₂ as their power source, but their architecture and operation are different.

A CO₂ revolver uses a rotating cylinder and may incorporate individual shells, an external hammer and single-action or double-action operation. A CO₂ pistol generally uses a different magazine system and may, depending on the model, incorporate a moving slide with Blowback.

Choose a revolver if you are particularly interested in the cylinder, reusable shells and the appearance of classic or modern revolver designs. To compare semi-automatic replicas and Blowback systems, explore our CO₂ air pistols.

Using and maintaining a CO₂ revolver

• Read the manual: cartridge installation and loading procedures may vary between models.
• Use the correct ammunition: follow the calibre, shape and material specified by the manufacturer.
• Protect the seals: use only maintenance products that are suitable for the specific CO₂ system.
• Avoid prolonged storage under pressure: do not leave a pierced cartridge inside the revolver for extended periods if the manufacturer recommends removing it.
• Check the shells: use only shells or magazines designed for the exact revolver model.
• Protect your eyes: wear suitable eye protection and shoot only in an appropriate area with a safe backstop.

Frequently asked questions about CO₂ revolvers

What calibre are CO₂ revolvers?

The models currently included in this category use .177 calibre projectiles, equivalent to the nominal 4.5 mm designation. Depending on the revolver, they may fire Diabolo pellets, steel BBs or both projectile types.

Can a CO₂ revolver fire lead pellets?

Yes, provided that the model has been specifically designed for Diabolo pellets. Other revolvers use steel BBs only, so the product specification should always be checked.

Are .177 pellets and 4.5 mm steel BBs the same?

No. They differ in shape, material, dimensions and behaviour inside the barrel. They should only be used in the same revolver when the manufacturer explicitly confirms compatibility with both projectile types.

What size CO₂ cartridge does a revolver use?

Many models use a 12 g CO₂ cartridge, although the cartridge size specified for the individual revolver should always be checked.

What is the difference between single action and double action?

In single action, the hammer is manually cocked before firing. In double action, pulling the trigger also cocks the hammer and rotates the cylinder before releasing the shot.

Do CO₂ revolvers have Blowback?

Generally not. Their realistic handling normally comes from the cylinder, hammer, trigger mechanism, reusable shells, materials and weight rather than a moving slide.

What is the difference between a 2.5-inch and a 6-inch revolver?

A 2.5-inch model is more compact. A 6-inch revolver has a greater overall length and normally provides a longer sight radius, together with different balance and weight distribution.

How many shots does a CO₂ cartridge provide?

There is no universal figure. Shot count depends on the revolver, temperature, valve system, muzzle energy and shooting pace.

Can a pierced CO₂ cartridge be left inside the revolver?

It is not advisable to store the revolver for long periods with a pierced cartridge installed. Follow the manufacturer’s procedure when removing it to avoid unnecessary stress on the seals.