CO2 Revolvers: Elegance, Precision and Realism

CO₂ Revolvers in .177 / 4.5 mm: Pellets, Steel BBs and Realistic Handling

CO₂ revolvers are airguns that use compressed carbon dioxide to propel the projectile. Unlike a firearm, they do not rely on gunpowder or conventional metallic ammunition. Most models in this category are powered by a 12g CO₂ cartridge housed inside the grip.

Our range includes .177 / 4.5 mm CO₂ revolvers from established manufacturers such as Umarex, ASG, Crosman, Smith & Wesson and other specialist airgun brands. Available designs range from classic replica revolvers with individual shells to more modern recreational models in different barrel lengths.

Not every CO₂ revolver uses the same ammunition. Depending on the model, it may fire .177 pellets, 4.5 mm steel BBs or, where specifically approved by the manufacturer, both projectile types. Always check the ammunition specification of the exact revolver before use.

What Is a CO₂ Revolver and How Does It Work?

A CO₂ revolver uses the pressure stored inside a CO₂ cartridge to propel the projectile through the barrel. Once the cartridge is installed and pierced, the gas supplies the valve system. Each time the action is operated, a controlled amount of CO₂ is released to fire the projectile.

The power source is similar to that used in many CO₂ pistols, but the revolver retains features associated with the traditional design, including a rotating cylinder, hammer, single-action or double-action trigger mechanism and, on many replica models, individual reusable shells.

Most revolvers in this category use 12g CO₂ cartridges. You can find compatible formats in our CO₂ cartridges range.

Pellet CO₂ Revolver vs Steel BB Revolver: What Is the Difference?

Ammunition type is one of the most important factors when choosing a CO₂ revolver. Two models may both be described as .177 or 4.5 mm while using very different projectiles.

Steel BBs and pellets should never be treated as automatically interchangeable. Only use the projectile type specifically approved for the revolver.

What Are the Advantages of a CO₂ Pellet Revolver?

CO₂ pellet revolvers usually fire .177 / 4.5 mm Diabolo pellets. When combined with a rifled barrel, the projectile is stabilised by the rifling and can be particularly well suited to target shooting and accuracy-focused use.

These models are a good choice for shooters who want the handling and appearance of a revolver while retaining the characteristics associated with traditional airgun pellets.

If pellet ammunition is your main priority and you would also like to compare semi-automatic and single-shot designs, explore our range of pellet air pistols.

CO₂ Revolvers for Steel BBs

Other revolvers are specifically designed to fire 4.5 mm spherical steel BBs. These are especially common among realistic replica revolvers intended for plinking and recreational shooting.

A steel BB differs significantly from a Diabolo pellet in both shape and material. Even though both may be marketed under the nominal 4.5 mm or .177 calibre designation, they should not be considered interchangeable unless the manufacturer explicitly confirms compatibility.

Cylinders, Shells and Loading Systems

The loading system is one of the most distinctive features of a CO₂ revolver.

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

Other revolvers use a removable rotary magazine or cylinder-style system that accepts the projectiles directly without separate shells.

When comparing models, consider not only external appearance but also cylinder capacity, loading method, ammunition type and how closely the system reproduces traditional revolver handling.

Single Action vs Double Action: What Is the Difference?

Depending on the design, a CO₂ revolver may operate in Single Action (SA), Double Action (DA) or both.

In Single Action, the hammer is manually cocked before the shot. This generally rotates the cylinder into position and leaves a shorter, lighter trigger pull for firing.

In Double Action, pulling the trigger also performs the mechanical work required to cock the hammer and rotate the cylinder before releasing the shot. The trigger pull is therefore usually longer and heavier.

For replica revolvers, this difference can be an important part of the shooting experience, particularly on models inspired by classic historical designs.

Colt Python, Dan Wesson and Other CO₂ Revolver Designs

One of the main attractions of CO₂ revolvers is the variety of designs available, from classic-inspired replicas to modern sporting and recreational platforms.

Well-known examples include the Colt Python 357, various Dan Wesson models, the Crosman Vigilante and other compact or full-size revolver designs.

Different models provide very different handling. A compact 2.5-inch revolver feels very different from a 6- or 8-inch version, while historically inspired replicas may place greater emphasis on realistic shells, hammer operation, materials and cylinder loading.

Which Barrel Length Should You Choose?

CO₂ revolvers are available in several barrel lengths, including configurations around 2.5", 4", 6" and 8", depending on the model family.

A shorter barrel produces a more compact and manoeuvrable revolver. A longer model offers a longer sight radius and a different balance and weight distribution.

A longer barrel is therefore not automatically “better”. The right choice depends on your priorities regarding handling, balance, replica appearance, plinking and target shooting.

Do CO₂ Revolvers Have Blowback?

In general, blowback is not a typical feature of CO₂ revolvers.

Unlike certain CO₂ pistols that use a moving slide to simulate part of the firearm cycle, the realistic feel of a revolver usually comes from other elements such as cylinder rotation, hammer movement, single- and double-action operation, individual shells, weight and materials.

Blowback should only be listed as a feature when it is specifically confirmed by the manufacturer for the exact model.

How Many Shots Can You Get from a 12g CO₂ Cartridge?

There is no single figure that applies to every revolver. The number of shots available from a 12g CO₂ cartridge depends on factors including the valve system, muzzle energy, ambient temperature, rate of fire and the overall design of the revolver.

CO₂ performance is particularly temperature sensitive. Firing many shots in quick succession can cool the cartridge, temporarily reducing gas pressure and affecting the consistency of subsequent shots.

For this reason, the realistic shot count should be assessed model by model rather than assuming the same capacity for every CO₂ revolver.

How to Choose a CO₂ Revolver

Before choosing a model, compare the following features:

• Ammunition: Diabolo pellets, steel BBs or manufacturer-approved dual compatibility.
• Calibre: the models in this category are primarily .177 / 4.5 mm.
• Barrel length: compact models handle differently from 6- or 8-inch revolvers.
• Loading system: individual shells, rotary magazines or other model-specific systems.
• Action: Single Action, Double Action or SA/DA.
• Materials and weight: particularly important if realistic handling is a priority.
• Sights: fixed or adjustable depending on the model.
• Accessory rail: some modern designs offer Picatinny or Weaver mounting interfaces.

CO₂ Revolver vs CO₂ Pistol: Which Should You Choose?

The main difference is not the power source, as both can use CO₂, but the architecture and operating system.

A CO₂ revolver uses a rotating cylinder and may incorporate reusable shells, an external hammer and Single Action or Double Action operation.

A CO₂ pistol generally uses a different magazine system and, depending on the model, may also include a moving slide and Blowback mechanism.

If you are particularly interested in models designed for traditional airgun pellets, our pellet air pistols category provides additional options in different layouts and operating systems.

How to Maintain a CO₂ Revolver

Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions and use only the approved ammunition and CO₂ format. Keep the barrel and cylinder area clean and periodically inspect seals and reusable shells where applicable.

As a general rule, avoid storing a revolver for extended periods with a pierced CO₂ cartridge left under pressure, unless the manufacturer specifically recommends otherwise.

Replacement CO₂ cartridges are available in different pack sizes for compatible pistols, revolvers and air rifles.

Frequently Asked Questions About CO₂ Revolvers

What calibre are CO₂ revolvers?

The models in this category are primarily .177 / 4.5 mm. Depending on the revolver, they may be designed for Diabolo pellets, steel BBs or both where explicitly approved.

Can a CO₂ revolver fire pellets?

Yes, if the model is specifically designed for them. Many CO₂ revolvers use .177 / 4.5 mm Diabolo pellets, while others are intended exclusively for steel BBs.

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

No. They differ in shape, material and behaviour in 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?

Most models in this category use a 12g CO₂ cartridge, although the specification of the exact revolver should always be checked.

What does Single Action mean on a CO₂ revolver?

Single Action means the hammer is manually cocked before firing. This normally rotates the cylinder and prepares the trigger for a shorter firing movement.

What does Double Action mean?

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 usually comes from the cylinder, hammer, trigger mechanism, shells and overall construction rather than a moving slide.

What is the difference between a 2.5-inch and a 6-inch CO₂ revolver?

A 2.5-inch model is more compact and manoeuvrable, while a 6-inch revolver provides a longer sight radius and different balance and weight distribution.

Can you leave a CO₂ cartridge in a revolver?

It is generally best not to store a revolver for long periods with a pierced cartridge under pressure. Follow the maintenance and storage guidance provided by the manufacturer.