11 Best BB Guns in 2025 (BB Rifles & BB Pistols)

Whether you’re a seasoned plinker or just getting started, the world of BB guns offers a ton of fun and affordable options for target shooting and skill development. The market in 2025 is packed with impressive models, from classic spring-piston rifles to high-tech CO2 pistols that mimic their real-steel counterparts. Choosing the right one depends on what you’re looking for: backyard plinking, introductory training, or just the simple joy of hitting a can with precision. I’ve spent a good amount of time testing various models to see what holds up.

This guide is here to help you cut through the noise and find a BB gun that fits your needs and budget. I’ve put together a list of the best BB guns I’ve tried, focusing on reliability, accuracy, and overall user experience. We’ll look at everything from beginner-friendly rifles to more advanced pistols, breaking down the pros and cons of each. My goal is to give you a clear picture so you can make a smart choice and get the most out of your shooting sessions.

11 Best BB Guns in 2025

Umarex Legends MP40 BB Submachine Gun

The Umarex Legends MP40 is an absolute blast from the past, replicating the iconic WWII submachine gun with incredible detail. It’s a blowback-operated, semi-automatic BB gun that uses a 50-round stick magazine, which is just plain fun. The weight and feel are surprisingly realistic, made from a mix of metal and high-quality polymer. I found the blowback action to be snappy and satisfying, adding a whole new level of immersion to plinking sessions. It’s powered by a single 12-gram CO2 cartridge stored in the magazine, and you can get a good number of shots per cartridge.

Accuracy is what you’d expect from a replica of this style—it’s great for close to medium-range target practice. The fixed sights are simple but effective. One thing to keep in mind is that it does go through CO2 and BBs quickly because it’s so much fun to shoot. It’s not a precision target rifle, but that’s not the point. It’s about the experience, and the MP40 delivers that in spades. It’s perfect for historical enthusiasts or anyone who wants a unique and entertaining BB gun for the backyard. The quality is top-notch for the price point.

Pros

Highly realistic look and feel with metal construction.
Satisfying blowback operation adds to the fun.
High-capacity 50-round magazine.

Cons

CO2 consumption can be high with rapid firing.
Heavier than most standard BB rifles.

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Crosman DPMS SBR CO2-Powered BB Rifle

If you’ve ever wanted the feel of an AR-platform rifle without the cost and hassle, the Crosman DPMS SBR is your answer. This full-auto capable BB rifle is a ton of fun and incredibly feature-rich. It has a full-size, adjustable stock and a Picatinny rail for adding your own optics or sights. The weight and balance feel very authentic. It uses a 25-round drop-free magazine and can fire in both semi-automatic and full-auto modes. A single CO2 cartridge powers the gun, and you’ll get about 300 shots on semi-auto, which is impressive.

I was really impressed with the rate of fire on full-auto; it’s fast and makes for an exciting shooting experience. The recoil is minimal, making it easy to control even for younger shooters with supervision. The build quality is mostly polymer, but it feels sturdy and well put together. It’s an excellent training tool for familiarization with the AR platform or just for having a great time plinking. The only real downside is that it can be a bit loud, so it’s best for outdoor use. For the price, the amount of fun and functionality you get is hard to beat.

Pros

Realistic AR-style design with adjustable stock.
Select-fire capability (semi and full-auto).
High shot count per CO2 cartridge.

Cons

Can be loud, not ideal for indoor use.
Plastic construction may not feel as premium as metal.

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Smith & Wesson M&P 40 CO2 BB Pistol

The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 CO2 BB Pistol is a fantastic replica of the popular M&P series handgun. It’s a blowback-operated semi-auto that provides a very realistic shooting experience. The weight, texture, and overall ergonomics are spot-on, making it a great training aid or just a fun plinker. It features a 19-round drop-out magazine that holds the CO2 cartridge and the BBs. The blowback action is strong and gives a nice kick, which I think really enhances the feel.

Accuracy is quite good for a pistol of this type. The fixed sights are clear and easy to use for quick target acquisition. I found it to be reliable and consistent shot-to-shot. It’s built with a durable polymer frame and metal slide, so it can handle regular use. This is one of those BB pistols that feels like a real tool, not a toy. It’s perfect for honing your marksmanship skills or for action shooting targets in the backyard. The value for money is excellent, especially considering the licensed branding and solid performance.

Pros

Authentic Smith & Wesson licensed replica.
Strong blowback operation for realistic recoil.
Good accuracy and reliable performance.

Cons

Magazine can be a bit tricky to load at first.
Blowback action uses more CO2 than non-blowback models.

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Umarex HK 416 D Airgun AEG BB Rifle

For those looking for electric-powered performance, the Umarex HK 416 D AEG is a top contender. This battery-powered BB rifle offers consistent semi-automatic fire without the need for CO2 cartridges. It’s an officially licensed Heckler & Koch product, and the attention to detail is incredible. The build quality features a metal rail system and a robust polymer body that feels very solid. It uses a spring-loaded, motorized hopper system that holds up to 1000 BBs, which means you can shoot for a long time without reloading.

The performance is smooth and consistent. Since it’s electric, there’s no cool-down effect like with CO2, so your last shot is as powerful as your first. The motor is a bit noisy, but that’s typical for AEGs. It’s an excellent choice for backyard plinking or even for more structured target practice. The rifle is also compatible with many standard airsoft accessories, so you can customize it to your liking. The initial investment is higher than a CO2 gun, but you save money in the long run by not buying cartridges. It’s a high-quality, reliable option for serious enthusiasts.

Pros

No CO2 required; runs on a rechargeable battery.
Massive 1000-round capacity in the internal hopper.
Licensed HK product with excellent build quality.

Cons

Higher initial cost compared to CO2 models.
The electric motor can be loud during operation.

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Gamo Urban PCP Air Rifle

While technically a .22 caliber pellet rifle, the Gamo Urban is such a standout performer for precision shooting that it deserves a mention for those considering a step up from BBs. This Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) rifle is all about accuracy and power. You fill the air cylinder with a high-pressure pump or scuba tank, and it provides a high number of consistent shots. The Urban is remarkably quiet thanks to its integrated suppressor, making it a great neighbor-friendly option.

The two-stage adjustable trigger is fantastic, providing a clean, crisp break that really helps with accuracy. I was able to achieve very tight groups at reasonable distances. The rifle is also quite lightweight and easy to shoulder. It’s a single-shot rifle, so it’s not for rapid plinking, but for methodical target shooting or pest control, it’s excellent. The build quality is solid, and it feels like a much more expensive rifle. If you’re ready to move into the world of PCP airguns, the Gamo Urban is one of the best entry points available.

Pros

Exceptional accuracy and consistent power.
Very quiet operation with integrated suppressor.
Excellent two-stage adjustable trigger.

Cons

Requires a separate high-pressure pump or tank for filling.
Single-shot only, not for rapid fire.

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Umarex T4E HDX .50 Caliber Paintball Revolver

This one is a bit different but incredibly fun. The Umarex T4E HDX is a .50 caliber revolver that shoots paintballs, pepper balls, or rubber balls. It’s a training and marking weapon designed for realistic force-on-force training, but it’s also a blast for backyard target shooting. The revolver uses a six-shot swing-out cylinder, just like a real double-action revolver. It’s powered by a single 12-gram CO2 cartridge stored in the grip.

The power and accuracy are surprising. You can really see the paintballs fly and splat on impact, which is immensely satisfying. The build is very robust, with a metal frame and cylinder. It’s heavy and feels like a real firearm. This isn’t a subtle plinker; it’s loud, has a significant report, and makes a mess (in a good way). It’s perfect for setting up reactive targets or for more advanced training scenarios. Just be sure to wear safety glasses, as the projectiles have some energy behind them.

Pros

Versatile; shoots paintballs, rubber balls, or powder balls.
Extremely realistic revolver operation and feel.
Great for force-on-force training or reactive target fun.

Cons

Projectiles are messy and require cleanup.
Loud and powerful, not for casual indoor use.

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Crosman 1077 RepeatAir CO2 Pump BB Rifle

The Crosman 1077 is a classic for a reason. This semi-automatic rifle is incredibly affordable and fun to shoot. It uses a 12-gram CO2

Buying Guide for the 11 Best BB Guns in 2025 (BB Rifles & BB Pistols)

Choosing your first or next BB gun can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. I remember staring at a wall of them, not sure where to begin. The key is to think about what you actually want to do with it. Are you looking for a simple plinker for the backyard, a training tool to practice your shooting fundamentals, or something for pest control? Your answer will point you in the right direction.

First, consider the power source. You have three main types: spring-piston, CO2, and pneumatic. Spring-piston guns are single-shot and require you to break the barrel to cock them. They are reliable and don’t need any external power, making them great for beginners. CO2 guns use those little 12-gram cartridges and often offer semi-automatic fire. They are a lot of fun for rapid plinking but performance can change with the temperature. Pneumatic guns are powered by air you pump in yourself. Multi-pump pneumatics let you control the power with each pump, which is fantastic for versatility.

Next, think about the platform: pistol or rifle. BB pistols are typically more compact and easier to handle, making them excellent for target practice and honing your handgun skills. BB rifles generally offer better accuracy and stability, especially if they have a stock you can shoulder. They are my go-to for teaching new shooters the basics of sight alignment and trigger control.

Safety is, without a doubt, the most important factor. Always treat a BB gun as if it were a real firearm. That means always wearing ANSI-approved safety glasses, being certain of your target and what is beyond it, and keeping the gun unloaded when not in use. Even a low-powered BB can cause serious injury. Also, pay attention to the build quality. Look for metal components where it counts, like the barrel and trigger, as these tend to last much longer than all-plastic models.

Finally, don’t forget about the extras. A BB gun with a Picatinny or Weaver rail gives you the option to add a red dot sight or a small scope, which can really improve your accuracy. If you are looking at a CO2 pistol, check how easy it is to load the BBs and how many shots you get per cartridge. A smooth, consistent trigger pull will make you a better shooter in the long run. Taking a little time to think about these points will help you find the perfect BB gun for your needs from the list of the 11 best BB guns in 2025.

FAQ

What is the effective range of a typical BB gun?

The effective range really depends on the gun’s power and design. For most spring-piston or multi-pump BB rifles, you can expect consistent accuracy on small targets up to about 10 to 15 yards. High-powered CO2 pistols might be effective to about 7 to 10 yards. Remember, “effective range” means you can reliably hit what you are aiming at. BBs lose energy and accuracy quickly, so even if it can shoot farther, hitting a soda can becomes much harder past those distances.

Can a BB gun be used for self-defense?

I would strongly advise against relying on a BB gun for self-defense. While they can certainly be dangerous and cause injury, they lack the stopping power of a firearm. Using one for self-defense could also create a dangerous situation if an attacker mistakes it for a real gun. BB guns are best used for target shooting, plinking, and training. For home defense, it is much better to look into proper firearms and training.

Are BB guns safe for kids to use?

BB guns can be a great way to introduce young people to shooting sports, but only with strict, direct adult supervision. It is not just about age, but about maturity and the ability to consistently follow safety rules. You should always be the one to handle and load the gun until you are completely confident in your child’s responsibility. Start with a low-power, single-shot model and drill the safety rules—especially wearing eye protection—every single time.

What is the difference between BBs and pellets?

This is a common question. BBs are small, round steel balls, usually 4.5mm (.177 caliber). They are smooth and feed well in magazines for semi-automatic guns. Pellets are diabolo-shaped (an hourglass shape with a skirt) and are made of soft lead or alloy. Pellets are almost always more accurate than BBs because their shape stabilizes in the air. If your main goal is accuracy, a pellet gun is the better choice. Many guns are designed to shoot only one or the other, so always check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do I need a license to own a BB gun?

In most parts of the United States, you do not need a special license to own a BB gun, as they are not classified as firearms by federal law. However, this is extremely important: local laws can vary a lot. Some cities and states have specific regulations regarding age restrictions, where you can discharge them, and whether they need to be transported in a case. You must check the laws in your specific city and state before you make a purchase. It is your responsibility to know the rules.

How should I store my BB gun safely?

Safe storage is just as important as safe handling. I always treat my BB guns with the same respect as my firearms. They should be stored unloaded in a locked cabinet or case, separate from any BBs or CO2 cartridges. This is crucial to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children or visitors who might not understand the potential danger. Using a trigger lock is another good layer of security. When you are looking at the 11 best BB guns in 2025 (BB rifles & BB pistols), also think about investing in a proper storage solution.