What is an air pistol?
Air pistols are handguns in which compressed air propels a projectile (pellet) through the barrel. They're used for precision shooting at short range, for training, and for recreational shooting on your own property. Unlike an air rifle, an air pistol is typically fired one-handed with a fast sight picture. Important: always observe the applicable legal regulations in Germany – more on that below.
What types of air pistols are there?
- Spring-piston pistols: A compressed spring drives a piston when released, compressing the air. No filling required, but with noticeable recoil and usually single-shot. All models in the Springer/Gas Ram category.
- PCP (pre-charged pneumatic) pistols: A pre-compressed air cartridge supplies the energy – recoilless, very accurate, often magazine-fed and in some cases even semi-automatic. All models in the PCP category.
Buying an air pistol – what to look out for
- Calibre: Air pistols cover a wider range than air rifles – from 4.5 mm (.177) through 5.5 mm (.22) and 6.35 mm (.25) up to 7.62 mm (.30). A larger calibre usually means more energy per shot, but fewer shots per magazine or fill.
- Purpose: Precision shooting at the range, fast-paced plinking, or a compact model for on the go – this determines which system suits you best.
- Accessories: Matching pellets in the right calibre are essential, and a pistol scope is worth it for extra precision at distance. For a quieter shot it's worth a look at our silencers (check thread compatibility).
Is an air pistol legal to own without a licence in Germany?
Yes – air pistols with F-marking and a muzzle energy of up to 7.5 joules are freely available in Germany from age 18, without a firearms licence or registration. For the full background on the current legal situation, see our article on the 2025 firearms law amendment (note: this article is currently only available in German).
Where am I allowed to shoot an air pistol?
Shooting is permitted at designated shooting ranges, in clubs, and on your own or enclosed private property – provided the pellets cannot leave the property. Air pistols may not be used for hunting in Germany.
Popular air pistol brands at jabolo
Our range includes the semi-automatic EVANIX Viper, the compact semi-auto pistols from Huben (GK1, GK1 Mini Pro), and the classic HW40, HW44 and HW45 from Weihrauch.
Frequently asked questions about air pistols
Do I need a firearms licence for an air pistol?
No. Air pistols with F-marking and a maximum of 7.5 joules of muzzle energy can be bought and owned in Germany from age 18, without a firearms licence or official registration.
From what age can I buy an air pistol?
From age 18. We verify that you're of legal age using your ID when you buy from our shop.
What does the "F in a pentagon" mark mean?
The F-mark shows that the weapon's design has been officially tested and approved as licence-free. More details in our article on the firearms law amendment (German only).
Which calibre should I choose for an air pistol?
4.5 mm (.177) is the common standard with the widest pellet selection and suits beginners and precision shooting well. From 5.5 mm (.22) upward – up to 6.35 mm or 7.62 mm on models like the Huben GK1 Mini Pro or the EVANIX Viper – energy per shot increases, usually with somewhat lower magazine capacity.
What's the difference between spring-piston and PCP air pistols?
Spring-piston pistols like the Weihrauch HW45 cock themselves via a spring – no filling needed, but with noticeable recoil and usually one shot per cocking stroke. PCP pistols like the Huben GK1 or the EVANIX Viper use a pre-compressed air cartridge, are recoilless, very accurate, and often magazine-fed for multiple shots in a row.
Am I allowed to hunt with an air pistol?
No, air pistols may not be used for hunting in Germany. They are approved exclusively for sport shooting and shooting on your own or enclosed property.