There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from holding a piece of history in your hands, even if it’s a modern replica. For enthusiasts like me, the search for the perfect air pistol often goes beyond simple target practice. We’re looking for an experience—the heft of real metal, the satisfying clack of mechanical parts, and the kinetic feedback of a crisp blowback action. The market is flooded with CO2 pistols, but many feel like lightweight toys, lacking the soul of the iconic firearms they’re meant to emulate. This search for authenticity, for a plinker that delivers both performance and a tangible connection to history, is what led me to the legendary “Broomhandle” design. The challenge was finding one that didn’t just look the part on a display shelf but could also unleash a bit of controlled chaos in the backyard, making every can-plinking session an event to remember.
- 18-shot, .177 caliber BB air pistol with realistic blowback action; Semi-auto and full-auto shooting modes
- Powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge (CO2 NOT included. To ensure a proper seal and for best performance, Umarex-brand CO2 is recommended.)
What to Consider Before Buying a CO2 Air Pistol
A CO2 air pistol is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for accessible, affordable, and exhilarating target practice and skills training. Unlike firearms, they can be used in a much wider range of environments, from a basement range to a backyard, without the associated noise, cost, or regulatory hurdles. They provide an excellent platform for teaching firearm safety, practicing sight alignment, and improving trigger control. The primary benefit is the immediate feedback and pure fun. The blowback action on models like the Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol simulates the recoil of a real firearm, making the experience immersive and valuable for muscle memory training. For collectors and history buffs, these replicas offer a safe and interactive way to appreciate iconic firearm designs.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values realism, enjoys backyard plinking, or is a historical firearm enthusiast. They appreciate the weight and feel of an all-metal construction and are drawn to unique features like selectable fire modes. If you’re seeking a fun, high-capacity plinker that turns heads and offers a unique shooting experience, you’re in the right place. However, this might not be suitable for those who prioritize extreme precision for competition shooting or those who want maximum CO2 efficiency for long, slow-paced target sessions. The full-auto feature, while incredibly fun, is inherently less accurate and consumes CO2 at a rapid rate. For those users, a non-blowback, single-shot pellet pistol might be a more practical alternative for honing marksmanship.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider the overall size and weight of the air pistol. The Umarex M712, at 3.8 pounds and over a foot long, is a substantial piece of hardware. This heft adds to its realism but may be cumbersome for smaller hands or those looking for a compact sidearm for training drills. Ensure you have a safe, appropriate space to handle and shoot a pistol of this size and power.
- Capacity/Performance: Performance is a balance of velocity, capacity, and gas consumption. The M712 boasts an 18-round magazine and a velocity of up to 360 fps, which is ample power for plinking cans and paper targets. However, the true performance metric here is the fire rate in full-auto mode, which will deplete both the magazine and the CO2 cartridge very quickly. Expect to get around 2-3 magazines worth of strong performance per CO2 cartridge, with a noticeable drop-off afterward.
- Materials & Durability: Look for all-metal construction for the most authentic feel and long-term durability. Die-cast metal frames, like the one on the M712, provide realistic weight and can withstand the stress of blowback action. Be aware of potential weak points, as even robust models can have small parts like set screws or internal catches that may require attention or maintenance over time. Plastic components, such as grips, can sometimes detract from the overall premium feel.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the loading process for both BBs and CO2. Drop-free magazines are convenient, but the loading mechanism itself can be tedious. Regular maintenance, such as applying a drop of pellgun oil on the tip of each CO2 cartridge, is crucial for preserving seals and ensuring the long-term health of the air pistol. Also, check for features like adjustable sights, which can significantly enhance the shooting experience.
While the Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- 15-Shot, .177 Caliber Bb Air Pistol
- 177 cal. BB Pistol with a smooth bore steel barrel
- Semi-automatic; .50 Caliber; 385 fps; 7.32" long
First Impressions: A Heavyweight Contender with Historical Charm
Unboxing the Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol is an experience in itself. The first thing that struck me, and a sentiment echoed by many users, is the sheer weight. At 3.8 pounds, this is no toy. The all-metal construction feels incredibly solid and substantial in the hand, immediately conveying a sense of quality and realism that many other replicas lack. It has the distinct, blocky feel of the original firearm, and Umarex did a fantastic job replicating the key external controls. The selector switch for semi-auto (‘N’) and full-auto (‘R’) clicks into place with satisfying authority, and the safety lever operates just as you’d expect. The magazine, which houses both the BBs and the 12-gram CO2 cartridge, drops free with a press of the release button. The only initial letdown, as a few others have noted, are the plastic grip panels. On a pistol this robust and metallic, they feel slightly out of place, but this is a minor critique on an otherwise impressive first impression.
Advantages
- Incredibly realistic all-metal construction and substantial weight
- Exhilarating full-automatic firing mode for maximum fun
- Strong and crisp blowback action enhances realism
- Excellent attention to historical detail for collectors and enthusiasts
Drawbacks
- Extremely high CO2 consumption, especially in full-auto mode
- Known potential weak points, like the barrel set screw, may require maintenance
Deep Dive: Performance Under Fire
An air pistol can look the part, but the real test is how it performs when the BBs start flying. The Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol is a fascinating blend of historical homage and pure, unadulterated plinking fun. It’s a product that doesn’t just sit on a shelf; it demands to be taken out and used. We spent considerable time with it, running through dozens of CO2 cartridges and thousands of BBs to understand its every strength and quirk. Our in-depth analysis focuses on the three pillars of its identity: its build and authenticity, the thrilling full-auto experience, and the practicalities of its day-to-day operation.
Authenticity and Build Quality: A Hands-On Perspective
From the moment you pick it up, the M712’s mission is clear: to replicate the feel of the original. The die-cast metal frame and barrel give it a commanding presence. There’s no creaking or flexing; it feels like a single, solid piece of machinery. The finish is a flat black, which some users have noted looks a bit plain. One creative user even mentioned using fine-grit sandpaper to give it a weathered, “battle-worn” look, which is a testament to the gun’s appeal as a canvas for personalization. The controls are where the authenticity truly shines. The safety lever has a positive click, and the fire selector, marked with the historical “N” for normal (semi-auto) and “R” for “Reihenfeuer” (series fire/full-auto), feels robust and purposeful.
However, this commitment to realism isn’t without its compromises. A recurring point of concern we confirmed through our own testing, and in numerous user reports, is the small set screw located underneath the barrel that holds the barrel shroud in place. Under the jarring vibration of the blowback action, especially in full-auto, this screw has a tendency to loosen over time. We made it a habit to check and tighten it before each shooting session. Some users have reported the screw eventually stripping its threads or wearing through the metal. A dab of non-permanent thread locker could be a wise preventative measure for anyone planning on frequent use. It’s a small but significant detail that prospective owners should be aware of. Despite this, the overall construction inspires confidence and is a major reason why this pistol is a top choice for collectors and enthusiasts.
The Full-Auto Experience: Unleashing the Fun (and the BBs)
Let’s be honest: the primary reason anyone is drawn to the Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol is that little ‘R’ on the fire selector. And I can confirm, it does not disappoint. Flipping that switch transforms the M712 from a stately historical piece into a giggling machine. The rate of fire is blistering, emptying the entire 18-round magazine in just under two seconds. The blowback action is sharp and strong, causing the bolt to cycle violently and providing a satisfying kick in the wrist with each shot. The sound is a loud, percussive roar that’s immensely satisfying.
This exhilarating fun comes at a cost, a fact confirmed by nearly every user. This pistol is thirsty. It guzzles CO2 and BBs with abandon. In full-auto mode, you can expect to get through two, maybe three, magazines before the CO2 pressure drops and the action becomes sluggish. Semi-auto operation is more efficient, stretching a single cartridge to about four or five magazines. Accuracy is also a tale of two modes. In semi-auto, firing slowly and deliberately, we were able to achieve respectable plinking accuracy, hitting soda cans consistently from 25 feet. The elevation-adjustable rear sight is a nice touch that helps dial it in. But once you switch to full-auto, precision goes out the window. It becomes about the joy of “walking” your stream of BBs onto a target, not hitting a bullseye. It’s pure, unadulterated fun, and for that purpose, its performance is flawless.
Operation and Ergonomics: Loading, Sighting, and Firing
Getting the M712 ready for action is a straightforward process, though it has its quirks. The full-size, drop-free magazine is a significant component, housing the 12-gram CO2 cartridge and the 18 BBs. To load the CO2, you use the included Allen key to back out the piercing screw, drop in the cartridge, and tighten it until you hear a faint hiss, then give it a final quarter-turn. One minor annoyance, as a user pointed out, is that there’s no onboard storage for the Allen key, making it easy to misplace. Loading the BBs can be a bit fiddly. You pull down a spring-loaded follower and drop BBs one by one into a small port. A BB speedloader makes this process much faster, and one clever user discovered that a hollowed-out Bic pen works surprisingly well as a makeshift tool.
In hand, the pistol’s ergonomics are a product of its time. The “broomhandle” grip is thin and sharply angled, which can feel unusual to those accustomed to modern pistol grips, but it’s an authentic part of the experience. The sights are basic—a fixed front blade and a notch rear that’s adjustable for elevation via a slider, just like the original. They are functional for plinking but not designed for surgical precision. A significant operational detail we noted, and one that a discerning user highlighted, is the lack of a last-round bolt hold-open. When the magazine is empty, the pistol will continue to fire “blanks,” cycling the action and expending CO2 until you realize you’re out of ammo. This requires you to count your shots, especially during a full-auto burst, to avoid wasting gas.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing feedback from other owners provides a well-rounded picture of the Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with users consistently praising its realism. One user remarked, “When I got it I was surprised at how heavy it is. It is constructed of all die-cast metal… It’s got that big, blocky, bold feel of the original.” Another stated it’s “easily one of the best purchases i’ve made in terms of BB guns.” The full-auto feature is universally lauded as its most fun and exciting aspect, perfect for what one buyer called “a fun option – especially for a 14 year old!”
On the critical side, the feedback is just as consistent and aligns with our findings. The barrel set screw is the most common complaint, with one user noting it’s “a weak point, relying on only a tiny set screw” that needs constant tightening. CO2 consumption is the second major drawback, with one person bluntly stating “the CO2 does not last that long.” Finally, occasional quality control issues pop up, ranging from magazines that leak upon arrival to, in one serious case, a hammer catch that failed after only two weeks of frequent use. These reviews paint a clear picture: it’s a fantastically fun and realistic replica, but one that may require a bit of mechanical sympathy and maintenance from its owner.
How Does the Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol Compare to the Alternatives?
The M712 occupies a unique niche, but it’s important to see how it stacks up against other popular blowback air pistols. Each alternative offers a different experience, catering to different tastes in design, function, and historical era.
1. Sig Sauer 1911 We The People CO2 Air Pistol
- DURABLE CO2 BB AIR PISTOL - A full-size centerfire pistol inspired by a rich, patriotic history, the BB pistol version of this uniquely American handgun features custom grips adorned with 50 stars (25...
- VERSATILE AIR GUN - With features including a stainless-steel slide and frame, 4.5mm Steel BB caliber, and fixed sights, this CO2 BB-gun allows you to train accurately; it features a grip safety, a...
The Sig Sauer 1911 “We The People” edition is a tribute to a different, but equally iconic, piece of firearms history. Where the M712’s appeal is its early 20th-century German engineering and full-auto capability, the Sig is all about classic American design and hyper-realism. It features a stunning distressed finish, patriotic engravings, and a functional takedown lever for field stripping, just like the real firearm. It is semi-automatic only, focusing on delivering a realistic 1911 shooting experience. A user who prioritizes the manual of arms, takedown procedures, and the feel of a classic American sidearm over the sheer fun of full-auto spray would likely prefer this Sig Sauer model.
2. Umarex Beretta PX4 Storm BB Gun Pistol
- No need for separate pellet pistols and BB gun pistols, this air pistol is both! It can shoot both.177 caliber BBs and Pellets at up to 380 fps.
- Unlike other BB guns with standard spring action, this CO2 pistol features realistic blowback action and controls for realistic training; Great for practicing holster work and the basics of accuracy.
Shifting to a modern design, the Beretta PX4 Storm offers versatility that the M712 lacks. Its most innovative feature is the dual-ended 16-round magazine that holds 8 pellets or BBs on each end. This allows the shooter to choose their ammunition, with pellets generally offering better accuracy. The PX4 Storm has a polymer frame with a metal slide, representative of modern combat handguns. While it features a crisp blowback action, it can’t compete with the M712’s historical significance or its full-auto mode. This pistol is the ideal choice for someone who wants a modern-looking plinker with the flexibility to shoot both BBs and pellets, and who values practicality over historical replication.
3. Umarex Colt Commander BB Air Pistol
- Look and feel of the original with the functional reliability of a solid BB gun; Realistic blowback action
- Shoots .177 caliber steel BBs at up to 300 fps
The Umarex Colt Commander is another take on the legendary 1911 platform, offering a more straightforward and budget-friendly experience compared to the Sig Sauer. It provides the essential features: all-metal construction, satisfying blowback action, and the classic 1911 ergonomics. It’s a workhorse pistol for those who love the 1911 design and want a reliable and realistic training tool or plinker without the premium finish of the “We The People” model. Compared to the M712, it’s a much more conventional choice. A shooter looking for a no-frills, reliable replica of one of the most popular pistols ever made would be better served by the Colt Commander.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Umarex Legends M712 Worth It?
After extensive testing, our conclusion is clear: the Umarex Legends M712 Blowback BB Air Pistol is an absolute triumph for a specific type of user. It is not a precision target pistol, nor is it a CO2-sipping plinker for all-day sessions. It is a spectacular recreational shooting machine that prioritizes fun and historical authenticity above all else. Its substantial weight, all-metal build, and authoritative blowback action create an incredibly immersive experience. The full-auto mode, while impractical for anything but shredding cans and putting a massive smile on your face, is executed brilliantly and is the undeniable star of the show.
We recommend this air pistol wholeheartedly to historical firearm enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone looking to inject a serious dose of excitement into their backyard plinking. You must be willing to accept its quirks—namely the high gas consumption and the need to keep an eye on that little barrel screw. If you can embrace those traits as part of its character, you will be rewarded with one of the most unique and enjoyable CO2 pistols on the market. For those ready to experience a piece of history with a full-auto kick, you can check the latest price and secure yours today.
Last update on 2025-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API