There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from setting up a few empty soda cans on a fence post and spending an afternoon honing your aim. For many of us, it’s a pastime rooted in nostalgia and a simple love for marksmanship. My own journey into air pistols began with a desire to recreate that simple joy, but with a tool that felt more substantial than the plastic toys of my youth. I was searching for an air pistol that offered the heft and feel of a real firearm, something that provided a satisfying weight in the hand and a sense of durability, but without the associated cost, noise, and regulations. The challenge was finding a model that balanced this realistic feel with straightforward operation and reliable performance for casual plinking. Too often, you find either flimsy, lightweight models or overly complex replicas that require more maintenance than shooting. The goal was to find that perfect middle ground: a robust, reliable, and fun-to-shoot air pistol that could become a go-to for backyard target practice. This is the exact niche the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol aims to fill, and after extensive testing, we’re here to report on how well it succeeds.
- COMPATCT FULL METAL, SEMI-AUTO CO2-POWERED BB AIR PISTOL
- FUELED BY ONE 12-gram CO2 CARTRIDGE - Delivers speeds up to 400 FPS (CO2 not included)
What to Consider Before Buying a CO2 Air Pistol
A CO2 air pistol is more than just a recreational item; it’s a key solution for accessible, affordable, and convenient target practice. Unlike traditional firearms, they can be used in more locations (like a properly-equipped backyard), with ammunition that costs pennies per shot, and without the loud report that can disturb neighbors. The main benefits are clear: they provide an excellent platform for learning the fundamentals of grip, sight alignment, and trigger control in a low-pressure environment. For seasoned shooters, they’re a perfect tool for keeping skills sharp when a trip to the range isn’t feasible. The simple CO2 power source makes them semi-automatic, allowing for rapid follow-up shots that are perfect for reactive targets and plinking.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the desire for frequent shooting practice but is limited by time, budget, or access to a formal shooting range. This includes parents looking to safely introduce younger enthusiasts to shooting fundamentals, firearm owners wanting a cheap and easy way to practice, or anyone simply looking for a fun and engaging hobby. On the other hand, a CO2 BB pistol might not be suitable for those seeking competition-grade precision, as pellet guns generally offer superior accuracy due to rifled barrels. It’s also not for individuals who want the hyper-realistic experience of a gas blowback model, which simulates recoil. For them, a dedicated gas blowback replica or a precision-focused pellet pistol would be a better investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider the weight and size of the air pistol. A heavier, full-metal model like the Crosman PFM16 offers a more realistic feel and can aid in developing a stable shooting stance. A lighter polymer pistol might be easier for younger or smaller-statured shooters to handle for extended periods. Ensure you have a safe, designated area for shooting with a proper backstop to trap BBs.
- Capacity/Performance: Performance is typically measured in Muzzle Velocity (FPS – Feet Per Second) and magazine capacity. A higher FPS, like the 400 FPS offered by the PFM16, provides a flatter trajectory and more power for knocking over targets. Magazine capacity is also key for enjoyment; a 20-round clip means more shooting and less time spent reloading, a crucial factor for plinking sessions.
- Materials & Durability: This is a major differentiator. Air pistols are primarily made of either polymer or metal. Polymer frames are lightweight and resistant to weather, but can sometimes feel less substantial. Full metal construction, as found in the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol, provides superior durability, a realistic weight, and a general feeling of quality that plastic simply can’t replicate.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: How easy is it to load the CO2 cartridge and the BBs? A system like the PFM16’s slide-back grip for CO2 loading is designed for speed and simplicity. Long-term care is also minimal for most CO2 BB pistols—regularly applying a drop of pellgunoil on the tip of new CO2 cartridges will keep the seals lubricated and extend the life of the pistol significantly.
Choosing the right CO2 air pistol involves matching these features to your specific needs, whether it’s for casual fun, training, or introducing a newcomer to the sport.
While the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal 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 Solid, No-Nonsense Build
Unboxing the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol is a refreshingly straightforward experience. There’s no complex assembly required; the pistol comes fully assembled in a simple package with its 20-round drop-out magazine and an instruction manual. The first thing that struck us—and it’s a significant point—is the weight. At 1.6 pounds, it has a surprising and welcome heft. The full metal frame and alloy steel barrel give it a sense of substance and durability that is immediately reassuring. It doesn’t feel like a toy; it feels like a proper piece of equipment. The two-tone silver and black finish is clean and well-applied, giving it a classic, utilitarian look.
Compared to many polymer-framed competitors in its price range, the PFM16 feels like it belongs in a different class entirely. The grip panels are plastic, but they provide a secure hold and serve a functional purpose for the CO2 loading mechanism. There are no rattles or loose parts; everything feels tightly fitted. The controls are simple: a magazine release button, a manual safety on the right side of the frame, and the trigger. This initial impression is one of rugged simplicity—a tool built to do one job (plinking) and do it reliably for a long time. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its robust design.
What We Like
- Full Metal Construction: Provides a realistic weight (1.6 lbs) and exceptional durability.
- High Capacity Magazine: The 20-round drop-out clip allows for more shooting time and less reloading.
- Impressive Velocity: Shoots up to 400 FPS, offering plenty of power for plinking and target shooting.
- Simple Operation: The slide-back grip makes loading CO2 cartridges quick and tool-free.
Drawbacks
- Fixed Sights: Lacks adjustability, which may limit long-range precision for advanced shooters.
- Non-Blowback Action: While simpler and more CO2-efficient, it lacks the realistic recoil some users prefer for training.
Performance Under Pressure: A Hands-On Analysis of the PFM16
A product can look and feel great, but its true value is revealed in its performance. We put the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol through its paces, focusing on the core elements that matter most to a backyard plinker: its build and handling, its firing mechanism and efficiency, and its real-world accuracy and power. Over several afternoons and hundreds of BBs, the PFM16 carved out its identity as a remarkably competent and satisfying shooter.
Build Quality and Ergonomics: The Full Metal Advantage
The “Full Metal” in the product name isn’t just a marketing buzzword; it’s the defining characteristic of this air pistol. From the moment you pick it up, the cool, solid feel of the metal frame inspires confidence. This isn’t the lightweight plastic common in this price bracket. The 1.6-pound weight is distributed evenly, giving the pistol excellent balance in the hand. This heft does more than just feel good; it helps stabilize your aim, mitigating the small jitters and shakes that can throw off a shot with a lighter pistol. We found this to be especially true when shooting off-hand. As one user noted, it’s “a slight bit heavy,” and we see that as a distinct advantage for steady shooting. The compact, “pocket size” design makes it comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes, and it never felt cumbersome during extended plinking sessions. The grip panels, while plastic, feature a light texturing that provides a secure hold, even on a warm day. The overall ergonomics are simple and effective, mirroring the design of many classic compact sidearms. This pistol is built to withstand the bumps and drops of regular outdoor use, a quality that makes its durability a feature that really sets it apart.
Loading and Firing: CO2 Efficiency and Trigger Feel
Crosman’s design for loading the CO2 cartridge is one of the most user-friendly systems we’ve encountered. Instead of fumbling with removable grip panels or Allen keys, you simply slide the entire grip assembly backward. This reveals the CO2 chamber and a built-in piercing screw with a convenient wing-nut handle. You drop a 12-gram CO2 cartridge in, slide the grip back into place, and tighten the screw until you hear a faint hiss as the cartridge is pierced. The whole process takes less than 20 seconds and is completely tool-free. The 20-round BB magazine is equally simple. It drops free with the push of a button, and a follower spring is pulled down and locked into a notch, allowing you to easily pour 4.5mm steel BBs into the loading port. In terms of CO2 efficiency, we were consistently getting between 80 and 100 potent shots per 12-gram cartridge before we noticed a significant drop in velocity. This is excellent for a non-blowback pistol and allows for plenty of shooting on a single powerlet. The trigger is a double-action-only design, meaning each pull cocks and releases the internal hammer. The pull is long but surprisingly smooth and consistent. We found it to be predictable, which is key for accuracy. One user described it as “light,” and while we’d classify it more as “smooth and manageable,” it’s certainly not heavy or gritty, making it easy to shoot without pulling your sights off target.
Accuracy and Power: Hitting the Mark at 10 Yards
With a rated velocity of “up to 400 FPS,” the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol has plenty of punch for its intended purpose. We tested this by shooting at a variety of common plinking targets. Aluminum soda cans were no match; BBs zipped through both sides with a satisfying ‘thwack’. It reliably punched clean holes in thick cardboard and sent plastic bottles flying. The power is most effective within 10-15 yards, which is the sweet spot for this type of pistol. The sights are a fixed blade in the front and a fixed notch in the rear. They are simple and effective for quick target acquisition. While they lack the fine-tuning adjustment of more expensive target pistols, we found our model shot true to the point of aim at 10 yards right out of the box. We were able to consistently group shots within a 2-3 inch circle, more than accurate enough to repeatedly hit a soda can. The combination of its potent velocity and practical accuracy makes for an incredibly fun and rewarding shooting experience. For anyone looking to shred some targets in the backyard, this pistol delivers performance that is hard to beat for the price. It’s a testament to a well-executed, simple design that prioritizes fun and reliability, and you can check the latest price and availability for yourself.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience with the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol is strongly echoed in feedback from the wider user community. One sentiment that appears frequently is an appreciation for its solid, compact build. As one owner highlighted, “I like the pocket size of the pistol, it is just a slight bit heavy.” This perfectly captures the balance between its manageable dimensions and its substantial, quality feel. The performance also receives high marks, with the same user noting, “Great BB velocity” and a “light” trigger pull, which contributes to its shootability.
A particularly insightful point raised by a user is its utility as a training tool. They mention, “When not loaded this is a good teaching pistol,” emphasizing its role in safely demonstrating firearm handling principles. However, this is always paired with a crucial reminder of safety: “be safe with it as it could kill someone.” This underscores the fact that despite being an air pistol, its power demands the same respect as any firearm. The user also provides a practical warning about its realistic appearance, advising to “keep it from public viewing” to avoid causing alarm, a wise piece of advice for any realistic-looking airgun.
How the Crosman PFM16 Stacks Up Against the Competition
The CO2 air pistol market is crowded, and while the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol carves out a strong identity with its metal build and simplicity, it’s important to see how it compares to other popular options. Each alternative offers a different set of features for a different type of user.
1. Daisy Powerline 415 CO2 Air Pistol
The Daisy Powerline 415 represents the entry-level, budget-friendly side of the spectrum. Its primary distinguishing feature is its lightweight polymer frame, which stands in stark contrast to the PFM16’s full metal construction. This makes the Daisy significantly lighter and potentially more approachable for younger shooters or those who prioritize weight savings over realism. It boasts a slightly higher magazine capacity at 21 rounds and a comparable velocity of up to 495 FPS (though real-world results are often closer). The trade-off is in the feel and perceived durability. Someone who wants the absolute lowest barrier to entry for backyard plinking and doesn’t mind a plastic feel might prefer the Daisy Powerline 415. However, those seeking a more substantial, durable, and realistic-feeling pistol will find the Crosman PFM16 to be a worthwhile step up.
2. Crosman CRVL357S SR357 6-Shot BB Revolver
- HEAVY-WEIGHT FULL METAL BODY - Velocities up to 450-fps
- DOUBLE OR SINGLE-ACTION
Here we have a direct competitor from Crosman, but one that offers a completely different shooting experience. The SR357 is a full-metal revolver, catering to shooters who love the classic wheel-gun aesthetic and action. Instead of a drop-out magazine, it uses individual shells that you load BBs into, which are then placed in the 6-shot cylinder. This process is more deliberate and methodical, which many revolver fans enjoy. Its main drawbacks compared to the PFM16 are its significantly lower capacity (6 shots vs. 20) and slower reloading time. The choice between these two comes down entirely to preference in action type. If you want the higher capacity and faster semi-automatic firing of a modern pistol design, the PFM16 is the clear winner. If you are drawn to the romance and manual-of-arms of a classic revolver, the SR357 is an excellent, well-built alternative.
3. Remington 1911RAC CO2 BB Pistol
- WESTERN-STYLE DESIGN - Classic Remington 1875 replica
- CO2-POWERED - Single action (CO2 not included)
The Remington 1911RAC targets the user who prioritizes realism above all else. Modeled after the iconic Colt 1911, it often features a blowback action, where the slide cycles with each shot to simulate the recoil of a real firearm. This provides immense tactile feedback and is fantastic for those using the air pistol as a training analog for its firearm counterpart. However, this realism comes at a cost. The blowback mechanism uses more CO2, resulting in fewer shots per cartridge compared to the non-blowback PFM16. The Remington is for the enthusiast who wants to replicate the full shooting experience, including recoil. The Crosman PFM16, by contrast, is for the shooter who prioritizes CO2 efficiency, simplicity, and pure plinking fun over simulated recoil.
Final Verdict: Is the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol Right for You?
After extensive hands-on testing and evaluation, our verdict on the Crosman PFM16 CO2 Full Metal Air Pistol is overwhelmingly positive. It succeeds brilliantly in its mission to be a durable, reliable, and immensely satisfying backyard plinker. Its greatest strength is its full metal construction, which provides a realistic weight and a level of robustness that is rare at this price point. This, combined with a respectable 400 FPS velocity, a generous 20-round magazine, and a brilliantly simple CO2 loading system, creates a package that is hard to fault for casual target shooting.
We recommend the PFM16 without hesitation to anyone looking for a no-frills, high-value air pistol for recreational shooting. It’s an ideal choice for beginners who want a quality tool to learn on, and for experienced shooters who want a simple “grab-and-go” option for some quick practice. While those seeking adjustable sights or the tactile feedback of blowback should look elsewhere, anyone whose priority is sending a high volume of BBs downrange with a reliable and solid-feeling pistol will be thrilled. It’s a workhorse plinker that promises years of fun. If you’re ready to upgrade your backyard shooting sessions with a pistol that feels as good as it shoots, we highly recommend you take a closer look at the Crosman PFM16 today.
Last update on 2025-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API