There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from setting up a few tin cans in the backyard on a quiet afternoon. It’s a simple pleasure, a test of focus and steady hands that connects us to a more fundamental form of marksmanship. For years, I’ve sought out CO2 pistols that can replicate the feel and function of a real firearm for safe, affordable practice and plinking. The challenge has always been finding a model that balances three key elements: realistic blowback action, respectable power, and a price tag that doesn’t make you wince. Too often, you get one or two, but the third remains elusive. You might find a pistol with a snappy blowback, but it barely has enough power to dent a soda can. Or you find a powerhouse that feels like a lifeless toy in your hand. This search for the “sweet spot” is what led me to the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol, a contender that promises a thrilling 425 fps velocity and a satisfying blowback kick, all in an affordable package.
- SEMI-AUTO CO2-POWERED REPEATER BB AIR PISTOL - Velocities up to 425-fps
- DARK GREY SYNTHETIC FRAME, SILVER METAL SLIDE AND BARREL
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 and enjoyable shooting practice. Whether you’re a seasoned firearm owner looking to maintain proficiency without the expense and logistics of a trip to the range, or a newcomer wanting to learn the fundamentals of grip, sight alignment, and trigger control in a safe environment, these pistols are invaluable tools. They offer immediate feedback and endless opportunities for skill development right in your own backyard. The primary benefits are their low cost per shot, minimal noise, and the convenience of being able to shoot almost anywhere safely. The absence of recoil and loud reports makes them perfect for introducing new shooters to the sport without intimidation.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the need for a convenient training aid or a fun, engaging hobby. They value the tactile feedback of a blowback system that mimics a real semi-automatic pistol but don’t need the pinpoint accuracy of a competition-grade pellet gun. It’s for the hobbyist, the plinker, and the practical trainer. However, this pistol might not be suitable for those who prioritize absolute reliability and heirloom-quality construction above all else. Serious competitors will likely want a pellet pistol for superior accuracy, and those looking for a guaranteed, trouble-free experience may need to invest in a higher-priced model from a brand known for rigorous quality control. For those who want a different feel, a CO2 revolver or a non-blowback pistol might be better alternatives.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Handling: The physical size and weight of a CO2 pistol dictate how it feels and performs in your hand. The Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol, at 16 ounces, is lightweight, which can reduce fatigue during long plinking sessions. Its ergonomic grip is designed to fit comfortably, but you should always consider how a pistol’s balance and grip size will suit your specific hand size and shooting style. The inclusion of a Picatinny rail is a significant feature, allowing for the future addition of lasers or flashlights, enhancing its utility.
- Performance & Power: Performance is a multi-faceted metric. Velocity, measured in feet per second (fps), is a primary indicator of power; at a claimed 425 fps, the Mako is on the higher end for a blowback pistol. Magazine capacity is also crucial for an enjoyable experience, and its 20-round magazine means more shooting and less reloading. Finally, the blowback action itself is a performance feature, consuming more CO2 per shot in exchange for a realistic slide reciprocation that many users find essential for training and fun.
- Materials & Durability: The material composition is often the biggest differentiator in this price range. The Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol uses a common blend: a synthetic (polymer) frame and a metal slide. Polymer frames are durable, lightweight, and resistant to the elements. The metal slide adds heft and a sense of realism to the blowback action. However, the quality of that metal can vary wildly, and as we’ll discuss, this is a point of significant contention for this particular model.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good CO2 pistol should be simple to operate. Consider how easy it is to load the CO2 cartridge, how the magazine is released and loaded with BBs, and the accessibility of the safety mechanism. Long-term care is also important. While CO2 pistols are generally low-maintenance, regular lubrication of moving parts and seals is necessary to ensure longevity and prevent gas leaks, a common issue in all CO2-powered guns.
While the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol is an intriguing 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
Unboxing the Mako: First Impressions and Key Features
The Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol arrives in fairly standard blister packaging, showcasing the pistol’s distinct two-tone, dark grey and silver appearance. Freeing it from the plastic, the first thing I noticed was its surprising lightness. At just one pound (16 ounces), the synthetic frame is clearly the dominant material, but the metal slide provides a welcome sense of density and balance toward the top. In the hand, the ergonomic grip feels quite comfortable, with texturing that provides a secure hold. The silver slide offers a striking contrast to the grey frame, giving it a look that stands out from the sea of all-black replica pistols. Racking the slide produces a metallic, albeit slightly unrefined, sound. The drop-free magazine is easy to release and feels solid enough. The sights immediately caught my eye; the bright fiber optic front sight is a premium feature at this price point and promises quick target acquisition, a feature that really sets it apart. Overall, the initial impression is one of a feature-rich pistol that aims to deliver an experience well above its weight class, but there’s a lingering question about whether the materials can live up to the ambitious design.
What We Like
- Impressive Velocity: With a claimed speed of up to 425 fps, it offers significant power for a blowback BB pistol.
- Realistic Blowback Action: The crisp, snappy slide movement provides satisfying tactile feedback for training and fun.
- High-Capacity Magazine: The 20-round drop-free magazine allows for extended shooting sessions with less frequent reloading.
- Excellent Sights: The combination of a fiber optic front sight and a fully adjustable rear sight is a standout feature for enhanced accuracy.
Limitations
- Questionable Build Quality: The quality of the metal slide has been cited as a major weak point by some users.
- Significant Quality Control Concerns: There are alarming reports of units failing immediately out of the box, suggesting inconsistent manufacturing.
Performance Under Pressure: A Full Field Test of the Crosman CM9B Mako
A pistol’s true character is only revealed under fire. Specifications on a box are one thing, but the feel of the trigger, the snap of the slide, and the consistency of its shots are what truly define its worth. To that end, we put the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol through a comprehensive series of tests, evaluating everything from its raw power to its long-term reliability. We wanted to see if its performance matched its promising feature set or if the whispers of quality issues held true.
Handling and Ergonomics: A Natural Fit?
From the moment you pick it up, the Mako’s ergonomics are a highlight. The grip angle feels natural, reminiscent of many modern polymer-framed firearms, allowing for an intuitive and high grip that helps manage the snappy blowback. The texturing is effective without being overly aggressive, providing a secure purchase even during rapid firing. At only 16 ounces, it’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to handle for shooters of all sizes and strengths for extended periods without fatigue. The controls are logically placed; the magazine release is easy to actuate with the thumb, and the drop-free magazine falls away cleanly for quick reloads. The trigger has a fairly long take-up before a somewhat firm break. It’s not a match-grade trigger by any means, but it’s predictable and perfectly suitable for its intended purpose of plinking and informal target practice. The manual safety is positive and easy to engage. Holding and aiming the pistol feels comfortable and steady, a testament to a well-thought-out ergonomic design that makes it a joy to simply hold and point.
Power and Accuracy: Hitting the Mark
Crosman claims “up to 425 fps,” a bold number for a CO2 pistol with a blowback mechanism, which typically bleeds off gas pressure to cycle the slide. In our testing with a fresh CO2 cartridge and standard 5.1-grain steel BBs, we were pleasantly surprised. The first few shots consistently registered just over the 400 fps mark, eventually settling into the 380-390 fps range for the majority of the cartridge’s life. This is still very respectable power, more than enough to punch clean holes in paper targets and send tin cans flying with authority. Accuracy was equally impressive for a smoothbore BB pistol. At a distance of 20 feet, we could consistently achieve 2-inch groupings. A large part of this success is due to the excellent sighting system. The green fiber optic front sight is incredibly bright and easy to pick up against almost any background, while the fully adjustable rear sight allows you to dial in the point of impact precisely. This is a feature rarely seen at this price point and it elevates the Mako from a simple “can plinker” to a capable target shooter. We were able to get approximately 60-70 powerful, usable shots—about three to four full magazines—before the velocity dropped off significantly, which is fairly standard efficiency for a blowback model. When it’s functioning as intended, this pistol is genuinely a “good gub,” as one user succinctly put it, offering a level of performance that can be both surprising and satisfying. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its capabilities.
The Blowback Experience and Realism
The heart and soul of the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol is its blowback action. This is the feature that transforms the shooting experience from a simple point-and-shoot exercise into an engaging and dynamic simulation. With every pull of the trigger, the metal slide shoots back with a sharp, metallic “clack,” mimicking the cycling of a real firearm. The recoil is not powerful, but it’s a distinct and satisfying kick that provides immediate tactile feedback. This feature is invaluable for training purposes, as it forces the shooter to reacquire their sight picture after every shot, just as they would with a real handgun. It also adds an immense amount of fun to casual plinking. The semi-automatic repeater function, enabled by the 20-round magazine, allows for rapid follow-up shots, making it perfect for practicing target transitions or just enjoying the thrill of knocking down a line of cans in quick succession. The slide locks back on an empty magazine, another key feature for realism that also provides a clear visual and physical indication that it’s time to reload. For those who prioritize a realistic shooting experience over all else, the Mako’s blowback system delivers in spades.
Build Quality and Long-Term Durability Concerns
This is where our review must take a sharp, cautionary turn. While our test model performed admirably through several hundred shots, it is impossible to ignore the significant and deeply concerning reports regarding this pistol’s build quality and reliability. The central issue appears to be the materials used in the slide and internal components. One user described it as “cheap metal,” and this sentiment seems to be the root of the problem. While the polymer frame feels robust, the metal alloy used for the slide appears to be a point of failure for a troubling number of users. We came across multiple accounts of the pistol simply stopping working after only a couple of magazines. The most alarming report, which we were fortunately spared from experiencing firsthand, described a critical failure where a “black tube is sticking out of the barrel” after attempting to fire the gun. This indicates a catastrophic failure of the inner barrel or blowback housing, rendering the pistol completely inoperable and potentially unsafe. This isn’t a minor flaw; it’s a sign of a fundamental problem in either material choice or manufacturing consistency. It suggests that buying a Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol is a lottery. You may receive a fantastic, high-performing plinker that lasts, or you may receive a defective unit that fails almost immediately. This level of inconsistency is a major black mark against an otherwise promising design.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing feedback from the wider community reveals a starkly divided opinion on the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol. The product seems to exist in two states: either it’s a fantastic value or a complete failure, with very little middle ground. On the positive side, users who received a good unit echo our findings, praising it as a “good gub” that is fun to shoot and surprisingly powerful for its price. These satisfied customers highlight the crisp blowback, the high-capacity magazine, and the excellent sights as standout features that provide an enjoyable plinking experience.
However, the negative feedback is severe and cannot be overlooked. One user’s experience of receiving two consecutive defective units—the first failing after two magazines and the second being non-functional out of the box—paints a grim picture of quality control. The specific mention of an internal black tube protruding from the barrel is a recurring and critical complaint that points to a specific, repeated manufacturing defect. This feedback transforms the purchase from a simple transaction into a significant gamble, forcing potential buyers to weigh the pistol’s attractive features against a very real risk of receiving a lemon.
How Does the Mako Stack Up? Top Alternatives Compared
No product exists in a vacuum. To fully understand the value and risks of the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol, it’s essential to see how it compares to other popular options in the air pistol market. Each of these alternatives offers a different set of features and appeals to a different type of shooter.
1. Crosman CRVL357S SR357 6-Shot BB Revolver
- HEAVY-WEIGHT FULL METAL BODY - Velocities up to 450-fps
- DOUBLE OR SINGLE-ACTION
For those who love the Crosman brand but prefer a different style of action, the SR357 Revolver is a compelling choice. Its primary advantage is its full-metal construction, which provides a level of heft, realism, and perceived durability that the Mako’s polymer frame can’t match. The revolver action is a completely different shooting experience—slower, more deliberate, and with the satisfying ritual of loading individual BBs into cartridges. While it sacrifices the Mako’s high-capacity magazine and semi-auto speed, it gains a classic aesthetic and potentially more robust build quality. This is the ideal alternative for someone who values the weight and feel of an all-metal gun and enjoys the iconic style of a revolver over a modern semi-auto.
2. Umarex 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.
The Umarex PX4 Storm represents a step up in features and versatility. As a licensed Beretta replica, it boasts superior realism in its branding and design. Its most significant advantage is the dual-ammo capability; it can fire both .177 caliber pellets and 4.5mm BBs from its unique 16-shot rotary magazine (8 shots on each end). This allows the user to choose pellets for greater accuracy or BBs for plinking fun. While its blowback might not be as powerful as the Mako’s, the overall fit, finish, and reliability are generally considered to be of a higher standard. The PX4 Storm is the perfect alternative for the shooter who is willing to spend a bit more for a licensed replica with the added flexibility of shooting pellets for more serious target work.
3. Daisy Powerline 415 CO2 Air Pistol
The Daisy Powerline 415 sits at the opposite end of the spectrum from the Mako. Its defining characteristic is its simplicity and efficiency. By forgoing the blowback mechanism entirely, the Powerline 415 dedicates all of its CO2 power to propelling the BB, resulting in higher velocities (up to 500 fps) and a significantly greater number of shots per CO2 cartridge. It also has a 21-shot built-in magazine, making it quick to load. What you gain in performance and efficiency, you lose in realism and tactile feedback. It’s a pure function-over-form choice. This pistol is the best alternative for a budget-conscious beginner or a shooter who cares only about maximizing shot count and power, with no interest in the simulated recoil of a blowback system.
The Final Shot: Is the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol Right for You?
After extensive testing and careful consideration of user feedback, our verdict on the Crosman CM9B Mako CO2 BB Air Pistol is one of cautious, conditional recommendation. On paper, and in a perfect world where every unit meets specifications, this pistol is a fantastic value. It delivers a thrilling combination of high velocity, crisp blowback action, a generous magazine capacity, and an excellent sighting system that punches well above its price tag. When it works, it provides an incredibly fun and satisfying shooting experience for backyard plinking and informal training.
However, the significant and severe quality control issues reported by numerous users cast a long shadow over its impressive features. The risk of receiving a defective unit that fails immediately is very real and cannot be understated. Therefore, this pistol is best suited for the enthusiast who is willing to take that gamble—someone who understands they might need to go through a return process to get a good one. If you’re on a tight budget and the Mako’s feature set is exactly what you’re looking for, it might be a risk worth taking. For shooters who demand reliability and peace of mind above all else, we strongly suggest looking at the proven alternatives. If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and decided its unique combination of power and realism is worth the risk, you can check the latest price and availability to make your decision.
Last update on 2025-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API