Category Guide · 2026
CO2 Pistol in India (No Licence)
Semi-automatic action, realistic feel, ~₹3 per shot running cost — everything you need to know before buying a CO₂ pistol in India.
See the Star RX Gen 3 — ₹25,500 →Direct Answer
A CO₂ pistol runs on replaceable 12-gram CO₂ cartridges, giving you semi-automatic firing with zero cocking effort — the most realistic legal shooting experience in India. CO₂ pistols under 20 joules need no licence. India's flagship is the Camstar Star RX Gen 3 at ₹25,500 — the country's first semi-auto CO₂ pellet pistol, with ~40 shots per cartridge and a running cost of about ₹3 per shot.
How a CO2 Pistol Works
A 12-gram CO₂ cartridge seats inside the grip. Tightening the piercing screw punctures the seal, releasing gas into a regulated valve. Each trigger pull releases a metered burst behind the pellet — no cocking, no pumping, no spring twang. Fire as fast as you can aim. When velocity drops (after ~40 shots), swap the cartridge in 20 seconds and keep going.
Running cost — the honest math
- CO₂ cartridge: ₹125 (5-pack ₹625) ÷ 40 shots ≈ ₹3.1 per shot in gas
- Pellets: ~₹1.2 each in bulk boxes
- Total: roughly ₹4.3 per trigger pull — a 100-shot session costs about ₹430
CO2 vs Spring vs PCP — Where CO2 Fits
| CO₂ pistol | Spring pistol | PCP rifle | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Semi-automatic | Single-shot, re-cock | Multi-shot magazine |
| Effort per shot | None | 4–5 kg cocking | Side-lever |
| Running cost | ~₹4.3/shot | ~₹1.2/shot (pellets only) | ~₹1.5/shot after pump |
| Upfront price | ₹25,500 (RX Gen 3) | ₹6,900–₹7,999 | ₹28,999–₹31,000 |
| Best for | Realistic training, fun | Budget learning | Precision at distance |
Deep dives: Star RX Gen 3 full review · CO₂ pistol maintenance guide · PCP air rifles
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CO2 pistol?
A CO2 pistol uses a replaceable 12-gram CO₂ cartridge as its power source instead of a spring or pump. Piercing the cartridge releases compressed gas that propels each pellet — enabling semi-automatic action, consistent velocity, and a realistic shooting feel that spring pistols can't match.
Is a CO2 pistol legal in India?
Yes. CO2 pistols under 20 joules of muzzle energy are legal to own in India without any licence, registration, or police permission under the Arms Rules 2016. The Camstar Star RX Gen 3 operates well within this limit. Buyers must be 18+.
What is the best CO2 pistol in India?
The Camstar Star RX Gen 3 (₹25,500) — India's first and only semi-automatic CO₂ pellet pistol. 8-round rotary magazines, up to 400 FPS, full-metal construction, and in-country service. Imported alternatives cost ₹35,000–₹55,000 after customs with no local warranty.
How many shots does one CO2 cartridge give?
Approximately 40 usable shots per 12g cartridge on the Star RX Gen 3, depending on temperature and firing pace. When velocity drops noticeably, swap in a fresh cartridge — they cost roughly ₹125 each in the 5-pack (₹625).
CO2 pistol vs spring pistol — which is better?
CO2 wins on realism, rate of fire, and shot-to-shot consistency; spring wins on cost and zero running expense. For casual plinking on a budget, spring (Star Leo, Mauser X). For serious practice, training drills, and fun factor, CO2 (Star RX Gen 3) is the clear step up.
Where can I buy CO2 cartridges and pellets in India?
Directly from camstarsports.com — 12g CO₂ cylinder 5-packs (₹625) and Star Match Diabolo .177 pellets ship pan-India. Both are always in stock and dispatch with or without a pistol order.
India's #1 CO2 pistol is waiting.
Star RX Gen 3 · ₹25,500 · No licence · Free pan-India delivery
Buy the RX Gen 3 →Compare all pistols