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A CO2 cartridge’s shot count depends on multiple factors, including cartridge size, airgun type, and shooting conditions. On average, a 12g CO2 cartridge can fire 30–80 shots, while larger cartridges like 16g, 33g, 45g, and 88g can significantly extend the shot count. However, rapid firing, cold weather, and blowback mechanisms can reduce efficiency.
For BB gun enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and retailers, understanding CO2 efficiency is key to choosing the right cartridge size and optimizing performance. In this guide, we’ll explore how many shots different CO2 cartridges provide, what factors affect efficiency, and how to get the most out of every cartridge.
How Many Pellets Can I Fire on One CO2 Cartridge?
This question doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. The number of shots per CO2 cartridge varies based on several critical factors:
1. CO2 Cartridge Size: Bigger is (Usually) Better
The size of the CO2 cartridge determines how much gas is available for shooting. Here’s a breakdown of different CO2 cartridge sizes and their estimated shot count:
| CO2 Cartridge Size | Estimated Shots (Non-Blowback Pistol) | Estimated Shots (Blowback Pistol) | Estimated Shots (Rifle) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12g CO2 | 50–80 shots | 30–50 shots | 40–100 shots |
| 16g CO2 | 50–100 shots | 40–70 shots | 60–120 shots |
| 33g CO2 | 120–150 shots | 100–140 shots | 150–200+ shots |
| 45g CO2 | 160–200 shots | 140–180 shots | 200–250+ shots |
| 88g CO2 | 150–200 shots | 120–180 shots | 200–300+ shots |
🔹 Example: A Alizeemetal 12g CO2-powered pistol typically achieves 50–60 shots, while a high-powered blowback airgun might only get 30–40 shots. If you use a 45g CO2 cartridge in a rifle, you can expect 200–250+ shots.
2. Gun Type & Power Consumption
The airgun you use plays a major role in CO2 efficiency:
- Non-blowback air pistols → Consume the least CO2, maximizing shots.
- Blowback air pistols → Use extra gas to simulate recoil, reducing shot count.
- High-powered rifles → Fire at higher FPS, consuming CO2 faster.
🔹 Case Study: The Umarex Beretta M92 FS (a non-blowback CO2 pistol) can fire up to 80 shots per 12g CO2 cartridge, while the SIG Sauer P226 X-Five (a blowback pistol) only manages 40–50 shots per cartridge.
3. Shooting Style: Rapid Fire vs. Controlled Shots
- Slow, controlled shooting → More shots per cartridge because the CO2 has time to stabilize between shots.
- Rapid fire or full-auto mode → Less efficiency as more gas is used to cycle the gun quickly.
🔹 Example: In full-auto airguns, a 12g CO2 cartridge may only last for 20–30 shots due to the high gas consumption per shot.
4. Environmental Factors: The Impact of Temperature
CO2 expands when warm and contracts when cold. Temperature directly affects CO2 efficiency:
- Warm conditions (25°C / 77°F+) → Higher pressure, more consistent shots.
- Cold conditions (10°C / 50°F or lower) → CO2 pressure drops, reducing shot count and power.
🔹 Pro Tip: To prevent CO2 cartridges from cooling down too fast, wait 5–10 seconds between shots in cold weather.
How to Get the Most Shots Out of Your CO2 Cartridge
To maximize CO2 efficiency, follow these best practices:
✅ Store CO2 cartridges at room temperature – Avoid exposing them to extreme cold.
✅ Fire in a controlled manner – Avoid unnecessary rapid firing.
✅ Choose a non-blowback pistol if you prioritize shot count.
✅ Check for leaks regularly – Worn-out seals can waste CO2.
✅ Use high-quality CO2 cartridges like Alizeemetal to ensure consistent pressure and longevity.
Even with proper care, some common CO2 airgun concerns still arise—like whether you can leave a CO2 cartridge in the gun or how to tell when a CO2 cartridge is empty. Let’s dive into these questions next.
Can You Leave a Full CO2 Cartridge in the Gun?
Many airgun owners forget or choose to leave a CO2 cartridge inside their gun between uses. But is it safe?
The answer depends on how long you plan to store the gun:
✅ Short-term (a few days): Generally safe if stored in a cool, dry place.
❌ Long-term (weeks/months): CO2 will slowly leak, and the pressure could damage seals or internal components.
🔹 Best Practice: If you won’t be using the gun for more than a day or two, remove the CO2 cartridge to extend your gun’s lifespan.
How Long Do CO2 Cartridges Last After Opening?
Once a CO2 cartridge is pierced, it begins losing pressure, even if you don’t fire the gun.
- Typical lifespan after piercing:
- 24–48 hours for best performance.
- Up to a week if stored in a well-sealed gun.
- Unopened CO2 cartridges last years when stored in a cool, dry place.
How to Tell If a CO2 Cartridge Is Empty?
Not sure if your CO2 cartridge is running out? Here are a few telltale signs:
✅ Weaker shots – Pellets/BBS lose speed and impact.
✅ Quieter firing sound – Noticeable drop in noise level.
✅ CO2 leaks – A faint hissing sound may indicate slow gas loss.
✅ Lighter weight – An empty cartridge feels much lighter.
If you experience any of these, replace your CO2 cartridge for optimal performance.
Final Thoughts
CO2-powered airguns are an excellent choice for target shooters, hobbyists, and retailers. However, shot efficiency depends on the CO2 cartridge size, gun type, and shooting conditions. To get the most shots per cartridge, always:
✅ Use high-quality CO2 cartridges like Alizeemetal.
✅ Store cartridges properly to prevent gas loss.
✅ Fire at a controlled pace to maximize efficiency.
By following these tips, you can get more shots per CO2 cartridge and keep your air gun performing at its best.
👉 What’s your experience? How many shots do you usually get per CO2 cartridge? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
