Hey air pistol fans. Guy from SOFREP here.

I noticed it was about time to add to my growing collection of air pistols/air rifles again, so I headed out to my favorite spot for such things, Pyramyd AIR. Fun fact: “AIR” stands not for the stuff we breathe but for Adventures In Recreation. Turns out they sell far more than air rifles and pistols, they offer a full line of Archery products, optics, firearm ammo, shooting gear, outdoor gear, and much, much more. It’s pretty much a one-stop shop for all of your outdoor needs, and that’s great for me because I hate hunting all around the web for the best prices. I just place one order with them, and I’m good to go.

In my most recent order, I opted for a Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro CO2 BB pistol and an Air Venturi red dot sight just for fun.

Here are my impressions after a bunch of backyard plinking.

A Realistic Training Companion

For those seeking a training tool that mirrors their everyday carry (EDC) firearm, the Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro CO₂ BB Pistol offers a remarkably authentic experience. I don’t say that lightly. This .177 caliber air pistol is a 1:1 replica of the live-fire Hellcat Pro, featuring a metal slide, blowback action, and accurate ergonomics. Powered by a 12-gram CO₂ cartridge, it delivers velocities up to 390 fps, making it ideal for backyard plinking and skill development. No, you won’t get any accurate long-range shots, but that’s not what it’s made for. 

The pistol includes an optic cut on the slide, allowing for the direct mounting of red dot sights. This feature enhances the training experience by enabling users to practice with optics similar to those on their carry guns.

Enhancing Precision with the Air Venturi Red Dot Sight

To complement the Hellcat Pro air pistol, the Air Venturi Pistol Red Dot Sight offers a tailored solution. Designed specifically for the Hellcat Pro, this sight features adjustable windage and elevation, ensuring precise targeting. Well, as precise as you can get with 390 feet per second.

With two brightness modes, it adapts to various lighting conditions, and its compact design maintains the pistol’s sleek profile. The midday Florida sun was no issue in washing out the dot. 

Installation is straightforward, utilizing the included optic plate for a secure fit. The sight boasts a battery life of up to 380 hours on low brightness, powered by a single CR1632 battery. At that rate I’ll be replacing it maybe every couple of years just to stay ahead of the curve.

A Cohesive Training System

The combination of the Hellcat Pro CO₂ air pistol and the Air Venturi Red Dot Sight creates a cohesive training system. You can practice sight alignment, trigger control, and target acquisition with equipment that closely mimics your EDC setup. This synergy enhances muscle memory

and shooting proficiency, all within the convenience of one’s backyard.

Hellcat Pro
Here I am about to blast a pool toy (no, not really). Photo by the author.

Summing Up

For those dedicated to maintaining and improving their shooting skills, the Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro CO₂ BB Pistol paired with the Air Venturi Red Dot Sight offers a practical and effective solution. I haven’t mentioned the prices yet. Only $79 for the pistol and another $49 for the Red Dot. That’s hard to beat. 

This setup doesn’t just look the part—it delivers the kind of real-world training that sharpens your aim, tightens your groups, and keeps your target acquisition skills razor sharp without burning a single round of live ammo.