15-Oct-2026
The Crosman 2240 is one of those air pistols that people ask about by name. It is a long-running, CO2-powered .22 single-shot pistol with a reputation for being simple, tinkerable, and affordable, and it has a loyal following among plinkers and hobbyists. It also has a quirk that confuses newcomers: the name is shared by several variants and countless home modifications, so no two used 2240s are quite alike.
This guide looks at what the 2240 is, who it suits, how it compares with the alternatives in the UK and what to check before buying one second-hand. We keep specifications general, because the pistols on the market vary, and we do not cover modifications. A buyer should always confirm that a particular air pistol is sold and supplied as it left the factory, and that it is legal for them to own.
What the Crosman 2240 is
In short, the 2240 is a bolt-action, single-shot CO2 pistol chambered in .22. It uses a small CO2 cartridge for power, which makes it straightforward to run: you load a pellet, cock the bolt and fire. There is no compressor, pump or dive cylinder to worry about, which is a real attraction for a newcomer.
Its popularity comes from a few traits. It is relatively inexpensive, easy to understand, and well supported by owners who enjoy talking about them. Many 2240s are used for informal target shooting and for general plinking at suitable, safe ranges. It is a hobbyist’s pistol rather than a precision competition tool, and it is best judged on those terms.
You may also see names such as the 2240 XL or the Ratbuster appearing in listings. These are variations on the theme, and the differences can include grips, finish and accessories. Read each description carefully, and ask the seller to state exactly what is included.
Browse: Crosman air guns · Crosman 2240 · Crosman 2250 · Crosman 2260 · All air guns
Who the 2240 suits
The 2240 is a good match for a few kinds of buyer. If you want an inexpensive way into .22 CO2 shooting, it is hard to beat on simplicity. If you enjoy owning something with a long history and a community around it, it has plenty of that. And if you simply want a pistol to enjoy casual target shooting in a safe, suitable environment, it can do the job nicely.
It is less suited to those who want a multi-shot magazine, a high-end trigger or tournament-level accuracy. If those are priorities, you will want to look at other air pistols, which we cover below. It is also worth remembering that CO2 power varies with temperature, so a pistol that shoots consistently on a warm day may behave differently on a cold one.
Whatever you choose, treat every air pistol with the same respect as any firearm: know your backstop, never point it at anything you do not intend to shoot, and store it securely when not in use.
Browse: Crosman 2240 · Crosman air guns · Umarex 850 · Gamo air guns · Safes and cabinets
How it compares with other CO2 and PCP pistols
The most obvious step up is a multi-shot CO2 pistol, which lets you fire several pellets without reloading each time. Umarex makes a number of pistols in this space, and the 850 is one that often comes up in conversation. These are generally more convenient for casual plinking, but they may cost more and are a different shooting experience from a single-shot bolt.
If accuracy is your main concern, you might move beyond CO2 to a pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) pistol. PCP pistols deliver more consistent power and are favoured by serious air-pistol shooters, but they require a way to fill them and generally cost more. The Weihrauch HW44 and the Webley range are among those that regularly attract attention.
For a broader view of the market, our guide to the best air pistols in the UK walks through the main types and what each suits.
Browse: Umarex 850 · Weihrauch HW44 · Weihrauch HW45 · Webley Typhoon · Diana air guns
Buying a used Crosman 2240
Because the 2240 has been popular for so long, there are many second-hand examples, and condition varies enormously. Start by asking whether the pistol is in its original, factory configuration. Anything that appears to have been altered, particularly in ways that affect power, deserves caution, and you should be comfortable with exactly what you are buying and its legal status.
Next, check the basics. Look at the finish and the grip for wear, and operate the bolt to feel for smooth, positive movement. Ask how it has been stored and whether it holds CO2 without leaking. A pistol that hisses after being charged may need new seals, which is a small job but worth knowing about before you buy.
Finally, ask what is included. Spare CO2 cartridges, pellets, and a case are common extras, but they are not universal. A pistol sold as a complete package can offer better value than a bare one at a slightly lower price.
Browse: Crosman 2240 · Crosman 2250 · Crosman air guns · Gun parts and accessories · All air guns
Running costs and accessories
One of the 2240’s quiet advantages is its low running cost. You need CO2 cartridges and pellets, and little else. Pellet choice matters more than most beginners expect: try a few brands and weights in your pistol and keep the one that groups best. A simple target trap and a secure backstop are worth buying before the pistol itself, because they keep your shooting safe and your pellets tidy.
Consider, too, how you will store it. An air pistol should be kept out of sight and out of reach of children and visitors, ideally in a lockable cabinet, and it should never be left loaded. Doing this from day one builds the habits that carry across to every other kind of shooting.
Browse: Safes and cabinets · Gun parts and accessories · Crosman 2240 · Crosman air guns · All air guns
Is the 2240 still worth it?
For the right buyer, yes. It remains an accessible, enjoyable and well-understood .22 CO2 pistol, and the second-hand market means you can often find one at a fair price. If your priorities are simplicity, familiarity and low entry cost, it deserves a place on your shortlist.
If you want a magazine, better ergonomics or the consistency of a PCP, look further. The best advice is to decide what you actually want from an air pistol, then shortlist two or three that fit, and buy the one in the best condition from a seller who can answer your questions.
FAQ
What is a Crosman 2240? It is a single-shot, bolt-action, CO2-powered .22 air pistol that has been popular with hobbyists for many years.
What is the difference between the 2240 and the 2240 XL? Variants differ in details such as grips, finish and accessories. Check each listing to see exactly what is offered, as specifications can vary.
Is a used Crosman 2240 a good buy? It can be, provided it is in good, unmodified condition and holds gas properly. Ask about its history and what is included.
What are the alternatives? Multi-shot CO2 pistols from makers such as Umarex, or PCP pistols such as those from Weihrauch and Webley, depending on your budget and priorities.
Ready to find your next air pistol?
Browse Crosman 2240 and other air pistol listings on Rightgun.uk, or list yours and reach UK buyers searching for it by name.
Further reading: Best air pistols in the UK, Best CO2 air pistols by budget, Best second-hand air pistols by budget and Beginner’s guide to air rifle shooting.
