CO2 Cartridge, 12 g

12 g CO2 cartridges are the power source for airsoft replicas built for 12 g CO2 – for example revolvers, a number of pistols and shotguns, and 12 g cartridge adapters. The cartridge goes into the replica or magazine and is pierced when it is tightened in place, after which the gas drives the shots. Sold individually.

CO2 gives a higher, punchier pressure than green gas, which is why it is used in many airsoft pistols with metal slides and in revolvers. The trade-off is that the pressure depends heavily on temperature: at room temperature it sits around 57 bar, but it drops noticeably in the cold. How many shots you get from a cartridge depends on the replica, whether it has blowback, and how warm it is.

12 g CO2 cartridge – what you need to know

The key points:

• Only for 12 g systems: The cartridge fits replicas and magazines built for 12 g CO2. It does not fit systems for 88/90 g cartridges and cannot be used in gas magazines filled with green gas.
• For airsoft: The cartridges are sold as a power source for airsoft replicas. The "Fits" field shows which types of replica they are intended for.
• Temperature matters: CO2 pressure follows the temperature. In the cold the pressure drops, giving lower velocity and fewer shots per cartridge than on a warm summer day.
• Look after the seals: A drop of silicone oil on the top of the cartridge before fitting it keeps the seals in the replica supple, e.g. ASG Silicone Oil.
• Remove the cartridge after use: Do not leave an empty or half-empty cartridge in the replica for long periods, as it puts strain on the seals.

Maintenance and safety

• The cartridges are pressurised. Store them somewhere cool, out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
• Keep the cartridges out of reach of children, and never pierce a cartridge outside the replica or adapter.
• Unload all BBs from the replica before changing cartridges, and never point it at anyone who is not wearing protection.
• Empty cartridges can be recycled as scrap metal.