Walther CP88 CO2 4.5mm Pellet Air Pistol by UMAREX
The Walther CP88 is one of those air pistols that quietly earned its reputation over time rather than chasing trends. As the first pellet-firing CO2 pistol in the Umarex range, it set the tone for a lot of what followed in their more serious, accuracy-focused platforms.
It’s a full metal, German-made pistol that leans heavily towards precision and consistency rather than realism tricks or blowback effects.
Key Features
- Full metal construction, made in Germany
- Rifled barrel for improved pellet accuracy
- 8-shot rotary magazine system
- Magazine positioned in slide for precise pellet alignment
- Single and double action trigger
- Safety lever operation
- Proven long-running design with strong reputation for consistency
Performance / Use Case
The CP88 is built for short to mid-range target shooting rather than casual plinking or realism-focused use. The rifled barrel and controlled pellet feed system give it noticeably better consistency than BB blowback pistols.
The rotary magazine sits in the slide rather than the frame, which keeps pellet alignment more direct with the barrel. That design choice is one of the reasons it has stayed relevant for so long in the CO2 target pistol space.
It’s not a fast, flashy shooter. It’s a steady, predictable one, which is exactly what it’s meant to be.
Build & Design
At just over 1kg, the CP88 has a very solid, planted feel in the hand. The full metal construction contributes to stability during shooting, especially when trying to keep groups tight.
The design is more traditional service pistol in appearance, but the internal layout is where it stands out. The magazine system is integrated into the slide ahead of the barrel, which improves pellet feeding consistency compared to more conventional frame-fed systems.
Controls are simple and familiar, with a safety lever and classic DA/SA trigger setup.
Specifications
- Power Source: 1x 12g CO2
- Calibre: 4.5mm (.177) pellet
- Magazine Capacity: 8 rounds
- Shot Capacity: approx. 60 shots
- Trigger: Single / Double Action
- Safety: Lever
- Length: 180 mm
- Weight: 1030 g
The CP88 is very much a “do one thing properly” kind of pistol. It prioritises consistency and build quality over features or realism gimmicks.
It’s heavier than most CO2 pistols, but that weight works in its favour when you’re trying to shoot more deliberately. If you want a proven, German-made pellet pistol that focuses on accuracy rather than effects, this is still one of the more dependable options around.
Important — read before purchase or storage.
All CO2 and green‑gas/propane powered guns and magazines are pressure systems and must not be stored pressurised for any length of time outside active shooting. Leaving gas installed will compress internal seals, accelerate permanent leaks, and shorten the life of your gun.
Temperature & Pressure Behaviour
CO2 and propane are temperature‑sensitive: they expand and contract with temperature changes. That expansion can force gas past worn seals or, in extreme heat, rupture seals or valves — creating dangerous failures. Keep guns and magazines out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Cold temperatures reduce pressure and can cause low power or feed problems, so always test a gas gun in the conditions you intend to use it.Always remove or fully vent gas after use. If you’re not shooting, remove the CO2 capsule or vent/empty magazines. Do not store with gas installed.
Lubrication Recommendations
To protect internals and seals we recommend using gas with added lubricants:-
CO2: use lubricated CO2 capsules — UMAREX branded CO2 is our recommendation.
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Green Gas / Propane: use gas with added lubricant such as Vorsk, UltraAir, Nuprol, or Abbey (Green Gas).
Seal & Lubricant Guidance
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Apply one drop of silicone oil (for polyurethane seals only — usually green or clear seals) to the tip of every 5 CO2 capsules or before long‑term storage to lubricate the piercing nozzle and protect seals.
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For silicone seals (typically semi‑translucent white), only use PTFE‑based lubricants (e.g. Super Lube PTFE). Do not use silicone oil on silicone seals.
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Never use gas cartridges showing rust or visible corrosion.
Leak Expectations & User Responsibility
All gas systems will slowly leak over time. Proper care reduces the rate of leakage but cannot prevent it entirely. Leaving cartridges installed dramatically speeds up seal wear. By using or storing gas guns you accept responsibility for regular maintenance, correct lubricant use, and safe storage.We Test Before Sale
We test every gas‑powered gun prior to dispatch or handover for major leaks and function. This may mean the gun arrives with gas installed — you may choose to use this free gas or vent the gun before storage. Testing does not guarantee seal life or prevent future leaks; seals remain consumable parts.If you’re unsure about seal types, lubricant compatibility, or safe storage, ask us before purchase — we’ll give honest guidance. Failure to follow these recommendations may void warranty or return eligibility where damage is caused by improper storage or lubrication.
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Important Notice for the Purchase and Delivery of Airguns, Pressure Components of Airguns, and Moderators
Effective Compliance with the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (VCRA): Sections 31 and 32
Under the provisions of Sections 31 and 32 of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, which were enacted through "The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (Commencement No 3) Order 2007: firearms measures," specific regulations now apply to air weapons, their Pressure-Bearing component parts, and certain accessories.
Key Points to Note:
Restricted Items:
- Airguns: All airguns are classified as restricted items.
- Pressure-Bearing Parts of Airguns: This includes barrels, cylinders, reservoirs, and pistons.
- Functional Moderators (Silencers/Suppressors): Moderators that reduce the sound of discharge are also classified as restricted items.
Definition and Registration:
- Component Parts: While the VCRA does not explicitly define "component parts," the Home Office interprets this to include pressure-bearing parts such as barrels, cylinders, reservoirs, and pistons.
- Accessories: Only moderators (silencers) require registration by dealers.
Legal Requirements for Transfer:
- In-Person Transfer: It is an offence under the VCRA to transfer these restricted items through standard postal systems or to the end customer directly without the presence of both the buyer and either the seller or a representative of the seller.
- Representatives of the Seller: This can be:
- An employee of the seller who is a registered firearms dealer (RFD).
- Another RFD authorized by the seller.
- An employee of the authorized RFD.
Collection and Delivery Options:
- Collection from Store: Customers are encouraged to collect their restricted items directly from the store where purchased.
- Transfer to Another RFD: Items can be transferred to a local RFD for collection, though the receiving RFD may charge a fee for this service.
- Home Delivery: We offer home delivery through our in-house team to some areas of the UK. However, please note that this service has location restrictions and incurs higher costs due to the need for dedicated transport, making it more expensive than a standard RFD transfer.
For more detailed guidance on purchasing and receiving VCRA Restricted Transfer items, please refer to our comprehensive guide here: VCRA Restricted Transfer Items Buying Guide
