SIG Sauer sells officially licensed airsoft versions of its pistols on its website, including a green-gas P229 that matches the real firearm in size, appearance, controls, and operation with a reciprocating slide. The magazine holds both the propellant and 23 of the 6mm plastic BBs that typically weigh 0.20 to 0.30 grams and leave the muzzle at about 300 feet per second, enough to sting but not break skin. Green gas is a propane-silicone mix sold in 8-ounce cans that yield 500 to 1,000 shots depending on the gun; SIG also offers CO2-powered airsoft models and supplies a dedicated magazine loader.

Airsoft replicas first reached the United States in the early 2000s after gaining popularity in Asia and Europe, though trademark disputes initially limited imports. Firearm makers later licensed the products once they recognized that replica buyers might later purchase actual guns and that academy staff viewed the replicas as training aids.