Byrna CL Boost Adaptor: How It Works
By Byrna | Best Non Lethal Self-Defense Products | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how the Byrna CL Boost Adaptor lets you use 12g CO2 cartridges on your Byrna CL launcher for increased shot capacity and reliability.
Quick answer
The Byrna CL Boost Adaptor replaces the standard CO2 cap on your Byrna CL launcher, enabling you to use widely available 12g CO2 cartridges instead of the smaller 8g ones. This gives you more shots per cartridge and easier refills.
Why upgrade to 12g CO2 cartridges?
Standard 8g CO2 cartridges for the Byrna CL typically provide around 10-12 shots. Switching to 12g cartridges via the Boost Adaptor can increase that to roughly 18-20 shots per cartridge, depending on firing rate and temperature. This means fewer cartridge changes during practice or in a self-defense scenario.
12g cartridges are also more common and often cheaper per gram than 8g ones, making them a cost-effective choice for regular users. The adaptor installs without permanent modification, so you can revert to 8g cartridges at any time.
What to expect during installation
The Boost Adaptor is a simple polymer component that threads onto the CO2 chamber of your Byrna CL. It replaces the factory cap and includes a built-in piercing pin for 12g cartridges. No tools are required, but you should ensure the o-ring is seated correctly to avoid gas leaks.
One common mistake is over-tightening the adaptor, which can damage the threads or o-ring. Hand-tighten firmly but gently—the seal is made by the o-ring, not brute force.
How to install the Byrna CL Boost Adaptor
- Unload and safety-check your launcher: Remove any projectile from the chamber, disengage the CO2 cartridge, and confirm the launcher is in a safe state. Point the muzzle in a safe direction throughout. Never skip the safety check—accidental discharge can cause injury even with a non-lethal device.
- Remove the factory CO2 cap: Unscrew the existing cap from the CO2 chamber on your Byrna CL. Set it aside in case you want to revert later. Inspect the threads and o-ring for debris or damage. If the o-ring looks worn or cracked, replace it before installing the adaptor to ensure a proper seal.
- Thread on the Boost Adaptor: Screw the adaptor onto the CO2 chamber by hand, turning it clockwise until it stops. Do not use tools—overtightening can strip threads or crush the o-ring. The adaptor should seat flush against the chamber. If it feels misaligned or cross-threaded, remove and restart. Forcing it can damage both the adaptor and the launcher.
- Insert a 12g CO2 cartridge: Push a fresh 12g cartridge into the adaptor, neck-first, until you feel resistance. Then screw the cartridge housing (included with the adaptor) onto the adaptor, tightening until you hear a faint hiss—that means the piercing pin has punctured the cartridge. Stop tightening immediately. A continuous hiss means the cartridge is leaking. Remove it, check the o-ring, and try a new cartridge. A brief hiss followed by silence indicates a successful seal.
- Test for gas flow: Fully tighten the cartridge housing by hand, then dry-fire the launcher in a safe direction to confirm gas is flowing. You should hear a crisp burst of CO2. If nothing happens, recheck the cartridge seating and o-ring. If gas flow is weak or absent, the cartridge may not be fully pierced or the o-ring may be misaligned. Disassemble and start again from step 3.
Product details
- Byrna CL Boost Adaptor: This Byrna CL Boost Adaptor conveniently allows you to use standard and readily available 12 gram CO2 cartridges on the Byrna CL. Increase shot capacity, 12 gram CO2 compatibility, simple reversible installation, high performance polymer material. It gives you a noticeable shot count increase while using cartridges that are easier to find and often more economical, all without permanently modifying your launcher.
Byrna CL Boost Adaptor
