How Airsoft Guns Work

Airsoft guns are fascinating pieces of replica technology used as a hobby sport. Unlike a BB gun, a pellet or air rifle, or a paintball gun, Airsoft uses non-metallic spherical plastic projectiles that are usually 6-8 millimeters in diameter. These pellets are propelled from the gun using either a pressure mechanic or electrically powered mechanism. With their mainly plastic construction, Airsoft guns are lightweight and ergonomic, making them beginner friendly and ideal for target practice.

Basics of Airsoft Guns

Airsoft is a type of shooting sport that uses replica gear including guns and other enlisted items. The guns are either powered by air, spring, or battery. The most common of these are spring-powered and electric guns that use green gas compressed air, or a battery-operated electric motor. The type of gun you choose should depend on the level of intensity you desire, whether you are a beginner or experienced shooter.

Spring-Powered Airsoft Gun

Spring-powered Airsoft guns are the simplest type of Airsoft guns and are often affordable and easy to operate. This type of gun is essentially a manual repeating firearm due to its single shot capacity powered by a spring-powered piston which delivers the projectile. An internal compression of the spring with a bolt is what allows the gun to be fired each time.

Gas-Powered Airsoft Gun

The second type of Airsoft gun is gas-powered. Powered by a mixture of green gas and propane, it provides greater speed and accuracy than a spring-powered gun. It works by releasing compressed gas from a magazine and pushing it into the gun to propel the pellets.

Electric Airsoft Gun

The most popular type of Airsoft gun is the electric gun, or AEG. It is powered by a battery, usually placed in a rechargeable magazine. Inside the gun, there is an electric motor that spins the internal gearbox, allowing for a greater rate of fire and accuracy.

Other Airsoft Equipment

Apart from the gun, there are several other Airsoft accessories available.

Safety Goggles and Masks

Safety goggles and masks are essential to the game; all participants must wear protective face masks and goggles to protect their eyes from potential injury.

Airsoft Tactical Gear

Tactical gear, which includes vests, helmets, and other similar items, is often used to identify allies and enemies during the game.

BB Pellets

BB pellets, also known as BBs, are the ammunition used in an Airsoft gun. They come in a variety of sizes and weights, and should be chosen carefully depending on the type of gun used.

Airsoft Gun Types by Game Play

Depending on the type of game being played, the Airsoft gun required varies. The closer you are to the actual fight scene, the weight in your equipment rises. For this reason, it's important to understand the common types of Airsoft guns used for different scenarios.

CQB Guns

CQB, meaning Close Quarters Battle, are the guns used in strategically tight game-play scenarios. CQB guns are generally small, lightweight, and easy to use in urban environment battles, such as building interiors. The muzzle velocity of a CQB gun should be no higher than roughly 350FPS, as this provides the perfect balance of accuracy and safety for the venue of the game.

DMR Guns

DMR, meaning Designated Marksman Rifle, guns are typically used as support weapons, providing covering fire to teammates. DMR guns commonly have a longer inner barrel, allowing for greater accuracy at a greater distance and less chance of ricocheting BBs.

Conclusion

Airsoft guns are an exciting and affordable option for a shooting hobby or a game of recreational warfare. Whether you're a beginner looking for a spring-powered or electric gun to practice, or a more experienced player looking for a DMR or CQB gun for an immersive game, there is an Airsoft gun perfect for any need. With the important safety considerations in mind, Airsoft can be a fun and adrenaline-filled way to experience harmless battle-action.

Takeaways

Airsoft is a type of shooting sport that uses replica gear including guns and other enlisted items. Common types of Airsoft guns include spring-powered, gas-powered, and electric guns. There are several Airsoft accessories such as safety goggles and masks, tactical gear, and BB pellets. Depending on the type of game being played, the Airsoft gun used will vary from a CQB gun for close-quarters scenarios to DMR guns for longer distances. With the right safety considerations, Airsoft provides a fun and adrenaline-filled way to experience harmless battle-action.