Buying your first airsoft gun is a milestone moment in your airsoft journey. Whether you're just starting out or have been playing with rentals for a while, there are many things to consider when choosing the right airsoft gun for you.
Our airsoft experts have put together this guide to help you find the perfect weapon for your needs and preferences.
Airsoft Guns by Firing Mechanism
| Firing Mechanism | Description |
|---|---|
| Spring-Powered (Springers) | Most basic and affordable, requires manual cocking, good for target practice |
| Electric-Powered (AEGs) | Most popular, battery-operated, semi-auto or full-auto, realistic firing experience |
| Gas-Powered (GBBs) | Uses compressed gas, powerful blowback action, requires maintenance |
Airsoft Guns by Design
| Design | Description |
|---|---|
| Pistols | Single-handed fire, compact, good for CQB |
| Rifles | Most common, two-handed fire, various styles, semi-auto or full-auto |
| Shotguns | Fires multiple BBs, good for CQB, spring, electric, or gas-powered |
Things to Consider Before Purchasing an Airsoft Gun
When selecting your first airsoft gun, it's crucial to take several factors into account to ensure that you make the right choice. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Experience Level: Beginners might start with a user-friendly model like an electric airsoft gun (AEG), which is easier to handle and requires less maintenance than gas-powered or spring-powered guns.
- Type of Skirmishes: Your environment and skirmish type can influence your choice. For close-quarter battles (CQB), a compact gun like a submachine gun (SMG) or pistol is ideal. For outdoor fields and larger engagements, a long-range rifle like an assault rifle or sniper rifle is more suitable.
- Play Style: Let your play style guide you. If you prefer an aggressive frontline approach, a high-capacity, rapid-firing AEG works best. For a stealthy sniper role, choose a bolt-action sniper rifle with superior range and accuracy.
- Budget: Your budget is crucial. Airsoft guns vary in price, and while the cheapest option might be tempting, investing more often means better durability and performance. Decide how much to spend on the gun and necessary gear like batteries, magazines, and protective equipment.
- Physical Fitness: The weight and ergonomics of the airsoft gun should match your fitness level. Heavier guns can be challenging to carry and manoeuvre, especially during extended skirmishes. Try handling different models to find what feels comfortable and manageable for you.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose an airsoft gun that will enhance your playing experience and ensure you get the most enjoyment out of this exciting sport.
Types of Airsoft Guns
One of the most important things to understand when buying your first airsoft gun is the different types that you can choose from. Each type of gun has different benefits and uses which work well with different styles of play.
Here are the types of airsoft guns you can choose from.
Spring-Powered Guns
Spring-powered airsoft guns, also known as springers, require manual cocking before each shot, making them reliable and simple to use without the need for batteries or gas. They are excellent for beginners and those on a budget.
Springers are particularly effective for sniper roles due to their potential for higher accuracy and power in single-shot scenarios.
However, their manual action makes them less suitable for close-quarter battles and high-speed skirmishes where rapid-fire capability is crucial.
Gas Airsoft Guns
Gas airsoft guns use compressed gas, like green gas or CO2, to shoot BBs. They provide realistic blowback action, perfect for players wanting an immersive experience.
These guns work well in semi-automatic and automatic modes, making them great for tactical play and fast-paced skirmishes.
However, they need more maintenance and can be affected by temperature changes, so they're best for intermediate to advanced players comfortable with these aspects.
Automatic Electric Guns
Automatic Electric Guns (AEGs) are powered by batteries and use an electric motor to fire BBs in both semi-automatic and fully automatic modes. They are highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of skirmishes.
AEGs are popular among players for their reliability, ease of use, and high rate of fire. These features make them ideal for various roles, from frontline assaults to support positions.
They are a great choice for both beginners and seasoned players.
High-Pressure Air Guns
High-pressure air (HPA) guns use a tank of compressed air to propel BBs, offering superior performance with adjustable velocity and consistent accuracy.
Unlike gas-powered guns, HPA guns are not as affected by temperature changes, making them reliable in various conditions.
They're ideal for advanced players who seek precision and customisation in their play style, but they require a more complex setup, including a high-pressure tank and regulator.
Airsoft Gun Specs to Look For
It's not all about the type of gun you opt for. There are more niche specifications that you should look out for when choosing an airsoft gun…
The Length of the Gun
The length of an airsoft gun significantly impacts its usability in skirmishes.
Longer guns, like sniper rifles, provide superior accuracy and range, making them ideal for outdoor and long-range engagements.
In contrast, shorter guns, such as SMGs and pistols, offer better manoeuvrability in tight spaces, making them perfect for close-quarter battles.
Choosing the right length based on your typical play environment can enhance your effectiveness and comfort during skirmishes.
Muzzle Velocity
Muzzle velocity, measured in feet per second (FPS), indicates how fast a BB is fired from the gun. Higher FPS translates to greater range and impact, advantageous in outdoor and long-range skirmishes.
Conversely, lower FPS is better suited for close-quarter battles (CQB) to ensure safety and prevent injury.
Always check field limits and safety regulations, as exceeding FPS limits can result in disqualification from games.
Hop-Up Unit
The hop-up unit is crucial for increasing the range and accuracy of your airsoft gun by imparting backspin to the BBs.
Look for adjustable hop-up units, which allow fine-tuning to match different BB weights and playing conditions, ensuring optimal performance.
High-quality hop-up bucking and chambers contribute to better consistency and precision, making them a worthy investment for enhancing your shooting experience.
Material & Weight of the Gun
When evaluating the material and weight of an airsoft gun, prioritise durability and ease of use.
Guns made of metal or high-quality polymer offer robustness, while those with a balanced weight prevent fatigue during extended play.
Opt for lighter guns for fast-paced skirmishes or heavier models if you prefer realism and stability. Aim to handle different types to find a comfortable fit that matches your playing style and fitness level.
Magazine Type
When selecting a magazine for your airsoft gun, consider capacity, feeding reliability, and ease of reloading.
High-capacity magazines (hi-caps) can hold hundreds of BBs but may rattle, while mid-capacity (mid-caps) and low-capacity (low-caps) magazines offer quieter operation with fewer BBs.
Examples include
- Standard M4 magazines
- Drum magazines for extended play
- Gas magazines for gas blowback pistols
Top Tips for Buying Your First Airsoft Gun
Now you know what to look for in an airsoft gun, we've got some top tips to help you navigate buying your first airsoft gun.
| Tip | How it Helps |
|---|---|
| Know Airsoft Gun Laws | Before purchasing an airsoft gun, familiarise yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure compliance.
Some regions have specific age requirements or restrictions on the type of airsoft guns allowed. |
| Opt for Two-Tone Guns | Unless you have a defence under the Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA), you must use two-tone airsoft guns in bright colours.
This visibility is crucial for differentiating airsoft guns from real firearms in public spaces. |
| Only Buy From Licensed Sellers | Always purchase from reputable and licensed dealers to guarantee the quality and safety of your airsoft gun.
Licensed sellers also provide warranties and customer support, offering peace of mind. |
| Do Plenty of Research | Research thoroughly before making your purchase.
Read reviews, watch video demonstrations, and seek advice from experienced players to make an informed decision that fits your needs and playing style. |
Key Takeaways: How to Choose the Right Airsoft Gun
Purchasing your first airsoft gun can be an exciting and engaging adventure. Take your time to research and gather as much information as possible.
Seek advice from experienced airsoft players who can provide valuable insights and recommendations. This will help ensure that you choose a gun that fits your needs and enhances your overall airsoft experience.
If you're ready to take the plunge and purchase your first airsoft gun, check out our full range of airsoft weapons at SoCom Tactical.
If you still have questions, don't hesitate to contact us, and we'll help you out.
