How to Increase the FPS, Range & Accuracy of Your Airsoft Gun

Increasing your airsoft gun’s range, accuracy, and power (or FPS) will undoubtedly give you an edge over your opposition on the field – but knowing how to do it right is the difference between a successful upgrade and an expensive mistake.

You can customise just about any airsoft gun, and some only really require a few tweaks to make a notable difference in performance.

If you don’t want to dabble in tech work, you can opt for an out-of-the-box gun that comes with a high FPS and excellent accuracy.

However, if you want to improve your current gun’s performance or have fun tinkering with it, we’ve pulled together some great tips on how to increase the range, accuracy, and FPS of your weapon and turn you into a formidable player on the field.

Can You Increase the Power of an Airsoft Gun?

Absolutely, you can increase the power of an airsoft gun, which can enhance its performance and overall gameplay.

This is typically achieved through modifications and upgrades to various components of the airsoft gun.

Key areas to focus on include:

The spring
Hop-up system
The barrel

Upgrading to a stronger spring can significantly raise the fps (feet per second), thereby increasing the gun's range and power.

Adjusting or replacing the hop-up can improve the BB's stability during flight, leading to better accuracy.

And, of course, using a precision barrel can further enhance accuracy and range.

However, it’s crucial to ensure that any modifications do not violate the rules of the fields where you play or surpass the limits for safe gameplay.

Easy Ways to Improve Your Gun’s Accuracy & Distance

Sometimes, improving the performance of your gun doesn’t require any upgrades at all but rather comes down to how you handle the gun and maintain it.

Before you get stuck into fitting upgrades and switching out parts, think about whether you’ve considered any (or all) of the following…

Is your gun good quality or a cheaper model? A well-made gun will inherently be more accurate and consistent.
Have you properly maintained your gun? Regularly cleaning and lubricating your gun will ensure optimal performance.
Are you using the appropriate ammo? Heavier BBs tend to be more accurate and travel further.
Do you grip the gun properly? A secure and comfortable grip helps with stability and shot control, which will better your firing accuracy.
Do you practice regularly? The more you practise, the better your aim and overall skill will become.
Practice does make perfect, after all.

How to Improve the Range of Your Airsoft Gun

Improving the range of your airsoft gun involves a combination of technical upgrades and adjustments to how you use and maintain the weapon.

The maximum range of your airsoft gun can vary significantly depending on its model, type, and modifications.

On average, a standard airsoft gun with a velocity of around 300 to 350 fps can shoot accurately up to 120-180 feet. High-powered airsoft guns, especially those tailored for sniping, can reach up to 200-250 feet under optimal conditions.

Here are some actionable steps to extend your gun’s range:

1) Upgrade the Barrel

Use a longer, tighter barrel to boost the range. Barrels with diameters around 6.01mm to 6.03mm improve the air seal around the BB, enhancing air efficiency from the gearbox.

2) High-Quality Hop-Up System

A hop-up adds backspin to BBs, extending range via the Magnus effect. A better hop-up system improves backspin control, enhancing range and accuracy.

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3) Right BBs

Use heavier BBs (e.g., 0.25g, 0.28g, or 0.30g) to reduce wind and air resistance, extending their flight. Test different weights to find the best range and accuracy balance for your gun.

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4) Optimise Spring Power

For spring-powered guns, a stronger spring increases muzzle velocity. For AEGs, a high-torque motor boosts performance.

5) Regular Maintenance

Clean and lubricate your airsoft gun regularly. Remove dirt and debris to avoid obstructing the BB’s path. Ensure all components function correctly.

6) Consider External Factors

Wind, elevation, and temperature affect range. Adjust your aim and settings to maximise your gun's effective range under different conditions.

How to Improve the Accuracy of Your Airsoft Gun

Improving the accuracy of your airsoft gun involves both technical adjustments and honing your shooting skills. Precise shooting not only depends on the hardware of your gun but also on how you handle it.

Here are several steps to improve your gun’s accuracy:

1. Ensure Proper Alignment of Internal Components

Misalignment of the barrel, hop-up, or sights can significantly affect accuracy. Check these components regularly to ensure they are correctly aligned and make adjustments as necessary.

2. Upgrade Your Barrel & Hop-Up System

A high-quality, precision barrel can reduce the variance in each shot's trajectory. Pairing it with an efficient hop-up system that consistently applies the correct amount of backspin to the BBs can markedly improve accuracy.

3. Use High-Quality BBs

The quality of BBs you use affects your gun’s performance. Higher quality, uniform BBs minimise inconsistencies in flight paths, leading to better accuracy. Additionally, using the correct weight for your barrel length and power can improve precision.

4. Adjust Your Shooting Technique

Improving your stance, grip, and how you aim can significantly increase accuracy. Practising shooting in various conditions helps refine your technique and understand how to adjust for environmental factors.

10 Airsoft Shooting Tips From Our Experts To Improve Your Accuracy

5. Regular Maintenance

A well-maintained gun is more likely to perform consistently. Clean your barrel and hop-up unit regularly to remove debris that could affect BB flight. Check for wear and tear on internal components and replace them as necessary.

Troubleshooting Accuracy Issues

If your airsoft gun is not shooting accurately, consider these common issues:

Barrel obstructions: Dirt or debris inside the barrel can deflect BBs off their intended path. Cleaning the barrel with a proper cleaning rod and cloth can resolve this issue.
Worn-out hop-up bucking: A worn or damaged hop-up bucking can result in inconsistent backspin, adversely affecting accuracy. Inspect and replace the bucking if needed.
Inconsistent air seal: Air leaks from the hop-up assembly, nozzle, or between the barrel and hop-up can cause fluctuations in shot power and accuracy. Check seals and O-rings for damage or wear.
Improper BB weight: Using BBs that are too light or heavy for your gun’s configuration can lead to poor performance. Experiment with different weights to find the optimal balance for your specific setup.

You can also contact our team with your specific questions, and we’ll be happy to help you figure out the problem with your weapon.

How to Improve the FPS of Your Airsoft Gun

Improving the FPS (Feet Per Second) of your airsoft gun is crucial for increasing its power and range. Here are a few steps to achieve this:

Upgrade the spring: For spring-powered guns, use a heavier-duty spring to increase the FPS.
Enhance motor power: For electric guns (AEGs), upgrading to a high-torque motor can improve FPS.
Tighter seal: To maximise the air pressure generated, ensure a tight air seal in the piston head, cylinder head, and nozzle.
Lighter BBs: Lighter BBs can initially achieve higher FPS, but remember that they may not provide the best range or accuracy balance.

It's important to note that while a higher FPS can increase range, it may not necessarily improve accuracy. Thus, balancing FPS with the right BB weight and ensuring your airsoft gun is well-maintained and properly calibrated is key to enhancing both range and precision.

What is a Good FPS for an Airsoft Gun?

The ideal FPS for airsoft guns varies by play type and field regulations, with 330 to 370 FPS suited for indoor and 370 to 400 FPS for outdoor play. It's crucial to balance performance with safety, as higher FPS can restrict play areas and increase injury risk.

You can find out more about the FPS of your gun with our helpful FPS chart!

Does a Longer Barrel Increase FPS?

The relationship between airsoft gun barrel length and FPS is complex. Beyond a certain length, longer barrels offer minimal FPS improvements.

Excessively long barrels may reduce FPS and accuracy due to friction and BB destabilisation.

Finding the optimal barrel length depends on the gun's design, playing style, and other factors like barrel quality, hop-up system, and air seal efficiency.

Summary: Upgrade Your Gun’s Performance With Socom Tactical

Now that you know how to improve the range and accuracy of your airsoft gun with some simple troubleshooting steps or minor adjustments, you can upgrade your gun and your game.

Browse our extensive selection of upgrade and replacement parts for a wide range of airsoft gun makes and models and get the most out of your kit!

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FAQs

Can You Change the FPS On an Airsoft Gun?

Yes, you can change the FPS on an airsoft gun through modifications such as upgrading the spring for spring-powered guns, enhancing the motor for electric guns, or improving the air seal in various components. However, ensure that these changes comply with the regulations of your playing field.

Is 300 FPS Too Low for Airsoft?

A 300 FPS is not too low for airsoft, especially for indoor play. It ensures safety and complies with most indoor field limits. However, for outdoor play, a higher FPS might be beneficial for longer-range engagements, keeping in mind field regulations and safety.

What Increases the Range of an Airsoft Gun?

To increase the range of an airsoft gun, focus on upgrading the barrel hop-up system for accuracy and backspin and using the appropriate BB weight. Regular maintenance and optimising internal components for air efficiency can also enhance performance.

What is the Maximum Range of an Airsoft Gun?

The maximum range of an airsoft gun varies greatly, but most guns can shoot accurately up to 180 feet. High-powered sniper rifles may reach beyond 250 feet. Factors like FPS, BB weight, and upgrades significantly influence range.

What is the Best Airsoft Upgrade for Accuracy?

The best airsoft upgrade for accuracy is a high-quality hop-up system paired with a precision barrel. This combination ensures consistent backspin and minimises trajectory variance, significantly improving shot precision. Regular maintenance and using quality BBs are also crucial for maintaining optimal accuracy.