Airsoft guns are replica firearms designed to shoot 6mm plastic BBs. They come in various types, each with different power systems, performance characteristics, and use cases. Understanding these differences helps players choose the right equipment for their playstyle.
Power Systems
Spring-Powered (Springer)
Spring-powered guns use a manual cocking mechanism to compress a spring, which propels the BB when the trigger is pulled. These are the most basic and reliable airsoft guns, requiring no batteries or gas.
- Pros: Reliable, low maintenance, no external power needed
- Cons: Manual cocking required for each shot, slower rate of fire
- Best for: Sniper rifles, shotguns, backup pistols
Electric (AEG - Automatic Electric Gun)
AEGs use rechargeable batteries to power an electric motor that compresses the spring automatically. These are the most popular type of airsoft gun due to their reliability and performance.
- Pros: High rate of fire, reliable, cost-effective ammunition, consistent performance
- Cons: Requires battery charging, slightly heavier than gas guns
- Best for: Assault rifles, submachine guns, support weapons
Gas-Powered (GBB - Gas Blowback)
Gas guns use compressed gas (typically green gas, CO2, or propane) stored in the magazine to propel BBs. Many feature blowback action that simulates the recoil of real firearms.
- Pros: Realistic recoil and operation, high performance, authentic feel
- Cons: Gas efficiency varies with temperature, higher operating cost
- Best for: Pistols, some rifles, players seeking realism
HPA (High Pressure Air)
HPA systems use compressed air from an external tank connected via a line to the gun. These offer the most consistent performance and are highly customizable.
- Pros: Extremely consistent, adjustable FPS, weather-independent
- Cons: Requires air tank and line, higher initial cost, less mobile
- Best for: Competitive play, experienced players, customization enthusiasts
Gun Categories
- Rifles: Primary weapons with medium to long range capabilities
- Submachine Guns (SMGs): Compact automatic weapons for close-quarters
- Pistols: Secondary weapons, lightweight and easy to draw
- Sniper Rifles: Long-range precision weapons with high power
- Shotguns: Close-range weapons that fire multiple BBs per shot
- Support Weapons: High-capacity automatic weapons for suppressive fire