Getting Started on Airsoft

If you've already viewed my last year's post about many airsoft guns and parts. This year, I'm going to teach you about the basics of airsoft guns. Hope you enjoyed it!

What is Airsoft?

Airsoft is different from the traditional "BB guns" common in Europe and in the United States, which often fire 0.177 caliber metal BBs (round or pellet shaped) at speeds of 350fps to 1000fps. Power is usually by way of CO2 cartridges or through hand-cocking air power. Some of these BB guns resemble real weapons in their general shape, but in almost all cases they are modified somewhat in terms of details or in the way their switches function. They will also never carry the trademarks or names of their real counterparts. As such, close inspection will always allow you to distinguish between a BB gun and a real gun. BB guns can be used for sport shooting or hunting, but are not suited for indoor shooting or war-gaming due to their high power. These BB guns are incapable of shooting full auto. Airsoft is different from paintball guns, which is designed specifically for war-game purposes. These "guns" do not resemble real weapons at all and are usually quite simple in design. Power is by way of a compressed air gas tank that is in its smallest form as big as a coke bottle, that is mounted externally on the paintball gun. Paintball guns shoot plastic balls that are filled with paint, which break up and splatter on the opponent's body upon impact. Given the relatively large size of paintballs, the projectile of each shot is a slight arc rather than a pure straight-line. However when shot at close range, these paintballs can really hurt and cause bruising. The beauty of paintball is your opponent cannot deny being hit due to the visible paint marks that are delivered by the paintball. The only thing that leaves something to be desired is the look of the gun, which is burdened by the huge container for the paintballs, and the external gas tank. Paintball guns are mostly incapable of shooting full-auto. Airsoft BBs are plastic, and are bigger than the US standard metal BB's, but smaller than paintballs. Note that pictured paintball is a small paintball. Paintballs used in the US and UK are typically larger.

How did Airsoft start?

Airsoft was invented in Japan and describes pistols and rifles that look, feel, and operate exactly like real firearms. Their shape, form, and trademarks are true to form, and almost all airsoft models are actually replicas of real world weapons. Civilian gun ownership in Japan is illegal and airsoft naturally found a large market of gun enthusiasts that wanted to own and collect their favorite weapons but were not ready to break the law for their hobby! As such, authenticity and realism is a top priority for airsoft guns and most manufacturers have licensed agreements with the real gun manufacturers to copy the real gun styles and use their trademarks. In fact, in many cases you can install real gun accessories onto airsoft guns due to their similar dimensions and design. At close range, it is extremely difficult to discern an airsoft gun from real guns. That is why some countries, such as the United States, requires all imported airsoft guns to possess orange painted barrel tips. In fact, airsoft guns are so authentic that many police and military training programs across the world use airsoft products for training purposes. There are many weights and types of Airsoft BBs for different powered guns - but all of them are plastic. At most, they come coated with metal, but are never solid metal. Note that 6mm paintballs have are no longer commonly used since they tend to jam airsoft guns.

Are Airsoft guns dangerous?

Airsoft products are not designed to deliver serious harm, and are powered by various methods to propel a 6mm plastic BB at distances of 50 to 200 feet at between 200fps to 600fps. Most airsoft guns are designed to shoot plastic BBs weighing 0.2g to 0.25g. Some of the entry level guns, such as the mini guns and electric blowback guns are happier shooting 0.15g BBs, and modified weapons are capable of shooting over 0.3g. Airsoft guns can be modified to deliver serious power, though not life-threatening. Highly modified and powered-up airsoft guns can break skin and cause bleeding, but will never penetrate flesh or lodge itself under the skin. That is why airsoft is perfect for recreational skirmishing since they are non-deadly - unlike the metal BB guns manufactured by companies like RWS (Europe), Daisy (USA), and Crossman (USA).

Are Airsoft guns legal?

Yes! Airsoft guns are legal in most countries without the need for a license, including the United States (except in a few States), England, France, Norway, Sweden, Argentina, Russia, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, and many other places. Some countries such as the United States requires that all imported airsoft guns have painted orange barrel tips. Other countries like England requires UKARA Note that on some airsoft guns, there is no flash hider, or it is not removable. In those instances, airsoft retailers will paint the tip orange. Removing the orange paint is possible with paint thinner but again, they do not encourage it for legal reasons.

How do Airsoft guns work?

Shooting can be performed in semi-auto, and full-auto on selected models at approximately 10 to 14 rounds per second. For example, Marui's electric MP5A5 machine gun is capable of 12 rounds per second, while KSC's M11 sub-machinegun is capable of delivering 1200 rounds per minute (which is as fast as the real M11). Accuracy varies depending on models but a 1-inch deviance at 20 feet is standard on stock, unmodified models. With the proper modifications and upgraded parts, your airsoft rifle can be deadly accurate and attain a deviance of only 2 inches from 50 feet. There are several types of airsoft guns and they are categorized mainly by their propulsion mechanism.

Automatic Electric Guns (AEG)

These guns are powered by an electric motor that run off of a rechargeable battery similar to those used in radio controlled cars. The motor powers a series of gears which wind and compress a spring, which in turn is connected to a piston and cylinder mechanism. When the spring is completely compressed by the motor, it is released and exerts force on the piston and cylinder mechanism. This in turn forces compressed air through a nozzle and onto a BB, which in turn is propelled out of the gun. Stock AEGs can deliver BB speeds of 240fps to 285fps using a standard 0.2g BB. Upgrading the spring, and hence the supporting gears, can easily deliver BB speeds of over 400fps or more. To give you a sense of how much power that is, BB!|s fired from factory AEGs cannot penetrate the side of a soda can. However at close ranges (15-30 feet), they can deliver a sting if hit on the human body. Closer ranges such at 10 feet or under can cause a slight welt if hit on bare skin. Stock guns are not designed to break human skin and are therefore perfect for war-gaming and other gaming purposes. They can, however, cause blinding if the BB hits someone in the eye so care should still be taken not to use airsoft guns irresponsibly. In fact, AEGs are recommended for persons 18 years or older. The H&K MP5 series from Tokyo Marui are very popular

Our line of full-auto electric airsoft rifles include, but is not limited to, the popular H&K MP5 series, the Colt M16 series including the M4A1, AK47's, Steyr AUG series, and even the exotic FN P90. For sniper fans, there is the semi-auto H&K PSG1. All these rifles look EXACTLY like their real counterparts and all switches and levers function in the same way as the real weapons. BB's are loaded in metal removable magazines, of which spares can be purchased from our accessories page. Different capacities exist for magazines so if you don't want to keep reloading or changing clips / magazines, then get an optional Hi-Capacity magazines. For example, the high capacity AK47 magazine can hold 600 rounds! Getting started on AEGs You'll need to obviously get a gun, and the following: - An AEG gun. - A battery that suits the gun. These come in different sizes for different guns and our site specifies the size for each gun use list. - Large pack of 0.2g or 0.25g BBs. These go fast when you're shooting full auto at 12 rounds per second, so order plenty if you plan to play a lot. - A BB Bottle to make loading easier. - A battery charger. AEGs use rechargeable batteries which you need to charge. Get a charger to do the job. - A discharger. Discharging semi-depleted batteries will extend battery life. Some of our chargers have built-in dischargers - Canister of silicone spray lubricant to keep moving parts well lubricated for durability That's the basics, though most enthusiasts gradually move onto accessories like scopes, slings, combat gear, etc.

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Gas Powered Guns (Typically referred to as GBBs)

The power of choice for many airsoft pistols and sub-machineguns. Gas types include HFC134a and HFC22, the latter being higher pressure and thereby delivering more power. However not all airsoft guns are designed to withstand the added pressure of HFC22 and buyers should be careful to ensure their selected model can handle HFC22 before using. Gas is typically "charged" into the butt of airsoft guns, right into the magazine which contains a gas container. Blowback pistols cock just like real pistols, and semi-automatics require you to cycle the slide first in order to chamber the first round, and cock the hammer. When you pull the trigger, the hammer is released and pushes on a pin which in turn applies pressure to a valve on the magazine. This valve in turn releases a pocket of charged gas from the gas container within the magazine, and the gas is used to propel the BB out of the gun. This same pocket of gas is used to also cycle the slide backward, thereby recocking the hammer and chambering the next round. This action causes a recoil effect, though it is relatively weak compared to a real gun. Overall, the operation of airsoft blowback pistols is exactly the same as a real gun. BB's are stored in the clip and are reloadable just like in real pistols. Gas blowback guns are fun because they have recoil. Pictured above: The M11A1 from KSC is very popular for looks and power

Most modern day real-world pistols are represented in our line-up of gas models, including the Beretta 92F, Glock 17, Colt Government, and many more. Revolver fans will also find a good selection made by Tanaka and Tokyo Marui. Gas blowback sub-machine guns include the M11, Steyr TMP, Micro-uzi, and more. Gas guns typically deliver equivalent power to electric powered guns as described above. Upgrades are also possible to achieve very powerful results. In fact, the upgrade potential for some gas rifles surpasses that of the AEGs. Note that gas rifles and most gas shotguns (except Maruzen's Remington M1100) are not blowback but use essentially the same mechanism described above but without the cycling feature. Of course, using the entire pocket of gas on the BB will generate higher power than when sharing the pocket of gas with the slide cycling action.

Getting started on Gas Guns To start on gas guns, you'll need to obviously get a gun, and the following: - A gas powered gun. - Large pack of 0.2g or 0.25g BBs - Canister of propellant gas, either HFC134a or HFC22, depending on the gun. The recommended type is specified on our site, beside each gun. - A BB bottle is a good idea since it makes loading BBs much easier (not pictured)

Hand-cocking spring - Entry Level & High End Bolt Weapons Hand-cocked pistols are entry level airsoft guns that are quite affordable. They do not use any form of power and requires you to pull the slide back in pre-tensioning a spring within the gun. When the trigger is pulled, the spring decompresses and forces air through a piston onto the BB, which in turn is propelled out of the gun. Hand-cocked pistols, frequently referred to as "spring guns", are a good way for people new to the sport to learn the basics of airsoft. While they are much lighter, are less powerful, and are slightly less detailed and refined in their finishing, they still retain the authentic style and shape of the real gun, and also possess the real trademarks as well. They are quite accurate as well and allow for decent target practice at ranges of 10 feet. Some long bolt action rifles are also hand-cocked but these are not considered entry level and can deliver ample power thanks to their long barrels.

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Getting started on Spring Guns or Bolt Rifles

To start on hand-cocking spring guns or bolt rifles, you will need the following: - A spring gun or bolt rifle. You can opt for an entry level spring gun or a high end bolt rifle. - Large pack of 0.2g or 0.25g BBs - Canister of silicone spray lubricant to keep moving parts well lubricated for durability - A BB bottle is a good idea since it makes loading BBs much easier

Electric Blowbacks These are relatively new to the airsoft scene and were introduced by one manufacturer in 2000. These entry-level models are not very powerful but using 4 AAA batteries, these guns use a motor to operate in much the same way as an AEG. The added bonus is the motor also cycles the slide on pistols. Electric blowbacks are designed for those who want to experiment with airsoft and want semi-auto functionality. However serious shooters and airsoft fans should opt for gas blowback pistols, which deliver far greater power, recoil, realism, accuracy and range. These fire in semi-auto mode, and are very light and basic on the details.

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Getting started on Electric Blowback Guns (EBB)

To start on electric blowbacks, you will need the following: - An EBB gun. Shop here. - Large pack of 0.2g or 0.25g BBs - Canister of silicone spray lubricant to keep moving parts well lubricated for durability - 4 AAA alkaline batteries

Minis These are toy variants that are scaled down versions of real guns. They use batteries and fire BBs out in full auto. Power is very weak but they make great plinkers at home and in the office. Serious airsoft fans should opt for all above options. To start on electric blowbacks, you'll need to obviously get a gun, and 4 AAA batteries, and a pack of 0.2g BBs. To enjoy the true spirit of airsoft, one must have experience in shooting a full-auto AEG or a gas blowback pistol. Words can hardly do justice to describe the fun in spraying targets with 12 -15 rounds per second, or the excitement of shooting a recoiling airsoft pistol. Have you dreamt about shooting an AK47, a silenced MP5 SD5, or even the exotic FN P90? How about emptying a Glock 17 or a full auto Glock 18C at targets. What about the hot high speed M11? How about taking out war-game opponents from a hill with your H&K PSG1 rifle? What about experiencing an all out simulations war-game with your friends and be able to walk away from exciting and adrenaline pumping battle at the end of the day with a smile (even after being hit?). Now you can. "Airsoft makes dreams come true."

How much will all this cost?

Depending on what type of gun you would like, and how many accessories and what types of power upgrades you wish for, the cost can vary greatly. A typical spring gun package will cost around USD$60 while a standard AEG package will run several hundred. You can estimate your price by simply browsing our shop pages to determine the total dollar amount of the products you desire.   Disclaimer   The author of this article does not encourage using airsoft weapons in public or displaying them in any manner to unknowing parties who will believe they are real. Doing so will bring yourself in danger with law enforcement authorities and possibly cause severe injury or death. There have been publicized cases where people have brandished airsoft weapons publicly in an irresponsible manner, and have been injured or killed by law enforcement officers. Please be sensible when enjoying airsoft, and keep it safe!   Customs Issues   Airsoft is legal in most countries, including the US, UK and most other countries in Europe. Airsoft is legal in Canada but Canadian customs have chosen to prohibit importation through mail-order and as such, we do not guarantee any sort of gun shipments there. Parts and accessory shipments to Canada are acceptable. All airsoft guns bought from licensed retailers are shipped in unaltered form to all countries where airsoft is legal. This means that the guns have all original trademarks (where they are engraved by the manufacturer) and no orange paint of any kind is applied. The one exception is the United States, where laws require that airsoft guns are marked to indicate that they are not real weapons. The US law states as follows: According to the regulation of the US Customs, the following applies: 1. Distinctive marking or device; exception; waiver; adjustments and changes     2. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) or (3), each toy, look-alike, or imitation firearm shall have as an integral part, permanently affixed, a blaze orange plug inserted in the barrel of such toy, look-alike, or imitation firearm. Such plug shall be recessed no more than 6 millimeters from the muzzle end of the barrel of such firearm.       (2) The Secretary of Commerce may provide for an alternate marking or device for any toy, look-alike, or imitation firearm not capable of being marked as provided in paragraph (1) and may waive the requirement of any such marking or device for any toy, look-alike, or imitation firearm that will only be used in the theatrical, movie or television industry.       (3) The Secretary is authorized to make adjustments and changes in the marking system provided for by this section, after consulting with interested persons. Every licensed airsoft retailer installs a blaze orange plastic flash-hider on most model AEGs, and also ships the original flash-hider to you as well. This will allow the gun to comply with the law and make it past customs. You can choose to replace the blaze orange flash-hider with the original one, though we encourage you not to take your airsoft gun out into public should you choose to do this. On some guns like the MP5SD series, there is no flash-hider so they are forced to paint a thin stripe of orange on the silencer muzzle. Similarly, gas blowback handguns and revolvers also have their tips painted orange. The retailer have installed blaze orange flash hiders on guns shipped to the USA to comply with import regulations. They also ship the original black metal flash hider should the guns be needed for theatrical purposes.   Beretta pistol with painted tip for US customs compliance   Where do I start?   Equipment you need to start skirmishing If all this seems to interest you, then reading this link's extensive reviews database will give you a taste of what is out there in the world of airsoft. click this link: http://redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/Home Once you get a better sense, go there to start shopping for your first airsoft gun and begin the experience that is taking the world by storm.

G&G LR-300 Standard Short (Licensed ZM Markings)

The real steel LR 300 is an assault rifle and conversion kit based on the AR-15 platform and is broadly similar to M16. The weapon is touted as an 'excellent entry weapon system' indicating a suitability for military use in close quarters battle due to its folding stock yet powerful selective fire weapon in 5.56. Particularly notable is the rifle's capability to use a fully folding skeletal stock due to the lack of requirement for a buffer tube; it uses an adapted version of the AR-15's standard direct impingement gas operating system which removes the need for one. This AEG utilizes a standard version 2 gearbox but otherwise includes a variety of design features that make it a little easier to strip and maintain and yet still run just like an M4; it has an odd little ergonomic grip that?s rather charming and comfortable but of course can still take the usual modfare of Magpulization and whatnot should you choose. The weapon is full metal with steel components and high strength polymer furniture; the stock is multi-position with 5 increments besides also being foldable (to the left, against the gun for a compact form of 23 inches). The weapon also features authentic markings as a licensed replica of the real thing. 


source: http://www.redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/AEG_AEP_G_G_G_G_LR_300_Standard_Short_Licensed_ZM_Markings.htm

Tokyo Marui Short Fore Grip Flat (Dark Earth)

For those who do not use the vertical grip in true vertical fashion but instead use it with an angled grip, thumb over bore, angle cradled style or just have small hands then you will find full length vertical grips excessive for use and may get in the way of confined environment or at least packing for transport. The short grip gives you just enough contact zone to hold vertically or a more angled grip without having to go any further then needed. Particularly useful of you are the type to switch back and for between vertical, angle and horizontal grip styles on the go. 

The attachment system uses a pair of spring loaded bars to quick-attach to accessory rails; it is rather fiddly to get on but that does make it one of the most solid spring-mount attaching modules on the market. This model does have removable panels on the side for installing a paddle switch (for flash light and lasers) albeit it a very short space for a very short switch. 


source: http://www.redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/Accessories_Grips_and_Stocks_AEG_Tokyo_Marui_Short_Fore_Grip_Flat_Dark_Earth.htm

KTW SPAS Custom Shotgun

The proportions may be a little off, its weight might be light and its plastic components may make it seem toy like but do not go judging this book by its cover. 

For your not that much money spent, you get a pump-action weapon with a 60 round tube that puts out 1 BB per shot as fast as you can rack the slide. Clocking in at 375fps it is not a toy, it can compete outdoors and while it may not a long range shooter, its practically a rifle by indoor and short range standards. 

It shoots very consistently under its spring generated power and with surprisingly light pump strength for a weapon of this power it cycles pretty quick too. The top rail is proper 20mm but the profile shape is a little odd so while most rail attach devices are more forgiving and would fit this, some less conventional attachments may not sit quite right even though most will do fine. The solid stock offers a nice break but keep an eye out for the after-market folding stock attachment for this baby. 

If your interest still is not peaked at this budget buy, the rear iron sight is also a camouflaged selector which when moved to the forward position will switch from 1 BB per shot mode to 2 BB per shot mode. The secondary mode consumes ammo at twice the rate but puts out a miniature spread pattern to increase the chances of a hit or just rain down suppressive fire that much more effectively. 


source: http://www.redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/Shotguns_Dongsan_KTW_KTW_SPAS_Custom.htm

G&P Complete Bolt Carrier Set (Negative Pressure) for (WA) Western Arms M4 GBB

If you're looking to replace your entire bolt carrier and nozzle set, you may consider the G&P Bolt Carrier and Negative Pressure Nozzle Complete Set.

This complete set includes a hardened Bolt Carrier and a Negative Pressure Loading Nozzle Set and pre-assembled and ready for use. Simply take your old bolt carrier out, and drop this new set right in, and you're good to go!

Unlike the stock Western Arms system, the amount of gas used per shot by the Negative Pressure Nozzle Set is instead regulated by an independent valve inside the nozzle without the need for contact between a floating valve's plunger and the BB. Thus creating a steady output of gas regardless on how solid the contact between the BB and the nozzle, thereby reducing the chances of Projectile Dysfunction!

So if you're looking for a steadier output, whilst reducing the chances of misfires and other similar issues, the Negative Pressure Loading Nozzle Set is your perfect choice, along with the hardened Bolt Carrier you can keep banging away all day, and all of the night! 

source: http://www.redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/Accessories_GBB_Bolt_Carriers_Related_Parts_G_P_Complete_Bolt_Carrier_Set_Negative_Pressure_for_WA_Western_Arms_M4_GBB.htm

Tokyo Marui EMOD Stock Flat (Dark Earth)

A later improved version of the Crane stock, the EMOD Stock or Mod Stock as they are more commonly known, features the same 6-position telescopic adjustment and increased interior space to accommodate a rear-wire battery in the form of a tri-stick crane stock battery solution. This mode goes a step further by making the side panels removable so you can reduce the mass of the stock if youa re not using the battery compartment. With yet more additional space in the form of a small hatch-accessible compartment, it can store miscellaneous odds and ends like AA / AAA / 9v batteries, small Allen/hex keys or even a dozen M&Ms if you so choose. 

The stock itself is a very durable, fairly lightweight (though heavier then a standard M4 polymer adjustable stock) piece which hold up well to long term wear and tear. The butt plate is both rubberized and textured to improve grip, hold and comfort to a degree. 

The rear stored battery option s is particularly useful in M4s with rail systems as they lack the space to store the battery in the front and externally wiring a battery box is not the neatest or prettiest solution. Also, the rear wired battery helps to pull a bit more weight to the rear of the weapon which goes some measure in balancing the weapon a little better (although not much if you are using a metal rail system anyway). The additional compartment can be handy for holding a spare Allen key for adjusting sights or attaching/removing accessories or even emergency field repairs if so needed. 


source: http://www.redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/Accessories_Grips_and_Stocks_AEG_Tokyo_Marui_EMOD_Stock_Flat_Dark_Earth.htm

King Arms AK47S TDI Style

Full metal AK-47 with modern style tactical polymer furniture. Aluminium receiver and outer barrel, steel top plate, rails, trigger guard, magazine catch, rear sling loop and frame stock. The front furniture features mid length accessory rails on the top and bottom as well as short rails on both sides; a great setup for adding rail attach accessories like scopes, lasers, flashlights, bipods and even grenade launchers. 

The front furniture has side ribs for enhance hand grip texture whilst the pistol grip is polymer and features deep ergonomic finger grooves for a very comfortable position and enough depth for use with or without gloves. 

Full length AKs like these have inner barrels over 40cm / 16 inches long, a receiver that tidily takes an internally stored 9.6v stick battery (not included), an AK type motor winding though a version 3 gearbox pushing out 350 fps feeding from the included 600 round high capacity magazine. AKs like these are not just good AEGs, they make for natural machine guns; many experienced users know that by slapping on the right sort of magazine, scope and accessories you can make this a pretty effective squad support weapon whilst still maintaining a rifle weight advantage over proper machine guns. 

Take it one step further, the King Arms AK takes King Arms AK magazines as well as Tokyo Marui and G&P variations. Baring this in mind, AKs have one of the most significant cross-model-compatibility of AEG magazines meaning that if you find an Airsoft AEG AK magazine, chances are it will work inside this thing. The version 3 gearbox and slide-tab hop-up and tried and tested standard designs which are not only bench mark performers but cross compatible with a plethora if aftermarket modifications should you which to drop in a higher power spring, a faster or stronger motor or a reinforced piston. It also makes long term maintenance as simple as finding a store that stocks the most common AEG parts. If M4s are the most common and prolific series in Airsoft, AKs are a very close second. 

At a full size 90cm / 35 inches the AK-47 is an imposing rifle but certainly not small but folding down the steel front swinging frame stock on this model reduced it to a far more reasonable 66cm / 26 inches when you need to operate is smaller spaces. Classic issues found on older AK types are not found on these newer ones; the top plate is wobble free and while the stock has a little give in the hinge rotation the hinge lock is damned solid with an effective balance of rigid form yet smooth movement when needed. 

If you are looking for a market dominatingly compatible AEG rifle series that can be modded up down and sideways in circles around other models which performs up there with the best of them but not only want to avoid the M4 but western weapons in general then the AK must just be the rifle you are looking for. 

If you want a team standard rifle that go be found in various forms and formats to do a whole team range of jobs but what to show some kind of stand-off styling against the ARs in the enemy team, this might just be the rifle you are looking for. 

If you want something large, loud, aggressive, massive capacity yet light enough to keep pace with most weapons half its threat level then this just might be the rifle you are looking for. 


source: http://www.redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/AEG_AEP_King_Arms_King_Arms_AK47S_TDI_Style.htm