What Do Airsoft Guns Shoot?

Background

Airsoft guns are imitation firearms that typically closely resemble a real-world firearm counterpart. Although these guns are used worldwide in the sport of airsoft and for military and law enforcement firearms training, the technology behind the design of the guns has tremendously evolved over the years. Popularly used for many recreational purposes, modern airsoft guns are largely constructed using a variety of materials such as ABS plastic, metal, and wood. Depending on the gun model, they often include features such as adjustable hop-up for lifetime accuracy and pistols with working slide action.

Types of Airsoft Guns

There are three popular types of airsoft guns: spring-powered, electric, and gas. Spring-powered is the oldest type of airsoft gun and require the player to manually cock the weapon after each shot. Electric airsoft guns typically use battery-powered motors which cycle through each time the player pulls the trigger. Finally, gas-powered airsoft guns are powered via a gas propellant like CO2 or HFC 134a, which can make the gun fire at higher velocities than other types.

Ammunition Used

Airsoft guns shoot out 6mm or 8mm plastic pellets, usually referred to as BBs. These pellets range from 0.12 g in the lightest weight, all the way up to 0.43g for the heaviest. The pellets come in two colors: biodegradable (green) and non-biodegradable (white), and it is strongly recommended to use biodegradable BBs to reduce environmental impact.

Velocity

The main attribute of an airsoft gun is the muzzle velocity, or the speed at which the BBs fly out of the barrel. Depending on the gun and type of ammunition used, the velocity of the gun averages around 200-300 fps (feet per second) for a spring-powered gun, 300-450 fps for a gas-powered one, and 350-400 fps for a battery-powered electric one.

Safety

When using airsoft guns, it is important to also take into account safety. For playing in a competitive setting, safety goggles or full face masks are a must. Players should also be aware of the local laws in the area as some states or countries may have restrictions on the use of these guns.

Insights

From the past to the present, airsoft guns have developed drastically and with it, the technology behind them. Though primarily used for recreational purposes, the guns provide a popular pastime for many players around the world. As long as the appropriate safety measures are taken and regulations kept, airsoft gun enthusiasts can enjoy their activitiesno matter the gun typewith the knowledge of what the guns are shooting.