Airsoft 101: Types of Airsoft Guns

Spring-powered replicas have the simplest operating system and tend to be the cheapest. They are always single-shot, requiring the user to pull back the slide, bolt handle, or forend pump on the replica between every shot. They do not require batteries or gas to function. Lower-end spring guns are best for shooting stationary targets at close range, such as pop cans or paper targets.

Disadvantages of spring guns include the inability to put a lot of BBs down range in a short amount of time compared to their gas or electric counterparts. They can be impractical when playing against other players with AEGs, GBB, or HPA airsoft guns. These replicas can also be hard to cock back for younger and weaker users due to their heavy spring tensions.

A good example of a low-end spring gun is the Cybergun Kahr Arms TP45. This airsoft pistol is incredibly cheap and easy to use. Spring shotguns are a good mid-range option that airsoft players typically utilize for indoor airsoft. They often shoot three bbs at once ("Tri-Shot') and Chrono under all indoor field limits. An example of a tri-shot is the ASG Franchi SPAS 12. Bolt action snipers are usually the highest grade of spring guns on the market and can be used competitively on any airsoft field. There is plenty of aftermarket support for them and they have the potential to shoot farther than any of their counterparts. One fantastic example of a spring sniper is the Silverback Airsoft Tac-41P Bolt Action Sniper Rifle. 

Automatic electric guns (AEG for short) are the most common type of airsoft guns across the hobby. Recommended for beginners who want to get out and play while being able to keep up with seasoned airsoft players. If you have ever rented an airsoft replica at an airsoft field, it was more than likely an AEG! AEGs are able to send BBs down range much quicker in true semi and full-automatic fashion. They are powered by a rechargeable battery pack that supplies electricity to an internal electric motor that allows the gearbox to function. Along with the replica, users need to purchase both a battery and a charger.

The main disadvantage to an AEG consists of batteries dying mid game. This requires the user to either switch to a fully charged battery or return to the staging area to charge their dead one.

There are thousands of AEGs to choose from, and selection can be overwhelming. Luckily, we can point you in the direction of several great AEGs that any beginner can use! First, we have the tried and true G&G Combat Machine. This airsoft rifle is a super popular platform amongst new players due to its low price point, rugged design, and variety of styles. Second, we have the Cyma AK variants. These AK replicas come in many different styles and are also known for being virtually indestructible and affordable. Our final recommendation is Specna Arms. Specna is a relatively new airsoft company that continues to blow us away with the amount of value the user gets out of the box. With styles and options across the spectrum, Specna Arms will not disappoint. 

Gas blowback guns (GBB) are airsoft guns powered by green gas or CO2. Most commonly found in pistols, GBBs use compressed gas to allow the firing mechanism to function. The gas is typically stored in the replica's detachable magazine as a slot for a CO2 tank or a fill valve and chamber for green gas. This system is the most realistic, providing the user with slight recoil and a reciprocating bolt or slide. Thus, the term "blowback."

Gas blowbacks also have some disadvantages. Green gas systems struggle to perform in colder climates, making them obsolete for outdoor winter games. They also tend to weigh more and do not support high ammo capacities.

As previously mentioned, gas blowbacks are commonly seen in airsoft pistol replicas. One such replica that we recommend is the Action Army AAP-01, an incredibly efficient and customizable green gas-powered pistol. With its incredibly low price point, it is the most reliable and easiest way for anyone to get into a gas pistol. Another fantastic option for a beginner is the Elite Force M1911, powered by CO2. This incredibly rugged replica is tried and tested and gives the user the full effect of what a sturdy gas blowback gun really is. Although most gas-powered guns are pistols, there are also a variety of rifles, shotguns, and even light machine guns that are powered by similar systems. Typically, these systems are reserved for players who have experience in the hobby due to their selective nature, but if you are looking for a challenge, a good starter gas gun is the Umarex H&K UMP gas blowback sub-gun. This replica is light in nature and affordable compared to its other gas blowback counterparts. 

The final type of airsoft gun we are discussing today is high-pressure air (HPA). Amped Airsoft excels when it comes to HPA knowledge and experience. Have you ever seen a small hose coming out of an airsoft gun and didn't know what it was for? The line is an indicative feature of a gun powered by high-pressure air. HPA guns are powered by an external air tank connected to the airsoft gun via the hose coming out of the bottom of the airsoft gun. This hose runs to the gun's internal pneumatic engine, which is responsible for firing the gun. Some of these HPA engines require a fire control unit (FCU) to fire. These microcomputers control the engine's performance and require a small 7.4 battery with a JST connector. Without going into too much detail, HPA is typically reserved for players who have quite a lot of experience in the hobby.

Like its counterparts, HPA has its downsides. HPA tanks can be heavy and awkward to carry on your kit while you play. The smaller or younger the player, the more this can be cumbersome and uncomfortable. HPA is also very expensive compared to all other airsoft gun types because you typically have to buy an AEG and the engine separately, as well as a tank, airline, regulator, and several other components.

If you want to purchase an airsoft HPA rifle, we offer a plethora of complete HPA builds on our website that walk you through all the options you'd need to get started. If you'd like to check out one of these complete build sets, look no further than the Amped Custom HPA Krytac MKII-M CRB! This custom build will allow you to customize nearly every aspect of your HPA build, allowing you to spend as much or as little as your heart desires. If you want to purchase a phenomenal HPA rifle that is ready to go, look no further than Wolverine Airsoft! Wolverine HPA guns take all of the guesswork out of building an HPA rifle. Other than a complete tank set up, Wolverine is your one stop shop for a high quality airsoft gun. If this is appealing, check out the Wolverine MTW Tactical Carbine.

No matter what airsoft gun type you purchase, it's important that YOU love what you buy and that you get out to the field and use it! If you aren't sure, most fields rent airsoft guns so you can try them before you buy them. If you have any questions, feel free to write to me at eric@ampedairsoft.com. And don't forget to keep checking out our blogs for more information about beginning airsoft!