As an airsoft enthusiast, I know first-hand that the diverse world of airsoft guns offers many options for players of all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re a beginner looking to join your first skirmish or an experienced player seeking to expand your arsenal, it’s crucial to understand the different types of airsoft guns available.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into various airsoft gun categories, from rifles, shotguns, and handguns to more specialized options such as sniper rifles, submachine guns, and launcher systems. We’ll also explore unique and custom airsoft guns for those looking to stand out on the battlefield.
So, let’s dive in and explore the exciting world of airsoft weapons.
Airsoft guns come in various types, each offering unique features and capabilities to suit different preferences and gameplay styles.
Airsoft Rifles
Often the primary choice for players, airsoft rifles provide accuracy, range, and versatility. These can be categorized into three subtypes: Automatic Electric Guns (AEGs), Gas Blowback Rifles (GBBRs), and Spring-powered rifles.
AEGs are battery-operated, offering semi-automatic and fully automatic firing options, while GBBRs utilize gas (usually propane or CO2) to generate realistic recoil and require manual cycling of the bolt.
Spring-powered rifles, on the other hand, necessitate manual cocking before each shot but are known for their reliability and low maintenance.
Here are 5 recommendations for airsoft rifles:
- Tokyo Marui M4A1 Carbine (AEG)
- Krytac LVOA-C (AEG)
- GHK M4 RIS (GBBR)
- VFC Avalon Saber (AEG)
- ASG CZ Scorpion EVO 3 A1 (AEG)
Airsoft Shotguns
Perfect for close-quarters combat, airsoft shotguns deliver a spread of BBs with each pull of the trigger, simulating the effect of real-life shotguns. They are available in spring-powered, gas-powered, and electric varieties.
Spring-powered shotguns require manual pumping before each shot, while gas-powered shotguns offer semi-automatic firing and a more realistic shooting experience. Electric shotguns are less common but provide a more consistent rate of fire.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft shotguns:
- Tokyo Marui AA-12 (AEG)
- ASG Franchi SAS 12 (Spring)
- CYMA CM350M (Spring)
- G&G G980 KAR98 (Gas)
- Jag Arms Scattergun (Gas)
Airsoft Handguns
Compact and easy to maneuver, airsoft handguns serve as reliable sidearms in the field. They can be categorized into Gas Blowback (GBB), Non-Blowback (NBB), and Spring-powered handguns.
GBB handguns use gas to provide a realistic blowback action, replicating the feel of a real firearm, while NBB handguns still use gas but lack the blowback feature, offering a more budget-friendly option.
Spring-powered handguns, the most affordable option, require manual cocking before each shot but are well-suited for beginners or as backup weapons.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft handguns:
- Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1 (GBB)
- Elite Force 1911 Tac (GBB)
- KWA M9 PTP (GBB)
- ASG CZ P-09 (GBB)
- Umarex Walther P99 DAO (AEG)
Airsoft Sniper Rifles
Designed for long-range engagements, airsoft sniper rifles offer exceptional accuracy and precision. These high-powered weapons come in three main types: Spring-powered, Gas-powered, and Electric (AEG).
Spring-powered sniper rifles are the most common, requiring manual bolt-action cycling for each shot, while gas-powered variants offer more consistent velocity and easier bolt cycling.
AEG sniper rifles, though less popular, provide semi-automatic firing but often require upgrades to match the performance of their spring and gas counterparts.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft sniper rifles:
- Tokyo Marui VSR-10 (Spring)
- Novritsch SSG24 (Spring)
- Well MB08 (Spring)
- ARES Amoeba Striker AS01 (Spring)
- KJW M700 (Gas)
Airsoft Submachine Guns (SMGs)
Compact and lightweight, airsoft SMGs are ideal for fast-paced, close-quarters engagements. They come in Automatic Electric Gun (AEG) and Gas Blowback (GBB) varieties, offering rapid rates of fire and maneuverability.
AEG SMGs are battery-powered and can be set to semi-automatic or fully automatic firing modes, while GBB SMGs use gas to generate a realistic blowback action and rate of fire similar to their real-life counterparts.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft SMGs:
- Tokyo Marui VSR-10 (Spring)
- Novritsch SSG24 (Spring)
- Well MB08 (Spring)
- ARES Amoeba Striker AS01 (Spring)
- KJW M700 (Gas)
Airsoft Light Machine Guns (LMGs)
Airsoft LMGs replicate the support weapon role in the field, providing sustained fire and suppressive capabilities. These heavier, belt-fed, or magazine-fed guns come in Automatic Electric Gun (AEG) and Gas Blowback (GBB) varieties.
AEG LMGs are powered by batteries and can fire in fully automatic mode, while GBB LMGs use gas to deliver realistic recoil and manual cycling of the weapon. LMGs generally have larger ammo capacities than rifles, making them perfect for laying down continuous fire during skirmishes.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft light machine guns:
- A&K M249 MKII (AEG)
- G&G CM16 LMG (AEG)
- Krytac Trident LMG (AEG)
- CYMA RPK (AEG)
- LCT PKP (AEG)
Airsoft Launcher Systems
Although not as common in airsoft games, launcher systems can add a unique tactical element to the field. These specialized weapons typically utilize gas or CO2 to fire foam projectiles or shower shells, simulating grenades and rocket launcher effects.
Launcher systems can be standalone weapons or attached to rifles as under-barrel grenade launchers, providing players with the ability to engage targets with indirect fire or clear out entrenched positions.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft launchers:
- ICS MGL MK-1 (Gas)
- ASG B&T GL-06 (Gas)
- Madbull XM203 Short (Gas)
- G&P M203 Grenade Launcher (Gas)
- Matrix RPG-7 (Gas)
Airsoft PolarStar/HPA Systems
High-Pressure Air (HPA) systems, like PolarStar, represent a niche but highly customizable segment of airsoft guns. These guns use a compressed air tank and regulator to deliver consistent and adjustable velocity and rate of fire.
HPA systems can be installed in various platforms, including rifles, SMGs, and LMGs, offering unparalleled performance and fine-tuning capabilities.
Although HPA guns require additional investment in air tanks and regulators, their consistency, responsiveness, and adaptability make them a popular choice among experienced airsoft players.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft HPA systems:
- PolarStar Fusion Engine (HPA)
- Wolverine Airsoft MTW (HPA)
- Tippmann M4 Carbine (HPA)
- Redline N7 MilSim M4 (HPA)
- Protech Airsoft MK2.5 (HPA)
Airsoft Training Weapons
Designed primarily for law enforcement and military training purposes, airsoft training weapons closely replicate the form, function, and weight of real firearms.
These highly realistic guns often feature Gas Blowback (GBB) systems to simulate recoil and manual operation, offering a more immersive training experience. While not as commonly used in recreational airsoft games, training weapons can be employed by players seeking the most authentic and realistic gameplay possible.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft training weapons:
- KWA LM4 PTR (GBB)
- Umarex T4E HDS (CO2)
- Blueguns Sig Sauer P320 (Training Replica)
- Rings Blue Guns Glock 17 (Training Replica)
- ASP Red Gun Smith & Wesson M&P (Training Replica)
Airsoft Custom and Unique Airsoft Guns
For those looking to stand out on the battlefield or express their creativity, custom and unique airsoft guns provide a wide range of options.
From highly stylized and modified base platforms to one-of-a-kind, handcrafted designs, these guns can be tailored to the player’s preferences in terms of aesthetics, performance, and functionality. Some examples include steampunk-themed guns, sci-fi-inspired blasters, and replicas of rare or historical firearms.
While custom and unique airsoft guns may not always offer the same level of performance as their mass-produced counterparts, they can add a distinctive flair and personal touch to the airsoft experience.
Here are 5 recommended custom and unique airsoft guns:
- RedWolf Custom SAI GRY SBR (AEG)
- Evike Custom Class I G&P M4 (AEG)
- Airsoft GI Custom P90 Reaper (AEG)
- Black Ops Airsoft Custom AK74U (AEG)
- Evike Custom “The Gambler” Revolver (GBB)
Airsoft Revolvers
A classic option for players seeking a unique sidearm, airsoft revolvers offer a break from traditional semi-automatic pistols.
Available in both Gas Blowback (GBB) and Spring-powered versions, these guns closely mimic the operation and aesthetics of real revolvers. GBB revolvers typically utilize CO2 or green gas cartridges, providing a realistic shooting experience with each trigger pull, while spring-powered revolvers require manual cocking before each shot.
Though airsoft revolvers may have a lower ammunition capacity compared to other handguns, their distinct appearance and operation make them a popular choice for collectors and players alike.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft revolvers:
- ASG Dan Wesson 715 (CO2)
- Elite Force H8R (CO2)
- Tokyo Marui Python .357 (Gas)
- WinGun Nagant M1895 (CO2)
- Umarex S&W M&P R8 (CO2)
Airsoft DMRs (Designated Marksman Rifles)
Bridging the gap between assault rifles and sniper rifles, airsoft DMRs offer increased range and accuracy while maintaining a higher rate of fire than their bolt-action counterparts.
Usually based on AEG platforms, DMRs often feature upgraded internal components, such as tight-bore barrels, high-torque motors, and reinforced gearboxes, to achieve consistent long-range performance.
Some gas-powered and HPA DMR variants also exist, providing additional options for players seeking a semi-automatic precision rifle with realistic operation.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft DMRs:
- G&G GR25 SPR (AEG)
- VFC SR25 KAC MK11 MOD0 (AEG)
- Classic Army CA110 (AEG)
- Tokyo Marui M14 SOCOM (AEG)
- ARES Amoeba Striker AS03 (Spring)
Airsoft Bullpups
Characterized by their unique design, where the action and magazine are located behind the trigger group, airsoft bullpups offer compact size without sacrificing barrel length or performance.
Bullpup airsoft guns can be found on various platforms, including AEG, GBB, and HPA systems, and are available in multiple styles, such as the AUG, FAMAS, and Tavor.
These compact rifles provide increased maneuverability in tight spaces while maintaining the accuracy and range of traditional rifle designs, making them a popular option for players seeking a distinctive and versatile primary weapon.
Here are 5 recommended airsoft bullpups:
- ICS L85A2 (AEG)
- Tokyo Marui FAMAS F1 (AEG)
- Umarex H&K G36C (AEG)
- ARES Tavor TAR-21 (AEG)
- Classic Army FN P90 (AEG)
Conclusion
The dynamic world of airsoft guns offers a multitude of options to cater to players with diverse preferences, playstyles, and tactical requirements.
By exploring the various types of airsoft weapons, from rifles, shotguns, and handguns to specialized options like sniper rifles, submachine guns, and launcher systems, players can make informed decisions when selecting their ideal weaponry.
Additionally, custom and unique airsoft guns provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to stand out and personalize their airsoft experience.
As you venture into the thrilling realm of airsoft, remember that the key to success lies not only in the weapon you choose but also in the skills, tactics, and camaraderie that define this exhilarating sport.
