Airsoft guns come in three main varieties – spring-powered, gas, and automatic electric (AEGs). However, this article compares spring-powered and automatic electric (AEG) airsoft guns.
Learn the key pros and cons of each type and when to choose a springer vs an AEG. Factors covered include firing modes, FPS, range, accuracy, customization, realism, maintenance, affordability, and more. Use this breakdown to select the best airsoft gun type for your needs and budget.
What is a Spring-Powered Airsoft Gun?
Spring-powered or springer airsoft guns operate by harnessing the mechanical energy of a coiled spring. When you manually cock the spring-loaded piston, the spring compresses. Pulling the trigger releases the piston, allowing the spring to expand and propel the BB pellet down the barrel.
This single-action process repeats with each trigger pull and manual recocking of the piston. Springers do not require batteries or electric motors. The spring provides all the power, hence their simplicity compared to AEGs. The spring strength determines the muzzle velocity and range potential.
The main benefits of spring airsoft guns include:
- Simplicity – Spring guns have fewer moving parts and are easier to maintain than AEGs. This makes them more beginner-friendly.
- Affordability – Spring pistols and rifles are generally cheaper than their electric counterparts. This makes them ideal for new players on a budget.
- Realism – Since they lack motors and batteries, spring guns better replicate the action of real firearms.
On the downside, springers sacrifice performance and convenience:
- Lower FPS – Spring guns shoot at lower feet per second (FPS) speeds than AEGs. This results in less range and accuracy.
- Single shot – Most spring guns only allow for single-shot firing before you have to manually recock the gun. This makes springers slower in speedsoft gameplay.
- Not customizable – There are fewer aftermarket modification options to upgrade springer performance.
What is an Automatic Electric Gun (AEG)?
An automatic electric gun (AEG) uses an electric motor and gearbox to automatically cycle BBs and enable semi-automatic or full-automatic firing. Inside the AEG gearbox, a motor turns a series of gears that drawback a piston to cock the spring-loaded piston head.
When the piston is released, it pushes a BB into the barrel and fires it outwards using compressed air. AEGs are powered by rechargeable batteries, usually 7.4v or 11.1v LiPo or 9.6v NiMH types. This gives them rapid rates of fire unachievable with spring airsoft guns.
Benefits of AEGs include:
- Faster firing – AEGs can fire in fully automatic mode at up to 30 rounds per second. This enables tactical rapid firing.
- Higher FPS – AEGs shoot at 300-400+ FPS, giving them long range and accuracy. This is good for field games.
- Customization – Aftermarket parts allow for enhancing AEG performance. You can upgrade the inner barrel, motor, battery, hop-up bucking, and more.
Downsides of AEGs:
- Complexity – More components mean more maintenance and chances of malfunction. AEGs require gearbox work.
- Expensive – High-quality AEGs cost significantly more than spring guns. Batteries and chargers add to the costs too.
- Heavy – Larger gearboxes and batteries increase AEG weight compared to springers.
Spring Vs AEG Airsoft Guns Compared
| Metric | Spring Airsoft Gun | AEG Airsoft Gun |
|---|---|---|
| Firing Mode | Single shot | Semi-auto, full-auto |
| Rate of Fire | 1 round/manual cocking | Up to 30 rounds/sec |
| FPS Speed | 200-350 FPS | 300-400+ FPS |
| Effective Range | 50-150 ft | 150-250+ ft |
| Accuracy | Fair | Excellent |
| Customization | Minimal | Extensive upgrade options |
| Realism | Excellent | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Moderate – high |
| Affordability | $50 – $100 | $150 – $500+ |
| Weight | Light | Moderate – heavy |
As you can see, each type has strengths and weaknesses that suit different airsoft applications.
When Should You Choose a Spring Airsoft Gun?
Here are the best situations to choose a spring-powered airsoft rifle or pistol:
- Backyard plinking – Spring guns work well for casual target practice since power and range are less important.
- CQB games – Many close-quarters battle (CQB) fields limit FPS to around 350, which spring guns can reach.
- Sidearms – Spring pistols make affordable yet reliable sidearms to complement an AEG primary.
- Younger players – The simplicity and safety of springers make them ideal starter airsoft guns for kids and teens.
- Tight budget – If money is limited, a basic spring gun still allows enjoying airsoft for under $100. Upgrade later as your budget allows.
When Should You Choose an AEG?
AEGs excel in these airsoft scenarios:
- Outdoor field games – AEGs have the range and accuracy for woodland and tactical fields. They can engage opponents over 150+ feet.
- High FPS limits – If your local field allows 400 FPS or more, AEGs can take full advantage of maximum range and impact.
- Speedsoft – Fast semi-auto and full-auto fire is essential for Speedsoft’s fast-paced gameplay.
- Custom builds – AEGs offer the most upgrade potential through aftermarket parts. Create a unique custom airsoft gun configured to your playing style.
- When Realism is Less Important – While AEGs are less realistic than springers, their performance often takes priority over realism for sports players.
Airsoft Gun Safety and Maintenance
Safe handling and proper maintenance are crucial for any airsoft gun. Here are some key safety and care tips for spring and AEG airsoft guns:
General Safety
- Always wear ANSI-rated full-seal eye protection when using an airsoft gun. BBs can cause serious eye injuries.
- Treat airsoft guns as you would real firearms – do not aim at people or objects you don’t intend to shoot. Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
- Never brandish airsoft guns in public, as they can be easily mistaken for real guns. Transport unloaded in a case.
- Make sure to chronograph your airsoft guns and adhere to field FPS limits. Overpowered guns can harm others.
Spring Gun Safety and Maintenance
- Check O-rings regularly for wear and lubricate with silicone oil to maintain the air seal. Replace worn O-rings for optimal efficiency.
- Clean the inner barrel periodically with a cotton swab to remove residue. This maintains accuracy.
- Avoid leaving the spring compressed when storing spring rifles. Release the tension to prolong spring coil life.
AEG Safety and Maintenance
- Confirm the battery is disconnected before cleaning and maintain the fire selector on safe.
- Inspect gearbox, wires, and motor connections periodically. Repair any issues immediately.
- Clean the inner barrel and bucking with isopropyl alcohol to prevent jamming.
- Shim the gearbox properly to avoid grinding and premature wear. Replace worn gears.
- Use a smart LiPo charger to avoid overcharging batteries and potential fires and store them at room temperature.
Conclusion
Choosing between spring and electric airsoft guns involves weighing factors like budget, performance needs, realism, and customization desires. Spring guns provide an accessible entry point for new recreational players, while advanced sports players and MilSim participants favor AEGs for superior range, speed, and customization.
Consider your needs and gameplay style as you decide between these two main airsoft gun types. You’ll enjoy countless hours of backyard target practice or intense team battle gameplay with the right selection.
