Understanding the Differences Between Gas, Electric, and Spring-Powered Airsoft Guns
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In this blog, we aim to demystify the different types of airsoft guns available to you. We will delve into the distinct characteristics that set gas, electric, and spring-powered models apart from one another.
Venturing into the exciting realm of airsoft can be both thrilling and a bit daunting, especially when faced with the seemingly endless array of airsoft guns available on the market. The variety can be overwhelming for newcomers trying to navigate their options. At Airsoft Extreme, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive selection of airsoft guns to suit every player's needs and preferences. Our collection includes gas-powered models known for their realistic blowback action, electric-powered guns that provide consistent performance and are easy to maintain, and spring-powered models which are often praised for their simplicity and low cost.
In this blog, we aim to demystify the different types of airsoft guns available to you. We will delve into the distinct characteristics that set gas, electric, and spring-powered models apart from one another. Additionally, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of each type, providing you with a well-rounded understanding that will help you make an informed decision about which airsoft gun best fits your playing style and needs. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your collection, this guide will serve as a helpful resource in your airsoft journey.
Introduction to Airsoft Gun Types
Gas Airsoft Guns
Gas airsoft guns are powered by gas, typically green gas, propane, or CO2. The gas is injected into the gun or the gun’s magazine, and is used to propel the BB forward and operate the action of the gun. Gas airsoft guns are the most similar to real guns, as they replicate the action of a real gun and have blowback, meaning there is a bolt or slide moves each time you shoot. They are a popular choice for experienced players who seek a more realistic shooting – or combat, when used – experience.
At Airsoft Extreme, we offer a wide range of gas airsoft guns, including gas rifles, gas pistols, gas submachine guns, and gas sniper rifles.
Electric Airsoft Guns
Electric airsoft guns, also known as AEGs (Automatic Electric Guns), are the most popular type of airsoft gun. They have an air compressor built into the body of the gun, which in turn is powered by a rechargeable battery pack that is inserted into the gun. They are capable of both semi-automatic and fully automatic fire. Electric airsoft guns are a great option for both beginners and experienced players, as they are easy to use, are fairly easy to maintain, and deliver more performance for the money than other types of guns.
At Airsoft Extreme, we offer a wide range of electric rifles, which are the most common and best performing type of electric airsoft gun.
Spring-Powered Airsoft Guns
Spring-powered airsoft guns are the most basic type of airsoft gun. They are powered by a spring-driven piston, which is compressed when the gun is cocked by hand. When the trigger is pulled, the spring is released, driving the piston forward to compress air, which then propels the BB forward. Spring-powered airsoft guns are single-shot, meaning they must be manually cocked each time you want to shoot. They are the least expensive type of airsoft gun and are not capable of automatic fire.
At Airsoft Extreme, we offer a range of spring-powered airsoft guns, including spring rifles, spring pistols, and spring shotguns.
Electric Powered Airsoft Guns
How Electric Airsoft Guns Work
Electric airsoft guns, often referred to as AEGs, which stands for Automatic Electric Guns, have earned the distinction of being the most popular type of airsoft gun among enthusiasts and players alike. These remarkable replicas are designed to closely mimic the appearance and handling of their real firearm counterparts, providing an authentic experience. One of the standout features of AEGs is their unparalleled customizability, making them a favorite choice for those who enjoy personalizing their gear. AEGs offer a vast array of upgrades and accessories, allowing users to tailor their airsoft guns to suit their preferences and tactical needs. From enhancing performance with high-torque motors and precision barrels to adding aesthetic flair with various external modifications, the possibilities for customization are incredibly varied. This adaptability not only enhances the functionality of the AEGs but also allows players to express their individuality on the field.
Electric-Powered Airsoft Guns: What to Look For
When it comes to electric airsoft guns, there are a few key factors to consider.
Quality
When selecting an electric airsoft gun, it's crucial to prioritize quality as one of the most important factors in your decision-making process. Opting for a model that boasts superior quality can significantly enhance your overall experience, as it ensures the gun will offer greater durability, reliability, and accuracy over time. A high-quality airsoft gun is less likely to malfunction or require frequent repairs, allowing you to focus more on your gameplay rather than on maintenance issues. To achieve this, it's wise to conduct thorough research and seek out manufacturers and brands that have earned a strong reputation for crafting exceptional airsoft guns. These reputable manufacturers often have a long-standing history of producing top-notch products that are trusted by enthusiasts and professionals alike. By investing in a well-crafted airsoft gun from a recognized brand, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your equipment is built to perform at its best in various scenarios.
Upgradability
If you're eager to dive into the world of customizing your airsoft gun, it's essential to select an electric airsoft gun that offers a high degree of upgradability. This flexibility allows you to tailor your weapon to meet your specific preferences and enhance its performance. Among the plethora of options available, certain brands stand out for their reputation in crafting airsoft guns that are particularly conducive to upgrades. Renowned names such as VFC,, Specna and Classic Army have carved a niche for themselves by consistently producing airsoft guns that enthusiasts can easily modify. These brands have become synonymous with quality and adaptability, offering a range of models that are designed with the customization enthusiast in mind. Whether you're looking to improve your gun's accuracy, increase its power, or simply personalize its appearance, choosing a model from these trusted manufacturers is a wise decision.
Pros and Cons of Electric Airsoft Guns
There are several advantages to using an electric airsoft gun.
Pros:
-Variety: There is a huge variety of AEGs available. Long, short, full metal, lightweight polymer…you are sure to find a rifle in your price range and with your needs in mind.
- Low Cost of Operation: Once you’ve made the initial investment in the gun and a charger, operating an electric airsoft gun is relatively inexpensive.
- Low Maintenance: Compared to gas airsoft guns, electric airsoft guns require very little maintenance.
Cons:
- Limited Realism: If you’re looking for a highly realistic airsoft gun, an electric airsoft gun may not be the best option. While there are electric airsoft guns that are designed to look and feel like real guns, most do not have the blowback feature that gas airsoft guns have. There are some specialized AEG platforms that feature a recoil feature, but they are limited in model types and are generally higher in price.
Types of Batteries for Electric Airsoft Guns
One of the most important components of an electric airsoft gun is its battery. The battery is what powers the air compressor inside the gun, allowing the gun to shoot. There are several different types of batteries commonly used in electric airsoft guns.
- Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd): NiCd batteries were one of the first types of batteries used in electric airsoft guns. However, they are now relatively uncommon, as they have been largely surpassed by other battery types. NiCd batteries are known for their durability and ability to handle high-temperature conditions.
- Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH): NiMH batteries are the most common type of battery used in electric airsoft guns. They are affordable, relatively durable, and easy to maintain. NiMH batteries are a great option for beginner airsoft players, as they strike a good balance between performance and cost.
- Lithium Polymer (LiPo): LiPo batteries are the most advanced type of battery commonly used in electric airsoft guns. They are lightweight, high-powered, and capable of delivering a high rate of fire. However, they also require the most maintenance and care. If mishandled, LiPo batteries can be dangerous, posing a risk of fire or explosion. For this reason, they are best suited to experienced airsoft players who understand how to handle and maintain them.
Spring Powered Airsoft Guns
How Spring Airsoft Guns Work
Spring-powered airsoft guns are the most basic type of airsoft gun. They are single-shot, meaning they must be manually cocked each time you want to shoot. When the gun is cocked, a spring is compressed. When the trigger is pulled, the spring is released, driving a piston forward and propelling the BB forward. Spring-powered airsoft guns are typically the most affordable type of airsoft gun, making them a great option for beginners.
Spring-Powered Airsoft Guns: What to Look For
When shopping for a spring-powered airsoft gun, there are a few key factors to consider.
Quality
As with any airsoft gun, quality is an important factor to consider. Higher quality spring-powered airsoft guns will be more durable, accurate, and powerful. Look for spring-powered airsoft guns from reputable brands, such as Tokyo Marui.
Power
The power contained in a spring-powered airsoft gun is what determines the power of a spring gun. r, Inexpensive spring guns – such as pistols and shotguns – cannot be modified, and are generally designed for use by beginners. Spring rifles, especially those of the “sniper” variety, generally can be modified – some quite extensively – to shoot very far and very accurately. These customisable rifle systems tend to be significantly more expensive and meant for more experienced players. Intended Use
When choosing a spring-powered airsoft gun, consider the age and experience level of the person who will be using it. If the gun is intended for a child or a beginner, you’ll want to choose a lower-powered, more affordable option. If the gun is intended for an experienced player, you may want to invest in a higher-quality, higher-powered option.
Pros and Cons of Spring-Powered Airsoft Guns
There are several advantages to using a spring-powered airsoft gun.
Pros:
- Affordability: Spring-powered airsoft guns are typically the most affordable type of airsoft gun, making them a great option for beginners.
- Ease of operation: Without needing batteries or gas, spring guns offer a very simple way to enjoy airsoft.
- Low Maintenance: Compared to gas and electric airsoft guns, spring-powered airsoft guns require very little maintenance. However, the high priced, high performance variants require much more maintenance.
Cons:
- Limited Fire Rate: Spring-powered airsoft guns are single-shot, meaning they have a low fire rate. This makes them less suitable for high-intensity airsoft games.
- Limited Range: Except for the high performance “sniper” variants, spring-powered airsoft guns otherwise have more limited range and accuracy compared to other types of airsoft guns.
When to Use a Spring Powered Airsoft Gun
Due to their lower power and single-shot design, spring-powered airsoft guns are best suited to casual target shooting. They are a great option for beginners who are looking to get started in the sport of airsoft. Spring-powered airsoft guns are also a popular choice for backyard airsoft games, as their lower power makes them a safer option for recreational use. For those seeking maximum precision with no regard for high volume of fire, a spring “sniper” rifle presents a much better upgradability option than electric or gas powered guns.
Gas Powered Airsoft Guns
How Gas Airsoft Guns Work
Gas airsoft guns are powered by gas, typically green gas, propane, or CO2. When the trigger is pulled, compressed gas is released into the gun, driving the BB forward. Gas airsoft guns are generally semi-automatic, with some models capable of fully automatic fire. They can also be the most realistic type of airsoft gun with a blowback action, making them a popular choice for experienced players.
Gas-Powered Airsoft Guns: What to Look For
When shopping for a gas airsoft gun, there are a few key factors to consider.
Quality
Quality is an important factor to consider when choosing a gas airsoft gun. The engineering of the gas valves and porting system inside the gun will determine its durability and consistency of performance. Higher quality gas airsoft guns will be more durable, reliable, and accurate. Look for gas airsoft guns from reputable brands, such as Tokyo Marui,, and KWA.
Blowback vs Non-Blowback
Gas airsoft guns are available with and without blowback. Blowback guns have a moving slide or bolt that reciprocates – moves back and forth – with every shot, delivering recoil each time you shoot, making them the most realistic type of airsoft gun. Blowback guns also require more gas to operate and can be less efficient. Non-blowback gas airsoft guns do not have a moving slide or bolt and are therefore cheaper, but they are more efficient and generally more powerful.
Pros and Cons of Gas Airsoft Guns
There are several advantages to using a gas airsoft gun.
Pros:
- Realism: Gas airsoft guns are the most realistic type of airsoft gun. They have controls that are identical to that of their real firearm counterparts and have blowback, making them look and feel very similar to real guns.
Cons:
- Cost of Operation: The cost of operating a gas airsoft gun can be relatively high. Not only do you need to regularly purchase gas in order to use your gun, magazines tend to be more costly than electric or spring gun magazines.
- Maintenance: Gas airsoft guns require more maintenance than other types of airsoft guns. You will need to regularly clean and lubricate your gun to ensure proper function.
- Inconsistency: Gas guns require heat to properly expand the gas to expel the BB from the gun. Colder temperatures reduce the efficiency of gas expansion, resulting in lower velocity and shorter range than if the ambient temperature was warmer. Some manufacturers’ designs are better suited than others for colder weather use, so brand is extremely important in choosing the right gun for the environment you are using it in.
- Low magazine capacity: gas gun magazines generally hold fewer BBs in them than electric or spring gun magazines, since gas gun magazines typically need to devote a great part of their volume to holding gas propellant. If you want firepower, please consider carefully between a gas and electric gun.
Types of Gas for Gas Airsoft GunsThere are several different types of gas that can be used to power a gas airsoft gun.
- Green Gas: Green gas is the most widely used gas for blowback airsoft guns. It is a mixture of propane and silicone oil, the latter of which helps to lubricate the gun and act as an antifreeze. Green gas is relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Green gas is typically found only at specialized airsoft retailers like AEX.
- Propane: Propane is a common alternative to green gas. Propane canisters are widely available from camping and sporting goods stores, and you will need to purchase a specialized adapter to fill from the propane bottle, making it a more convenient option if you do not have an airsoft store near you. . However, propane does not contain any lubricants, resulting in increased wear and tear on your airsoft gun. Most manufacturers void their warranties if they detect propane usage in their products.
- CO2: CO2 is a powerful and efficient gas that is commonly used to power blowback as well as non-blowback airsoft guns. CO2 cartridges are relatively inexpensive and are capable of powering a large number of shots. CO2 is a great option for airsoft players who are looking for a high-power and low-maintenance gas. It is critical to remove the CO2 cartridge from your gun when you are done using it, as constant exposure to high pressure CO2 will rapidly deteriorate the gas seals in your gun.
When to Use a Gas Powered Airsoft Gun
Gas airsoft guns are a great option for experienced players who are looking for a highly realistic airsoft gun. They are a popular choice for experienced players who prioritize realistic feel and experience in their airsoft gaming. They are the best option for players who are looking to immerse themselves in the realism of the sport, as they operate and feel very similar to real guns. Gas guns are best used during fair, warm weather, to allow for the gas to achieve proper operating pressures.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Airsoft Gun for Your Needs
With so many different types of airsoft guns available, choosing the best one for your needs can be challenging. When deciding which type of airsoft gun to buy, consider the following factors:
- Experience Level: For beginners, we recommend starting with an electric airsoft gun. They are easy to use, relatively inexpensive, and low-maintenance. As you gain experience, you can consider upgrading to a different type of airsoft gun.
- Budget: The price of airsoft guns can vary widely. Electric airsoft guns are the most affordable option, with some models priced at under $100. Gas airsoft guns are typically the most expensive, both to purchase and to operate.
- Intended Use: Consider how you plan to use your airsoft gun. If you’re looking for a gun to use in high-intensity airsoft games, you may want to choose an electric airsoft gun. If you’re looking for a gun for casual target shooting, a spring-powered airsoft gun is a more affordable option. If you are using airsoft for training purposes, there is no substitute for a gas-operated gun to reinforce your training and muscle memory.
Shop our selection of airsoft guns today and take your airsoft game to the next level with Airsoft Extreme!
