How to Choose an Airsoft Rifle

A lot of people ask me for advice on selecting an airsoft rifle. Here's a quick check list for finding the right rifle for your needs:

Spring or electric (AEG)? Electric airsoft rifles are the most popular choice because they shoot at a higher velocity and have longer range. Spring rifles, on the other hand, have slower speeds and thus shorter range, but they are less expensive. Spring airsoft rifles are appropriate for less experienced gunmen and younger players. I generally recommend electric airsoft rifles for experienced airsoft enthusiasts and anyone considering sniping. Look for an electric airsoft rifle with a velocity of at least 285 feet per second (FPS). If you plan to focus on sniping, it's best to look for Bolt Action sniper rifles with 400+ FPS.

Metal or plastic composition? Metal is very durable and has a nice, real-life feel, but it is also heavier and may cause fatigue in long games with a lot of maneuvering. AEGs that feature plastic receivers or bodies are made of a composite polymer-ABS. The plastic has been engineered to have a high stress tolerance, making it resistant to shock or drop. In many cases these arms are just as durable as metal bodies, but a lot lighter. At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference and which "feel" suits you best.

Gearbox or no gearbox? If the rifle you select has a gearbox, make sure the parts are metal. Other materials can break or warp much more quickly, damage gears, and will ultimately lead to an inoperable weapon.

Scope or no scope? If you want to add optics to your airsoft rifle, you will need a rifle with railed sight mounts. Airsoft sniper rifles, for example, are intended to be highly accurate at long ranges, so a scope is really a must. Some rifles come with these sight mounts already in place; on others you can add them. You'll also want to check how the rifle mounts to bipods and other accessories.
How much ammo can it hold? Ammo capacity varies. Some players prefer a high ammo capacity so that the need to reload is minimized. Others, however, are will to sacrifice ammo capacity for a more compact gun that is easy to maneuver. Choosing an ammo storage size really just depends on how you want to use your gun.

About the Author
Mike Zhang is the VP of Operations of Airsoft Megastore, the fastest growing of all airsoft stores in the nation. Airsoft Megastore offers deep discounts on sale items for players interested in cheap AEG airsoft guns and looking to find airsoft sniper rifles cheap.

3 Main Types of Airsoft Gun Models

There are many types of airsoft guns that have been created for pure enjoyment purposes. These include spring loaded, gas powered and electric guns that duplicate real life guns which were developed in Japan where the people there could not own real guns.

3 Main Types of Airsoft Guns

Spring

Spring loaded airsoft guns are designed for the entry level hobbyist already involved or interested in getting involved in the sport. They can run without any outside assistance and can replicate any type of real firearm. These guns have to be cocked before each shot but are easy to use.

Gas

Gas powered airsoft guns are designed to utilize pressurized gas in order to get the pellets moving. Popular models of the gas powered airsoft guns include the Desert eagle Blow Back and the .357 Magnum Revolver. When in use, these guns are well known for their accuracy during games played. Types of gasses used in the gas powered airsoft guns are green gas, nitrogen, CO2, Red Gas, and HFC-134a.

Electric

Electric airsoft guns are the most common in the airsoft gun sector. Batteries can be recharged again and again and are used to power up the electric motor which then rallies motion so that the pellets can propel. The electric airsoft guns are the most climate friendly of the group and can be used in extreme conditions for those who don't mind playing in the rain or snow. Electric models such as the Thompson airsoft rifle model are fashionable among gamers since they want the most bona fide models out there due to the fact that simulators recreate World War II scenarios.

When considering getting involved in the airsoft hobby arena, be sure to decide which type of model will best fit what you're trying to achieve when playing. Different games that are played within airsoft circles are Prison Escape, Manhunt, and Hostage Rescue.

About the Author

Learn all about the airsoft and paintball hobby with tons of guides and tips, including 4 Popular Airsoft Games, How To Clean Airsoft Guns. Shop for all types of airsoft guns, paintball guns and accessories at cheap prices at: Cheap Airsoft Guns.