Airsoft Gas Pistols: A Beginners Guide
Airsoft is a popular recreational activity that involves shooting each other with replica guns that fire small plastic BBs. It's a fun and exciting way to practice marksmanship, teamwork, and strategy, and it's also a great way to stay active and meet new people.
One of the most popular types of airsoft guns is the gas pistol. These guns use pressurized gas to fire BBs, and they come in a variety of styles and designs. In this article, we'll take a closer look at airsoft gas pistols, how they work, and what you need to know before you buy one.
Types of Airsoft Gas Pistols
There are two main types of airsoft gas pistols: non-blowback and blowback.
Non-blowback pistols are the simplest and most affordable type of airsoft gas pistol. They use a simple system to fire the BBs and don't have any moving parts, so they require less maintenance than other types of airsoft guns. However, they don't have the same level of realism as blowback pistols, since the slide doesn't move when you shoot.
Blowback pistols are more realistic than non-blowback pistols since the slide moves back and forth when you fire. This makes them more fun to shoot and adds an extra level of realism to your airsoft skirmishes. However, they're also more expensive and require more maintenance than non-blowback pistols.
How Airsoft Gas Pistols Work
Airsoft gas pistols use either green gas/propane or CO2 as their propellant. Green gas is the most popular type of gas used in airsoft guns, and it's a mixture of propane and silicone oil. CO2 is another popular option since it's more powerful than green gas and works well in cold weather. Propane is the cheapest option, but it requires an adapter to use and doesn't contain any lubricant so it must be added.
When you pull the trigger on an airsoft gas pistol, the gas is released from the magazine and propels the BB out of the barrel. Blowback pistols have an additional step, where the slide moves back and forth to simulate the recoil and operation of a real gun.
What to Look for When Buying an Airsoft Gas Pistol
When you're shopping for an airsoft gas pistol, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Budget: Airsoft gas pistols can range in price from less than £50 to several hundred pounds. Set a budget for yourself and stick to it.
Brand: Stick to reputable brands when you're buying an airsoft gun. Some popular brands include Tokyo Marui, KJW, and WE.
FPS: FPS stands for feet per second, and it's a measure of how fast the BB is traveling when it leaves the barrel. Check the FPS of the gun you're considering and make sure it's allowed at your local airsoft field.
Magazine Capacity: Consider how many BBs the magazine can hold and how quickly you can reload. Some airsoft guns have magazines that hold up to 50 BBs, while others only hold 15 or 20.
Style: Choose a style of gun that fits your preferences and playing style. Some popular styles include 1911, Glock, and Beretta.
Accuracy: Look for reviews or test the accuracy of the airsoft gas pistol. You want to ensure that the pistol is accurate and reliable when it comes to hitting your targets.
Upgrades and Customization: Many airsoft enthusiasts like to customize their guns to make them unique or to improve their performance. If you're interested in upgrades and customization, make sure the airsoft gas pistol you choose has a good selection of aftermarket parts available.
How to Maintain Your Airsoft Gas Pistol
Proper maintenance is essential to keeping your airsoft gas pistol in good working condition. Here are some tips to help you maintain your gun:
Clean the gun regularly: Use a cleaning rod and a cleaning cloth to wipe down the barrel and other parts of the gun after use. This will help remove any dirt, debris, or residual gas that could cause malfunctions.
Lubricate the gun: Use silicone oil to lubricate the moving parts of the gun. This will help keep the gun working smoothly and reduce wear and tear.
Store the gun properly: Store your airsoft gas pistol in a dry, cool place to prevent damage to the gas seals or other components.
Follow manufacturer's instructions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and use. This will help ensure that your airsoft gas pistol lasts for a long time and performs well.
Safety Tips for Airsoft Gas Pistols
Airsoft guns, including airsoft gas pistols, can be dangerous if not used properly. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using your airsoft gas pistol:
Always wear eye protection: Wear goggles or other eye protection to prevent injury to your eyes.
Treat the gun as if it's real: Even though airsoft guns are replicas, they should be treated as if they're real guns. Don't point the gun at anyone or anything you don't intend to shoot.
Keep the gun on safety when not in use: Always keep the gun on safety when you're not using it. This will prevent accidental firing.
Store the gun safely: Store your airsoft gas pistol in a safe and secure location, away from children and anyone who shouldn't have access to it.
Conclusion
Airsoft gas pistols are a fun and exciting way to enjoy the sport of airsoft. They come in a variety of styles and designs, and they use pressurized gas to fire BBs. When choosing an airsoft gas pistol, consider your budget, style, and playing preferences. With proper maintenance and use, your airsoft gas pistol will provide you with years of enjoyment and excitement. Remember to always follow safety precautions when using your airsoft gun and to treat it with the respect it deserves.