Airsoft guns come in a wide variety of models, brands, and roles, but they can primarily be categorized based on their propulsion method: gas or electric. The essential difference comes from the method of propulsion they use for BBs. Battery-driven motors that operate a spring and piston mechanism provide the power for electric airsoft guns (AEGs), differing from gas airsoft guns that use compressed gas to shoot BBs. The mechanics and the costs, performances, and realism involved differ between these two systems. This blog explores the properties of electric and gas-powered airsoft firearms and then undertakes a detailed evaluation of their individual strengths and weaknesses.
What is an Electric Airsoft Gun?
In order to get a handle on what an electric airsoft gun is, one has to fundamentally understand its internal structure. A complex mechanical system residing within a gearbox powers electric airsoft guns, or AEGs (Automatic Electric Guns). This gearbox offers three principal gears alongside a motor, converting electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy.
How Electric Airsoft Guns Work
The process starts with the trigger pull, which closes the electrical circuit so power can be routed from the battery to the motor. Once stimulated, the motor begins rotating, thereby engaging the first gear, which is known as the bevel gear. A latch which prevents backward motion holds the bevel gear in place. It drives the spur gear, which, as a result, engages the sector gear.
With the sector gear’s movement, it lifts the piston to compress the spring. In parallel, a little nub on the sector gear slides back the tappet plate, causing it to draw the air nozzle nearer to the cylinder. This act enables the next BB to integrate into the hop-up chamber. When the tappet plate gets back to its initial position, it sets the BB into the chamber.
When the sector gear presses down the piston, the compressed spring sends the piston through the cylinder, pushing air out. A rapid movement generates an outburst of pressurized air that drives the BB out of the barrel, set for your next shot.
Pros of Electric Airsoft Guns:
High Rate of Fire: With the quick rate of fire of electric airsoft guns, you have the ability to shoot many rounds in a short space of time. These make them perfect for instances requiring you to quickly reach out to numerous targets.
Ease of Use: Electric airsoft guns are easy for users. A quick charge, and magazine insertion, and you are ready to take aim. This simplicity makes them perfect for beginners newly introduced to airsoft.
Reliability: These guns operate on electricity and require only minimal upkeep. They stand apart in that they are not as responsive to temperature and weather, thus ensuring a stable performance.
Affordability: People new to the sport or on restricted budgets may find electric airsoft guns more affordable than gas airsoft guns.
Cons of Electric Airsoft Guns:
- Battery Life: Electric airsoft guns rely on batteries for operation, and their limited battery life can be a drawback. You may need to carry spare batteries or a charger for extended gameplay sessions.
- Limited Customization: Electric airsoft guns offer fewer customization options compared to gas-powered guns, which can restrict your ability to make extensive upgrades or modifications.
- Reduced Realism: Electric airsoft guns lack the realistic features of gas-powered models, such as blowback action, resulting in a less authentic shooting experience without simulated recoil.
Types of Batteries
NiMH Batteries
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries provide a superior energy density and lasting power when compared to traditional Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) batteries. Resistance to the memory effect is one of the main benefits of NiMH batteries; the memory effect is a phenomenon in which batteries seem to ‘remember’ their last charge level and lose capacity as time goes on. This results in them becoming more confident and effective in making decisions for extended use.
In addition to their performance benefits, NiMH batteries are also more environmentally friendly. They do not contain toxic heavy metals such as cadmium or mercury, making them safer to dispose of and easier to recycle.
LiPo Batteries
Batteries using a polymer electrolyte (called Lithium Polymer or LiPo batteries) offer remarkable advantages in their design flexibility. They come in multiple shapes and sizes, allowing them to be perfect for lightweight and compact applications, including airsoft guns and drones.
LiPo batteries are particular in that they provide more energy storage capacity relative to their physical size and weight than any other equivalent battery. The high discharge rate of this component supports applications with high drain requirements, enabling fast energy releases when required. Also, the LiPo batteries show a low self-discharge rate, which suggests they can hold their charge for lengthy periods. When taken care of right, they also last for a long time.
Nevertheless, LiPo batteries are not easy to handle. In order to prevent overcharging and over-discharging. They respond to temperature changes, and exposure to either intense heat or extreme cold can affect their capabilities and how long they last.
What Are Gas-Powered Airsoft Guns?
How Gas Airsoft Guns Work
Gas-powered airsoft guns make use of compressed gas, stored usually in a reservoir inside the magazine, to fire BBs. To charge most gas airsoft guns, you look for a fill valve found at the magazine’s bottom, where you can inject gas or CO2.
When the trigger is triggered, a pin engages a release valve on the magazine, enabling compressed gas to move from the reservoir through a top outlet in the magazine into the gun’s blowback unit. Contained within this unit in the slide or bolt is a piston and cylinder that swell as the gas enters.
The gas is then divided into two functions: some of it propels the BB down the barrel, while the remaining gas forces the slide or bolt to recoil, cycling the gun. This action cocks the hammer and chambers the next BB, readying the gun for the next shot. The mechanism closely mimics the operation of a real firearm, providing an authentic experience. When the magazine is empty, the slide or bolt locks back, just as it would in an actual pistol or rifle, adding to the realism and functionality of the weapon.
Pros of Gas Airsoft Guns:
- Authentic Realism: Gas airsoft guns deliver an unparalleled level of realism, closely replicating the experience of handling a real firearm. With blowback action that simulates actual recoil and the option to load shells or cartridges similar to live ammunition, these guns provide a highly immersive and authentic shooting experience that electric airsoft guns can’t match.
- Exceptional Versatility: Gas airsoft guns are available in a diverse range of styles, from pistols and rifles to shotguns, making them adaptable to various play styles and game scenarios. Whether you’re engaging in intense close-quarters combat or taking precision shots in long-range skirmishes, there’s a gas airsoft gun to suit every need.
Cons of Gas Airsoft Guns:
- Higher Cost: Electric models of airsoft guns are usually cheaper than gas airsoft guns. Also, the requirement for gas canisters and maintenance accessories can hike the overall costs, meaning they might become a more pricey option in the long run.
- Increased Maintenance: Maintaining gas airsoft guns becomes a necessity more often. The gas canisters need refilling or replacement on a regular basis, while the guns require constant cleaning and lubrication in order to maintain good performance.
- Limited Playtime: The fun with gas airsoft guns is limited by how much gas remains in the canisters. If there’s no more gas, the gun must either get refuelled or the canister has to be changed—both of which can pause gameplay.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Gas airsoft guns may have performance changes when temperatures become extreme. Lower temperatures can impact the functionality of the gas, reducing the reliability and performance of the gun while playing.
Different Types of Gas for Airsoft Guns
Green gas
Green gas is largely propane mixed with a little silicone oil. The silicone oil serves a dual purpose: lubricating and cleaning the internal elements of green gas airsoft guns as they shoot, enabling better performance and longer life. A lot of green gas products contain supplemental additives to eliminate the strong odor of propane for a more agreeable user experience.
While it’s possible to use regular propane in green gas airsoft guns, it’s not advisable. The silicone oil in green gas is crucial for keeping the gun’s o-rings properly lubricated and ensuring smooth operation. Using pure propane can lead to increased wear and tear, potentially compromising the gun’s functionality over time.
CO2
Known since the early 1700s, CO2, standing for carbon dioxide, rapidly became prevalent as an aerosol propellant. Currently, it helps to run a wide variety of items, from hairsprays to food alternative dispensers like cheese whiz. In airsoft, CO2 functions in a way that is comparable to green gas, supplying a strong and efficient method for propulsion. Pulling the trigger of a CO2 airsoft gun releases a little bit of pressurised CO2 from the tank. This quick expansion generates the strength necessary to launch the BB accurately and rapidly, making CO2 a favored option for those gamers wanting high-performance and accurate replica blowback action.
Ideal Scenarios for Using a Gas-Powered Airsoft Gun
Gas-powered airsoft guns succeed in particular cases where their unique capabilities really shine. Here are some scenarios where they truly stand out:
Realistic Training: Gas-powered airsoft guns give the utmost realism for military and law enforcement training. The blowback action and genuine recoil intently simulate the act of firing a genuine firearm. It amplifies training effectiveness by improving accuracy, weapon expertise, and the attainment of tactical responses.
Competitive Gameplay: In serious airsoft competitions, every millisecond is of great significance. Gun models that run on gas deliver a faster trigger reaction. Allowing players an advantage in competitions by facilitating quicker shots and rapid responses, leading them to be favored among skilled players.
Overall, gas-powered airsoft guns are perfect for those seeking an immersive and authentic experience, whether for realistic training or competitive gameplay. They are particularly well-suited for outdoor scenarios where their power and performance can be fully utilized. However, it’s important to consider the additional maintenance and cost compared to electric airsoft guns.
When to Choose an Electric Airsoft Gun
Many players choose electric airsoft guns (AEGs) because of their convenient design, low price, and steady performance. If you’re wondering whether electric airsoft guns are a good choice, here are some situations where they truly shine:
Indoor Gameplay: Thanks to their quiet operation and less violent muzzle velocities, AEGs are best suited for indoor environments. Thanks to their small size and maneuverability, they are perfect for moving in tight environments and close combat situations.
For Beginners: Electric airsoft guns are an excellent option for those new to the sport. Their straightforward operation and low maintenance requirements make them a hassle-free choice. They allow beginners to focus on learning and enjoying the game.
Extended Playtime: AEGs typically offer longer playtime compared to gas-powered guns. With a fully charged battery, you can enjoy hours of continuous action before needing to recharge. These are ideal for extended skirmishes.
Cost-Effective: Electric airsoft guns are normally more inexpensive than those that run on gas. Because they need fewer accessories and maintenance tools, they can save you money over time. Providing a smart choice for those wanting to invest thoughtfully in their gear.
Overall, the choice of electric airsoft guns is excellent for fun indoors, learners, lengthy play sessions, and those who watch their spending. The reliability, along with their ease of use, provides them with a versatile capability for many airsoft scenarios.
The initial cost of the airsoft gun
If your priority is the cheapest option for a gun, spring-powered guns will surely be your companion. If you’re entering the field for the first time and just looking to see if you like the sport, you may want to start with a spring gun. In doing so, you will ensure that you won’t break the bank if you end up not liking airsoft. High-end sniper rifles will set you back quite a bit if you’re a pro player. But you’ll definitely strike fear into your opponents on the battlefield.
Gas guns are normally more costly than their electronic alternatives. Typically, entry-level gas pistols are more expensive than those operated by spring. The same goes for gas rifles versus spring-operated rifles. You can expect to spend between $180 and $240 to have entry to quality mid-level weapons.
Electric airsoft guns tend to sell around the same price as gas powered airsoft guns. The price is all over the spectrum. You can find decent entry-level electric guns for $150 if you look in the right places. Many of the middle of the road guns sit in the $180-$240 range.
Conclusion
Making a choice between gas and electric (AEG) airsoft rifles really depends on your own likes and how you play. Guns that use gas deliver a shooting experience that closely resembles the real thing, thanks to blowback action and recoil. But electric airsoft guns feature ease of use, performance consistency, and lower maintenance needs. Each alternative has its outstanding assets and matches various scenarios and player tiers.
At Airsoft Station, we have a large selection of gas and electric airsoft guns to suit your individual requirements. Whether it’s for high realism or consistent performance. Discover our array of airsoft guns to find one that matches your personal style and contributes to advancing your gameplay.
