Before discussing how to reduce the FPS of your airsoft gun, it’s important to understand why you might need to do so in the first place. Many airsoft fields, especially indoor arenas, have strict FPS limits to ensure safety and fair gameplay. If your airsoft gun shoots above the allowed limit, you may not be permitted to use it unless modifications are made.
Additionally, reducing FPS can improve control in close-quarter environments, making your shots more precise while reducing the risk of injury. Some players also lower their gun’s FPS to enhance durability, as excessive power can put unnecessary strain on internal components.
Whatever the reason, knowing how to safely adjust your airsoft gun’s FPS is essential. Fortunately, there are several methods to achieve this, but only one is widely recommended for optimal performance and reliability. Let’s explore the best way to bring your airsoft gun within field-legal limits.
Lowering the FPS of Your Airsoft Gun
If your airsoft gun exceeds field limits or you’re looking for better control in close-quarters play, reducing its FPS (feet per second) is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore several methods to lower FPS, discuss their pros and cons, and determine which options are most effective and recommended.
There are multiple ways to adjust FPS, including cutting the spring, using heavier BBs, swapping to a lower-powered spring, installing a velocity reducer, or even opting for a different replica altogether. Each approach has its impact on performance, durability, and reliability.
We’ll cover FPS reduction methods for AEGs, spring-powered sniper rifles, and gas blowback replicas, along with the adjustments needed for Green Gas, CO2, and HPA-powered platforms. No matter what type of airsoft gun you own, this guide will help you find the best way to safely and effectively bring your FPS in line with field regulations while maintaining optimal performance.
Reducing FPS in AEGs and Spring-Powered Sniper Rifles
Let’s begin with two of the most common airsoft platforms – electric airsoft guns (AEGs) and spring-powered sniper rifles. Fortunately, both of these platforms share similar methods for FPS reduction, making adjustments straightforward for most players.
Cutting the Spring
Cutting the spring is one way to lower FPS, but it comes with significant risks and challenges. This method requires constant disassembly, trimming, and reassembly to achieve the right FPS, making it a tedious and time-consuming process. Additionally, since different airsoft brands use varying spring tensions, there’s no precise way to determine how many coils to cut—removing too little may have no effect while cutting too much could render the gun inoperable. While this approach might seem like a quick fix, it’s highly unpredictable and not recommended for those without technical expertise. Instead, safer and more reliable methods should be considered to maintain both performance and longevity.
Using Heavier BBs
Yes, switching to heavier BBs will technically reduce FPS, but it doesn’t decrease the energy output of your airsoft gun. Energy is measured in joules, which determine the actual force behind each shot rather than just speed.
“A joule is the SI unit of energy, equal to the work done when a force of one newton moves an object one meter in the direction of that force—equivalent to one 3600th of a watt-hour.”
While using heavier BBs may seem like a clever workaround, most airsoft fields enforce joule-based limits and require FPS testing with their BBs. If your gun is flagged as over the limit, switching BB weight won’t change the fact that it exceeds regulations. Attempting to bypass this rule would be considered cheating—and let’s be honest, no one wants to be “that” player on the field.
Replacing the Spring
In the airsoft world, aftermarket parts are abundant, with brands like Laylax Prometheus, Modify, SHS, and many others offering high-quality springs designed to either increase or decrease FPS. Since springs directly control how much power your airsoft gun generates, swapping in a lower-powered one is a reliable and effective way to adjust FPS.
Understanding your replica’s existing spring is crucial when choosing a replacement. For instance, if your gun comes with an M120 spring, switching to an M110 spring can reduce FPS by 10-20 FPS while also putting less strain on internal components—improving both performance and longevity.
This method is affordable, effective, and widely recommended, but it’s essential to purchase a compatible spring designed for your specific replica. The last thing you want is to buy a spring that doesn’t fit, turning a simple fix into a frustrating problem.
Lowering FPS for GBB, CO2, and HPA Airsoft Guns
Gas-powered airsoft guns operate differently from AEGs and spring-powered rifles, meaning FPS adjustments require alternative methods. Whether you’re using a Gas Blowback (GBB), CO2, or HPA-powered replica, reducing FPS isn’t as straightforward as swapping a spring. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to fine-tune FPS in these systems. Let’s explore the best options.
CO2
Unfortunately, CO2-powered airsoft guns, primarily pistols, offer very few ways to lower FPS. Unlike Green Gas, CO2 capsules have a fixed gas output, making it difficult to adjust their power levels. While changing the hammer spring or adding a recoil spring may result in a slight FPS reduction, the difference is often too small to make a noticeable impact. With limited aftermarket parts available for CO2 regulation, players seeking adjustable FPS may need to explore alternatives like Green Gas or HPA systems.
Green Gas
For airsoft guns that rely on gas canisters, Green Gas is the most commonly used option, but there is an alternative. Duster gas has a lower power output, which can reduce FPS by around 30, making it a potential solution for players needing to meet field limits. However, this method comes with trade-offs, as it also diminishes overall performance, including a noticeable decrease in recoil.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Do you prioritize realism and recoil, or is staying within FPS limits and being able to play more important? It may not be an easy decision, but every airsoft player has to find the right balance between authenticity and practicality.
HPA
HPA airsoft gun users have a significant advantage when it comes to adjusting FPS. Unlike other systems, lowering FPS on an HPA-powered replica is as simple as turning a nozzle, allowing for precise tuning without the need for complicated modifications.
One of the most reputable brands in the HPA market is Wolverine Airsoft, known for its easy-to-use and highly functional systems. For those looking for step-by-step guidance, their official website and YouTube channel offer detailed instructions. Rich, the CEO of Wolverine Airsoft, provides expert insights on FPS adjustments, making it easier than ever to fine-tune performance to match field requirements.
Why Do Airsoft Fields Enforce FPS Limits?
Airsoft fields have a responsibility to ensure player safety by strictly enforcing FPS regulations. Before any game begins, every airsoft gun must undergo a chrono test to confirm it meets the field’s FPS requirements. If a replica shoots too hot, adjustments must be made to bring it within the allowed limits.
Failing to regulate FPS can lead to serious consequences. An unchecked replica firing well above the limit poses a risk of injury to other players and can even result in legal action against both the player and the field for failing to uphold safety standards. Strict FPS enforcement is not just about fairness—it is essential for maintaining a safe and enjoyable airsoft experience for everyone.
Conclusion
Finding out that your airsoft replica exceeds field FPS limits can be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. With the right modifications, you can effectively lower FPS without sacrificing performance or breaking the bank. Rather than investing in a new replica, fine-tuning your existing setup allows you to stay within regulations while keeping your game competitive. Explore practical solutions available at Airsoft Station to ensure your airsoft gun is field-ready and optimized for the best experience.
FAQ’s
Can You Lower the FPS on an Airsoft Gun?
Yes, using heavier BBs can technically reduce FPS, but it does not decrease the actual energy output of the shot. The power behind each BB is measured in joules, meaning the force remains the same even if the FPS reading appears lower. While this method might seem like an easy fix, many airsoft fields use joule-based limits to prevent players from bypassing FPS restrictions with heavier BBs.
Is 400 FPS Allowed in Airsoft?
FPS limits vary depending on the type of airsoft gun and the field’s regulations. Pistols typically range between 150 to 200 FPS, while assault rifles perform best between 300 to 400 FPS. Guns below 250 FPS may lack effectiveness, while anything exceeding 500 FPS is generally prohibited at most airsoft fields due to safety concerns. Always check with your local field to ensure your airsoft gun meets their specific FPS requirements.
How Can You Increase FPS in an Airsoft Gun?
One of the most effective ways to increase FPS in an airsoft gun is by upgrading the spring, particularly in spring-powered and AEG rifles. A stiffer, higher-rated spring exerts more force on the internal components, allowing BBs to be propelled at a higher velocity. Other potential upgrades include improving air seal components, upgrading the hop-up system, or using higher-pressure gas in gas-powered replicas. However, always check field regulations before increasing FPS, as exceeding limits may make your gun ineligible for gameplay.
How Many FPS Equals 1 Joule?
328 FPS is often referenced as a standard limit because it equals 1 joule of energy when using a 0.2g BB. This measurement is based on 100 meters per second (m/s), which is the velocity required for a 0.2g BB to carry exactly 1 joule of kinetic energy. Many airsoft fields use this as a baseline for safety regulations.
