Airsoft vs BB Guns Whats the Difference

What Is the Difference Between Airsoft and BB Guns?

Airsoft and BB guns are increasingly popular recreational sport and hobby weapons used for a variety of purposes. Although their capabilities and uses may be similar, there is a distinct difference between the two. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the differences between airsoft and BB guns, including the types of replicas featured, how they are powered, their safety ratings, the ammunition they use, and the possible uses for both.

Types of Replicas

The first major difference between airsoft and BB guns is the type of replicas each can create. Airsoft replicas are typically exact copies of real firearms. With extremely detailed and authentic looks, airsoft guns are designed to replicate a real version. This mentality carries over into the gun's components which are intended to function like a real weapon.

On the other hand, BB guns are typically replicas of historic or classic weapons, Western-style six-shooters, and other vintage rifles. However, BB guns have also become more commercialized in recent years and unique designs are popping up in stores more frequently.

Power

The second major difference between airsoft and BB guns is the power sources used by each type of gun. Airsoft guns are powered in various ways, depending on the type of airsoft gun. Most commonly, airsoft guns are powered by batteries or gas. There are also some airsoft guns that are powered by springs.

On the other hand, BB guns are almost exclusively powered by springs. This makes BB guns easier to operate and maintain, as the only power source is a spring and the gun is usually self-contained, allowing the user to fire whenever needed without worrying about charging batteries or adding gas.

Safety Ratings

The third major difference between airsoft and BB guns is in their safety ratings. Airsoft guns typically range in muzzle velocity from 290 to 330 FPS (Feet Per Second). This puts airsoft guns on the lower end of the danger scale, making them generally safer when used for target practice or recreational purposes.

On the other hand, BB guns typically reach muzzle velocity of about 350 FPS and some even higher. As a result, BB guns are generally more powerful and require more caution when used, even when used for recreational purposes.

Ammunition

The fourth major difference between airsoft and BB guns is in the ammunition used by each type of gun. Airsoft guns typically use smaller plastic or polymer-based BBs, while BB guns typically use steel BBs. The size of these BBs have an effect on their accuracy and range, with the smaller BBs used by airsoft guns having a limited range and accuracy.

Uses

The fifth major difference between airsoft and BB guns is in the possible uses for each type of gun. Airsoft guns are usually used for recreational purposes and target shooting. The smaller BBs and lower muzzle velocity make airsoft guns generally safer to use for recreational purposes compared to BB guns.

On the other hand, BB guns are usually used for target shooting, plinking (shooting small targets such as cans for fun), and hunting small game. The increased muzzle velocity and power of BB guns make them great for target practice and other applications, but they should be used with caution when around others.

In Summary

Airsoft and BB guns are two widely popular recreational and hobby weapons. Although their capabilities and uses may be similar, there are several distinct differences between the two that include the types of replicas featured, how they are powered, their safety ratings, the ammunition they use, and the possible uses for both. Knowing the differences between airsoft and BB guns will help ensure that you choose the right type of weapon for your needs.