Understanding How Airsoft Guns Work

Airsoft guns are becoming increasingly popular all around the world and can be seen at tournaments, gaming facilities, and in backyards everywhere. But, in order to properly enjoy this thrilling activity, it's important to first understand how airsoft guns work.

The Basics of Airsoft Gun Technology

Airsoft guns are replica firearms that fire non-metallic 6mm plastic projectiles. While airsoft guns are designed to be visually realistic in terms of looks, they are powered differently, making them significantly different than true firearms.

Airsoft guns operate with a pneumatic system involving a small air pump that forces air through a mechanical assembly. This process allows the user to fire BBs at high speeds. It's important to note that there is no chemical reaction involved in the airsoft gun firing process.

Types of Airsoft Gun Technology

Airsoft guns are roughly divided into three main types: spring-powered, gas, and electric.

Spring Powered

As the name implies, spring-powered airsoft guns are powered with a spring-and-piston system. This system is the oldest type of airsoft gun design and relies on tension released from the spring in order to shoot a BB. Spring-powered guns are generally recognized as the most reliable and the simplest type of airsoft gun but must be cocked prior to each shot.

Gas Powered

Gas-powered airsoft guns use a compressed-gas system, like propane or green gas, to fire a BB at a higher velocity compared to spring-powered guns. The benefit of gas-powered guns is that they are semi-automatic and require less manual cocking than spring powered guns.

Electric Powered

Lastly, electric airsoft guns use a combination of metal gearbox and a rechargeable battery to power a motor. This electric motor is generally responsible for compressing the spring, allowing the gun to be fired semi-automatically without cocked manually. This type of airsoft gun technology is often considered as the most advanced and powerful.

How Do Airsoft Guns Fire?

Airsoft guns fire plastic BBs at velocities ranging from 100 to 500 feet per second depending on the type of gun and its configuration. This is generally much lower than the 500 to 1,500 feet per second velocity typical of real firearms.

Because of the significant differences in velocity and the materials used for projectiles, airsoft guns don't have the same level of stopping power that is typically seen with real firearms. It is also important to note that airsoft guns are considered toys and should be used as such.

Safety Tips for Airsoft Gun Owners

Even with the lower velocities mentioned above, using an airsoft gun can be dangerous. In order to stay safe, here are a couple tips:

• Always wear protective gear. Eye protection is a must, and full-face protection is also advisable.
• Be aware of your surroundings and only aim at areas that won't cause property damage or bodily harm to people or pets.
• Keep airsoft guns indoors, and securely store them away from children and animals.

Final Word

Airsoft guns can be an exciting and safe activity, as long as you completely understand how they work and take the necessary safety precautions. As long as you comprehend the technology and adhere to proper safety protocols, you can certainly enjoy the thrill of airsoft without the worry.