Airsoft guns come in various main types, from spring to gas to electric.  All airsoft guns shoot plastic bb’s which vary in size from 6-8mm.  Typically guns are made from plastic, however many are made with metal parts, offering a more authentic feel and operation than high-grade plastic.

Spring Airsoft Guns:  The lower range of airsoft begins with spring guns, which use a manual cocking mechanism to load the spring.  These guns typically shoot anywhere from under 100 FPS to just over 200 FPS, excluding special airsoft sniper rifles which can fire as fast as 500 FPS.  Spring guns are great for starter weapons and some like them as sidearms in a formal skirmish.  Spring pistols are relatively inexpensive and represent a good way to introduce yourself to the hobby without emptying your wallet.

Gas Airsoft Guns:  Gas guns are most commonly found in high end and competition ready pistols.  Gas guns can shoot at least 300 FPS and offer a quick way of swapping your power source (unlike electrics which require charging).  Powered by several common and cheap gases like green gas (aka propane) or Co2 these pistols pack a punch but you can go through lots of gas very quickly.  Purchase a gas gun if you already have some spring and electric guns in your collection.

Electric Airsoft Guns:  Spanning the low end all the way to the very upper high end of airsoft guns, electric motors power the bulk of all airsoft rifles, machine guns, sub machine guns and a smaller percentage of pistols.  Electric airsoft guns (also called AEGs) offer rapid fire, easy re-charging of their power source (batteries) and a very high rate of fire.  Avoid very low end and cheap electric airsoft guns as they are made very cheaply and don’t offer the high FPS or reliable service.  Spend at least $150 for an airsoft rifles from a reputable manufacturer.  $200-$300 is a nice range to purchase in for a first timer, as you typically will see included accessories and upgraded internals in that price bracket.

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