Airsoft guns come in different shapes and sizes. Some work on gas and others use an electric motor to fire the BBs. Airsoft gun types can be broken down into two categories: how they work and by their style or purpose.
All-in-all, there are many different types of airsoft guns on the market, and each has its unique set of features. In this article, we will discuss the different types of airsoft guns and how they work. We will also take a look at the different styles available on the market today.
Whether you’re new to airsoft or you’re looking for a new gun to add to your collection, this article is for you! Also, be sure to check out our review on the best airsoft guns on the market today.
The four main types of airsoft guns are:
Spring-powered airsoft guns
Spring-powered airsoft guns are a type of airsoft gun that uses a spring-loaded mechanism to shoot BB pellets. Spring-powered guns are the most basic type of airsoft gun, and they are often the cheapest option as well.
These guns are typically single-shot only, meaning that you must cock the gun each time before you can fire it. Spring-powered guns are generally not as powerful or accurate as other types of airsoft guns, but they can still be fun to use.
So they aren’t the best option if you’re looking for a serious airsoft gun for competitive play but if you’re just getting started in airsoft, a spring-powered gun is a good option to consider.
Pros
- Cheaper than other types of airsoft guns
- No need to worry about batteries or gas
- Works in any weather condition
- Good for getting into airsoft
- High-end (expensive) sniper rifles can be very powerful
Cons
- Single-shot only
- Has to be manually clocked every time you want to shoot
- Very slow firing rate
- Generally not as durable
- Also generally not as powerful as other types of airsoft guns
Gas-powered airsoft guns
Gas-powered airsoft guns are a type of airsoft gun that uses compressed gas to power the BBs. The most common type of gas used is Green Gas, which is a mixture of propane and silicone oil. However, other types of gas, such as CO2 and nitrogen, can also be used.
Gas-powered airsoft guns tend to be more powerful than electric airsoft guns or spring-powered guns, making them better suited for long-range engagements.
Also, gas-powered guns are usually more expensive than electric guns and require more maintenance. And they tend to be more mechanically complex than other types of airsoft guns, which can make them difficult to maintain.
However, gas-powered airsoft guns are some of the most realistic types of airsoft guns on the market, making them a popular choice for serious airsoft players.
Pros
- More powerful than electric and spring-powered guns
- Realistic feel and look
- Semi-automatic firing
- Sidearms have a blowback feature
Cons
- Require more maintenance
- More mechanically complex
- Reloading gas is a hassle
- Not that good in low temperatures
Electric airsoft guns
Electric airsoft guns are a type of airsoft gun that uses an electric motor to fire pellets. Electric airsoft guns, or AEGs, are some of the most popular types of airsoft guns on the market.
AEGs use a battery to power the electric motor, which in turn spins a spring-loaded piston. The piston is released when the trigger is pulled, and the compressed air in the piston propels the pellet down the barrel of the gun.
Electric guns are also more consistent in their performance, which makes them ideal for competitive play. In addition, electric guns are generally more affordable than their gas-powered counterparts, making them a great option for budget-conscious players.
Pros
- Fully automatic firing
- Fast shooting
- More consistent in their performance
- Good for competitive play
- Great for any weather condition
- Many upgrades available
- Quiet
Cons
- Require batteries and recharging
- Battery life differs a lot
- Can be difficult to maintain
HPA airsoft guns
HPA guns are airsoft guns that are powered by an external canister of pressurized air, similar to how a paintball gun works. HPA stands for High-Pressure Air, and these guns are sometimes referred to as HPAs.
HPA airsoft guns are becoming increasingly popular due to their increased accuracy and consistency. These guns use an electronic trigger system that is more precise than the traditional mechanical trigger system found in most airsoft guns.
This makes HPA airsoft guns some of the most accurate and consistent guns on the market.
Pros
- Extremely accurate and consistent
- Great for any weather condition
- High FPS
- Simple mechanism
- Quiet
Cons
- More expensive than other types of airsoft guns
- Require an external canister of pressurized air
- Weight
Airsoft guns by style
While all airsoft guns serve the same basic purpose, there is a wide variety of different styles to choose from. Here are some of the most popular types of airsoft guns:
Rifles
Airsoft rifles are the most common type of airsoft guns. Rifles tend to be more accurate than pistols and have a longer range, making them ideal for long-range engagements. Good examples of airsoft rifles include the M4, Ak47, and the G36.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Long range
- High accuracy
- Wide range of different models on the market
- Highly customizable
Cons
- Not as maneuverable as smaller guns
SMGs
Airsoft SMGs (submachine guns) are an awesome choice for people looking for a close-quarters combat weapon. They are great for CQB because they are lightweight, low-recoil, and have a high rate of fire.
While they are generally used in close-quarters combat situations because of their small size and high rate of fire, they can also be effective at longer ranges with the correct upgrades.
Overall, airsoft SMGs are a popular choice for players who want a fast-paced, action-packed game.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- High rate of fire
- Effective at both short and long-range
- Highly customizable
Cons
- Not as accurate as longer guns
Pistols
Airsoft pistols are a great choice for players who want a sidearm that is both lightweight and easy to maneuver. These guns are typically small and compact, making them ideal for close-quarters combat.
In addition, airsoft pistols tend to be more affordable than their larger counterparts. As a result, they are a popular choice for budget-conscious players.
However, airsoft pistols do have some drawbacks. They generally have shorter range and less accuracy than rifles, making them less effective in long-range engagements.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Inexpensive
- Effective in close-quarters combat
Cons
- Short range
- Less accurate than rifles
Revolvers
Airsoft revolvers are a type of airsoft gun that is designed to look and feel like a real revolver. Airsoft revolvers typically have a six-shot capacity, and they can be either single or double-action.
Single-action means that the user must cock the hammer before each shot, while double-action means that the gun will cock the hammer automatically. Airsoft Revolvers are generally spring-powered, but some models may also be gas-powered or battery-powered.
Pros
- Great for “era specific” milsim games
- Realistic look and feel
Cons
- Low capacity (compared to other airsoft gun types)
- Less common than other airsoft gun types
- Mostly single action
Snipers
Airsoft snipers are a popular choice for players who want to have an edge in airsoft games.
Airsoft snipers are known to be very accurate, and they can make long-range shots with ease. While most airsoft guns have a maximum range of around 200 feet, airsoft snipers can easily hit targets at twice that distance.
In addition, airsoft snipers typically have high-powered optics that allow the player to see their target clearly, even in low-light conditions. As a result, airsoft snipers can be a valuable asset on any airsoft team.
Pros
- Highly accurate
- Long range
- Great for use in all types of airsoft games
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Not as maneuverable as smaller guns
- Heavyweight
- Low-capacity
- Not as good in close-combat
Shotguns
Airsoft Shotguns are one of the main types of airsoft guns used. They are very popular because they provide a lot of firepower in a small and compact package.
Airsoft shotguns fire multiple BBs at once, making them ideal for close-quarters combat. Additionally, airsoft shotguns are typically very inexpensive, making them a great choice for budget-conscious players.
However, airsoft shotguns have some drawbacks. They tend to be less accurate than other types of airsoft guns, and they often run out of BBs quickly. As a result, airsoft shotguns are best used in close-range situations where accuracy is not as important.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Great for close-quarters combat
Cons
- Less accurate than other airsoft guns
- Low BB capacity
Heavy machine guns
Airsoft heavy machine guns (HMGs) are a type of airsoft gun that is designed to closely resemble real-life machine guns.
Airsoft heavy machine guns generally have a high rate of fire, huge capacity, and are quite powerful, making them great for taking down multiple opponents quickly.
HMGs can be placed on tripods or bipods for stability, and they usually have a high rate of fire. This makes them ideal for providing cover fire or suppressing the enemy. HMGs can also be used to clear rooms or buildings, as they can easily take out multiple targets at once.
However, airsoft heavy machine guns can be quite heavy and difficult to maneuver, so they are not ideal for every situation.
Pros
- High rate of fire
- Huge capacity
- Great for taking down multiple opponents quickly
- Long range
Cons
- Heavy and difficult to maneuver
- Not ideal for close combat
Grenade launchers
Airsoft grenade launchers are one of the most unique types of airsoft guns available. They are designed to look like real grenade launchers and come in two different styles.
First is a rifle-mounted grenade launcher which is attached to the underside of an airsoft rifle. Second is a stand-alone grenade launcher which is designed to be used as a standalone weapon.
These bad boys look incredibly realistic, but they don’t really shoot out the grenades (as the name might imply), instead, they shoot out a huge burst of airsoft BBs at once.
Grenade launchers are a great tool for taking out groups of opponents, providing cover fire, or suppressing the enemy. However, they can be quite expensive and may not be allowed in some airsoft games.
Pros
- Realistic look and feel
- Great for taking out groups of opponents
- Great as a support weapon
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Low capacity
- Require more reloading
- Not allowed in some airsoft games
FAQ about airsoft gun types
In conclusion
Airsoft guns come in many different shapes, sizes, and styles. The four main types of airsoft guns are gas-powered, spring-powered, electric, and HPA.
There are also many different styles of airsoft guns available on the market today. Whatever your style or needs, there is sure to be an airsoft gun out there that is perfect for you.
