When searching for a new air soft gun, one will find near infinite options. The first step in finding the right air soft gun for you is deciding on a propulsion system. There are three different types of air soft gun propulsion systems; spring, gas, and electric. To help decide what is best for you, it’s wise to know the basics of each type.
Spring Loaded
Spring loaded air soft guns are the cheapest to manufacture and are therefore are the most common on the market. They are powered by a spring behind the pellet being compressed upon cocking the gun, and then releasing, pushing the pellet out the barrel. These must be cocked upon each shot, like an old fashioned revolver pistol.
Gas Powered
Gas powered air soft guns use compressed gas behind the pellet to push it out of the barrel. The gas is generally hooked up to the butt of the gun. Gasses used commonly are propane and CO2, but they can also use others such as nitrogen and HFC134, a refrigerant. These are typically semi-automatic, but can be automatic as well.
Electric
Electric air soft guns use the same concept as spring loaded, but do not require cocking the gun to compress the spring, as internal mechanisms are moved with electricity. This allows for automatic and semi-automatic guns. These are generally aimed towards more serious players and are priced to reflect that.
To determine if an electric air soft gun is best for you, you need to take in a multitude of factors. Is it going to be used often enough to warrant the extra price? Is it worth the price difference to have a rechargeable battery rather than buying gas? How much does the time difference caused by hand cocking vs gas or electric powered affect your play? Would a cheaper spring loaded model be sufficient for your needs? Take these notes and more into account when considering a new air soft gun. There is no right or wrong answer when choosing an air soft gun type. Only choosing the one that best suits you.
Founded in 2003, Air Soft GI has growing stock online and in their three walk-in locations in the US to serve all your air soft related needs.
