This section is a collection of useful information to aid those who are the new and upcoming players in the Airsoft world.
If you are new to Airsoft and wish to gain a moderate knowledge of the sport read on!
Information thanks to Wikipedia.com:
Airsoft is a game, based around combat, which has similarities with paintball. In most scenarios, participants aim to eliminate opponents by hitting them with 6mm (occasionally 8mm) plastic BBs launched from airsoft guns. Airsoft guns are most commonly powered by one of three sources: Gas (CO2, Green or Red Gas (aka Propane with varying amounts of silicone lubricant mixed in),134A, or some other type of gas), spring-loaded (air is forced through a nozzle via a manually cocked spring piston, normally called "spring guns" or "springers"), or gearboxes (mechanical boxes that use motors to pull back and release a spring piston named AEGs or Automatic Electric Guns). Participants typically use varying types of weapons designed as replicas of real firearms, tactical gear, and accessories used by military and police organizations. Airsoft has been popular in Asia for a long time and there is now a growing interest in airsoft weapons and events in North America and Europe
History
Airsoft was developed in Japan in the early 1970s. A heavy emphasis was placed on making accurate replicas of real firearms and target shooting. In contrast, paintball was developed in the United States in 1981 as a variation of hide and seek tag, through the use of utility companies' power pole paint marking guns.
In the interests of a more family-friendly image, the paintball industry usually avoids direct analogies to the military and war (seen by the movement towards spectator-friendly speedball), while Airsoft focuses more on realism or military simulation.
Methods of play
"Skirmishing" is the most common form of play. Players may use methods and equipment that may differ from a realistic battle (Hi-cap mags for example). Most players in this group dress in BDUs and have guns ranging for $50 to $2000 in price. These battles can take place anywhere from an abandoned building, an area of woods, to a farm.
“CQB” ,an acronym meaning Close Quarters Battle, or CQC, Close Quarters Combat, is a popular way of playing airsoft. The basic idea is for people to play in an enclosed arena at close quarters, resulting in fast action combat or multiple surprises. Often the arena may be set up as if it were in an urban war zone or in terrain filled with enclosing walls, gates, doorways, stair ways, tunnels, apertures, overhead openings, or below-ground approaches that enable one player to shoot at another from a distance of a certain amount of feet.
CQB can also take place in night games or in dense vegetation such as tall grass, shrubbery, and closely packed trees. In these types of combat, the FPS (Feet per second) of the guns may have to be lower due to the closeness of the combat. Simulated grenades and booby traps are effective due to teams sticking together in such a small area. Players in CQB scenarios may wear additional vests or protective clothing to avoid injury from close-in hits or ricochets. Some venues similarly restrict equipment to less powerful airsoft guns.
“MilSim” ,short for Military Simulation, generally combines airsoft play with some military live-action role-playing elements. Several goals or missions are assigned to each team, along with a basic load-out of ammunition (6 millimeter pellets), rations, batteries, and other suitable equipment, such as short-range radios and head-sets. Sometimes such equipment is provided whilst other times players may bring them at their own discretion.
The teams will remain in the field for the duration of play, only returning to a staging area or "safe zone" for medical emergencies, or other such circumstances. Military simulation games often last several days, for example the large BERGET event in Sweden lasts for six days, with no breaks. In large scale MilSim operations players may utilize vehicles such as painted vans and trucks. In some cases, such as Operation Irene, real APCs and tanks are used.
Airsoft games are not only limited to MilSim or CQB, however. There are many alternate game scenarios.
Airsoft for combat training
Many law enforcement departments, military units, and protective security companies are turning to airsoft for an effective, low cost, anti-inflammatory, and safe means of force-on-force training.[5] The low-impact projectiles allow military/law-enforcement/protection agencies to train anywhere - schools, businesses, airplanes, etc. Training in real-life environments conditions allows them to deal with real life situations and improve their skills. The most common airsoft gun used by law enforcement agencies, military units, and protective security companies is the Systema Professional Training Rifle. The inexpensive ammo lets military/police train more frequently and repeat drills dozens of times in each session with minimal budgetary impact, to the relief of taxpayers. Since minimal protective equipment is required, this allows them to train with their actual duty gear and equipment. Using airsoft guns for training minimizes liability to both trainees, instructors and by-standers, as well as property owners.
Honor system
The 'honor system' is employed whereby the players rely on each others' honesty to admit to being hit, because unlike paintballs plastic pellets do not leave a surface mark distinguishable at a distance. While airsoft pellets that contain paint do exist, they are very rarely used by serious players due to their ineffectiveness, and tendency to damage some airsoft equipment.
Depending on the muzzle velocity of the gun and distance from which a person is shooting, the person on the receiving end of the shot will usually feel the impact, but the pellets may sometimes not be felt by a player at very long ranges, when distracted, or when running strenuously, hence the importance of marshals or referees. Honest admission of hits is still required because no one can monitor what happens to every player on the playing field.
To avoid unnecessary disputes that disrupt the game, players are discouraged from calling out hits on their opponent but are expected to signal a marshal to judge how effectively they can hit their opponents. Simulated 'knife kills' can, at the venue's discretion, be performed when a player touches or taps an unaware opponent. This prevents the player being forced to shoot him or her at point-blank range. Similarly a 'courtesy kill' occurs when a player refrains from shooting an opponent at close range while enforcing that opponent's surrender. Players are usually prohibited from firing blindly when not able to see their target, especially around corners. Players are expected to avoid the shooting of an opponent who has already admitted to being hit. Harsh language and forceful physical contact between players is strongly discouraged and even penalized. Players are expected to resolve disputes politely and with proper decorum.
All airsoft players are required and expected to acknowledge being hit even if they are in doubt. Those who acknowledge being hit are generally expected to do the following: (1) Shout "I'm hit" loudly; (2) Raise their hand or gun high and/or display a 'hit indicator' while walking back to the safe zone. A hit indicator can be either a bright-colored cloth during daytime or a blinker or mini-flashlight when in dim light or darkness. Dishonest players who fail to follow the rules or acknowledge their hits run the risk of being labelled and ostracized by the local airsoft community. They will from then on be observed more carefully by the marshals or possibly be even banned from playing in the area.
Another form of cheating occurs when an active player gains an unfair advantage by pretending to be an already-hit player in order to avoid being shot. During night games, active players have been known to turn on their blinker lights to move casually and then to turn them off for combat. Cheating also takes place when an eliminated player re-activates himself within the same game without permission from a marshal. Some players can also gain an unfair advantage by spontaneously joining a game (without authorization) some time long after the game had already started, therefore being in fresh condition and in a position to surprise their opponents.
Due to the nature of the honor system many feel airsoft requires high moral values and gentlemanly ethics to play well without the need for distinguishing hit marks or strict marshal's calls.
Game management
Airsoft games can be run by the players themselves using agreed upon rules. However in organized events a game marshal controls the flow of play and provides on-the-spot rulings. Airsoft game scenarios can vary widely according to mission type, number of teams, number of players per team, in-game objectives or victory conditions, and game durations. Popular game scenarios include center-flag capture or recovery, team flag delivery, hostage-rescue, ambuscades, raids or assaults, and death-match, search and destroy or s.d(all-out elimination) skirmishes.
Tasks often delegated to the marshal include dividing the players into teams, determining the game scenario and its victory conditions, assigning game objectives to various teams, briefing the participants, delimiting playing boundaries, and setting the game duration. By means of whistles, flags, megaphones, and walkie-talkie radios, a group of marshals can handle dozens to hundreds of players in a series of episodes or non-stop play. Depending on the game scenario, players may be eliminated with a single hit, taken out of and returned to action with the aid of "medics," or allowed to "respawn" (re-enter the game) at certain places or times.
Those intending to operate game sites or hold game events usually coordinate with local public authorities, designate safe zones and boundaries, invite the players to the site, and supply players and guests with adequate parking facilities, toilet facilities, water and electrical supply, as well as sell food, ammo, or other provisions needed (especially if the game site is relatively inaccessible to commercial establishments).
Safety
While airsoft guns are safe some of the safety precautions that anyone who is handling or shooting an airsoft rifle followed are: to wear protective lenses or goggles, to keep their finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and to only point the gun in a safe direction. Shooters are advised to never point their weapons at animals, nor at unprotected or non-playing people. There are more safety precautions that are included in the user manuals for airsoft weaponry. The power source of the airsoft gun, be it gas, a manual cocking spring, or an electric motor does not affect how safe or unsafe the gun is.
The majority of airsoft guns are operated by an electric motor and powered by a battery. While usually safe when unmodified, any work done to the electrical system can pose an inexperienced airsoft player a shock or fire hazard. This is normally only an issue when the airsoft gun is used with a power source it is not rated for, such as a low end electric gun using a battery with a voltage that is higher than what is recommended.
Wildlife and Terrain Hazards
Because airsoft games are most often played in natural surroundings, animals can often interfere with these games and potentially be hazardous. These vary between countries and regions.
Whether in natural or built-up urban terrain, airsoft players can be subject to injury from terrain features such as slippery surfaces, steep slopes or heights, falls or trips, collisions with unseen obstructions, snags and sharpened objects, and even noxious substances (animal droppings, etc.). Scratches, cuts, bruises, concussions, and sprains, plus a few broken bones can easily occur in this type of activity. This is another reason for the need for military-style protective gear such as head and neck armor, all-terrain boots, thickened gloves, knee and elbow pads, and full-length rugged attire. Airsoft players are careful when running rapidly as well as moving hastily in the dark to avoid injury from such hazards.
Kinetic Energy
Although there is a considerable difference between Airsoft and paintball energy levels, the type of collisions that occur (elastic airsoft vs. inelastic paintball) must also be considered (refer to Airsoft Pellets Ballistics).
Kinetic energy is the energy that is transferred from the pellet to its target upon impact. One joule of energy will be transferred at an fps of 330 with a BB at the weight of .20g. A typical set of limits on guns might be 330fps for CQB, 400fps for outdoors and 550fps for bolt action sniper rifles, all measured with a .20g BB. The level of kinetic energy goes up and down depending on the weight of your BB and how fast your gun can propel that weight of the BB. There are certain places that play no FPS limit games.
In the United Kingdom, the energy limit for all Airsoft is usually one joule (328fps with a 0.2 gram 6 mm BB) regardless of the type of game play.
Most Airsoft guns are capable of shooting from 150 FPS to 400 FPS, though it is also possible to purchase upgraded springs for some Airsoft guns that will enable 400 to 600 FPS projectile velocities.
A hop-up unit, if present, puts backspin on the BB. This backspin generates lift and gives the BB a greater effective range. With too much applied hop, the BB will arc skywards; too little and it will fall to earth prematurely. Hop up can vary with the weight of the BB, .12 gram BBs are more effected by the backspin than the heavier .20 gram BBs The range of any Airsoft gun depends on both the fps at the muzzle, and the amount of HOP applied. Airsoft guns can have a range of 250 feet or more with enough power, the right barrel, and ammunition as well as a good hop-up unit. The hop-up rubber or bucking is also what retains the BB in the barrel until firing.
Eye and Face Protection
A standard of safety guidelines and equipment has evolved in the airsoft community to protect the eyes and face. The minimum safe level of gear required to participate in most games includes a pair of fully-sealing impact-rated goggles to protect the eyes of the participants. Traditional prescription glasses and sunglasses are almost never accepted as they will not prevent serious injury. Goggles not designed specifically for use with airsoft or paintball guns may break or shatter upon being struck, causing eye damage.
For this reason many organized groups of airsoft players and fields require that eye protection fully seals the area around the eyes, and also meets or exceeds ANSI's Z87.1-2003 goggle standard for eye protection: the ability to resist 3 joules of impact energy without damage. Some players instead opt for paintball goggles, which are held to higher impact rating standards, ASTM's F1776.
According to ANSI publications as of June 2006, The ASTM is currently developing a more specific standard for airsoft - ASTM Z1535Z - Standard Specification for Eye Protective Devices for Airsoft Sports.
The best overall protection is currently offered by paintball masks. However when using a scope you might have to wear safety glasses. These masks provide an additional level of protection by covering the face, teeth, and ears, greatly reducing the risk of injury to these body parts and the chipping of teeth. The lens is a solid piece of impact resistant plastic. Some airsoft masks are made with mesh screens, though these screens do not offer protection from cheaper or bio-degradable BBs that sometimes fragment upon impact on hard objects
Unprotected Players or Bystanders
A player and any observer near an airsoft game site is required to keep their face mask, goggles, or shooting glasses on at all times. This is a standard safety requirement upon an airsoft site and this rule is always enforced by the marshal in charge to ensure that all players and observers remain safe and no accidents occur during the gameplay.
All players must immediately stop shooting when a person without eye protection is encountered in the playing area. One commonly adopted practice is for players to shout the words "Cease-fire, Blind Man!," "Heads up, Pedestrian!," "Noncombatant!," "Clear man!," "Walker!," "Civilian!" or "Unarmed personal!" and halt an ongoing game if a player or bystander is seen in the designated game play area without proper eye protection: goggles and a helmet. Any player hearing the words must, in turn, stop and also shout the words, resulting in a chain reaction which halts and alerts the whole game. Once the situation is resolved by properly removing the unprotected person from harm, the game is usually resumed at the same point at which it was stopped. It may be smart to move to a different area after a safety call so you don't give away your location.
Community safety precautions
Some other rules such as a maximum BB velocity and distance guidelines are used in different ways by groups depending on their location. Various locations often offer similar safety rules with slight variations. In order to encourage the mixing of segmented communities into a larger community that can more easily engage each other, certain organizations have created safety rules and guidelines for players to share the field under common understanding and to band together in safe environments.
Airsoft replica of a H&K G36C. Note that this replica is not in use on a field, and therefore has the magazine removed (and the chamber cleared), and has a barrel bag placed over the muzzleWhen not actively playing, some fields require "barrel bags," also known as barrel condoms, which were first introduced in paintball. Many airsoft guns, especially AEGs, come with small red plastic barrel blockers that fit over the muzzle. The magazine is usually removed as well, and the gun fired to clear the chamber. Many fields also require players to leave their guns set to the safety position when they are not shooting, even during active game play. This is a practice taken from real firearms training, in which one never puts a finger on the trigger or takes the weapon off safe until ready to fire.
In certain countries such as the Philippines where large numbers of players often play every weekend in commercial airsoft venues, additional special rules have been adopted to increase safety and avoid unnecessary injury. All "real steel" firearms, explosives, and bladed weapons are banned at any airsoft battlefield to prevent harmful accidents or misunderstandings and confusion between real and simulated weapons. Players are also expected to be discreet in transporting or carrying their gear and combat-style uniforms so as not to unduly alarm the general public and force the law enforcement agencies to investigate an incident involving airsoft guns. Pyrotechnic devices and effects may be allowed under special circumstances, but are rarely employed, because of the added danger to property or to the participants from fire and explosions.
Teams
There are many organized teams all over the USA and in various countries. Some teams consist of just a few players, who just get together and play during weekends. Some prominent teams have 50 or more players, and are able to send delegations to regional or national events. Competitive teams are those who are able to get special funding or sponsorships in order to compete in tournaments or "bivouacs" (big, multi-day events) held around the country. Most of the well-organized airsoft teams adopt special names, logos, patches, uniforms, gear, and websites or forums to standardize their own identity or appearance versus other teams or groupings.
In the Philippines, there are multiple amorphous groups of airsoft players loosely organized into "teams" that range from the size of squads, platoons, and companies, to large regional confederations of multiple teams and associations. These can be organized according to family group, geographic proximity, professional affiliation, school or business organization, or even according to compatible playing styles, economic lifestyles, and personalities. Such teams can form, disband, regroup, and reform, for any reason, but they are now easily mobilized or organized through website forums and cellphone contact. Some players can belong to multiple teams, just to a particular squad, or may act as "lone wolves" who have no particular team affiliation. Some teams adopt formal rules of association but the majority do not.
There have been attempts to lie one large nationwide umbrella organization of airsofters but these have not succeeded nor persisted in the past. However, due to the continuing influx of cheaper and effective airsoft electric guns, more informal players' associations keep on growing in size, number, and influence as more people take up this sporting activity as a hobby. The growing number of airsoft game sites being set up in recent years is also allowing players in the same neighborhood to play steadily and also to roam from one game site to another
Legal issues
Airsoft guns and playing airsoft is legal in most parts of the world, but not all. Some countries have specific restrictions such as maximum muzzle velocity, aka fps (feet per second) rules against using the trademarks of real firearms, and 'unrealistic' coloring as to distinguish them from actual firearms. They are legal throughout the U.S, but restrictions exist in certain cities such as Camden, NJ, Newark, NJ, Chicago, IL, and Detroit, MI. The states of New Jersey, Illinois, New York and Michigan do, however, allow airsoft guns to be used and handled publicly because of Federal and State laws that regard airsoft guns as toys.
Classic Army M15A4 Automatic Electric Gun.In the United Kingdom, airsoft replicas are classified as 'realistic imitation firearms' or RIF's. The sale, manufacture or importation of RIFs are restricted to activities that are exempted or have been granted a defense by the home office under the Violent Criminal Reduction Act passed in 2005 and came into force on October 1st 2007. Airsoft has been granted a defense and a skirmisher as defined under British law is allowed to purchase, manufacture or import airsoft replicas. Usually, the only accepted method of proving entitlement is to gain membership of a skirmish site that holds public liability insurance. A scheme set up by UK retailers, called UKARA, recommends that an airsoft site only give membership to a player who has played at least three games over a period of no less than two months. The right to own a RIF is still reserved to over 18's regarding they are registered.
You do not need to be a UKARA registered player to purchase airsoft replicas from retailers; however, to protect themselves, many retailers will only sell to UKARA registered players. Also, players they personally know to be skirmishers will be sold to. These are because the law penalizes the seller as well as potentially the buyer.
Also, the use or possession of any kind of replica weapon, loaded or otherwise in a public place is an offense under UK law. This can carry heavy penalties.
A measure that is employed by some airsoft players is informing local law enforcement officials where and when airsoft games will take place, so that misunderstandings can be avoided.
Due to a steady entry of lower-cost airsoft guns from abroad, the Philippine National Police has issued in December 2007 its Circular 11 (Airsoft Implementing Rules and Regulations). It regulates the purchase, one-time registration, transport, usage, transfer of ownership, importation, manufacture and repair, marking and branding, as well as commercial sale of airsoft guns by Filipino citizens of legal age. Only airsoft guns with a muzzle velocity of 550 feet per second (fps) or less using 0.2-g BBs can be registered. The PNP AIRR also regulates the operation of airsoft playing fields, registration of airsoft teams, and the enactment of standardized rules and codes of conduct among airsoft players. Foreigners are still barred from transporting or registering ownership of airsoft guns but this does not prevent them from playing with them on private fields or commercial game sites.
Worldwide Regulations
Australia
In Australia, Airsoft is illegal for most practical purposes. Australian law classifies Air and BB guns as "Category A" weapons, placing then in the same class as break-action shotguns and rimfire rifles, and acquiring a licence to possess (e.g.) a pistol requires a rigorous and laborious process of police background checks. You must also have a legitimate reason and be able to prove that reason before you are allowed possession of a firearm, regardless if either Airsoft or live-fire. Anyone found in Australia possessing an unlicensed Airsoft pistol faces the same charge as a person who unlawfully possesses an actual firearm.
Airsoft Australia is aiming to get Airsoft redefined as a sport and allow it to be legally accepted. This will only be possible by restrictions on how replicas can be obtained (an age over 18 and an Airsoft specific licence (is hoped) to be required of the player), for protection of the sport in general and others.
Airsoft Australia has thus far failed to make any significant leeway with the Government, nor any impact whatsoever on legislation due to the federal election being within the next six months (June 07). The official Airsoft Australia website was hacked but is going to be re-opened soon; however, the organization is about to move to its new domain: http://www.airsoftaustralia.com.au/.
Austria
Airsoft guns and pistols are allowed, but restricted to maximal 0.08 joule for persons <18 years. All users that are at least 14 years old do not need their parent's permission. Airsoft guns and pistols more than 0.08 joule can be purchased in specialized weapon shops only and all users have to be at least 18 years old
Belgium
Airsoft guns and pistols can only be bought at officially licensed dealers, who carry a government permit along with a certified weapon of defense (W.O.D.) to import and sell firearms.
Bulgaria
People between 14-18 years old play with their parents' permission and no documents are needed for non-minors. Bulgarian law considers Airsoft guns to be airguns and therefore one does not need any documents or licenses to possess them; however, shooting in "protected" areas is forbidden. Protected areas include public areas, schools, administrative buildings and other public property. There are no restrictions relating to carrying, possessing or using Airsoft guns in Bulgaria. There are no restrictions about the age of the players, although traders do not sell airguns to minors. There are no restrictions about the use of lasers, flashlights etc. in conjunction with a gun in a game of Airsoft. Unlike the game in the US, there is no need for the end of the barrel to be painted in orange and there are no restrictions about the power of an airsoft gun.
Canada
From the Canada Firearms Centre's fact sheet on airguns, Revised April 2008:
If you own or want to acquire an air gun, here is some information you should know about how the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code apply to them.
Air guns (also known as BB guns, pellet guns, spring guns or air soft guns) fall into three categories:
air (pneumatic system), spring (spring-air), and gas (CO2/nitrogen). For purposes of the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, air guns can be broken down further into the following four categories:
1. Air guns that are firearms for purposes of both the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code.
These are air guns with both a high muzzle velocity (greater than 152.4 meters or 500 feet per second) and a high muzzle energy (greater than 5.7 joules or 4.2 foot-pounds). The “muzzle velocity” is the speed of a projectile at the instant it leaves the muzzle of a gun, normally expressed in metres per second or feet per second. The “muzzle energy” is the energy of a projectile at the instant it leaves the muzzle of a gun, expressed in joules or foot-pounds. Air guns need to meet both standards to be classified as firearms for purposes of the Firearms Act.
These high-powered air guns are subject to the same licence and registration requirements as a conventional firearm.
You are also required to store, transport, display and handle them safely in accordance with the regulations supporting the Firearms Act.
Usually, the manufacturer’s specifications are used to determine what muzzle velocity and muzzle energy an air gun was designed to have. This information may be available in the user’s manual or on the manufacturer’s web site. If the information is not available, individuals can call 1 800 731-4000 and ask to speak to a firearms technician to find out if the air gun is classified as a firearm for purposes of the Firearms Act.
High-powered air rifles are classified as non-restricted firearms. High-powered air pistols are classified as restricted if their barrel is longer than 105 mm or prohibited if their barrel length is 105 mm or less.
2. Air guns that meet the Criminal Code definition of a firearm, but that are deemed not to be firearms for certain purposes of the Firearms Act and Criminal Code.
These are air guns with a maximum muzzle velocity of 152.4 meters or 500 feet per second and/or a maximum muzzle energy of 5.7 joules or 4.2 foot pounds.
Such air guns are exempt from licensing, registration, and other requirements under the Firearms Act, and from penalties set out in the Criminal Code for possessing a firearm without a valid licence or registration certificate. However, they are considered to be firearms under the Criminal Code if they are used to commit a crime. Anyone who uses such an air gun to commit a crime faces the same penalties as someone who uses a regular firearm.
The simple possession, acquisition and use of these air guns for lawful purposes is regulated more by provincial and municipal laws and by-laws than by federal law. For example, some provinces may have set a minimum age for acquiring such an air gun. For more information, please contact your local or provincial authorities.
These air guns are exempt from the specific safe storage, transportation and handling requirements set out in the regulations supporting the Firearms Act. However, the Criminal Code requires that reasonable precautions be taken to use, carry, handle, store, transport, and shipped them in a safe and secure manner
Air guns that are replica firearms
These are air guns that are not powerful enough to cause serious injury or death, but that were designed to resemble a real firearm with near precision. Replica firearms, except for replicas of antique firearms, are classified as prohibited devices.
In particular, some air guns that are commonly called air soft guns may fall into this category. These are devices that have a low muzzle velocity and muzzle energy, and that usually discharge projectiles made out of a substance such as plastic or wax rather than metal or lead.
Although replica firearms are prohibited, you may keep any that you owned on December 1, 1998. You do not need a licence to possess them, and they do not need to be registered. However, as an individual, you cannot import or acquire a replica firearm. If you take a replica firearm out of Canada, you will not be able to bring it back in.
The Criminal Code sets out some penalties for using a replica firearm or any other imitation firearm to commit a crime.
The Canada Firearms Centre (CAFC) receives many enquiries from people wondering whether a low-powered air gun would be considered a replica if it resembles a real firearm in terms of its shape and size, but it is made of clear or brightly coloured plastic, or is much smaller in size.
Many of these devices have to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. As a general rule, however, those made out of clear plastic and those that are significantly smaller than the real version are not classified as replicas. Brightly coloured paint does not necessarily exclude a device from the definition of a replica.
Direct Link: Air Guns
Estonia
Airsoft guns are not considered weapons, but rather a sports item, similarly to paintball markers, according to Estonian Forensic Institute, and therefore can be freely imported, traded and used.
Hazards of being mistaken for a real firearm
There have been unfortunate instances in which an airsoft replica firearm have been mistaken for a real steel firearm. In these rare cases players must know how to act; making it clear that they are not armed with a weapon, while still acting as if it were a real firearm. Some safety precautions you can take so that no confusion arises are: not removing the orange tip, informing surrounding public about airsoft, and playing in private areas. The major distinction between a real firearm and an airsoft gun is the shape of the magazine feed area, which contains a round circular opening through which the pellets pass. Thus, releasing and removing the magazine can assist in distinction between an airsoft gun and a firearm.
Orange-tipped airsoft gun muzzles
There have been countless cases of airsoft guns being mistaken for real firearms, and many cases where armed law enforcement units have responded to tips of unlawful firearm use. This is the main reason that American federal laws require minimum 6mm (approx. 1/4") orange tips to be present on all "toy guns" (including airsoft replicas) transported within and imported into the United States.
However, the effectiveness of such measures remains open to debate, because these orange tips can be easily removed, covered, or painted away at any time. One prominent case occurred in Longwood, Florida when a student threatened fellow classmates with an airsoft pistol and was subsequently shot dead when he aimed it towards an officer. The orange tip mandated by US Federal law had been painted black.[18] Airsoft players will generally do anything to avoid using the orange tip on their guns because it makes them more visible at a distance when they play. The majority of airsoft guns now lack orange tips even if they originally had them, even in localities that require them, so this type of legal regulation would be impractical to enforce in all instances. This is often the norm if the airsoft gun is used only in private or restricted game locations that are not usually accessible to law enforcers. Furthermore, theatrical or movie productions may require the absolute lack of any markings that would distinguish a replica gun from a real gun, so there are regulated exceptions to the orange-tip rule.
Furthermore, their legal imposition means that criminals can attempt to disguise real firearms as toys by painting the tip of the barrel orange, or vice versa.[original research?] For police departments that are already hampered by a lack of resources to enforce America's laws on actual firearms, the additional task of tracking down and constantly monitoring non-lethal replica guns could result in much more lax enforcement of the orange-tip rules.
Cost
To a new player choosing between airsoft and paintball, a beginning package for airsoft is much cheaper in terms of hardware, but for apparel they can be roughly equivalent. They both can range from $20 for a vest, to $180 (expensive version) for a ghillie suit. One major difference, however, can be seen in the cost of ammunition and upkeep of the packages - due to the type of ammunition used, airsoft guns are less prone to "jamming", and airsoft BBs (6mm) are considerably cheaper to purchase than paintballs.
Airsoft rifles and pistols are usually the most expensive piece of equipment. Low-quality electric guns, commonly called LPEGs (low priced/powered electric guns) can cost from $15-$90 USD depending on the quality, the MPEGs (medium priced/powered electric guns) can cost in the range of $80-$180 USD and are usually a clone of an AEG with lower quality materials (e.g. recent CYMA guns, A&K, etc. which are made of pot metal which is weaker than high end plastic.), while a higher quality AEG is usually more than $200 USD. A paintball gun of equal level usually costs between $250-$350. The overall average for a high quality electric gun is around $200-$500 USD (or much higher, if the user decides to purchase a pre-upgraded gun or a specialized gun, such as a sniper rifle or an LMG replica) depending on the model. Some can cost upwards of $1000 and are sold mainly to collectors and those looking for the closest possible replicas for law enforcement weapons and law enforcement training. Some custom guns can cost more than $2,000 USD. Gas rifles start at around $150 but most high quality gas guns start at about $500.
In Mil-Sim games, where the main aspect of the play is realism, equipment is usually much more expensive. Many Mil-Sim players choose to wear real gear (not an airsoft replica) and in some cases, real ballistic protective armor. This can raise the price of the game considerably, with guns and gear sometimes totaling in excess of $1,000 USD.
Airsoft guns
The guns used in airsoft are typically replicas of real firearms, except that they have a mechanism for pushing out projectiles 6 mm or 8 mm in diameter. An example would be the Classic Army M15A4, which is a replica of the M16 assault rifle. Airsoft guns are considered replicas of real firearms but not all replicas are Airsoft guns; some replicas don't have a firing mechanism while others, such as the Real Action Markers, may have a different mechanism and shoot non-Airsoft types of projectiles.
Airsoft guns are classified according to their operating principle which can be either: spring, electric, or gas-powered. An airsoft gun is selected according to the level of performance (battery life, range, rate of fire, magazine capacity, size, and weight) or realism the player requires. Early-generation airsoft guns were mostly "springers." Airsoft guns with springs are almost never semi-auto and never auto. Second-generation airsoft guns had gas-powered mechanisms that required either an internal "Flon" (CFC) gas reservoir or an external a high-pressure CO2 chamber. AEGs (automatic electric guns, such as assault rifles) are the most commonly produced type now used and have high-capacity rechargeable batteries to energize plastic or durable metal gearboxes that compress air for propelling the BBs.
Most airsoft pistols which are gas-powered use biodegradable and environmentally safe "green gas" and produce a realistic blowback recoil effect when fired. Each pistol magazine contains a small storage gas cylinder with enough power to propel the 30+ BB projectiles also housed in the magazine. Thus a player can realistically load, fire, and unload an airsoft pistol with similar realism as a "real steel" semi-automatic pistol. A few early-production AEPs (Airsoft Electric Pistols) have been released but these suffer from weaker BB velocities because of the difficulty of fitting a small-enough motor in the housing of a pistol, although the range is sometimes greater than a gas pistol because FPS can equal drag. AEP's often have a higher rate of fire than their gas counterparts.
Most early airsoft guns were often completely made of A.B.S plastic except for some internal moving parts. Newer guns, especially those made in China, have metal barrels, receivers, gearboxes, gun sights, and other external parts. A typical airsoft gun is noticeably lighter than its "real steel" counterpart due to the use of aluminium, alloy, and plastic components. Thus, airsoft guns tend to get scratched, damaged, or broken easily from rough handling. When fired, most airsoft guns have a weak vibration and a much softer whirring sound, without any strong recoil, bright muzzle flash, concussive noise, or smell of burnt propellant as those produced by real firearms, although there are smoke caps available for airsoft guns for added realism.
Carrying additional backup firearms is a habit during long-duration scenarios that would prevent the player from going back to the safe zone to replace a defective gun. Each gun would need its supply of magazines and batteries or gas canisters. In the case of AEG rifles magazines come in either low-capacity (low caps: 25-80 BBs), medium-capacity (mid caps: 80-150 BBs), or high-capacity (high caps: 200-500+ BBs). These magazines are spring loaded; the high-cap magazines often have a ratchet wheel that can be wound up periodically to force BBs up the magazine feed chute, but these magazines make a rattling noise when running or walking. Some airsoft guns have electric-powered box or drum magazines that hold thousands of BBs (sometimes up to 5000). Also, many pistols and rifles have metal weights in them for a more realistic feel, effect, and balance.
Airsoft projectiles
Most airsoft guns fire spherical plastic pellets ranging from 0.12 to 0.88 grams in weight, though the most popular weights for AEGs are between .20 and .28 grams, depending on the range that the gun is typically used at. Heavier rounds are typically used for sniping, as they are more stable in flight and thus, more accurate at long range. While BBs may be heavier, it is not necessary to have the gun upgraded to a very high FPS level.
One way to increase the accuracy of a rifle is to adjust the "hop-up" to make the rounds fly as straight and as far as possible without curving upwards or downwards at short distances. The hop-up effect is caused by back spin on the BB, which minimizes the drop experienced by the BB (increases the straight flying distance) by increasing its lift according to the bernoulli principle.
Pellets are typically 6 mm in diameter, though 8 mm varieties exist for specialty weapons. Pellet quality is important, as malformed ones could easily damage the barrel of the airsoft weapon and/or the hop up system. In addition to damaging the barrel, malformed, soiled, or low-grade pellets with seams will be much more inaccurate. Because of the hop up mechanism that puts a spin on the pellet, even a small deformity will be accentuated and throw the pellet off course.
Pyrotechnics
Some airsoft sites allow the use of pyrotechnics, which are small explosive-driven replicas of ordnance such as grenades. Unfortunately, home-made devices of this sort are often unsafe and can lead to serious injury. There are several types of pyrotechnics: pellet grenades which fire out pellets to replicate the shrapnel of a fragmentation grenade; smoke grenades which provide cover to move and fire from behind; and flashbangs/thunderflashes which emit a very bright flash of light (often accompanied by loud sound) for the purpose of disorientating and temporarily blinding/deafening the target.
The latest Airsoft grenades have much improved since their first introduction. Work has been done by various companies to produce much tougher grenades using rocket star burst shell cases, allowing them to be thrown much farther, ring pull fuses, and filling grenades with dry peas instead of paint balls or pellets, making them mostly biodegradable. The ring pull allows German stick type grenades for re-enacters and adds to the realism of ball grenades.
Some players also create home-made pellet grenades with the use of fireworks and pellets enclosed in a casing, such as 35 mm film canisters. Such items are often frowned upon, however, as they could be harmful to other players or the playing environment due to the plastic and shrapnel often used.
Smoke grenades have also been improved with cool burning and much less toxic smoke.[citation needed] Use of old naval rescue smokes is avoided as the smoke used was never designed for possible inhalation.
Manufacturers
ICS (I Chih Shivan)] – ICS is considered one of the "Big 3" manufacturers of airsoft guns (the others being Tokyo Marui, and Classic Army, respectively). being Manufactures M4 Carbines, MP5s, and an AK-74M replica. In addition, they have also come out with the split gearbox design for their M4 series, in which the upper gearbox (which includes the cylinder and spring assembly) disconnects from the lower gearbox (which houses the gear assembly) for easier repair and upgrades. ICS Website
Hudson - produces high-end theater-quality gas-operated airsoft guns; mostly WWII replicas.
Sheriff – Full Metal custom pistols using Western Arms based components, as well as Maruzen-based bolt action rifles. Manufacturer of the discontinued Highlander Magnum.
Sunproject – Known for their M203s and gas blow-back M-16s.
Supercell Development, Inc. - creators of the spring-powered airsoft claymore.
G&G (Guay Guay Gunshop)] – specializes in internal and external upgrades and accessories. G&G manufactures higher end guns as well as a mid-range "sportline".
Top Tech - Works very close with the G&G company producing rifles that are fitted with a blowback system that is not operated by gas, they are in fact guns operated by electricity and are modified to have the bolt and piston attached together so they move when the gun is being fired. Not available in many places since they have just started production. Prototypes have been made and will be released soon.
[G&P], A Hong Kong based company that specializes in aftermarket upgrades and external accessories, also make a variety of high quality AR-15 series AEGs along with an M249 SAW Heavy Machine Gun. G&P Website
Escort - Highly realistic gas blowback rifles such as their M4 and MP5 series, usually hard to find and available mostly in Asia.
Tanio Koba - High end gas powered pistols that are made in Japan
Inokatsu – High-end manufacturer known for Full Metal M60 machine guns and AK series guns.
Deep Fire –known for their Titanium pistons for AEG rifles, grenade launcher (M72A2 LAW), and distraction devices.
KSC – Located in Japan; specializing in handguns. Their gas blow back pistols are of high reliability and accuracy, having gained themselves a reputation for 'practical' skirmishing sidearms. KSC manufactures an HK33 AEG line that features manual cocking in the event of a dead battery however is quite hard to find and usually is only available in Asia and upgrade parts for it is very uncommon.
[KWA] – one of the OEM manufacturers for KSC's Gas Blowback pistols. KWA AEGs are widely regarded as some of the best "stock" AEG's available in America capable of 400 FPS out of the box. Their AEGs are becoming popular for their strong internals and Li-Poly ready capabilities.
[Mad Bull Airsoft] – makers of many types of Airsoft grenades, grenade launchers, tight-bore barrels, triggers, mines, and various other parts.
[Marushin] –Known for their 8 mm BB firing guns as well as their ultra-realistic M1 Garand.
Maruzen – One of the very first airsoft companies, Maruzen is well known for its APS series of sniper rifles. The APS-2 and APS-2 Type 96 are among the most popular and best-selling airsoft sniper rifles on the market.
Olympic Arms – Manufactures ICS replicas with trademarks
STAR – Specializes in more expensive, highly realistic, easy-to-disassemble airsoft guns, but they discourage beginners because of their complex internals.
Systema Engineering – which specializes in high-end professional training weapons (PTWs) that are very close to the real steel, nearly indistinguishable between real or fake, as well as internal and external upgrades that are known for their high quality and durability. Systema makes six different PTWs the M4, M4A1, the M4A1 CQB, the M16A2, the M16A3 and the Mp5. Their PTWs use color coded cylinders that can be swaped quickly for FPS change, the red cylinder which is the strongest can make the gun shoot around 500 FPS, and the black cylinder which is the weakest shoots at around 270 FPS.
Tanaka Works – specializes in high-powered gas gun revolvers and rifles. Known for having high end gas shotguns and revolvers.
Tokyo Marui – Most commonly renowned as the very pinnacle of airsoft technology, reliability, and durability. Created the first automatic electric gun (AEG) - the FAMAS F1 - and was responsible for the invention of the 'Hop Up' System (which, by means of an adjustable rubber pad in the barrel, creates a spin on the fired BB, greatly increasing range). Marui has manufactured a wide variety of AEGs, smaller AEPs (Automatic Electric Pistols), along with gas and spring powered weapons. They have also been responsible for other great advancements in airsoft. Tokyo Marui is the largest airsoft manufacturer worldwide, and is seen as the Airsoft "standard" for which nearly all after market products are tailored.
Classic Army - A Hong Kong company that is often seen to rival Tokyo Marui. Manufactures high-end AEGs featuring all metal bodies, which Tokyo Marui do not have.
RealSword - a Hong Kong-based company manufacturing replicas of Chinese assault rifles, their guns are highly realistic and very close to the real steel, however their guns are usually turned off by beginners because they require constant maintenance of their gearboxes and the gearbox is usually hard to get to and takes an amount of time.
TOP - specializes with manufacturing light and heavy machine gun airsoft replicas.
Western Arms - largely specializing on the 1911 .45 and its derivatives as well as Beretta, S&W and SV. High end pistols without customization. They have also released a M4A1 that is gas powered with a blowback function.
VFC/GB TECH (Vega Force Company) - Recently began production of unique AEGs. Highly realistic replica but have reputations for breaking down and they will require constant maintenance and repair to keep them in fully working condition. Not commonly used by beginners because of their unique internals and they are usually hard to get to. The guns also have realistic field stripping that takes a while to get used to. Some parts are usually harder to find so when problems exists it may take a while to get it repaired. Their first batch of AEGs, the HK416 is the one with the most problems and many people avoid buying them, but their second version of the HK416 is said to be improved. So far the only guns that this company manufacturers are the HK416 series, the AK series, BARs, Squad automatic weapons (SAWs), SCAR series, and a few sniper rifles including the Barret M82.
King Arms - known for their variety of optics and scopes.
Airsoft Surgeon-Sells external and internal modifications for airsoft sniper rifles.
KWC (Kien Well Corporation) -known for its CO2 powered Mini UZI, M16 gas rifles and spring-powered guns retaining fully licensed trademarks.
KJW (Kuan Ju Works) - (also known as Y&P)manufacturer of high powered metal-constructed replicas. Their most popular model is the replica Beretta 92FS pistol.
HFC (Ho Feng Corporation) - manufacturer of spring- and gas-powered guns; made famous for their semi-automatic HFC M190 gas blowback model, a replica of the Beretta 92FS with the addition of an RIS system.
WE Taiwan (Wei-E Tech) - known for their range of fullsize metal-bodied Colt M1911; Luger, Beretta and Hi-Cap pistols
AIM - Manufactures ICS AEGs without the metal bodies.
Modify - specializes in designing and manufacturing internal airsoft upgrade parts.
AIM - Manufactures ICS AEGs without the metal bodies.
Modify - specializes in designing and manufacturing internal airsoft upgrade parts.
TECHPRO - specializes in manufacturing innovative parts to give your AEGs more power.
SRC (Star Rainbow Company) - manufactures M-Series and AK-47 replicas including full metal versions that shoot over 400 feet per second
Gamma – Known for their clone of the Supercell Dev. airsoft claymore mine.
Unicorn - Chinese maker, primary products the AK-74 series, full steel and wood AEGs and conversion kits.(blue unicorn horn the last at unicorn-industry.com)
CYMA - Earlier models include the CM027 MP5J and CM028 AK47. Their release for 2006 includes the CM031 which is externally a CA SLR-105 clone but internally similar to its version of the AK47 with a different hop up chamber and inner barrel. Until the CM027, CYMA were known for making inexpensive and relatively low durability airsoft guns. Their latest model is the CM0121 which is a full auto Desert Eagle AEP.In 2008 Cyma have launched new range of full metal and wood AEGs and have improved their overall quality ,reliability and performance. Some Cyma models are nearly equal manufactures of high-end AEGs. New models include the CM031, CM031b, CM031c, CM031c, CM035, CM036, CM037, CM039, and the CM042. Oddly enough, CYMA does not produce any AR variant clones.
WELL/WELLFIRE - A low-end airsoft manufacturer. It's gearbox and motor proved to be surprisingly durable although both guns suffer from air compression problems. They later released the R7 or M4A1 with full stock and R8 G3SAS which surprised many with its robustness and accuracy. WELL is the first company to release the TM clone of MP7 or R-4 as well as releasing the first low-power clone of Tokyo Marui's P90, which is the D90 and the R9.
Double Eagle (DE) - The company that revolutionized LPEGs with its famous M83. Double Eagle has been proven to make exact copies of Tokyo Marui's weapons. Their version of the AK47 and Spetsnaz were met with lukewarm enthusiasm as most other Chinese companies were able to produce better performing AEGs. Their M50 springer rifle was quite popular and easily "upgradeable" to 400fps by simply wrapping the inner barrel and hop up chamber area with teflon tape to seal air leaks. In early 2007, Double Eagle released a version of M4 S-System (the M88) and G&G-based UMP (the M89).They have been notably making the highest quality LPEGs compared to Well and CYMA
Both Elephant (BE) - Manufactures copies of the MP7, G3SG1, XM8, Steyr Aug, G36K, and the SL8. Most of their AEGs are offered with either a plastic or metal gearbox, the latter being more reliable. However, even the metal gearbox versions are inferior in quality to similar models produced by other Chinese clone manufacturers. They are often light weight and lack the same quality of finish and trademarks. Currently their plastic gearbox and metal gearbox variants have dropped drastically in price because of their quality, but they have still been making some of the strongest LPEGs and they were leading some of the strongest MGB Guns until JG came back in the production.
Jing Gong (JG, also known as Golden Bow and Echo1) - Manufacturer high quality low to mid priced airsoft guns. They usually have ABS bodies, but some are now made with metal. The prime choice for players with more experience because they require medium amounts of maintenance, they last long, and shoot a decent FPS.In 2008 JG have a new and improved AEGs, most of the new 2008 upgrade version shoot well over 400fps with improved interals current new models are a full metal SVD,Full metal and wood AK47, AK47s,the HK416 in 3 variants,JG models nearly equal manufactures of high-end AEG.
A&K - It's M4 S-System with metal RIS (rail interface) has become a big winner in a market saturated with Armalites. The S-System was followed by other rifles from the M16 family: M16A4, M4, M933 and M4 CQB, and an M249 clone was released in mid August 2007. The A&K M249 clone is far cheaper than the original CA Version; It retails in the United States for $300-400USD and retains nearly all of the high quality and features offered by the CA version, including the PGC 8 mm bearing gearbox capable of quick swap springs. Their new releases for 2008 includes the M16A4, SPR MOD 1, SPR MOD 0, SR25K and the SR25, all of whom retails up to and over $200.
Kart/New Star - this low-end/economy-priced company, commonly linked to A&K, has débuted with releasing an M14 copy soon after the Tokyo Marui model appeared. Other models include M14 SOCOM rifle, M40 and Steyr AUG (although the last one was discontinued due to poor build).
AGM - Entered the market with its surprising accurate and powerful springer rifle, the MP001 aka VSR (since it is a visual replica of the TM VSR10). Their MP007 (MP40) was an instant hit as an alternative to other expensive and fault-prone rifles; featured a version 3 all metal gearbox and reinforced gears and piston.
BOYI - They gained their fame when they manufactured the AR-15 lines (BIM4) Their latest line is branded as KALASH, manufacturing AK-74s and AKS-74Us. Many of their MPEGs consist of many metal parts, and metal bodies most MPEGs do not have. Also, majority of their internals are metal.
Galaxy - known for their PDWs (MP5K, MP5 PDW and MP7A1), Galaxy produces good-quality compact AEGs. They are rumored to be working on a P90 replica with a metal gearbox.
JLS - producer of the airsoft SCAR, two full metal HK33 variants (copied from relatively obscure KSC hybrid AEG/springer design) and the first FN F2000 replica. Also the biggest producer of the "cheap" EBB's (Electric Blow Back) pistols which have a high failure rate but one of best sellers for their fun.
BELL - Released a G3SG1 replica, which was unsuccessful for its low velocity and quality. Also the first Chinese manufacturer to release a quite good quality gas pistol replicas: a full-metal Beretta M9 model based on the semi-only version of HFC's M190 pistol, a M10 shell-loaded revolver and a Colt M1911 replica based on Tokyo Marui design, with fully-trademarked plastic body (there is also version with metal body).
Unicorn Hobby Corporation (UHC) - Offering very reliable, yet economical alternatives to higher-end companies including the MP5 SD3, the M1911A1, M92FS, as well as the Super 9.
KHC - Famous for their Maverick Bullpup and spring pistols.
Omega - Famous for their Beretta 93R.
Academy - South Korean company best known for their DPMS Kittycat, L85, and A-15 rifles.
AZR Machine & Tool Co. -
Customized builders of airsoft accessories, replica wood rifle stocks for the M1 Garand, Thompson, Mauser98k, FAL, and AKM. Also manufactures drop-in gearboxes for AEGs and conversion kits for Rifles. This company offers a wide range of customized services for there clients that wish to have there own designs to there replica rifles.
UTG(Under The Gun) - UTG is a brand by Leapers Inc which manufactures scopes and red dots.
Aftermath - This airsoft company is located in Miami, Florida, in the United States. They are mostly known as a rebrander, and if you ask somebody, most of them will say something about them being a rebrander of many popular manufacturers such as CYMA. However, there is not really any direct proof that they are rebranders though and the company itself has not stated it.
Airsoft pellet (BB) manufacturers
AS-24 (0.15g, 0.20g, 0.23g, 0.25g, 0.28g Bio Pellets) and (0.20g, 0.25g, 0.30g) non Bio Pellets - High quality 6 mm BB
Airsoft Elite Taiwan (0.2g, 0.23g, 0.25g BB Pellets) - Good quality white and black BB Pellets
Bioval BBB's (0.20, 0.23, 0.25, 0.30 Biodegradable Bionelle) - The all new BioBB's from BIOVAL. Very good and high grade Bio pellet. The only BioBb's with a true bio friendly resin. Distributed by Airsoft Assist in Europe.
Excel Japan (0.2g, 0.23g, 0.25g Biodegradable BB Pellets) A high quality Bio-Degradable BB Pellet's Manufactured in Japan
Goldfire Taiwan (0.2g, 0.25g BB Pellets) - Taiwanese BB pellets.
Systema Japan (0.2g Pellets) - High quality 0.2g 6 mm BBs
ICS Taiwan (0.2g, 0.25g BB Pellets) - BB Pellets by I Chih Shivan Enterprise
Maruzen Japan (0.2g, 0.29g BB Pellets) - High precision BB Pellets, claimed to be within +/- 0.01 mm. Rate 4.5/5 on the universal BB grading system.
PHX (0.2g, 0.23g, 0.25g, 0.28g, 0.3g, 0.33g BB Pellets) - High Quality, High priced BBs made for use in Sniper Rifles and other replicas with tight-bore barrles.
KSC Taiwan (0.2g, 0.25g, 0.3g BB Pellets) - Good quality BB Pellets for OEM in Japan. Rate 4/5 on the universal BB grading system.
Ts. These BB's dissolve in hours when submersed in water. Rate 3/5 on the universal BB grading system.
Flying Colors (0.12g., 0.2g, 0.25g) - Good grade 6 mm BBs for all-around use. They have the widest variety of colors available. Rate 2.5/5 on the universal BB grading system.
6MMZ (.20g BB Pellets) High quality Black BB Pellets
1st Target (0.12g,0.18g,0.20g,0.23g,0.25g,0.28g,0.30g,0.33g Non Bio - 0.20g,0.23g,0.25g,0.28g,0.30g) available in rough finish ( suitable for not double stacking mags ) and smooth finish High quality 6 mm BBs.
Matrix These are rebrands of already existing bbs. Evike.com is the only seller of this rebrand because they are the ones that rebranded them.
CYMA (.12, .2) Generally poor quality despite advertising as High grade pellets, to be avoided in most cases.
Xtreme Precision Italy (0.12g, 0.20g, 0.23g, 0.25g, 0.28g 0.30g) - High quality BB's, The company does not primarily deal in airsoft BB's but rather professionally makes ball bearings.
King Airsoft regular and Bio BBs Fotodegradable Italian BB makers various colours and weights.
GoldenBall China (0.12g,0.15g,0.20g,0.23g,0.25g,0.28g,0.30g,0.32g Non Biodegradable BB pellets & 0.20g,0.25g Biodegradable BB pellets) High quality 6 mm white, green and black BBs.
Speedballs Korea (0,12g, 0,14g, 0,16g, 0,18g, 0,20g, 0,23g, 0,25g, 0,30g, 0,36g) - Japan quality BB's made in Korea
StraightJapan(0.30+) very high quality for high powered sniper rifles (6mm & 8MM), their BBs are sometimes graphite coated of full metal. The graphite coated BB's are sometimes avoided because they are known to disrupt the function of "hop up" units and tightbore inner barrels.
Tokyo Marui Japan (0.12g,0.15g,0.20g,0.25g,0.30g)Superior quality BBs for good price, suitable for all guns of all manufacturers
Tsunami Airsoft Taiwan (0.2g,0.23g,0.25g,0.30g) High quality, double polished BBs. Excellent performance with tightbore barrels.[citation needed]
TAIGEAR (0.12g, 0.15g, 0.20g, 0.23g, 0.25g, 0.28g, 0.30g, 0.32g) 6 mm seamless high quality extra polished airsoft pellets. Taigear
Kyou BBS French (0.20g,0.23g,0.25g,0.28g,0.30g,0.32g (5.96 +-0.01) Non Biodegradable BB pellets, 0.20g,0.25g (5.94 +-0.015) Biodegradable BB pellets, Tracer Pellets 0.20g,0.25g (5.95 +-0.015) & 8 mm Non Biodegradable BB pellets. Kyou Airsoft
Along with the named companies, a few companies who were prominent in the earlier history of airsoft, but have since gone out of business, include:
• Falcon Toy Corp
• JAC
• Kokusai
• LS
• Marukoshin (1986)
• MGC Bondshop of Japan
• Yonezawa
• YE- Youth Engineering
Congratz, if you have taken the time to read Volumes 1-9 you are now much more informed and are ready to give this great hobby a try!
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