Airsoft Guns

With holidays quickly approaching, it's a good time to start thinking about the types of airsoft products that will be highly desirable in the new year. Whether you’re getting a head start on holiday gifts for an airsoft enthusiast in your life, or adding to your own wish list, this guide will help you maneuver all the newest airsoft accessories and gear out there.

Here’s our list of the top 5 tactical gear and accessories for airsoft enthusiasts this holiday season:

1. A MOLLE tactical airsoft vest


• Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment, or MOLLE, vests allow users to easily modify the vest to suit their size and airsoft skirmish needs.


• This airsoft vest features front and back integrated plate compartments, secured with Velcro flaps for quick and easy open/close capability.


• The tactical airsoft vest also includes 5 additional pouches, each in a variety of sizes to hold various airsoft accessories such as flashlights, maps, airsoft ammo, deterrent spray and more.


2. An airsoft gun bag


• This Urban Assault, highly durable 46” gun bag is made with the player in mind, working to protect your quality airsoft guns and accessories during storage and transportation.


• With this handy and affordable gun bag, you can store two hefty airsoft guns in unique compartments as well as all your gear: on top of the gun compartments, it features two more compartments structured to hold large gear and finally, two additional compartments for your airsoft ammo and magazines.


• Carry this airsoft bag easily with the carry handle or use the backpack-style straps to transport it over the shoulder.


3. A high protection face mask


• Don’t leave the sensitive areas of your face and neck unprotected during intense airsoft skirmishes! This G-Force face mask protects your face and extends down to protect your neck.


• This is one of the most thorough face masks, with your face, eye and neck with high grade, heavy-duty protective ABS composite.


• The lightweight laced fabric doesn’t hinder movability or visibility on the battlefield and is a must for any airsoft player!


4. A Drop Leg Holster


• This MOLLE leg holster has a pouch to store your airsoft pistols as well as a pouch for airsoft accessories.


• The rugged feel of having the adjustable holster on your leg mimics real life military holsters and allows for a quick draw of your airsoft weapon


5. A tactical gear protection package


• This is the total airsoft protection package for a high performance airsoft player; however, keep in mind that level 1 protection is the lowest grade of protection and if you know you engage in more extreme airsoft game play, look for a level 2 protection package.


• Diamond Tactical brings together this complete load out package with shatter resistant eye protection, a durable face mask and a protective helmet to withstand rounds of airsoft bbs.

Use this guide to round out your airsoft merchandise or add to an airsoft friend’s stash. Look forward to some more airsoft shopping guides in future posts, where we’ll detail the top 5 airsoft packages, pistols and more!

About the Author:Mike Zhang is the President and COO of Airsoft Megastore, an online airsoft retailer offering electric and gas powered airsoft guns, as well as airsoft parts, upgrades and accessories. Visit Airsoft Megastore to shop for airsoft AEGs, full metal airsoft rifles or the right airsoft gas gun for players of any experience level.

Labels: airsoft christmas, airsoft holiday guide, airsoft shotguns, electric airsoft rifles

If you’ve seen the iconic movie A Christmas Story you’ve heard the phrase "You’ll shoot your eye out." For those of you who haven’t seen the movie, here’s a quick recap. Nine year old Ralphie wants a Red Ryder bb gun for Christmas, but his overprotective mother, school teacher, and even the mall Santa Clause keep denying him his prized bb gun by saying "You’ll shoot your eye out."

While this story is clearly fictional, if you’ve ever read airsoft forums you know this is still a common dilemma. There are plenty of kids out there whose parents won’t let them get their airsoft gun or airsoft sniper rifle because they have misconceptions about airsoft in general. If you’re one of those airsoft enthusiasts, here are 10 tips to help you get the airsoft gun you want this holiday season:

1. Airsoft is Not Dangerous

Airsoft is less dangerous than paintball. Airsoft bb’s are shot at a much lower velocity than paintballs, and their mass is a lot lower so they are less dangerous when they hit you. Standard bb’s can’t penetrate skin or damage internal organs.



Tip: Explain to parents that an airsoft skirmish is actually safer than doing common chores like cutting the grass.



2. Wide Range of Airsoft Safety Gear

Faces (especially eyes) are the one place that are susceptible to injury when playing airsoft, but there is a lot of airsoft safety gear out there to choose from to protect yourself. If you hit a sale you can get airsoft safety glasses for under $10, and goggles or full face masks for under $20. But it doesn’t stop there. Basically, if you name it they make it for airsoft players- everything from helmets to gloves to knee pads to vests. For more information on staying safe, check out our airsoft safety articles or the Airsoft Megastore TV Channel.



Tip: Make a list of the airsoft safety gear that you’ll need to play and include that on your holiday wish list so your parents know you’re taking the sport seriously.



3. Orange Safety Tips on Airsoft Guns

If your parents have heard news stories about people with airsoft guns being mistaken for criminals with real guns and being shot by law enforcement officers remind them that in all of these cases the person with an airsoft gun was either committing a criminal act, did not obey law enforcement officers when he/she was told to put the gun down, or had removed the orange safety tip that distinguishes it from a real gun.



Tip: Promise your parents that you will leave the orange tip on to ensure your safety.

4. Responsible Airsoft Play

For whatever reason moms seem to think that giving an otherwise good kid a bb gun will suddenly lead to them shooting cars, animals, and unarmed people- getting them in trouble with the law.



Tip: Remind your parents that you will only fire your gun in suitable areas and only shoot at airsoft targets and other outfitted players.



5. Airsoft is Very Affordable

A lot of parents assume that airsoft guns and ammo are expensive, but they really aren’t anymore. Depending on what kind of gun you want to carry, and how much safety equipment you’ll be wearing you can get started for as little as $200. For a full rundown of what to expect in the way of price when getting started read the full article "What does it Cost to Start Playing Airsoft?"



Tip: Instead of just asking your parents for any airsoft gun, consider researching an individual discount airsoft gun and asking for that gun to illustrate how affordable airsoft can be (plus, then you stand a better chance of getting the exact gun you want).



6. Airsoft is Mess Free

Some parents don’t know the difference between airsoft and paintball guns so they might assume you’ll come home covered in wet paint splotches or that the backyard will be riddled with bright paint when you’re done.
Tip: Tell your parents to rest assured that you won’t ruin your clothes or the make a mess in the house with paint.

7. Airsoft is Legal in All States

Airsoft guns are legal in the U.S. so they don’t have to worry about you getting in trouble for owning one.



Tip: Some states have special laws banning the discharge of airsoft guns within city limits or requiring that guns be a special color so check your local laws to make sure you are abiding by all regulations. The more informed you are the easier it will be to convince your parents that you can be responsible with an airsoft gun.



8. Airsoft Guns Aren’t Real Guns

Because airsoft guns are used by the military and police forces for training operations, parents may think that the guns are more realistic than they are.



Tip: Show them that the guns are not real guns and that they are not firing large dangerous projectiles. This may seem silly but sometimes parents just need to see it with their own eyes. If you have a friend with an airsoft gun ask him/her to help you demonstrate this to your parents.



9. Airsoft Friends & Teammates

Sometimes parents imagine their child getting an airsoft gun and running around alone shooting things and wreaking havoc.



Tip: Remind your parents that all over the country there are people of all ages getting together for airsoft skirmishes so you’ll be making new friends and maybe even developing long-term teammates. If your parents routinely tell you to stop playing video games and go outdoors and play you can remind them that an airsoft gun will help you to be more active playing outside with other kids.



10. Airsoft can be a Rite of Passage

At the end of A Christmas Story Ralphie finally gets a bb gun for Christmas because his father had one when he was Ralphie’s age. While 9 years old may be a little young for a rite of passage it’s common for 13-16 year olds to get something like an airsoft gun to signal that they are growing up.



Tip: If you think you can work this in your favor, try positioning your request as a rite of passage into manhood. Your dad just might cave.

About the Author: Mike Zhang is the President and COO of Airsoft Megastore, an online airsoft retailer offering a huge selection of affordable airsoft guns, including high-powered airsoft sniper rifles. Please visit Airsoft Megastore to shop for airsoft AEGs, full metal airsoft rifles or the right airsoft gas gun for players of any experience level.

Labels: about airsoft guns, airsoft 101, airsoft christmas, airsoft safety

Most players grow tired of their airsoft gun’s performance after they realize the full potential of quality airsoft guns. Some players decide to purchase top tier metal gearbox AEGs to achieve a high level of performance, while others upgrade their existing metal gearbox AEGs to match the top tier guns. Both avenues of approach will deliver premium performance; however upgrading an existing metal gearbox AEG is normally much less expensive. Upgrade metal gearbox AEG parts can be confusing, due to the technical terminology and wide variety of accessible parts. Knowing what type of parts work for your metal gearbox AEG and what performance enhancing features the parts deliver will help you to be a more informed airsoft player. Please note that all upgrades and modifications should be handled by a Professional Airsoft Technician. This article is meant to inform our customers of the intricacies of airsoft upgrade parts, and is not meant to encourage our customers to personally install any of these components, as it may void the customer’s warranty.

Airsoft Upgrade parts can be divided into two main categories, external upgrades and internal upgrades. External upgrades normally include aesthetic enhancements to the body of the AEG; such as metal bodies, rail systems, stocks, hand guards, motor grips, etc. Internal upgrades include enhancements to the mechanical functionality of the airsoft gun; such as gearbox parts, hop-ups, inner barrels, motors, etc. External parts are relatively easy to understand, and most have no impact on the actual performance of your airsoft gun. External upgrades enhance the realistic look, feel, and ergonomics of your airsoft AEG. Internal parts directly affect the mechanical performance of your AEG, fine tuning your gun to your particular type of airsoft game play.

First, we’ll explain how to choose compatible External Upgrades for your AEG. When choosing external parts, make sure that they meet the following criteria: Does the product say it is compatible with your brand of AEG? Is the product compatible with your type/ model of AEG (i.e. M16, M4, R36, AK47, M5, M14)? And finally, is the external upgrade part compatible with your accessories.

External upgrades parts such as metal bodies, rail systems and stocks and motor grips are great ways to optimize the look and feel of your AEG, and can be purchased for much less than buying an entirely new AEG. Adding a metal body to your AEG not only gives your AEG a more realistic look, feel, and weight, but also improves your AEGs durability and provides an added layer of protection for your gearbox. Another great external upgrade is a full metal rail system, which grants you more space for adding useful accessories to your rifle and provides endless opportunities for customization. External upgrades such as motor grips and stocks can make a huge difference in the comfort of your AEG, which is definitely important when playing long airsoft games. External upgrades provide a cost effective and more personal alternative to purchasing a new fully upgraded AEG. Remember to follow the criteria listed above to make sure you purchase the right external upgrades for you, and create your own truly unique AEG!

Internal upgrades can be very complicated if you do not understand the terminology and physics behind an AEG’s metal gearbox. In this article we will cover the basics of the most common internal upgrades, what they do, and how they can improve your AEG. When purchasing internal upgrade parts for a metal gearbox AEG, the first step is to determine what type of performance you are looking for out of your AEG. The second step is to determine what type of metal gearbox your AEG utilizes (i.e. Version 2, Version 3, Version 7, etc.). And lastly, are the internal upgrades you have chosen compatible with your brand and type of metal gearbox AEG? When purchasing internal upgrades, it is normally recommended to stay within a specific brand’s internal upgrades. This is to ensure that the parts are machined to specifically work well with each other.

The three most common types of internal upgrade configurations airsoft players seek out are rate of fire modifications, FPS modifications, and range boosting modification. To upgrade your rate of fire, it is recommended to use no higher than an M100, or standard tension, AEG spring. This is to reduce wear on the gears and piston, and allow the motor to cycle at a faster speed. The necessary internal upgrades to create a truly high speed AEG is a high speed steel gear set, a high speed lightweight piston, ball bearing metal bushings and a high speed motor. These modifications alone will normally add 8-15 rounds per second to your AEG’s rate of fire! Increasing your AEG’s FPS can also increase your AEG’s range, however remember that most airsoft fields have strict limits on an AEG’s FPS and may not allow guns shooting over their limits. Be sure to check with your local fields for their FPS limits and guidelines. To increase your metal gearbox AEG’s FPS, you will need a higher power AEG spring (M110 or higher, depending on how much you want to raise your FPS), a high torque steel gear set, a ball bearing spring guide, a ball bearing piston head, a strong steel teeth piston, and a high torque motor. These modifications can net anywhere from a 20 – 100FPS increase (depending on the AEG and the installed high power spring)! And lastly for players who value taking out targets from long distances, internal upgrades to improve your AEG’s range. To increase your AEG’s range, the two main components needed are a precision crafted hop-up, and a tight bore inner barrel. The best Hop-Up units normally are made of metal and CNC machined, some even have external O-rings (rubber exterior rings) to provide you with the maximum air compression. Tight bore barrels can drastically improve your accuracy, as well as your range! When using a tight bore barrel, you must use only high grade BB’s and clean your barrel routinely to prevent internal scoring. Tight bore barrels are available from 6.04mm – 6.01mm. The smaller the inner diameter number of the barrel, the more consistent your range and accuracy will be, though it can also mean that dirty or imperfect BB’s will jam more easily.

Now you know of ways to customize, personalize, and expand on your existing AEG, without buying an entirely new AEG! Remember that these upgrades are only recommendations, and not every configuration will always work for every metal gearbox AEG. It is always recommended to have any upgrade components installed by a certified professional airsoft technician. With these tips you can create your own premium and completely personalized AEG, which is custom built just for you!

To see our full selection of Internal and External Upgrades Click Here: Airsoft Megastore Parts, Upgrades & Accessories.

About the Author: Mike Zhang is the President and COO of Airsoft Megastore, an online airsoft retailer offering electric and gas powered airsoft guns, as well as airsoft parts, upgrades and accessories. Visit Airsoft Megastore to shop for airsoft AEGs, full metal airsoft rifles or the right airsoft gas gun for players of any experience level.

Labels: airsoft gun upgrades, airsoft upgrade parts, airsoft upgrades

While not nearly as pricey as paintball, a seasoned airsoft enthusiast knows that a passion for airsoft can be an expense. Thankfully, with the rise of airsoft manufacturing in Asia, airsoft is much more affordable than it was a decade ago. Companies like Tokyo Marui, DBoys, CYMA and JG have proven that Asian manufacturers can produce super high quality products at mind-blowing low price points. These airsoft guns are often half – even a third – of the price of comparable guns from other regions. Other markets simply cannot replicate the value of these brands’ products. Many American retailers have been slow to pick up on this, but a real airsoft pro will recognize the tremendous value these brands provide.

In the past, expensive guns, accessories and airsoft pellets might have set you back at anywhere from $400 to more than a thousand dollars. Thankfully, this is no longer the case. There are a number of very affordable options for airsofters who are just starting to build their arsenal.

Depending on how you will be using your weapon and your role on the field, you will want to procure either a rifle or shotgun. You will also want an airsoft pistol as a side arm for CQC (Close Quarters Combat), when you are so close to your opponent that you need a weapon that is more compact and agile. If you are just starting out, you should focus on Asian manufactured weapons, preferably from highly respected brands like JG, DBoys, AGM, CYMA, DE, WellFire and JG. A solid primary weapon and side arm should set you back between $150 and $350. There are a lot of awesome options and it can be overwhelming sorting through your options. If you have researched your options and still feel unsure, another option is picking up an airsoft starter kit. These kits are assembled by pros who know which products will offer the best benefits to a newbie and they offer awesome savings because several guns are packaged together.

Once you procure your arsenal, you need to outfit yourself with some safety equipment. If you are skirmishing with others, eye protection is a must. People joke about “it will shoot your eye out”, but an airsoft BB flying at 250 fps or more, can blind you. So if you don’t want to rock an eye patch for the rest of your life, buy shatterproof airsoft goggles, which will run between $15 and $40, or a full airsoft face mask for between $20 and $50. Premium vest set-ups go for $80 to $150.

Last but not least, grab those little accessories that will give you a competitive edge on the airsoft course. You don’t need these extras to enjoy the sport, but they can improve your efficiency, accuracy and/or stealth. Tactical vests, holsters, and various camo gear like ghillie suits and fatigues are all worth-while investments if your budget permits. A standard tactical vest can run anywhere between $40 and $80, with premium vests reaching $80 up to $150. Holsters vary greatly depending on the firearm you are carrying.

All these expenses in mind, you can start participating in airsoft for as little at $200… maybe $300 if you really want to gear yourself up. At these prices, airsoft really is available to the masses.

About the Author: Mike Zhang is the VP of Operations of Airsoft Megastore, the #1 fastest growing Airsoft retailer in the nation. Airsoft Megastore offers the latest airsoft guns and gear as well as a 125% low price guarantee on all new Airsoft guns and gear.

Labels: airsoft cost, starting airsoft costs, the cost of airsoft

Airsoft hand grenades are one of the most under-appreciated airsoft weapons. Airsoft hand grenades are perfect for both indoor and outdoor airsoft game play, and add a unique sense of realism to the game if used well. There is nothing more useful to clear a room than an airsoft grenade, which can almost instantly eliminate all players inside! There are a variety of different types of airsoft grenades, each with their own useful effects. In this article we will cover the different types of airsoft hand grenades along with their strengths and weaknesses, as well as useful airsoft grenade tactics.

Airsoft grenades can be separated into three main categories; dummy grenades, sound grenades, and BB ejecting grenades. First, we will cover Dummy Airsoft Grenades, which are the most simple of the three. Dummy grenades are replica grenades, normally made of lightweight foam, and are easy to throw for long distances. However, dummy grenades do not perform any sort of action, unlike other airsoft grenades. It is harder for opposing players to know that they have been "Killed" by a dummy grenade because of its lack of sound or BB spray. Dummy Grenades are always great to have on your gear, and because they are normally durable, lightweight, and don’t need to be loaded or charged they can be used over and over again during an airsoft game.

Sound grenades are some of the most intense grenades used in airsoft. Their function and loading is relatively simple as well. Most sound grenades utilize a 12 gram CO2 cartridge to release its compressed gas and "pop" the sound grenade’s disposable outer shell. Sound grenades are quite loud, and let all players in the vicinity know that a grenade has gone off. The loud noise level adds an intense sense of realism to your airsoft match, by simulating the sounds of a real explosion. The only drawbacks of using a sound grenade is that the grenade must be fully reloaded and reset after each use and the hard metal inner core can be dangerous if thrown. The loud airsoft sound grenades are perfect for military simulation scenarios and outdoor field play. Sound grenades should not be used outside of sanctioned airsoft fields, due to their extremely loud sound when they go off.

The last type of airsoft grenade is a BB spray grenade. These grenades shoot out BB’s either on impact, or when their timer releases the BB’s. These grenades are normally the most expensive; however they are also some of the best airsoft hand grenades on the market. A BB spray or shower grenade is useful because it not only lets the players know that a grenade has exploded by them, but also hits them with BB’s to guarantee that the players call themselves out. These grenades are great for room clearing and throwing into entrenched enemy positions. Airsoft BB spray grenades are easy to use and load, however they are single time use weapons, and must be reset and reloaded after you have thrown it.

Airsoft hand grenades are extremely tactically efficient, able to clear an entire room instantly and flush out the enemy from entrenched positions. Airsoft hand grenades are easy to use, and they are very helpful in tight situations. Airsoft hand grenades increase the realism of your airsoft games and can help your team achieve victory in an airsoft battle!

Be sure to check out Airsoft Megatsore's entire selection of Airsoft Hand Grenades and Grenade Launchers.

About the Author: Mike Zhang is the President and COO of Airsoft Megastore, an online airsoft retailer offering electric and gas powered airsoft guns, as well as airsoft parts, upgrades and accessories. Visit Airsoft Megastore to shop for airsoft AEGs, full metal airsoft rifles or the right airsoft gas gun for players of any experience level.

Labels: airsoft grenades, bb spray grenade, gas-powered airsoft grenades

Part of what makes airsoft guns so popular is their authenticity and preparation for airsoft skirmishes is just as realistic. Getting ready for an airsoft skirmish is exciting, nerve-wracking and strategic – and we want to make sure you don’t miss a beat before heading out to the battle field. Here’s a quick checklist to double (or triple) check before each airsoft battle.

• Airsoft gun(s)



It’s pretty obvious, but you don’t want to forget your airsoft gun on a battle day. Many airsoft fanatics like to clean their gun the night before or morning of, an airsoft skirmish so they can ensure its functionality; if your gun has any kinks, you want to find out before you’re on the battlefield with limited supplies and options. If you have one, stow away your airsoft gun in an airsoft gun bag for safe and easy transport. The airsoft bags are big enough to fit your other gear as well as your gun, so if you pack it all in there, you only have to grab one bag as you walk out the door to the skirmish.



• Airsoft ammo



Next to your airsoft gun, bringing along ample airsoft ammo is crucial to your ability to outlast on the battlefield. Eject your magazine and load it up pre-skirmish with quality airsoft bbs. Make sure that you choose quality airsoft ammo that won’t jam up your airsoft gun or pistol during game play. Even if you don’t have a high capacity magazine, as long as you bring extra bbs you can outlast the competition. Toss a bag of extra ammunition into your airsoft gun bag and you’ll be ready to engage without worrying about running out of airsoft bbs.


• Airsoft safety goggles & face protection



Just like real the deal, in a milsim game like airsoft, safety and protective gear is vital. The small, dense airsoft bbs are a huge safety concern; therefore, make sure you have impact resistant airsoft goggles. Another recommendation for safety is to protect yourself with a mesh full-face mask.



• Ghillies or other camouflaged gear/attire



Talk with your team to discuss a uniform to wear on battle day. Typically airsoft players will individually equip themselves in camouflaged gear to match the battlefield. Be sure to think about the area where you’ll be playing airsoft: is it more green-hued like a forest or woods or is it more neutral like open plains or a desert? Wear gear that reflects the environment in which you’ll play. If you have a particularly competitive or intense skirmish, be sure to think about a head-to-toe tactical ghillie suit.



• Random supplies to fix guns and parts



Come prepared for your skirmish with tools to fix a simple gun error: electric tape, oil, cleaning patches, multi-head screwdriver and a rod to fix ammo jams. Don’t allow for surprises on the field and over-plan for problems you may encounter.



• Nourishment



Skirmishes will get your heart rate up, so avoid sugar crashes or low energy when you’re playing on the field by packing granola bars, trail mix, water bottles and electrolyte-packed drinks. Bring more nourishment than you think you’ll need in case a fellow team member is running low.



• Review strategy



What kind of airsoft role do you have in skirmishes? Review milsim strategy with fellow airsoft enthusiasts before a big game and talk tactics. If you know the opposing players, your team can discuss their strengths and weakness and possible areas for domination. Check out our airsoft resource center for a number of helpful field strategies.



• Additional supplies



Depending on your gun and your type of game-play, you may need to toss a few extra supplies into your airsoft gun bag. If you plan on battling with an airsoft electric gun, bring an extra battery or two. If you’re playing the sniper role, think about bringing binoculars or an airsoft rifle with a scope for a higher shooting range. You may want to bring along some green gas if you have a gas or CO2 gun. Once again, you can never be too prepared for an airsoft battle.

If you have a special pre-airsoft skirmish ritual, make sure to add that to this checklist. Head out early to the battle, get a map of the territory to learn the battlefield (if you can) and talk strategy with your team. You are now fully equipped to dominate in an airsoft skirmish.

About the Author: Mike Zhang is the President and COO of Airsoft Megastore, a growing online Airsoft retailer that carries airsoft guns and airsoft tatical gear. Airsoft Megastore offers a 125% low price guarantee on all new airsoft guns and airsoft ammunition.

Labels: airsoft battle checklist, airsoft bbs, airsoft gun bbs, airsoft shotguns, pump airsoft shotgun