Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Choosing the Right Airsoft Shotgun

When choosing an airosft shotgun there are several important questions you should ask yourself.
  • How do you plan to use the shotgun? Are you going to be target shooting or actually using the gun during skirmishes? Perhaps both? What sort of weather will you be using the shotgun in?

  • What sort of distances do you need the shotgun to shoot? Is distance important to you?

  • What price range are you working with? Are you looking to make a long-term investment in a gun that can take some knocks on the field? Or do you have budget constraints?

If you are planning to just use your shotgun for target practice or you are looking to save money, spring airsoft shotguns (aka pump shotguns) are your best option. While pump shotguns are popular in CQC (Close Quarters Combat) skirmishes, these guns are incapable of automatic or semi-automatic fire, as is the case with all spring-fire airsoft guns. If rapid fire is critical to you, a spring shotgun may not be the best choice as they require you to cock the shotgun between each fire. Rather look for electric or gas airsoft shotguns which allow for rapid, repeat fire. Both types have advantages and drawbacks. Electric shotguns tend to have a lower velocity while gas guns are more expensive and freeze up in cold weather.


The type of airsoft shotgun you choose will also have a direct impact on the distance yours shots will fire. Always look at the FPS (Feet per second) of the gun, with larger FPS firing longer distances. FPS varies greatly in airsoft shotguns, with anywhere between 325 to 1000 FPS. A quality pump airsoft shotgun can shoot around 450 FPS, delivering a very good price to power ratio.


Lastly, if you are shopping on a budget, don't overlook the promotional deals available online. A lot of shotguns are paired with quality pistols and AEG's, helping the smart airsoft shopper get the biggest bang for their buck.



About the Author: Mike Zhang is the President and COO of Airsoft Megastore, a leading online provider of Airsoft guns, gear and accessories. Airsoft Megastore offers guaranteed lowest prices on airsoft guns, including cheap aeg airsoft guns and airsoft bbs.

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Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Choosing the Right Airsoft Shotgun


Different situations on the airsoft field call for different firearms. Airsoft shotguns are an obviously larger and heavier alternative to handguns and pistols, but their popularity is rooted in their usefulness. Their incredible power and accuracy make airsoft shotguns ideal for long distance outdoor skirmishes and target shooting.

At first glance, an airsoft shotgun looks similar to a rifle, but they do differ in several fundamental ways, including construction, mechanics, and firing technique. I frequently recommend airsoft shotguns to avid players looking for a new, fun challenge. If you are used to a semi automatic airsoft weapon, the shotgun could be the next challenge you have been looking for.

Airsoft shotguns are very realistic and come in a variety of styles, from double barreled to pump action, multi-shot tactical shotguns. There are a few considerations you will need to make when deciding which shotgun is right for you.

Pump Action vs. Spring. Spring airsoft shotguns are cheaper, but pump action shotguns provide a tremendous power to price ratio. If you are looking for power, I recommend pump action to my clients because they are just a better value when it comes to power. Pump action shotguns deliver a much higher FPS.

Full Stock vs. Pistol Grip. There are three airsoft shotgun grip options to choose from, full stock, pistol grip or some shotguns offer both grips. Take the time to try out both and you will feel which one is right for you. It really comes down to comfort and personal choice.

Double vs Single Barrel Shotguns. A double-barreled airsoft shotgun allows you to load two chambers and thus have twice the firing action and have a very realistic kick-back feel. There are multi shot spring powered shotguns available as well, but keep in mind that the spring version will have a shorter range.

About the Author: Mike Zhang is the VP of Operations of Airsoft Megastore, an airsoft retailer offering electric and gas powered airsoft guns. Please visit Airsoft Megastore to shop for airsoft AEGs and a wide selection of airsoft shotguns.


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