Pistols
Airsoft Pistols Australia
Airsoft Pistols come in a range of firing types. Some models are single cock and fire action, while others employ electronic or gas powered operation, the later being the most popular choice among Airsoft players.
We’ll break down these three types of pistols and their pro’s and cons respectively:
Single Action Airsoft Pistols
More often than not, these types of pistols are sold as a novelty item. They’re not practical for full on war games level action, but they’re fun to use on static targets around your home or backyard. Single action Airsoft Pistols are normal cocked by pulling back the slide to pressurise the system, allowing for a single shot.
Pros:
- No propellant or batteries needed
- Ready to go in terms of operation
Cons:
- Slow fire rate
- Minimal muzzle velocity
Gas Operated Airsoft Pistols (CO2)
These are the most common type of Airsoft Pistol and are fueld by CO2 cannisters (Carbon Dioxide). Muzzle velocity in these types of pistols can range anywhere between 200 and 500 FPS (Feet per Second) depending on the pistols internals. Although most competitions have an allowed FPS limit of around 300 – 350. These Airsoft Pistols operate in the same manner as a real firearm where the gas released from the shot, forces the slide backward to load another round into the chamber.
Pros:
- High rate of fire
- Realistic feel and recoil
- Strong muzzle velocity
Cons:
- Requires CO2 canister reloads
- Prone to jamming if not well maintained
Electric Operated Airsoft Pistols
While not as common, still certainly popular for their longer lasting operation and minimal maintenance, these pistols still pack a bunch without having to muck around with gas cartridge replacements. Most pistols come with their own rechargeable batteries as well as charger.
Pros:
- High rate of fire
- Semi-Realistic feel and recoil
- Good muzzle velocity
Cons:
- Requires Batteries
- Sounds like a toy
Whatever your flavour of pistol is, it’s much like everything else these days, you get what you pay for. Cheaper airsoft pistols will be just that, made cheaply and fragile. The better money you pay, the longer your pistol will last and the better it’s reliability will be.