Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Airsoft Gun Basics

Airsoft guns have edged their way deeper into popular culture. Many paintball enthusiasts have made the switch to Airsoft guns for their similarity to real guns. Airsoft guns should be regarded as firearms, even though they are often thought of as toys.


Age Requirement


Because Airsoft guns are regarded as firearms, you must be 18 years old to purchase one in the United States. However, many parents have claimed purchasing Airsoft guns for their younger children under the promise that they will be safe. Airsoft guns are dangerous if used incorrectly and should not be underestimated as actual weapons.


Safety


Safety is the number one concern when dealing with Airsoft guns. It is crucial that you wear protective eye gear at all times. Airsoft guns fire small pellets using the power of compressed air. Accidental misfires can blind you,if one of those pellets hits you in the eye. It is also important to wear protective padding as Airsoft pellets can both hurt and leave marks on the skin. This is why many Airsoft gun owners purchase military gear.


Cleaning


Clean your Airsoft gun after every use. The method for cleaning your gun will depend on what type of gun you have. The three types are: spring, gas and electric. Always read the instructions for your Airsoft gun thoroughly and completely before attempting cleaning.


Spring


Spring Airsoft guns use springs to launch the pellets out of the gun. Spring Airsoft guns are generally cheaper. When you clean a spring Airsoft gun, take each part off of the gun and wipe it down with a clean cloth. The cloth does not need to be damp. To get into the spring and other crevasses, use a cotton swab.


Electric


Electric Airsoft guns use springs as well, but they also use a battery pack to increase propulsion. Electric Airsoft guns are often automatic, meaning you can hold the trigger down and the springs will continue to launch pellets until you run out. When cleaning an electrical Airsoft gun, treat it as you would a spring gun, but make sure to remove the battery pack first and set it to the side.


Gas


Gas Airsoft guns use pressurized gas to propel pellets out of the barrel. Gas guns generally cost the most but are considered the best option by Airsoft gun enthusiasts. Gas guns should be cleaned by removing the gas tank and wiping them down in a similar fashion to the spring and electric varieties. With a gas gun, you want to take special care to clean out the barrel of the gun with either a cleaning rod or long cotton swab.


Cheap vs. Expensive Varieties


Cheaper airsoft guns are generally made from plastic and tend to break during any form of Airsoft gun battle. Cheaper airsoft guns usually are those that will resemble guns from movies. More expensive Airsoft guns load faster, jam less and won't break when you really need them.







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