Airsoft Ammunition: BB Weight

When it comes to airsoft gun performance, most people have a tendency to focus primarily on gun models, barrel FPS and gearbox type (ie. full metal versus plastic gear boxes). However, an airsoft's performance is only as good as the quality of ammunition it fires. There are many different options when it comes to choosing the type of ammunition to use in your airsoft gun. Airsoft BBs come in a variety of colors and include an assortment of features, but the single most important differentiating factor is BB weight.

Almost all gun BBs are 6mm in diameter, but this constancy ends when it comes to weight. Airsoft BBs start as light as.12 grams per BB and can go as heavy as.40+ grams per BB. As a general rule,.12 gram BBs should be used in spring pistols or lower end plastic airsoft pistols and rifles. It's recommended to avoid using these lighter and usually cheaper BB's in higher end airsoft pistols or rifles, because they can potentially damage the gearbox and may even void your airsoft's warranty. Not only will these BBs potentially damage you airsoft gun, but they may also greatly reduce your range and accuracy.

When it comes to using heavier airsoft BBs, it's really up to your personal preference. As a general rule, an airsoft gun that can shoot anywhere between 250 and 300 FPS is best served with.20 gram airsoft BBs. On the other hand, any airsoft gun capable of shooting in excess of 300 FPS may perform better with a BB weight that is slightly heavier than.20 grams.

In high end airsoft guns, heavier BBs may provide better accuracy at greater ranges, but reduced velocity. For example, if you're using an airsoft sniper rifle you may want to consider using an airsoft BB around.28 grams in weight. For standard field engagements you should stick with BBs that weigh anywhere between.23-.25 grams, because these BBs are well balanced in regards to speed, range and accuracy. However, if you anticipate that you might encounter significant close quarter combat,.20 gram airsoft BBs may work best due to their increased velocity.

As you can see, airsoft BB selection is more than just simply buying the cheapest BBs available. It's important that you consider your airsoft's capabilities and your designated team role when choosing the most appropriate type of ammunition for your airsoft gun.

Mike Zhang is the President and COO of Airsoft Megastore, the fastest growing of all airsoft stores in the nation. Airsoft Megastore offers deep discounts on sale items for players interested in cheap AEG airsoft guns and looking to find airsoft sniper rifles cheap.

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Which Airsoft BB Weight Do I Need?

One of the most overlooked parts of airsoft is choosing the correct BB weight. The tragedy of new airsoft players is when they spend hours picking out that shiny $300 AEG, only to load it with cheap .12g BBs and break the gun! Oh, and not to mention, you probably voided your warranty as well!

Although there are various weights for BBs, the four most common types you will see are .12g, .2g, .25g, and .3g. A few things you should note: the lighter the BB, the higher your velocity or FPS. The heavier the BB, the more accurate and less affected it is by wind resistance. This means your BB will actually travel further than a lighter BB, even though the lighter BB will have a higher velocity. The general rule is to shoot the heaviest BB your gun works with.

.12g BBs:

These BBs work well in spring guns or low powered electric guns. NEVER use these bullets in high quality electric guns, as they may jam and destroy the internals! Many manufacturers will consider your gun void if you shoot .12g BBs! One problem with the .12g BBs is that many horrible generic brands are offered at big box stores, and probably shouldn't ever be used! Make sure they are seamless and precision ground BBs.

.2g BBs:

This is the most common and acceptable weight for airsoft guns. They can be used for almost any gun except very cheap pistols and low powered electric guns. However, they are not suggested for higher end sniper rifles. If you are new to the game, or just aren't sure which weight to get, this is the one for you!

.25g BBs:

These are heavier grade BBs and should generally not be used in spring guns unless they are sniper rifles. This is often the choice of more experienced airsoft players, as they provide the best accuracy and travel the furthest.

.3g BBs:

These BBs are primarily meant for sniper rifles. They will provide the highest accuracy and distance, and will also pack quite a punch. It is possible to use these BBs in a high upgraded AEG, but otherwise you will be disappointed due to the low FPS.

The other weights you will find are basically just a mix of what I've written above, so a .23g BB will trade a bit of accuracy for a higher velocity. You will also find ultra-heavy .36-.43g BBs that are meant for highly upgraded sniper rifles.

About the author:

Eddie Woo is an airsoft enthusiast who has done extensive research on airsoft BBs. He is also the owner of Airsoft Guns Now, one of the fastest growing airsoft retailers in the nation.

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