Airsoft FAQ: Buying Your First Airsoft Replica
Like many other hobbies, Airsoft can be a minefield for beginners, with so much variety in Airsoft platforms it can be tough to know which one is right for you.
Certain types of Airsoft replicas may seem extremely cool at a glance, though many come with inherent challenges which aren't immediately obvious.
In this article, we'll give you tips on what type of Airsoft replica to choose as your first and help you avoid the mistakes some of us made early in our Airsoft careers!
We'll start by discussing what type of Airsoft replica we recommend as the perfect beginner platform; the staple of Airsoft gameplay and by far the most reliable, economical and effective type of Airsoft replica out there today; the Airsoft AEG. Join us to learn more!
The Airsoft AEG: Future-proofed, reliable, simple to operate and affordable!
The Airsofters best friend, the Airsoft AEG (Airsoft Electric Gun) is the most common type of platform you'll encounter out on the Airsoft battlefield. AEGs are reliable, offer competitive performance and are fully upgradable in most cases, making them the ideal choice for new players.
AEGs are driven by a gearbox and motor using a rechargeable battery as a power source. Most AEGs are capable of shooting in both semi-automatic (one shot per trigger pull) or fully automatic (continuous fire as long as the trigger is held back). If you're curious about how an AEG works, check out our PBTV Knowledge Video: What is an AEG?
Click each header below to find out why we think an AEG is the best choice for new players!
Reliability, Ease of Maintenance & Simplicity
AEGs are based on mature technology which has been in use with Airsofters for more than two decades, meaning they are very reliable. With 20 years of development and improvements behind them, AEGs have never performed as well or been as reliable as they are today!
In cold weather, gas-powered Airsoft replicas are known to suffer when it comes to performance, making them harder to use effectively in winter and colder climates. AEGs don't have this issue and will shoot just as well in the heat of summer as in the freezing cold, meaning no matter when you want to shoot, an AEG will do its job.
AEGs are also the easiest type of Airsoft replica to maintain, requiring only that the barrel be cleaned from time to time and potentially a full service once per year if a drop in performance is noticed. This is the reason experienced Airsoft players usually bring an AEG to game days even if they prefer a more challenging experience using a gas blowback rifle or sniper rifle. AEGs just work, as long as you remember to charge your batteries!
All Airsoft AEGs purchased from Patrol Base also include a 12-month warranty which covers all internal faults, provided the AEG has not been disassembled, modified, upgraded or abused.
Affordability
The AEG market is also very competitive, with lots of manufacturers to choose from. This naturally means AEGs are competitively priced, translating into lower prices for better technology and better performance out on the field.
AEGs are also very affordable to run, powered by rechargeable NiMh or LiPo batteries which can last for years of constant use if cared for correctly. While most AEGs don't include a battery and charger, these are affordable to buy and last much longer than the equivalent spent on green gas used to power gas blowback Airsoft replicas.
Spare magazines for AEGs are also much cheaper than other platforms and hold lots more BBs, meaning you'll need to buy less to complete a full loadout. This also means you won't need as many magazine pouches if you're getting tactical gear to go with your new AEG and can stay in the battle for longer without needing to go back to the safe zone to refill your mags!
Variety
AEGs come in all shapes and sizes, with a wide range of real-world replicas constructed from either hefty alloy and steel or lightweight but strong high density polymers. Whether you'd prefer to feel your arms burn from exertion at the end of a game day or like to fight easy, the AEG market will have you covered!
Platform Shapes
One of the most important parts of Airsoft is choosing a replica that you think looks cool. Most AEGs shoot with similar performance and are effective in both CQB (Close Quarters Battle) and outdoor environments; the main difference is in handling qualities and customisation options.
Click each header below to learn more about the most popular Airsoft platforms!
M4/AR-15 AEGs are replicas of real-world AR-15 rifles available in an almost unlimited number of shapes, colours and styles, offering broad appeal regardless of tastes.
Most M4/AR-15 AEGs have a 20mm Picatinny rail running along the top of the receiver meaning they are ready for a red dot sight or scope to be mounted.
M4/AR-15 AEGs are also extremely customisable, so if you get bored with the way yours looks, you can change it up easily and relatively cheaply with the vast aftermarket of handguards, stocks and grips.
Real-world AR-15 rifles are often referred to as "Barbie for men", they are just that customisable!
The AR-9 platform is an up-and-coming SMG design based on the layout of the M4/AR-15, with similar internals and parts compatibility.
AR-9s are often favoured by CQB specialists and those who fight on their feet, as they are usually more compact than other platforms, making them effective in confined spaces and great for those with shorter arms and less physical strength.
Most AR-9 platforms are equipped with a 20mm Picatinny receiver rail, meaning they are ready for a red dot sight or scope to be mounted.
AR-9s also share many of the M4/AR-15 AEG customisation and upgrade options, making them a great alternative for those who want a less military-themed Airsoft replica.
The SMG-5 is based on a classic submachine gun we all know from movies, TV shows and video games. SMG-5 platforms generally use the same internal parts as M4/AR-15 AEGs but external upgrades and customisation options are limited to specific SMG-5 parts.
Some SMG-5 platforms come with the ability to mount a red dot sight or scope in the form of a 20mm Picatinny rail, but not all of them include this.
This means SMG-5s don't have quite as many options when it comes to accessories and upgrade parts, making them less ideal for new players who aren't yet sure what playstyle they prefer.
For new players who want the classic SAS look, the SMG-5 is ideal, just bear in mind that you will be limited in your ability to change external parts when compared to an M4/AR-15 platform.
The AR36 is based on a modern assault rifle design used by the German and Spanish militaries and the UK Armed Police.
While it doesn't have quite the same number of aftermarket customisation options as the M4/AR-15, there are plenty of options out there for AR36 users who want a custom look.
Most AR36 AEGs are ready for a red dot sight or scope via their 20mm Picatinny top rail but others use an integrated scope.
AR36 AEGs have several advantages over the more common M4/AR-15 platform.
These include a side-folding stock to fit into smaller gun bags and cases, ambidextrous controls ideal for left or right-handed shooters and large capacity magazines which link together.
If you want a modern alternative to M4/AR-15s, the AR36 is a fine choice!
AK AEG replicas make the perfect "bad guy" replica, ideal for the Airsoft player who wants to sidestep the prolific M4/AR-15 in favour of an iconic, timeless platform. AK AEGs are offered in realistic full metal and real wood builds or high density polymer.
While a full metal AK may be a bit heavy for younger players, the polymer versions look just as good and will resist scratches and other damage without looking scruffy!
Depending on which you choose, AK AEGs may require additional parts to mount a red dot sight or scope which is something to consider if using an optic is a deal breaker.
If so, look out for AK AEGs with a 20mm Picatinny receiver rail; a sight of any type can be mounted on these straight out of the box. AK AEGs also have their own perks, including being simpler to operate than the equivalent M4/AR-15 and having bigger magazines with more BB capacity.
There are plenty more AEG shapes available, including many iconic designs from WW2, the British Army standard issue rifle, the SA80/L85, and bullpup designs like the AUG, P90, and much, much more! As mentioned, most AEGs shoot with about the same performance so if you're into one of these more niche designs you won't be outgunned on gameday.
While we advise starting out with one of the above platforms; if you have a strong desire to take a walk on the wild side, don't let us talk you out of it! If you'd rather go on your own journey and choose your first AEG yourself, check out our "Choosing your first AEG" article and get stuck into our detailed product descriptions. You should find all the information you need to make the right choice there, but if you still have questions, contact us via email, phone or social media.
What to Avoid
While we aren't here to talk you out of getting your dream Airsoft replica, some types of Airsoft replicas are definitely not ideal for beginners. Certain Airsoft platforms are more challenging than others to use and more expensive to run, often requiring complementary equipment or a niche playstyle.
Click each header to learn why we don't recommend the following Airsoft replicas for new players!
Airsoft sniper rifles are incredibly cool and there is no denying that! What might not be immediately obvious is the fact that Airsoft sniper rifles don't offer the same benefits they do in video games and are quite challenging to use when compared to an AEG assault rifle or submachine gun.
Being long, unwieldy and generally higher power than AEGs makes sniper rifles only suitable for large outdoor skirmish events. Sniper rifles are hard to cock, especially for younger players with less physical strength and usually require carrying a sidearm like a GBB pistol or SMG for close-range engagements.
While a sniper rifle may shoot slightly further than the average AEG (around 10 meters), it is very easy for the opposing team to close that range advantage by simply moving closer. Airsoft snipers have to be highly mobile and usually spend far more time crawling and running away than shooting and getting hits. If you like the idea of being an Airsoft sniper, we recommend starting with an AEG and going for a sniper rifle once you've got your eye in and are sure it is right for you!
While a full-auto Glock or Desert Eagle pistol makes a fantastic sidearm to accompany an AEG, using one alone means you will consistently be outgunned in outdoor games. Magazine capacity for a GBB pistol is usually between 20 and 30 BBs, while AEGs usually pack 120-600 BBs into a standard-sized magazine, making them far more competitive out on the field.
GBB Pistols require maintenance and care to keep them reliable in the long run and suffer considerably in terms of performance when the weather gets cold. Most experienced Airsofters carry a GBB pistol as a sidearm, but to use one as a primary and compete with AEGs means a lot of money spent on upgrade parts. We recommend adding a GBB pistol, full auto or otherwise to your Airsoft ensemble once you're accustomed to using an AEG rifle or SMG.
Something new players may not think about when choosing their first replica is handling qualities. While particularly long platforms like the M16, M14 and G3 may make fantastic outdoor Airsofting platforms, their length makes using them in indoor CQB sites rather challenging.
When choosing your first replica, your best bet is to find something which works in both close quarters and outdoor settings, moving to more specialised platforms once you have your eye in. We recommend choosing a platform with an overall length of around 85cm or under so you won't feel like the walls are closing in when visiting an indoor CQB site! You can find length measurements in the "Specification" sections of our product descriptions.
Weight is another aspect that new players might not consider important but when you've been holding a corner for 30 seconds and your arm is burning and shaking from exertion, you'll soon change your mind! For new players, we recommend going for an Airsoft replica which weighs under 3KG, closer to 2KG if you're younger or want to move fast!
Weight, of course, means realism; a big draw to Airsoft for many. While we don't want to put you off experiencing Airsoft your way, proceed with caution when choosing your first Airsoft replica; we don't want you to suffer more than you want to! Check the "Specification" sections of our product descriptions to find out how much each platform weighs before making the all-important call!
Our Airsoft Beginner Bundle Deals
If you're stuck for ideas and want us to do the choosing for you, check out our Airsoft Starter Packs!
Our NUPROL Delta Pioneer Starter Bundle includes the NUPROL Defender Pioneer M4/AR-15 AEG in Pre Two-Tone Blue, 9.6V NiMh battery, NiMh Charger, Battery Charging bag and VORSK 0.25g BBs. This set should provide everything you need to get involved with Airsoft other than your choice of Glasses/Goggles and Face Protection.
The NUPROL Defender is a fantastic option for newcomers, made from strong high density polymer and pre-upgraded with a 6.03mm tightbore inner barrel. The Defender is also future-proofed; fully compatible with aftermarket M4/AR-15 AEG upgrade parts and fitted with a 20mm Picatinny railed receiver and threaded barrel, ready for scopes, red dot sights, tracer units or suppressors to be mounted.
The Defender is also compatible with standard M4/AR-15 AEG magazines, meaning spare magazines are always available and they fit nicely into the most common and affordable magazine pouches. Make no mistake, you are off to a flying start on your Airsoft adventure with the Defender by your side!
If you fancy checking out our other bundles, click the button below to browse!
Check out the Patrol Base Airsoft Bundle Deals!
Hopefully you're now clued up on how to get involved with Airsoft. If you need more information, check out our FAQ Articles or our PBTV Beginner Guides below!