For Beginner: Choosing Your First Airsoft Gun
- Michael Hsieh
- Aug 31
- 4 min read
Ready to get your first airsoft gun? Getting into airsoft is exciting, but picking your first gun can be overwhelming. There are tons of options to look at. The good news? You don’t need the best gear—just a solid, beginner-friendly gun that works well and feels right. This post is exactly what you need. This is the advice we would give to beginner players!
Firstly, here're Main Types of airsoft guns
1. Rifles
The most versatile and common. Good range, accuracy, and upgrade options. Great all-rounder for beginners.
2. Pistols
Compact and lightweight. Mostly used as backup. Some players start with just a pistol, but it’s limiting in outdoor games.
3. SMGs (Submachine Guns)
Small, fast, and ideal for CQB (close-quarters). Slightly less range than rifles but easy to handle.
4. Sniper Rifles
Long-range and usually spring-powered. Tempting for beginners, but they require skill, patience, and upgrades to be effective.
5. Shotguns
Cool look and fun to use, especially in CQB. Some shoot multiple BBs per shot. Not the most practical for general play.
6. Revolvers
A type of pistol with limited capacity (usually 6 rounds) but high realism and cool factor. Not practical for most games, but fun to use.
7. Machine Guns (LMG/MG)
Heavy, full-auto support weapons. Not beginner-friendly—bulky, expensive, and niche in use.
Except for types, Power Systems also matter
Power system is the mechanism that drives how an airsoft gun fires BBs—whether it’s electric or by gas. It directly affects how the gun feels, how often you need to reload or maintain it, and how suitable it is for different play styles.
1. GBB (Gas Blowback)
Uses green gas to cycle the slide or bolt with each shot, giving realistic recoil. It’s fun and immersive but needs regular cleaning and can struggle in cold weather.
2. CO2
Similar to GBB but uses CO2 cartridges instead of green gas. Delivers stronger recoil and performs better in colder temps, though it’s less common and can cost more to operate.
3. AEG (Automatic Electric Gun)
Battery-powered and beginner-friendly. No recoil, but consistent and reliable. Great performance out of the box and works well in all conditions.
4. Spring-powered
You cock it before each shot. It’s simple and cheap, often found in entry-level or sniper-style guns. Not ideal for skirmishes that need fast follow-up shots.
6 Key Factors to Consider before Buying
1. Budget
Don’t overspend on your first setup. Stick to what’s reliable and upgradable. Save room for gear like batteries, BBs, and protection.
2. Playstyle
Do you like fast CQB action or outdoor field games? Rifles and SMGs are great all-rounders, while snipers and shotguns are more specialized.
3. Local Field Rules
Check FPS limits, gun type restrictions, and whether full-auto is allowed. Some fields don’t allow CO₂ or GBB rifles, for example.
4. Weight & Size
A gun that looks cool but feels heavy or awkward will ruin your day. Pick something that fits your frame and is easy to carry.
5. Upgrade & Compatibility
Some platforms (like AEGs) have tons of aftermarket parts. Others (like spring pistols) have none. Think ahead if you plan to upgrade.
6. Reviews
Except for product pages, you can also check YouTube reviews, Reddit, or local groups. Real-world opinions often reveal hidden pros or issues.
6 Best Starter Airsoft Guns for Beginners
1. WE FN SCAR V3 Series GBB Rifle
Brand: WE
Type: Rifle
Power System: GBB
Price: $289
Product Page: WE FN SCAR V3 Series GBB Rifle
Modern design with full-metal upper, ambidextrous controls, efficient gas system, and solid performance for beginners ready for rifle combat.
2. WE AK74 GBB Airsoft Rifle
Brand: WE
Type: Rifle
Power System: GBB
Price: $439
Product Page: WE AK74 GBB Airsoft Rifle
Solid blowback AK platform with realism and simplicity. Ideal for players who prefer classic Eastern rifle setups.
3. AW 1911 WW2 GBB Airsoft Pistol (Cybergun Colt Licensed)
Brand: AW
Type: Pistol
Power System: GBB
Price: $115
Product Page: AW 1911 WW2 GBB Airsoft Pistol
This WW2-style 1911 combines classic looks with solid gas blowback performance. Full-metal build, reliable feel, and easy to use—great for beginners who want something stylish and dependable.
4. FS 0521 Double Barrel Airsoft Shotgun (SWIT‑Custom)
Brand: SWIT Custom
Type: Shotgun
Power System: GBB
Price: $319
Product Page: FS 0521 Double Barrel Airsoft Shotgun
Double-barrel design with solid build and unique look. Great for CQB or players who want something bold and different.
5. Umarex/Colt SAA .45 CO2 Airsoft Revolver
Brand: Umarex / Colt
Type: Revolver
Power System: CO2
Price: $149
Product Page: Umarex/Colt SAA .45 CO2 Airsoft Revolver
A classic single-action revolver with strong CO2 performance and satisfying kick—perfect as a fun backup or a starter sidearm.
6. WE M4 CQB V3 GBB Airsoft Rifle
Brand: WE
Type: Rifle
Power System: GBB
Price: $319
Product Page: WE M4 CQB V3 GBB Airsoft Rifle
Compact and punchy. Great recoil, solid build, and easy to handle in close-quarters games. A solid GBB starter rifle.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Going too cheap: Super low-budget guns break fast and ruin the fun. You don’t need the best, but avoid the worst.
Choosing by looks only: That sniper or revolver may look cool, but won’t help if it doesn’t match how you play.
Skipping eye protection: BBs can bounce. Protect your eyes—always.
Ignoring field rules: Some guns shoot too hot (FPS) for your local field. Check limits before buying.
Buying a hard-to-maintain platform: GBB rifles and CO₂ guns need care. AEGs are easier for most beginners.
Conclusion
That’s it! Choosing your first airsoft gun doesn’t have to be a headache. Start simple, pick something solid, and don’t stress about getting the “perfect” one!
For more choices, you can check here: Airsoft On Sale
