Exploring the Difference between Airsoft and BB Guns

Guns are not just weapons; they are also used for recreation and sports. Airsoft guns and BB guns are two types of firearms used widely for recreational and target practice. However, they differ in many ways, from construction to ammunition used. Below, we explore the eight central themes surrounding the fundamental differences between airsoft and BB guns.

What is an Airsoft Gun?

An airsoft gun is an air powered firearm that uses plastic pellets, or BBs', that are shot using compressed gas or an electric motor. It is also termed as a softair gun', as the BBs are soft and made of plastic. Airsoft guns come in many shapes and sizes, from pistols to rifles.

The ammunition used in this type of gun is usually 6mm in diameter and makes contact with an object with minimal speed and strength. The safety gear is very important when using an airsoft gun; due to the lack of high power, eye protection is essential.

What is a BB Gun?

A BB gun is a type of firearm that propels BBs using compressed air or gas. Unlike airsoft guns, BB guns use higher speed and power, so required safety gear includes ear protection and goggles, and is necessary at all times.

Depending on the type of BB gun, the primary source of power can be either spring, gas or electric. The power source is used to propel the BB at a good speed, so that it creates a target impact.

What Are the Major Differences Between Airsoft and BB Guns?

The major difference is that BB guns fire viewable ammunition, a small round metal BB that is .177 or 4.5mm in diameter. The higher speed and power of the BB gun is dangerous for humans and animals accounts, and must be used with care.

Airsoft guns, in contrast, fire plastic BBs made of biodegradable material. These BBs rely on compressed air or CO2 to propel and do not possess the same level of speed and power as the BB guns.

Ammunition Difference

Another major difference is the type of ammunition each gun uses. Airsoft guns use larger BBs at 6 mm diameter, compared to 4.5 mm for BB guns. Besides size, the type of material used also matters. BB guns use lead or metal BBs, while airsoft guns use plastic BBs that contain a chocolate-like powder which is used to lubricate the firing mechanism.

Purpose & Use

BB guns are mainly used for target shooting and hunting, where their higher speed and power is suitable. Airsoft guns, on the other hand, are used in sports, hobby shooting, war games, history reenactments, or any type of tactical target shooting.

What Are the Main Advantages and Disadvantages of Using an Airsoft or BB Gun?

BB guns are more powerful than airsoft guns, so they do inflict more damage. That said, BB guns are more expensive than airsoft guns, and their ammunition is selected for maximum power, whereas airsoft guns can use softer ammunition.

Airsoft guns offer more advantages than BB guns when it comes to accuracy, range, cost and ammunition selection. Since the BBs used in airsoft guns move more slowly than a BB in a BB gun, they cause less damage. As such, airsoft guns can be used in competitions or recreational target shooting without the need for much safety gear.

Conclusion: Final Word

When it comes to differentiating between Airsoft and BB guns, it starts with the type of ammunition each gun uses, and the speed and power of the shot. BB guns generally inflict more damage due to higher speed and power and require more safety gear. Airsoft guns, on the other hand, have less power and inflict less damage, and require less safety gear. It is important to understand the applications and limitations of each gun in order to ensure proper care and safety.

Takeaways

• Airsoft guns are air-powered and use 6mm plastic BBs.
• BB guns are typically powered by spring, gas or electric and use 4.5mm metal BBs.
• The speed and power of BB guns is higher than airsoft guns, making them more suitable for target shooting and hunting.
• Airsoft guns are used for hobby shooting, competitions and tactical target shooting.
• Airsoft guns offer more advantages due to their lower speed and power, cost, and range accuracy.
• It is important to understand the applications and limitations of each gun in order to ensure proper care and safety.