What Does HPA Mean in Airsoft?

The world of Airsoft is constantly evolving and as a result so are the acronyms that we hear when discussing the sport. The acronym HPA stands for High Pressure Air and is not a new concept in the world of Airsoft, however it is quickly becoming one of the foremost ways of achieving power out of a rifle.

What is HPA?

HPA is an air system that is regulated through the use of compressed air connected to the Airsoft rifle via a line. The internal workings of the rifle will then utilize the air from the HPA system to achieve the desired power output. This is often referred to as HPA being tapped.

Benefits of HPA

The chief benefit of HPA is the sheer range of adjustment available. As opposed to traditional AEGs Automatic Electric Guns which are rarely able to surpass 500-600 FPS, the potential of an HPA is virtually unlimited, allowing for fine tuning of the Airsoft rifle to ensure performance and accuracy. Additionally, HPA systems are incredibly consistent, allowing for maximum control over the power output of the rifle as well as a more consistent shooting experience.

FPS and RoF Adjustment With HPA

The ability to adjust both the Fire Rate and FPS of an Airsoft rifle using an HPA system is one of the main reasons for its increasing popularity. With the right setup and components, you are able to fine tune the output for a given game or field. For example, on a large outdoor field, you may opt for a higher RoF and low FPS to gain superior field efficiency, as opposed to a close quarters game where the FPS output would be more of an advantage.

HPA Systems on the Market

The two most common HPA systems available today are the Polarstar Fusion Engine and the Wolverine Inferno. Both are highly customizable and adjustable, and popular with their respective players. The FusionEngine in particular is often the center of choice for more experienced players, given the sheer range of tuning capabilities it offers.

Cost of HPA

The cost of an HPA system can vary greatly, depending on the parts and components you opt for. An entry level, engine-only setup such as the FusionEngine usually costs around $300, whereas a top of the line, complete setup such as the Wolverine Inferno with all necessary hardware and accessories can easily reach upwards of $500.

Brief Recap

HPA is an acronym that stands for High Pressure Air and is a popular way of powering Airsoft rifles. HPA systems are adjustable and customizable, as well as consistent offering superior accuracy and range. Additionally, the Fire Rate and FPS output of an HPA powered rifle can both be adjusted depending on the situation and field, permitting superior versatility over traditional AEGs. Finally, the cost of an HPA system can range depending on the desired setup.