Shooting replica airguns, that is to say airguns that are one-to-one replicas of firearms, is an extremely fun way to enjoy shooting.  I’ve now been in the airgun industry in one form or another for well over a decade now and can testify that airguns are a hit with many different demographics for many different reasons.  Some people are just firearm fans who like to be able to have BB gun replicas to shoot with their families’ on the weekends. Some are serious firearms enthusiasts who compete with one of our licensed brands and use our airgun version for additional training. Then there are people who make movies or otherwise need a prop weapon for the stage. But we can’t forget the people who just love all things airgun and really love how awesome our airguns are these days.  

And then there are people who just find themselves getting into the airgun games, whether through 6mm airsoft, .177 caliber BB, or .177 caliber pellet format. If that is you, this blog is for you.

Replica airguns need the appropriate fuel propellant, the appropriate ammo (6mm airsoft BBs for airsoft pistols, .177 caliber steel BBs for BB pistols, and .177 caliber flat tipped pellets for replica pellet pistols). There are some other accessories that, depending on the model, you might find nice to have.

Replica 6mm Airsoft Pistols

For airsoft guns, assuming you want to play airsoft with the replica, you will want to pick up some personal protective equipment. This includes, notably, face and eye protection. Most airsoft participants choose full face guards that shield the eyes, nose, and mouth. You will also want to get some robust gloves and appropriate shirts or even surplus military gear to round out your equipment. 

Some airsoft guns are powered by 12 gram CO2 cartridges and some are powered by a bulk stored gas called “green gas”. Pick up plenty of the appropriate fuel source for your device and you won’t run out at the worst moment. Airsoft BBs come in many different weights. Lighter BBs, those that weigh 0.12 grams to 0.20 grams are best for back yard or close quarters use. BBs from 0.20g to 0.28g are better for longer distances on outdoor airsoft fields.  For pistols, going heavier than 0.28g is possible, but you may find best performance in the middle weight BBs. 

Whether you have a CO2 or green gas airsoft gun, you will want to pick up some silicone lubricant for it. This is to be applied to the valve seals to help ensure long lasting performance. 

Replica .177 Caliber BB Pistols

When it comes to CO2 powered BB guns, the process is simplified. Thankfully, there’s not as much variation in the ammunition category, but it is still important to make the best choice for your airgun. Essentially, it is hard to go wrong with a nickel plated or black finished BBs like those featured in the Umarex catalog. We noted that some “copper” coated BBs can experience feeding trouble as this style of BB can generate more friction between each BB in the magazine. 

Once again, it is very important to use a drop of silicone oil on the tip of the new CO2 cartridge when installing a new cartridge into the gun. 

Replica .177 Caliber Pellet Pistols

Not much changes when the subject changes to CO2 powered pellet replicas.  However, since there is a great deal of variety in pellet shapes and weights, it is critical to get the right pellet for your airgun. Failure to do so could result in damaging the pellet pistol. 

Most pellet pistols utilize a rotary or belt style magazine. These magazines must be able to rotate freely within the magazine assembly therefore, if any part of the pellet extends past either end of the opening it can induce failure. At a minimum, the skirt can become bent if the pellet is not fully seated. At worst, the hand (lever that advances the magazine) can become bent or broken. If this happens, the airgun or magazine will likely need to be repaired or replaced. 

Many pellets are just too long for use in these types of airguns. As a general rule, only shoot flat-tipped “wadcutter” style pellets in CO2 powered pellet pistols. 

Once again, a drop of silicone oil on the tip of each new CO2 cartridge will help ensure long service life from your airgun and magazine.