What Are Airsoft Bullets Made Of?

Airsoft is a popular sport across the world. Both recreational and competitive players take part in the activity, involving the use of a replica gun that fires 6mm plastic pellets, dubbed as Airsoft bullets. As a type of low-energy ammunition, these bullets definitely differ from conventional firearm cartridges in terms of their material makeup and construction.

Overview of Airsoft Technology

General Mechanism

Airsoft guns vary in terms of construction and features, but all involve the use of a spring, pneumatic, gas-powered, or even electric systems to propel BBs down the barrel of the gun. When the trigger is pulled, mechanics push the Airsoft BB onto the hop-up chamber, which is designed to provide a backspin that helps to increase the accuracy and range of the shot.

BBs come in a variety of sizes, and most Airsoft guns accommodate 6mm rounds, though 8mm variants have also emerged in recent years.

Gun Types

Airsoft guns can also be classified according to the power source that provides the energy to fire the pellets. Spring pistols require the user to reset the gun manually after each shot, while gas-powered weapons use compressed gas to drive the pellets forward. Electric guns have become increasingly popular in recent years, given their high-fire rates and automatic modes.

What Are Airsoft Bullets Made Of?

The Construction of 6mm Airsoft BBs

Airsoft BBs are made of plastic, though their makeup differs depending on the type of weapon they're used in. For instance, a gun powered by a high-tension spring will normally fire ammo made of hard plastic, whereas those powered by compressed air will accommodate ammunition produced from softer materials.

The type of plastic used to make Airsoft bullets largely depends on the manufacturer. The vast majority of plastic Airsoft ammo generally consists of polystyrene, which is both lightweight and affordable. This type of plastic is also more resistant to damage or break when used outdoors, as it has a slightly higher level of impact resistance.

8mm Airsoft Bullets

In recent times, 8mm pellets have taken the Airsoft world by storm. This particular size of pellet is mainly used in sniper rifles and heavy support guns. 8mm Airsoft bullets are mostly made of a different type of plastic, known as polyamide. This material is virtually indestructible and can withstand high amounts of pressure without breaking or causing damage to the gun itself.

Material Comparisons

Compared to standard 6mm rounds, 8mm bullets are more robust and, as a result, can travel at a much higher velocity. This makes them particularly suitable for long-range combat and sniper rifles. Another key difference between the two materials is the cost 8mm ammo is typically more expensive than 6mm pellets.

Brief Recap

To conclude, Airsoft guns make use of 6mm and 8mm plastic pellets, packed with varying amounts of power and pressure depending on the type of weapon used. Moreover, the material makeup of each type of pellet influences the speed at which they travel through the air, with 8mm rounds being capable of reaching higher speeds than the 6mm variant.

Ultimately, whether you're looking at 6mm or 8mm Airsoft bullets, they will typically be made of either polystyrene or polyamide two types of plastic which are both impact-resistant and lightweight. Further information on the range of Airsoft ammunition available can be found on the official websites of most Airsoft-related organisations.