What Does Blowback Mean in Airsoft?

Airsoft is a game or activity that resembles a traditional firearms firing range but uses plastic pellets instead of bullets. Airsoft weapons work, look, and feel similar to the real deal. Central to the airsoft experience is the pull of the trigger and the anything-can-happen excitement of the game. One unique feature of an airsoft gun is the "blowback," which requires a certain level of understanding for those just starting out, especially with electric airsoft guns.

What is Airsoft Blowback?

Airsoft blowback is the simulated recoil of a real gun when firing several airsoft pellets. It's this action that makes an airsoft gun so much fun and realistic. These recoil usually with each "pellet shot" and uses a spring-powered method utilizing a slide or bolt. So when you fire a pellet, the slide or bolt moves backward and ejects the spent shell casing.

Types of Airsoft Blowback

Airsoft blowback comes in two main types - electric and gas. An electric blowback has no recoil and utilizes an electro-magnetic system to achieve the firing action. On the other hand, the gas blowback type typically uses a CO2 or propane canister to create the recoil effect. While these have higher recoil, they come with a few drawbacks such as being more expensive and needing a power source.

What Makes Blowback So Great?

The main advantage of using airsoft blowback is that it offers an experience that feels much like that of a real gun. This is especially true of gas blowback type weapons, which offer the most realistic shooting experience, and the highest grade of realism. This added realism is ideal for those who want to hone their airsoft skills before trying out a real gun.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Blowback Airsoft Weapons

While there are some downsides to having a blowback airsoft gun, such as increased costs and more frequent maintenance that these guns require, there are plenty of advantages that outweigh these drawbacks.

Advantages:

• Greater realism when shooting.
• Better accuracy and precision.
• Higher velocity.
• Increased range and power.
• More enjoyable shooting experience.

Disadvantages:

• More expensive.
• Require more maintenance.
• Higher CO2 consumption.
• Needs a power source.

Final Word

For anyone interested in an airsoft gun, blowback is an important feature to consider. It provides a realistic shooting experience and offers great accuracy, power, and versatility. However, it does come with a few disadvantages as well. Before purchasing an airsoft gun with blowback, factors such as cost and maintenance should be taken into consideration.