Long airsoft replicas Clearance
Gas Guns Clearance
CO2 Guns clearance
Airsoft clearance accessories
Hand replicas
Long airsoft replicas
Airsoft shotguns
Airsoft sniper
Grenade launcher
BBS
Gas & CO2
Maintenance & Tools
Airsoft batteries
Bipod / Grip
Inner barrels
Magazines
HPA
Light / Lazer
Scope / Red Dot
Protections
Carrying case
Jouet
Patch
Textile
Updated by the technicians at the Univairsoft workshop to ensure optimal performance and enhanced safety on the field.
What is Airsoft? Complete Guide for Beginners & Experts
Airsoft Explained in 30 Seconds
Airsoft is a strategic, sports-oriented military simulation hobby in which participants face off using realistic replica weapons (1:1 scale) that fire 6mm plastic BBs using three different propulsion systems:
- Electric (AEG): Motor + battery + gears
- Gas (GBB/GBBR): Compressed gas cartridges
- Spring (Bolt): Manual mechanism for snipers
Core principle: Absolute fair play
Players who are hit declare themselves “out” and leave the playing area. No referees, 100% honesty.
Result: An immersive experience halfway between realistic tactical simulation and friendly team play.
For more historical details: See the Wikipedia article on Airsoft
Airsoft vs. Paintball vs. Laser Tag: Complete Comparison
Can’t decide between airsoft, paintball, and laser tag? This table compares the key criteria:
| Criterion | Airsoft | Paintball | Laser Tag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per BB/cartridge | €0.01 | €0.40–0.60 | Electric (€0) |
| Impact pain | Mild (5–10 FPS) | Intense (80+ FPS) | None (optical) |
| Actual accuracy | Excellent (50m+) | Average (30m) | Average (limited by sensor) |
| Weapon realism | Very high (1:1 scale) | Average | Low (standard equipment) |
| Effective range | 30-60m depending on replica | 20-30m | 15-20m indoors |
| Replica durability | 3-5 years with maintenance | N/A | N/A |
| Learning curve | Moderate (technique + fair play) | Low | Very low |
| Community size | Massive (global) | Medium | Small (niche) |
| Entry cost (kit) | €100-200 | €150-300 | Free (game) |
| Best for | Strategy + realism | Raw action thrill | Casual family game |
Univairsoft Verdict
Airsoft offers the best balance between realism, accessibility, and community engagement.
Want to get started? → Discover our entry-level replicas
5 Myths About Airsoft: What You Really Need to Know
Myth 1: “Airsoft is dangerous; the BBs hurt”
Reality: Airsoft is very safe when played with the proper protective gear.
- Lightweight BBs (6mm): much less impact than paintball.
- Standard range (10-50m): very low risk of bruising.
- Golden rule: Eye protection is strictly mandatory.
Feels like: a light tap.
Myth 2: “You need very expensive replicas to play well”
Fact: A budget of €80 to €150 is enough for a complete, functional kit.
Spending €500 doesn’t guarantee you’ll play better: technique trumps equipment. According to data from Univairsoft, 70% of players use replicas priced between €150 and €250.
Myth 3: “I need to upgrade my replica to be competitive”
Reality: Out-of-the-box replicas are sufficient for 90% of players.
Workshop tip: Master your original equipment first. Consider technical upgrades after 6 months of regular practice.
Myth 4: “Airsoft is only for young men”
Reality: It is an inclusive sport with a strong presence of players over 30 and about 15% women.
Strategy is more important than brute force, and the varied roles (medic, sniper, support) allow everyone to have fun.
Myth 5: “You need a license to play airsoft”
Reality: It depends on your location.
| Region | License required? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| France | No | Open play on private or club-owned land. |
| Belgium | Yes | Certification and registered club required. |
| UK / Germany | Varies | Check local regulations (VCRA, power). |
To-do: Always check local regulations before your first purchase.
Ready to get started without fear? → See our replica selection guide
SAFETY FIRST!
Airsoft is safe when practiced correctly. You must follow these rules:
- EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED: ALWAYS wear ballistic safety goggles (EN166B standard or equivalent) suitable for airsoft on the playing field. Facial protection (mesh or full-face mask) is strongly recommended.
- OFF THE FIELD: Outside the designated playing area, remove the magazine, empty the chamber (fire 1 or 2 shots in a safe direction), engage the safety, and transport your replica in a case or bag that is not identifiable as a weapon.
- NEVER AIM OUTSIDE THE GAME: Never point your replica at anyone who is not participating in the game or who is not wearing protective gear. Always treat your replica as if it were loaded.
- RESPECT THE ZONES: Respect the safety zones where shooting is prohibited and where eye protection may sometimes be removed (depending on the field rules).
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Which Replica for Your Situation?
Use this matrix to quickly identify the replica suited to your specific playing conditions and environment.
| Your Situation | Recommended Replica | Technical Reason | Temperature | Budget | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor CQB, temperate climate | AEP or GBB | Low power, compact, responsive. | 15-25°C | €80-150 | AEP / GBB |
| Winter forest (<5°C), standard play | AEG + Li-Po Battery | Electric models remain reliable when gas freezes. | -5 to +15°C | €150–300 | AEG |
| Winter forest + Sniper | Sniper Bolt (spring) | Cold-resistant mechanism, consistent air pressure. | -10 to +20°C | €250–500 | Sniper |
| Hot terrain (25–35°C) | GBB Green Gas | Gas highly reactive to heat, maximum realism. | +15 to +40°C | €100–200 | GBB |
| Mixed play, limited budget | Standard AEG (M4/AK) | Versatile, 40m range, upgradeable. | 0-30°C | €120-200 | AEG |
| Extreme performance (Expert) | Sniper GBBR or optimized bolt-action | Maximum accuracy and power. | -5 to +25°C | €400–800 | GBBR / Sniper |
How to use this chart?
- Locate your location in the first column.
- Check the match with your local climate.
- Consult the technical details via the links to finalize your choice.
Need personalized advice? Our workshop experts are available to configure your first replica.
Summary
- How it works
- Choosing your replica
- Choosing BBs
- Gearboxes
- Internal Parts
- Upgrades
- Sniper compatibility
- Airsoft Glossary
How it works
Choose your replica
AEG (Electric)
Automatic Electric Gun: replica firearms, mostly assault rifles that fire single shots or bursts, and operate on NiCd, NiMH, LiPo, or LiFePO4 batteries.
There are several hundred models to choose from depending on your needs, such as short or long replicas, or support weapons.
Examples of models: M4, AK47, MP5, Famas, FN2000, P90, M249, M60, and many other models available on the Univairsoft website.
New airsoft players are strongly advised to start with this type of replica, which is suitable for all terrains.
GBB (Gas)
Gas Blowback: a replica handgun with a movable slide that fires single shots or bursts, depending on the model. A replica that closely resembles the real thing.
There are several hundred models available to suit your needs.
Examples of models include the Glock, M9, P226, M1911, and many others available on the Univairsoft website.
These replicas are mostly used as secondary weapons.
GNBB (Gas)
Non-Blow Back Gas: replica handgun, in which the slide is fixed and fires only single shots.
There are few models on the market.
Examples of models: P99, MK23 SOCOM ...
These replicas are mostly used as secondary weapons.
GBBR (Gas)
The GBBR (Gas Blowback Rifle) is a long replica (rifles, assault rifles) that fires single shots or bursts and is gas-powered. A replica that closely resembles the real thing.
There are several models available to suit your needs.
Examples of models: M4, AK47, Scar, MP5, UMP ...
These replicas are mostly used to change up the type of game and enhance realism.
We recommend visiting our partner GBB Technics’ forum for more details: forum.gbb-technics.fr/
Snipe (Spring or Gas)
Precision replicas (sniper type). Most are spring-powered and require manual reloading after each shot (single-shot). Some gas-powered models may offer semi-automatic fire. This type of replica requires a patient and precise playing style, and is generally not recommended as a first purchase.
There are a few models to choose from depending on your needs.
Examples of models: M700, L96, AW338, Barrett...
These replicas are mostly used to change up your playstyle and get closer to realism.
IMPORTANT: We do not recommend using these replicas as a first purchase; sniping is a very specific playstyle that requires a great deal of patience. It is therefore strongly advised to purchase an AEG before investing in a sniper rifle.
Pump (Spring or Gas)
Pump-action shotgun replica that fires single shots only, requiring reloading after each shot, or semi-automatically depending on the model.
There are several models available to suit your needs.
Examples of models: Benelli M3, M870, Spas12 ...
These replicas are used primarily in close-range situations.
AEP (Electric)
Automatic Electric Pistol: a replica handgun that fires single shots or bursts depending on the model, and operates on a specific 7.2V battery.
These replicas are used particularly in close-quarters situations.
The power is low but effective for staying discreet during your approaches; most of these replicas have a fixed slide.
Choosing BBs
Choosing the right BBs is essential for achieving maximum range while maintaining accuracy.
For greater precision, we recommend these BB brands: Marui, Excel, G&G, Guarder, King Arms, Madbull.
BBs come in various weights, depending on the power of your replica. Here is an example for reference.
BB Guide: Which weight for which power?
Choosing the right weight is crucial: a BB that is too light will be blown away by the wind, while one that is too heavy will drop too early. Here is our workshop’s technical reference (measurements taken using a 0.20g reference BB):
Pump (Spring or Gas)
Pump-action shotgun replica that fires single shots only, requiring reloading after each shot, or semi-automatically depending on the model.
There are several models available to suit your needs.
Examples of models: Benelli M3, M870, Spas12 ...
These replicas are used primarily in close-range situations.
💪 Workshop Tip: “On spring-powered models (Tri-shot), the most common malfunction results from incomplete or hesitant cocking. Always cock with a sharp, firm motion until you hear the click to avoid chambering two BBs, which would clog your three internal barrels.”AEP (Electric)
Automatic Electric Pistol: a replica handgun that fires single shots or bursts depending on the model, and operates on a specific 7.2V battery.
These replicas are used particularly in close-quarters situations.
The power is low but effective for staying discreet during your approaches; most of these replicas have a fixed slide.
⚡ Technical Note: ”The AEP is a formidable backup in winter when GBBs lose power. However, their stock trigger response can be slow. Our pro tip: install a micro-Mosfet and switch to a suitable 7.4V Li-Po battery. You’ll double the trigger response without sacrificing reliability."| Power (FPS / Joules) | Ideal Weight | Usage & Type of replica |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 0.3 Joules | 0.12g | “Mini” replicas, low-power springs, and children's models. |
| 250 - 300 FPS | 0.20g - 0.23g | Handgun replicas (Glock, M9) and building games (CQB). |
| 300 - 350 FPS | 0.25g - 0.28g | Standard AEG (M4, AK47). The best range/velocity compromise. |
| 350 - 400 FPS | 0.30g - 0.32g | Anti-sniper (DMR) or AEG optimized for the forest. |
Choosing BBs
Choosing the right BBs is essential for achieving maximum range while maintaining accuracy.
For greater precision, we recommend these BB brands: Marui, Excel, G&G, Guarder, King Arms, Madbull.
BBs come in various weights, depending on the power of your replica. Here is an example for reference.
BB Guide: Which weight for which power?
Choosing the right weight is crucial: a BB that is too light will be blown away by the wind, while one that is too heavy will drop too early. Here is our workshop’s technical reference (measurements taken using a 0.20g reference BB):
| Power (FPS / Joules) | Ideal Weight | Use & Type of replica |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 0.3 Joules | 0.12g | “Mini” replicas, low-power spring, and children's models. |
| 250 - 300 FPS | 0.20g - 0.23g | Handgun replicas (Glock, M9) and indoor play (CQB). |
| 300 - 350 FPS | 0.25g - 0.28g | Standard AEG (M4, AK47). The best range/velocity compromise. |
| 350 - 400 FPS | 0.30g - 0.32g | Anti-sniper (DMR) or AEG optimized for the forest. |
| 400–450 FPS | 0.36g–0.40g | Beginner sniper (bolt-action) or high-power DMR. High stability. |
| Over 450 FPS | 0.43g and up | Expert sniper. Maximum accuracy at long range (50m+). |
👉 Discover our selection of eco-friendly BBs from 0.20g to 0.45g.
Gearboxes
Next-Gen Gearbox
These replicas are the latest generation of airsoft replicas; they feature a slight recoil and a blowback system that enhances realism.
Unlike GBBRs, these replicas are fully electric and are designed by Marui. A new brand has emerged on the market to compete with them: Bolt.
Replicas: Marui M4 and H&K 416, Scar, G36, AK Next Generation.
Brand-specific gearbox (Electric)
- ICS M4, M16 (compatible with V2 gearbox parts)
- ICS L85/ L86
- Classic Army M249 (compatible with V2/3 gearbox parts)
- G&G SR25
- AGM MP40 (compatible with V2/3 gearbox parts)
- Real Sword gearbox
- A&K M60
Thank you for helping Univairsoft update this section; you can contact us via the contact form.
Internal Parts
Bushing/ Bearing
Bushing that fit into the gearbox shafts to accommodate the gears.
All gearboxes include 6 bushings or bearings.
There are several diameters compatible with gearboxes: 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, and 9mm.
Bushings are solid rings ideal for major upgrades.
Bearings are ball bearings; they are more fragile but ideal for increasing speed.
Precision Barrel: Grouping and Range
The barrel gives the ball its trajectory.
We use precision barrels to increase range and, of course, accuracy.
Several barrel diameters are available, ranging from 6.00mm to 6.08mm.
Note that if you change your barrel, you will need to check your cylinder to ensure it is compatible with the barrel length (increase pressure with air volume).
The length and quality of the inner barrel directly influence the potential accuracy and range of your replica. A longer barrel requires an appropriate air volume (furnished by the cylinder) to be effective. Although the replica’s operating principle remains the same, barrel selection is a key factor in optimizing performance.
👉 View precision barrels in stock.
Cut-off lever
This part allows you to fire single shots with your replica.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a metal part selected based on the barrel length.
It ensures a tight seal with the piston head and cylinder head.
Electricity
AEGs are electric, meaning that wiring runs through the gearbox connecting the battery to the switch and then to the motor.
The switch allows you to turn the power on or off, like a push button (switch).
There is wiring with a front or rear output that is specific to each gearbox style.
The power wiring outputs come in several models compatible with various battery styles: Tamiya Large or Mini, T-Shape (Dean).
Gears
Gears enable your replica to function; they pull the piston backward.
There are several gear models:
- Hi Speed: for replicas up to 330 fps
- Standard: up to 350 fps
- Torque Up: up to 400 fps
- High Torque: 400 fps and up (more torque)
Gearbox
The gearbox is the internal housing of your replica that contains all the internal parts necessary for its operation.
There are several types of gearboxes more details.
Spring Guide
The spring guide positions the spring to prevent it from bending inside the gearbox and ensures it remains straight.
Hop-Up
The Hop-Up is a trajectory correction system invented by Tokyo Marui.
The Hop-Up is an essential system that applies an upward spin (‘backspin’) to the BB as it leaves the barrel. This effect (similar to the Magnus effect) counteracts gravity and allows the BB to fly farther and straighter.
Proper Hop-Up adjustment is crucial and depends on the weight of the BB used. A Hop-Up properly adjusted by the player is the key to achieving good range and accuracy.
A high-end Hop-Up chamber allows you to gain range (up to 3m).
In the Hop-Up system, it is the “Hop-Up gasket” that gives the BB its spin; remember to replace this gasket.
Hop-Up adjustment: A knob or lever allows you to apply more or less pressure to the Hop-Up seal. Find the setting where the BB rises slightly at the end of its trajectory before dropping back down. This setting depends on the weight of the BB used!
The Hop-Up Gasket: The Key to Accuracy
The Hop-Up Gasket is installed on the barrel and in the Hop-Up chamber. It works with the pressure from the Hop-Up chamber to impart a rotational effect to the BB during firing.
This effect compensates for gravitational acceleration and sends the BB flying straighter.
It is important to have a very good Hop-Up gasket, as it determines the BB’s range based on its flexibility and the quality of the rubber.
The Hop-Up rubber is the most important component for range. At Univairsoft, we recommend a 50° (soft) rubber for low-power replicas and a 70° (hard) rubber for sniper rifles.
👉 Discover our selection of 4UANTUM, Maple Leaf, and Prometheus seals.
Motor
It is thanks to the motor that your gears turn, enabling your replica to function.
There are two types of motors: long-shaft motors used in V2 gearboxes and even custom gearboxes, and short-shaft motors used in V3 gearboxes and certain
other replicas.
There are also several motor power ratings
- Hi Speed: for replicas up to 330 fps
- Standard: up to 350 fps
- Torque Up: up to 400 fps
- High Torque: 400 fps and up (more torque)
Spring
The spring determines the power of your replica.
The spring is measured in m/s (meters per second). Example: M110 = 110 m/s
Use the fps to m/s converter to calculate your approximate power.
Fire Mode Selector
The fire mode selector allows you to change the firing mode: safety, single shot, and burst (burst mode for certain replicas)
Flat selector
The flat selector connects the fire selector and the switch, allowing you to change the firing mode.
Cylinder head
The cylinder head is installed inside the cylinder; it features a spout that allows the nozzle to be attached.
This part is important for ensuring your replica is airtight.
Mosfet
The MOSFET is a system that protects your battery, enables different firing modes, and offers many other options.
There are two types of MOSFETs: one that connects just before the battery and another that replaces the power wiring.
Piston
The piston is equipped with teeth that allow it to roll over the gears. This action pushes the piston back into the gearbox, and the piston is released after the last tooth of its rail.
It is usually made of polycarbonate, but is also available in POM and metal.
Nozzle
The nozzle is a spout located at the outlet of the cylinder head that allows the ball to be chambered.
It also provides a better seal thanks to its internal O-ring.
Safety Cover
This part locks your fire selector when it is in the safe position.
Shims
Shims are small washers of varying thicknesses used to adjust gear spacing.
Delayer
This small part, which is installed on the sector gear (the gear closest to the piston), allows for a more consistent feed of BBs.
Wellock Bracer
This part helps absorb the impact of the piston head striking the cylinder head.
It is made of shock-absorbing material and is installed between the hop-up chamber and the gearbox.
It also prevents gearbox cracking and absorbs piston impacts.
Thank you for helping Univairsoft update this section, you can contact us via the contact form.
Upgrades
Univairsoft offers several types of upgrades depending on your budget or needs in the upgrade section of the menu.
Sniper compatibility
VSR10 Mechanism
Marui VSR10 series
Jing Gong Bar 10 series
Well MB06 MB07 (outer barrel, barrel spacers and hop-up chamber not compatible)
Maruzen T96 Mechanism
Maruzen T96
Well MB 01, MB04, MB05
Mauser SR, Pro Tactical
Mars I
Warrior I
L96 (except Marui L96 AWS)
L96 Warrior
M57 Double Eagle (outer barrel and piston not compatible)
ASG AW308 or AW 308 (outer barrel and piston not compatible)
G21, G22, G25 (gas cylinder)
L96 Mechanism
Marui L96
APS2 Mechanism
Maruzen APS2, OR, EX
Snow Wolf M99 SW-01
M24 Mechanism
Classic Army M24
APS2 SR Mechanism
Maruzen APS2 SR
Well 2SR
Well MB06
M700 Mechanism (gas)
Tanaka M700, M24, M40
KJW M700
G&G G96
Non-upgradable mechanisms
Cybergun M6 Black Eagle
Cybergun Sauer 92
ASG SSG9
ASG Varmint M70
AGM MP001
AGM Sharpshooter
Thank you for helping Univairsoft update this section, you can contact us via the contact form.
Airsoft glossary
A
ABU= Airman Battle Uniform: uniform used by the US Air Force, mainly composed of grey and green shades, derived from Tiger Stripe camouflage.
ACM= All China Made: refers to an airsoft replica manufactured in China (People’s Republic of China).
ACH= Advanced Combat Helmet: based on the MICH (TC2000) design, replacing the PASGT helmet. It offers improved protection (notably against 9mm rounds), compatibility with communication headsets, and better comfort thanks to its 4-point chin strap and internal padding. Developed by MSA Gallet and used by the US Army.
A.C.O.G= Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight: optical sight mounted on assault rifles, used by the US Army, featuring low magnification (up to approximately 5.5x).
ACU= Army Combat Uniform: modern US Army uniform cut replacing the BDU (see below). Often confused with the UCP camouflage pattern (formerly ARPAT), although the cut and camouflage are distinct.
AE= American Eagle gas: gas brand used in airsoft, available in summer or winter versions depending on temperature conditions.
AEG= Automatic Electric Gun: airsoft replica powered by an electric motor and battery, using a gearbox system; the most common type used in games.
AEP= Automatic Electric Pistol: compact electric replica introduced by Tokyo Marui, operating on the same principle as AEGs but miniaturized.
Airbreak= Small extension on the piston head in bolt-action replicas, designed to slow down the piston before impact, reducing noise and mechanical stress. Reducing the airbrake may increase FPS but raises the risk of damage.
A.L.I.C.E.= All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment: load-bearing equipment system used by the US Army before the introduction of MOLLE.
AN/PEQ= Laser aiming module mounted on a Picatinny rail. Used for target designation, typically invisible to the naked eye and only visible with night vision devices. In airsoft, often used as a battery box and sometimes includes functional laser/light modules.
B
Bang Rule= Safety rule allowing a player to eliminate an opponent at very close range without shooting, by announcing “Bang”.
Back-up= Secondary weapon, usually a handgun carried in addition to the primary replica.
BB= Spherical projectile used in airsoft, typically 6mm plastic pellets.
BDU= Battle Dress Uniform: former standard US military uniform.
Bolt= Bolt-action sniper rifle replica requiring manual cocking before each shot.
Burst= Firing mode allowing a fixed number of shots (commonly 3) per trigger pull.
C
CQB= Close Quarters Battle: combat in confined environments such as buildings.
Custom= Modified or personalized replica, often upgraded internally or externally.
Chronograph= Device used to measure the velocity of BBs (usually in FPS or m/s).
D
E
EBB= Electric Blow Back: system simulating recoil on an electric replica.
F
FPS= Feet Per Second: unit measuring the speed of a BB when exiting the barrel.
Fairplay= Ethical behavior in airsoft, involving honesty in hit calling and respect for rules.
G
GBB= Gas Blow Back: gas-powered replica with moving parts simulating recoil.
Gearbox= Internal mechanical unit of an AEG containing gears, piston, and motor.
Ghillie= Camouflage suit used by snipers to blend into the environment.
H
Hop-up= System applying backspin to BBs to increase range and accuracy.
J
Joule= Unit of energy used to measure replica power.
M
Mag= Magazine containing BBs.
MOLLE= Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment: modular attachment system for gear.
N
Nozzle= Internal part ensuring air transfer between gearbox and barrel.
NVG= Night Vision Goggles: devices allowing vision in low-light conditions.
O
OP= Operation: large-scale organized airsoft event.
Out= Declaration indicating a player has been hit.
P
Picatinny= Standard rail system used to mount accessories.
Piston= Internal component compressing air inside the cylinder.
R
Red-dot= Non-magnified optical sight with illuminated aiming point.
S
Semi-auto= Firing mode allowing one shot per trigger pull.
T
Tappet plate= Internal gearbox component controlling nozzle movement.
U
Upgrade= Modification aimed at improving performance, reliability, or accuracy of a replica.
Thank you for helping Univairsoft update this page, you can contact us via the contact form.