Post by dmhikaru on Sept 28, 2007 2:30:35 GMT 9
What makes a GBB worth buying?
Airsoft guns are designed to be as realistic as possible, both in looks and operation. GBBs absolutely excel here as this was part of the brief for the original designs.
The main benefits of the GBB are...
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Reliability
GBBs tend to be reliable if they have a simple design (e.g. KSC Glock pistols). These models can provide thousands of shots without jamming or breaking. More complex replicas such as some SMGs regularly suffer from jams and breakages, although some users report that these are very sturdy guns.
GBBs can become unreliable if used with the wrong pressure gas. Gas that is too powerful can cause random breakages and gas that is too weak can cause jams. The ambient temperature also affects the pressure and performance of gasses. With practice and the right information, finding the right gas is fairly simple.
Fairly regular cleaning and lubrication is required in order to protect the rubber seals and moving parts. This is very easy though, as most GBBs are 'field-strippable' (i.e. they can be taken apart quickly without the need for tools).
Gas Blow-Backs are generally considered to be less reliable than AEGs.
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Accuracy
A well made GBB that has been well maintained can be very accurate - just as accurate as an AEG. They are powerful compared to most Non Blow-Back and 'Springer' guns, so their effective range is quite good.
Gas Blow-Backs are generally less accurate than AEGs at longer distances though. Part of this is down to pressure differences and the cooling effect from the gasses used. This will affect the consistency of shots, reducing overall accuracy, especially at a distance.
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Compact
GBBs do not need to hold batteries, gears, pistons or large main-springs. This means that they can be small. One of the most common GBB pistols sold in the UK is the KSC Glock 17. This pistol is a 1:1 replica of the real-steel Glock 17 and holds around 25 BBs. These are an excellent backup to have in a skirmish and a lot of fun to use when shooting at targets.
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Light-Weight
GBBs are generally made of plastic (occasionally light-weight metal alloy), making the pistol itself is fairly light. The Magazine has thick metal walls, strong enough to hold the gas, so this can be quite heavy. Overall, the replica is lighter than the real version and very easy to handle.
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Effective
The replica uses gas to reload which has several major benefits...
1. Reloading is instant - no delay. This means BBs can be shot as fast as you can
pull the trigger. Even faster shots can be fired if the GBB has a full-automatic
option.
2. No reloading energy needs to be taken from the trigger-pull, allowing a clean
crisp, easy pull.
3. The sudden release of gas creates a considerable 'pop', giving the GBB a more
realistic sound. With a full-automatic option, the GBB makes a great rat-a-tat-tat!
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Upgradeable
Quite a few upgrades are available for Gas Blow-Back replicas, but to be honest, these upgrades really should be part of the gun when you buy it. The majority of upgrades are things like stronger internal parts, better springs and more capable valves. Many GBB users buy these upgrade parts simply because the standard parts broke.
However, some parts can be useful little add-ons, like tighter barrels, different slides and recoil enhancers. All of these can help to put a smile on the face of any GBB owner.
