Airsoft Pistols
Airsoft pistols for sale
Where can I buy airsoft pistols for sale near me? We can deliver to your door anywhere in Staffordshire.
Airsoft Pistols in the UK: History, Models and Buyer's Guide
Airsoft pistols have become an integral part of the airsoft community, offering both enthusiasts and beginners a fun, safe and tactical experience. Whether you're gearing up for your first skirmish or adding to your collection, understanding the history and current top models of airsoft pistols available in the UK is essential.
Brief History of Airsoft Pistols
Airsoft originated in Japan during the 1970s, where strict gun control laws encouraged the development of realistic-looking replica guns that fired non-lethal plastic BBs. These early models were spring-powered and mainly used for target shooting.
By the 1980s and 1990s, airsoft spread across Asia and Europe, especially the UK, where it found a strong following. With the introduction of gas-powered and electric blowback (EBB) mechanisms, airsoft pistols became more advanced, offering realistic recoil and semi-automatic fire modes that mimic real firearms.
UK Airsoft Laws and Regulations
In the UK, airsoft pistols are legal but subject to specific regulations. Under the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, airsoft guns must shoot below 1.3 joules (for full-auto) or 2.5 joules (for semi-auto) to be exempt from firearm classification. Additionally, coloured imitation firearms (IFs) are restricted to individuals aged 18+, unless they are members of a registered airsoft site, have a valid defence or are a UKARA member.
Types of Airsoft Pistols
There are three main types of airsoft pistols:
1. Spring-Powered Pistols: Simple and affordable, ideal for beginners or backyard plinking. These require manual cocking before each shot.
2. Gas-Powered Pistols: Popular among intermediate and advanced players. Powered by green gas or CO2, they often feature blowback action for added realism.
3. Electric Pistols (AEPs): Battery-powered and reliable in cold weather. While less powerful than gas pistols, they are great for consistent performance.
Top Airsoft Pistol Models in the UK (2025)
Here are some of the most popular and recommended airsoft pistols currently available in the UK market:
1. Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1 GBB
A fan-favourite, known for accuracy, customization potential and smooth blowback. Ideal for skirmishers and competitive shooters.
2. ASG CZ Shadow 2 CO2
A full-metal replica with snappy recoil and exceptional build quality. Often used in IPSC-style airsoft competitions.
3. Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 GBB
Fully licensed with authentic Glock markings. A reliable sidearm with great gas efficiency and realism.
4. WE EU17 Gen 4
Affordable and versatile, this gas blowback pistol mimics the popular Glock platform and supports a variety of upgrades.
5. CYMA CM.123 AEP
A budget-friendly electric pistol with consistent performance, ideal for colder UK climates where gas may falter.
Conclusion
Airsoft pistols are more than just replicas - they are tools for sport, training, and fun. Whether you're after the realism of gas blowback or the dependability of an electric model, there's a perfect pistol for every airsoft player in the UK. Always check UK airsoft laws and buy from reputable UK-based retailers for legal and quality-assured products.
Ready to gear up? Explore our full range of airsoft pistols available in the UK and find the one that fits your loadout today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Airsoft pistols
1. What is an airsoft pistol?
An airsoft pistol is a replica handgun that shoots non-lethal plastic BBs, commonly used for sport, training or recreational activities.
2. Are airsoft pistols legal?
Laws vary by country and state, but in most places, airsoft pistols are legal with age restrictions and safety regulations.
3. What types of airsoft pistols are there?
There are spring-powered, gas-powered and electric (AEG or AEP) airsoft pistols.
4. What is the best airsoft pistol for beginners?
Spring-powered pistols are affordable and simple to use, making them ideal for beginners.
5. Do airsoft pistols hurt?
They can sting or bruise on bare skin, but are generally safe with protective gear.
6. What gas do airsoft pistols use?
Most gas-powered pistols use green gas, CO2, or propane.
7. How far can an airsoft pistol shoot?
Typically, they can shoot 50-100 feet effectively, depending on the model and power.
8. Can I use an airsoft pistol for self-defense?
No, airsoft pistols are not effective or legal for self defense use.
9. Do airsoft pistols require licenses?
Usually not, but a defence to buy is normally required.
10. How do you maintain an airsoft pistol?
Regular cleaning, lubrication, and proper storage keep it functioning well.
11. Can airsoft pistols be used indoors?
Yes, as long as safety precautions and eye protection are used.
12. Are airsoft pistols accurate?
They are accurate at short ranges; higher end models offer better precision.
13. How much do airsoft pistols cost?
Prices range from £60 to over £200 depending on quality and features.
14. Can I modify my airsoft pistol?
Yes, many pistols can be upgraded with parts for performance or aesthetics.
15. What BBs should I use?
Use high-quality 6mm plastic BBs; avoid metal or low grade ammo.
16. Do airsoft pistols have blowback?
Gas blowback (GBB) pistols mimic real firearm recoil; non-blowback models do not.
17. Is eye protection necessary?
Absolutely. Always wear goggles when using airsoft guns.
18. What is FPS in airsoft?
FPS (feet per second) measures BB speed; higher FPS means more power.
19. Can minors buy airsoft pistols?
Most regions require buyers to be 18+, though minors may use them under supervision.
20. Are airsoft pistols realistic?
Yes, many are highly realistic replicas of real firearms in look and feel.
Common words and phrases connected to Airsoft pistols
1. FPS - Feet per second; measures BB velocity.
2. Muzzle Velocity - Speed of the BB as it leaves the barrel.
3. Hop-Up - Adjustable system that adds backspin to BBs for range.
4. Blowback - Mechanism that cycles slide to simulate recoil.
5. Spring-Powered - Piston-driven; manually cock before each shot.
6. Gas-Powered - Uses green gas or CO2 for propulsion and blowback.
7. Green Gas - Propellant gas mixed with silicone oil for lubrication.
8. CO2 - Compressed carbon dioxide cartridges; higher power, colder in use.
9. Magazine (Mag) - Holds BBs and gas; detachable from pistol.
10. BBs - Typically 6 mm plastic pellets used as ammo.
11. Outer Barrel - Exterior barrel housing; often decorative.
12. Inner Barrel - Precision barrel that BBs travel through.
13. Bucking - Rubber piece in hop-up that contacts BB for spin.
14. Nozzle - Delivers gas into the chamber to fire BB.
15. Trigger Pull - Amount of force needed to fire the pistol.
16. Safety - Mechanism to prevent accidental discharge.
17. Slide - Upper portion that cycles in blowback pistols.
18. Frame - Lower portion housing internals and grip.
19. Grip - Handle of the pistol; may have texture or panels.
20. Rail - Picatinny or Weaver mount for accessories.
21. Compensator - Muzzle device reducing felt recoil or flash.
22. Silencer/Suppressor - Fake or real-looking barrel extension.
23. Sight Picture - Alignment of front and rear sights on target.
24. Front Sight - Fore-most aiming point.
25. Rear Sight - Aimed through to line up front sight.
26. Red Dot Sight - Electronic sight projecting a dot reticle.
27. Field Strip - Disassembly for cleaning and maintenance.
28. O-Ring - Seal in gas pistols preventing leaks.
29. Gas Efficiency - Number of shots per fill or cartridge.
30. Blowback Spring - Returns slide to battery after firing.
31. Hammer - Striker mechanism in some models.
32. Firing Pin - Strikes valve or primer to release gas.
33. Double-Action - Trigger both cocks and releases hammer.
34. Single-Action - Hammer must be cocked manually first.
35. Semi-Auto - One BB per trigger pull.
36. Full-Auto - Continuous fire while trigger is held.
37. Burst Mode - Fires a set number (e.g., 3) BBs per pull.
38. Chronograph - Device measuring FPS of BBs.
39. Thread Adapter - Converts barrel threads for accessories.
40. Blowback Efficiency - How smoothly the slide cycles.
41. Gas Reservoir - Chamber in magazine storing propellant.
42. Loading Nozzle - Picks up BBs from magazine into chamber.
43. Tactical Light - Mounted flashlight for low-light use.
44. Laser Sight - Projects aiming dot onto target.
45. Holster - Carrier for safe pistol transport.
46. Magazine Release - Button or lever to drop the mag.
47. Slide Release - Locks slide open or releases it forward.
48. Grip Safety - Prevents firing unless gripped properly.
49. Backstrap - Rear part of grip; sometimes removable.
50. Trigger Safety - Built into trigger to stop unintended pulls.