What is the Difference Between Airsoft and BB Guns?

Airsoft and BB guns are two popular recreational shooting sports with common threads yet distinct differences. This article will compare the two sports, examining the primary threads between airsoft and BB gun use and diving into the major differences.

Safety Standards

The two most noteworthy factors to consider when deciphering the airsoft vs. BB guns debate is the type of ammunition used and the safety standards required for each.

Airsoft Ammo

Airsoft guns use biodegradable ammunition in the form of plastic pellets called BBs. The most common size is 6mm and they come in various and weights and densities. Standard airsoft BBs should have a muzzle velocity of no more than 250 feet per second, with heavy or special pellets reaching 300 feet per second.

BB Gun Ammo

BB guns use metal pellets or BBs that come in steel or copper, depending on the power of the gun. Low grade BB guns, like ones found in toy aisles, shoot at about 330 feet per second while more powerful models reach velocities of 500 feet per second and higher. Additionally, metal BBs can travel long distances with the potential of bouncing off hard surfaces and hurting bystanders.

Legal Parameters

Due to the differences in ammunition and power, the legal parameters of airsoft and BB guns also differ.

Airsoft

Due to their low impact, airsoft guns are legal in many states and commonly used in CQB (Close Quarter Battle) simulations. Airsoft is also popular in many countries around the world.

BB Guns

In contrast, BB gun laws vary greatly from state to state. Some require a license to own and use a BB gun. In many states, BB guns must not exceed a certain fps rating.

Uses

Both airsoft and BB guns are often used similarly, yet each presents unique applications.

Airsoft

Airsoft guns are used for military simulations, target practice, and competitions. They can also be used by law enforcement in training purposes and by movie and television productions for special effects.

BB Guns

BB guns are commonly used for target practice, pest control, or small prey hunting, such as rodents and birds. Some also use BB guns for recreational activities like plinking and shooting competitions.

Sports Community

Due to its lower impact and more relaxed safety guidelines, airsoft enjoys more mainstream appeal in the shooting sports community. Both sports do draw dedicated fans, however. Airsoft offers a wide array of tournaments around the world while BB gun use also continues to hold its own in competitions and club matches.

In Summary

The debate between airsoft and BB gun use centers around ammunition, safety protocols, legal parameters, and uses. Airsoft is often deemed safer due to its biodegradable ammo and more relaxed safety standards. It also enjoys greater mainstream appeal in the shooting sports community. BB gun use, on the other hand, is the preferred method for target shooting and small game hunting. Ultimately, both airsoft and BB guns have their applications and dedicated communities.

Ultimately, both sports can fulfill aspects of recreational shooting, but thoughtful consideration of the points outlined in this article should be taken into account when making a selection.