7 Best Airsoft Guns for Beginners (Tested & Reviewed by a Marine)

If you are interested in playing airsoft games or taking part in MILSIM events, one of your main concerns will be getting the best airsoft guns. Buyers’ regret is very common among beginners. 

The market is flooded with different types of airsoft guns from many different brands. Every brand has equipped its airsoft rifle with various features to enhance the functionality and performance of the guns. Therefore shopping for the best gun as a beginner can be quite challenging.

I am a professional airsoft player with many year’s experience playing the sport. My professional experience has equipped me with ample knowledge to know what to look for when shopping for a beginner airsoft rifle. An airsoft rifle can greatly affect your interest in the sport. 

This detailed guide takes you through all the important factors and the buying process for picking your first airsoft gun as a beginner. We have also included a list of the best airsoft guns for beginners. The G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider stands out as the best beginner airsoft rifle in our list, due to its impressive features, high performance , reliability and high upgradability.

Best Airsoft Rifles for Beginners

1. G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider

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The G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider is the gold standard rifle for an airsoft beginner. The gun is affordably priced with decent performance metrics, and It’s the pioneer of high-density beginner airsoft guns. When you buy this rifle, you are provided with a smart charger, which is more reliable than the standard wall charger and safer to use. The smart charger ensures no overcharge and keeps the NiMH battery protected. Buyers can also opt to buy the gun alone without the smart charger.

The gun comes with abundant upgrade potential making it one of the most versatile guns for airsoft novice players. The gun features a lightweight, robust polymer receiver and integrated Rail System that provides users with a clear-cut advantage over other players. Players are guaranteed a higher accuracy thanks to the Keymod rail. 

The G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider is equipped with polymer externals, which are impact-resistant and durable. The polymer externals make the rifle suitable for new players who want mid-range engagement in an open field playing environment. If you are a new airsoft player looking for a machine that has proven performance, the G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider is the best option to go for.

Specifications:

• Type: M4 / AR-15 Electric
• Range: 150 Feet
• Muzzle Velocity: 325 – 340 FPS
• Length: 31 inches (Retracted) / 34.5 inches (Extended)
• Inner Barrel Type: 6.08mm
• Weight:  6.1 lbs
• Inner Barrel Length: 363 mm
• Hop-Up: TM Gear Style (1 Piece – Adjustable)
• Outer Barrel Length: 14.5” Metal
• Rail: Polymer
• Magazine Capacity: 450 Round (High)
• Upgradability: Very High
• Gearbox Type: Version 2

Pros

• Highly Sensitive Trigger
• Ultra-Lightweight
• Budget-Friendly
• Industry-Leading Electronics

Cons

• Only compatible with the brand’s smart charger
• Polymer Body

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2. Lancer Tactical Gen 2 10″ KeyMod

 

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The Lancer Tactical Gen 2 has keymod slots in the forearm grip. Which is better, keymod or MLok? That depends on which you like better. I like keymod in this case. Either lets you hang all kinds of cool gear on the rifle.

The LT-19 comes in 6 choices, 2 black, 2 grey and 2 tan. After you settle on color, you choose the velocity, 370-395 FPS or 330-345 FPS. The system does allow a quick gearbox change so you can really get either FPS setting with a second box.

Even better, this gun has metal gears. Metal, of course, will last much longer than nylon gears.

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Specifications

• Electric
• Full auto selector
• 150 foot range
• 2 muzzle velocity choices
• 5 pounds
• Adjustable hop up
• 6.03 mm bore
• 6-point adjustable stock
• Keymod forearm
• 300-round mag
• Wall charger
• Battery: 9.6V Nunchuck

Pros

• Keymod forearm
• Fast-change gearbox
• Battery included
• Metal gears
• Light at 5 pounds
• Tight barrel
• Variable FPS with quick-change gearbox
• Metal gears

Cons

• Really need a smart charger (not included) for the battery
• Starter gun
• Included sights are not good

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3. Game Face GF76 Electric Full/Semi-Auto Tactical Carbine

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Run full or semi auto with a 375-round mag. At 700 rounds per minute, you can dump the whole mag in just over 30 seconds.

Making this even better is the folding stock. Clearing a house? Use it as pistol. Need more stability to reach out, unfold the stock.

The ability to switch between long engagements and CQB is a major reason the GF76 should be a part of your arsenal. 

The rails are well placed for additions. Bear in mind, you do not want to add a lot to this one. Part of the beauty is the weight and the ability to move it fast. Accessories make it harder to manage.

Specifications:

• Electric
• 375 FPS
• 4.5 pounds
• 8.4v 1600mAh stick battery
• Adjustable hop up
• Adjustable rear sight

Pros

• Highly maneuverable
• Folding stock
• Fast shooting
• Good capacity
• Several rails

Cons

• Short battery life compared to some others
• Not suited for accessories

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4. Lancer Tactical G2 Airsoft LT-19B M4 Carbine 10″ AEG Rifle

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If you are looking for a reliable and affordable airsoft gun for beginners, the Lancer Tactical G2 Airsoft LT-19B M4 Carbine 10″ AEG Rifle will surpass your expectations. The LT19 line has a robust external construction and features a collapsible crane stock and polymer Keymod rail. Lancer Tactical equipped the LT-19B M4 model with flip-up sights to enhance the gun’s functionality. With the outer barrel’s robust metal construction, the rifle can withstand wear and tear.

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The impressive baseline provided by the Lancer Tactical G2 Airsoft LT-19B M4 Carbine 10″ AEG Rifle makes it reliable as a beginner airsoft gun. When fully charged at 9.6v, the gun can fire up to 14 rounds per second. If you want an increased response, you can opt for the 11.v LiPo.

The gun is budget-friendly compared to other beginner airsoft guns. It is equipped with various features which enhance its functionality. Some of the key elements present in the LT-19B M4 airsoft rifle are:

• Tightbore inner barrel
• Rear sling mount
• Speedy spring change system
• Flip-up sights

When you buy the rifle, it comes with a battery, high capacity magazine, and a charger. Users can purchase safety gear, extra magazines, and spare batteries for a more fun airsoft gaming experience with the LT-19B M4 airsoft rifle.

Specifications

• Type: M4 / AR-15 Electric
• Range: 125 Feet
• Length: 31 inches (Retracted) / 34.5 inches (Extended)
• Muzzle Velocity: 375 – 390 FPS
• Receiver Construction: Polymer (Upper & Lower)
• Weight:  4.3 lbs
• Outer Barrel Length: 14.5” Metal
• Inner Barrel Type: 6.03mm Tightbore
• Hop-Up: Rotary Style (1 Piece – Adjustable)
• Inner Barrel Length: 363 mm
• Rail: Polymer Keymod
• Magazine Capacity: 300 Round )High)

Pros

• Speedy spring change system
• Plenty of impressive features
• Functional Keymod rail
• It comes with a battery and a charger
• The generation II models have more durable rail and receiver

Cons

• Non-metallic rails
• Piston sometimes locks up after 900 rounds

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5. Game Face ASRGTH Electric Full/Semi-Auto Submachine Gun

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If you like guns, then some time or another you wanted a Chicago Typewriter. The Thompson .45 Carbine, the Tommy Gun, got one of its nicknames from its use in the gangster wars in Chi-Town in the last century.

This is the OG of guns.

Today the drum-mag Tommy Gun is still appreciated, but it does not hold the place it once did. For a real firearm, you can get guns for less money that function better and hit harder. However, when it comes to airsoft, Tommy is just as cool as he ever was.

Even better, this version of the gangster’s best friend packs an amazing 800 airsoft BBs into the drum. Stay in the game longer and reload less.

Specifications

• 8.2V 650 mAh
• 320 FPS
• Selector switch
• 3.24 pounds

Pros

• HUGE mag capacity
• Very cool look
• Sling mounts

Cons

• Violin case not included
• No hop up
• Not accessory friendly

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6. Mb07b model 700 airsoft spring sniper rifle

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Modeled on the legendary Remington 700 bolt action rifle, the Well mb07b model 700 is one of the guns every airsoft team needs. While the point moves ahead, a sniper stays behind to pick off the enemy.

At 450-500 FPS with heavy airsoft bbs, this gun has the reach a sniper needs. It does not deliver the maximum possible range straight from the box. You can do some mods to get more power and distance with it.

You are not getting the same firepower from the full auto guns. You are also not meant to. This is a ranged weapon.

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It has a single pic rail on the top for a scope. Get a good scope as this spring-piston rifle will destroy cheap scopes.

The spring piston is not as quiet as some guns, but given the distance this is used at, it is quiet enough.

Specifications

• Spring piston
• 30 rounds
• Upgradeable
• Medium range
• Upgrade to long range
• 5 lbs 12 oz

Pros

• Bipod
• Sling included
• No battery needed
• Prefers heavy bbs

Cons

• Slow shooting
• Not good for CQB
• Flash hider serves no purpose

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7. Double Eagle Field Marksman Bolt Action Spring Airsoft Sniper Rifle Gun FPS 480

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The Double Eagle Field Marksman is another sniper rifle, something every airsoft team needs. This one does not ship with a sling, but you can hang one with an attachment on the underside pic rail.

The rifle can be modified for more power, but not quite as easily as the M700 above.

It has an adjustable hop up, which is a necessary addition for this kind of rifle. Users are experiencing accurate shots to 75 yards.

The spring piston action will wreck cheap scopes. Make sure you get one rated for airguns.

Specifications

• 6 pounds
• Spring piston
• Full metal barrel
• 400-420 FPS with .20 gram bbs
• 20 round capacity
• Adjustable hop up
• Magazine Capacity: 400 Round Magazine (High capacity)
• Action: Semi and Full Automatic
• Upgradability: High

Pros

• Upper and lower pic rail
• No battery needed
• Full metal barrel
• Adjustable cheekpiece on stock
• Sniper stock

Cons

• No sling attachments
• Bipod is extra
• Slow to shoot

Buying Guide

With our many years of airsoft experience, we understand the needs of the beginner in the airsoft gaming world. Even though we have compiled a list of the best airsoft guns for beginners, you also need to understand the key factors for determining a reliable airsoft gun. Understanding these factors will equip any beginner with the necessary knowledge to pick the best airsoft gun.

When reviewing the various airsoft guns for novice players, it’s important to consider the following factors.

Value

As a new player, you might not be ready to spend a lot of money on the game. A good investment will determine whether you will continue to play the game or be discouraged halfway through. Most novice players aren’t willing to spend more than $250 on airsoft guns unless it’s a worthwhile investment.

When reviewing the value of any airsoft gun for beginners, it’s important to focus on the following key metrics:

• What is the performance to cost (price) ratio of the gun?
• What is the reliability to cost (price) ratio of the gun?
• How responsive and reliable are the brand or manufacturer’s customer support and after-sales services?
• Does the unit come with a battery and charger?

Beginner airsoft players don’t want unnecessary or hidden costs when buying their first gun. They want something precise and functional while still within their budget.

Shooting Performance

When shopping for a good airsoft beginner rifle, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Your gun won’t be able to shoot like a beast. The gun needs to have a simple and user-friendly design. Even though simplicity is the main priority, it doesn’t mean the airsoft gun should be so basic that it makes the new players feel left behind.

Shooting performance should be ample enough to allow the players maximum control and more confidence in the field. To determine the shooting performance of your new airsoft gun, beginner airsoft players must prioritize the following key factors.

• Consistent Muzzle Velocity: the best airsoft gun for novice players should be able to hit at a +/- 15 FPS variance on the .20g BB’s. If the muzzle velocity is higher, the gun isn’t suitable for novice players. Additionally, it could indicate something wrong with the gun’s air compression components.
• Adjustable hop up and high-quality bucking: bucking and hop up determine the accuracy of the BB flight path. Even if you are learning the game, accuracy is the main thing to focus on. Go for an airsoft gun for beginners that will provide you with the most optimal accuracy in the field.
• Performance with the battery: unlike the airsoft guns for more experienced players, the airsoft guns for beginners are equipped with an 8.4v or 9.6v NiMH battery. The battery gives the gun an optimal trigger response time and more gaming period.

Reliability

As an airsoft beginner, you will probably have only one gun. If your gun becomes unreliable in the field, it will automatically put you out of the game or practice. Therefore, picking the most reliable airsoft gun is very important. A reliable airsoft gun should offer high functionality even in the toughest environments.

Beginners don’t have any experience or knowledge of effective weapon handling. Therefore they will frequently unknowingly mishandle the gun. Additionally, novice players might not have the financial capability to buy protective accessories for their weapons. If you purchase a gun that isn’t reliable, then it won’t withstand the wear and tear of any airsoft gun that novice players most frequent.

The precise internal construction also determines the reliability of the airsoft gun. Guns with precisely installed and well-installed internal parts have maximum reliability and durability.

Internal Build Quality

As a novice in the airsoft world, you might not know how to determine the quality of the internal parts of an airsoft gun. However, the internal parts should be constructed using high-quality materials and then assembled precisely. But how does one check the quality of the inner parts of an airsoft gun?

• High-quality bucking:  every airsoft as a bucking, which is the main part touching the gun’s BB before firing the gun. Bucking should be made of high-quality material.
• Solid hop-up: the best hop-up position in an airsoft rifle is adjustable. The adjustment system should be automatic and move when firing the gun.
• Rubber seals: every airsoft gun should have rubber seals. Solid rubber seals will determine the gas efficiency of the weapon.
• Inner barrel: the airsoft gun’s inner barrel should be smooth to enhance functionality, combined with a well-made crowning.
• Trigger contacts: most novice airsoft players make the mistake of overlooking the trigger contacts. Get trigger contacts that are solid and won’t get misaligned or fused.
• Gera box: the best gearbox of your airsoft gun acts as the quality assurance department. It keeps your gears, piston, and motor in pristine working condition. Go for a well-shimmed gearbox, a poorly shimmed gearbox will constantly whine, especially under heavy-duty use. You can also get a reliable technician to have your gearbox shimmed.

External Quality

While most people might assume the reliability and performance of any rifle are determined solely by the internal parts, this is the wrong assumption. The external parts of your airsoft rifle will also assess its functionality when playing.

• Full body construction: the material construction used in making the housing is very important. Full metal body construction is the best, even though it’s not required. Metal bodies tend to have more durability and rugged capabilities.
• Tactical rail: with time, you might want to install additional accessories on your airsoft rifle, like optics and forward grips. A solid tactical rail will effectively accommodate these accessories without interfering with your rifle’s performance.

Future Upgradability

As a new airsoft player, you want a gun that you can easily upgrade as you continue mastering the game. However, some models and brands don’t give buyers the convenience of upgrading their weapons. As a beginner, you should consider looking for firearms that buyers can upgrade in the future. When checking the upgradability features of your fist airsoft rifle, the following factors are important:

• Ease of upgrade: go for an airsoft rifle easily upgradable. Most guns will indicate their upgradability level. Guns that are more difficult to maintain and upgrade will prove less efficient as you continue mastering the game.
• Parts compatibility: when performing an upgrade, you replace the gun’s parts with more advanced components. Go for a gun that is compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket parts without the need for unnecessary modifications. Some brands will even recommend the best parts for upgradability.
• Upgrade parts availability: the availability of the upgrade parts is also important. Avoid guns that require you to wait for the necessary upgrade parts.

You can easily get the upgradability information of any airsoft gun from the manufacturer, determining whether the gun is the best option for you.

FAQ’s

What type of airsoft gun is best for a beginner?

In terms of reliability, functionality, upgradability and versatility, the best airsoft gun for beginners is the G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider. 

Does airsoft hurt?

Yes it hurts a little. The amount of pain felt depends on various factors including clothing, tolerance, BB’s weight, distance and the gun’s power. 

Are spring loaded airsoft guns good for beginners?

Yes, they are more reliable. Even though they are weaker and with limited range, they are userfiendly hence suitable for novice players still learning the game. 

Which is stronger airsoft or BB?

BB rifles have more power/ energy and fire rounds faster. However the strength of the rifle is determined by the intended purpose of use. 

Related Article: 7 Best Handgun for Beginner

 Conclusion

We have provided many different airsoft guns for beginners on our list, each with a different price tag but impressive functionality. Even though each weapon has various features and levels, every beginner airsoft player has different needs. However, the G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider is the best when looking at overall reliability and value. The rifle ticks all the necessary boxes for value, shooting performance, future upgradeability, and external and internal parts. Explore our list of the best airsoft guns for beginners and find the best gun that suits your needs.