Best Beginner Airsoft Guns

When you first think about getting into airsoft, you might assume that it’s a pretty expensive hobby. But it doesn’t have to be. In fact, you shouldn’t start with the most advanced airsoft guns (skip the sniper!) out there. All you need to get started is a basic airsoft gun and a few extra magazines. Some models are even relatively affordable. If you’re unsure which guns to get, our list of the best airsoft guns for beginners should help you out. Here are the best beginner airsoft guns to start with in 2023:

Are you a beginner in the world of airsoft guns? Maybe your kids are looking to get into the sport? Perhaps you’ve been around it for a little while, but you’re still new to the game. Whatever the case, keep reading the best airsoft guns for beginners guide to find out what to look for.

Airsoft For Beginners

Airsoft games can be a whole lot of fun for anybody, irrespective of age or expertise. Nothing beats a Saturday of firing shots at your buddies. Of course, you’ll get the thrill from playing anywhere, but trust us when we say it’s by far more fun to get outside and play the real thing. However, airsoft guns can be pretty intimidating to beginners. They are big, complex weapons with different components that may confuse beginners. You might not know where to start if you’ve never used one before.

Don’t worry though; there are options out there made for beginners like you. These beginner airsoft guns are pretty easy and safe to learn. So the goal of this article is to educate you on the right beginner airsoft gun for you. 

Who Should Get a “Beginner” Airsoft Gun

What is a good “Beginner” airsoft gun? Wondering whether the answer to this question will help you or not? Don’t worry!

Generally, we consider beginners as people just getting into the hobby of airsoft. The list encompasses people who are entirely new to the sport to people who have played with friends in their backyards using some low-tier guns. You are a beginner if you fall into any of the categories above, and yes, you need the right gun and accessories to safely and adequately introduce yourself to airsoft. Don’t worry; you’ll find the right options for you in this article.

Importance of Starting With A Beginner’s Airsoft Gun

As starters, it’s natural for you to be in a rush to hit the field and start aiming at other players. Admittedly, we had this adrenaline rush too. But you can’t just directly jump into handling the expensive, complex guns that will leave you confused in the middle of an airsoft battle. This is the main reason why many experts recommend starting with designated guns for beginners. So if you are wondering why you should start with these basic, non-tactical guns and accessories, here are some important reasons:

They are less expensive

 As a beginner, the truth remains that you are just starting, and you know very little about airsoft. Throwing down the big bucks for a niche hobby you’ve never played before is doing too much. Irrespective of age, you will find the handling of these guns difficult for a start. You don’t want to spend so much money on a gun that would be damaged after a few usages because of inadequate handling and maintenance. Therefore, it’s often beneficial to start with low-end, relatively affordable options. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can purchase a top-level gun with more complicated functionalities.

They are easy to use

This one is a no-brainer – most beginner equipment is designed to be easy to use. The manufacturers of these beginner guns understand that many users would be handling airsoft guns for the first time. Therefore, they typically design their guns to be easy to handle and operate. They feature basic operation mechanisms, so that novice users can know how to operate them. 

Ease of maintenance

Indeed, high-end guns come with operation manuals and maintenance instructions, but many novice users still find maintenance difficult. Most times, you can barely tell how to go about uncoupling the parts for routine maintenance. 

Beginner guns are not so complex. The parts are usually detachable. There are fewer hidden parts, so you don’t need prior knowledge to properly maintain your gun.

Factors To Consider When Buying A Beginner’s Airsoft Gun and Accessories

As a beginner, you’ll probably find the whole process of selecting the right gun cumbersome. Yes, these guns are designed for starters, but they still have several technical details that you’ll need to learn about to pick the right one. In addition, the availability of so many brands and options can confuse many people. So, to narrow the options down, we’ve reviewed some factors that will help you choose the best beginner airsoft gun. 

1. Think About What You Need

As basic as this point may sound, it’s often easier said than done. The truth is that you may not realize your requirements from an airsoft game until you’ve participated in several games. One significant mistake many people make is following their friend’s preference. They may be more experienced than you, but their preference and style still differ from yours. Instead, you should focus more on your comfort. Think about guns and accessories that will make the game enjoyable to you. 

This is not saying that you can’t run the same gun setting with your friend and teammate. In fact, having the same accessory setup with a teammate would make restocking of ammo easier when you run out of them mid-game. 

2. Parts to Consider

Experts often recommend short-barrelled firearms for starters that are not yet sure of what they need. It’s also best if you choose a gun with a plastic body to start with because such guns feature a lightweight design, and anybody can turn and twist them when playing.

It’ll also make sense for beginners to opt for high-capacity magazines and rifles that are capable of firing on full-automatic modes (it continues to fire until you remove your finger from the trigger). Then, after your first few games, you can turn to and enjoy the beauty of single-shot takedowns. 

3. Your Preferred Roles During Games 

Another vital area worth considering is the role you want to play in airsoft games. Like most other beginners, it’s very unlikely for you to perform optimally as a leader of tactical personnel. Instead, most beginners prefer playing as a simple rifleman, at least, until they’ve played several times. 

Therefore, your initial gun should support your play in this role. With time, you can upgrade to a more complicated weapon that supports other roles. 

4. Think About Price 

In the end, price is often the main decider for most newbies. Ideally, no beginner would want to spend huge money buying a top gun they are barely familiar with. Therefore, they’ll mostly stick with the simple, less expensive ones until they learn about the tricks of operation and maintenance. 

Not too cheap and not too expensive!

This should be a guiding rule for every starter. Our discussion about the price above doesn’t mean that you must go too cheap. We’ve heard of scenarios where cheap guns work perfectly in the shop but turn something else when you hit the range for a proper play. There could be a few exceptions, but most times, you’ll need to upgrade or alter very cheap rifles as you go.

5. You Don’t Need Snipers Yet.

There are several reasons why experts hardly recommend snipers for airsoft beginners:

They are typically expensive and would not fit into the budget of most beginners.

Sniping requires more accessories than the sniping gun itself. These accessories would cost you money.

Apart from the money that it’ll cost you, you may also not have the technical know-how to assemble the parts and get them ready for play.

Best Airsoft Guns for Beginners

When you hit the market for airsoft guns, you’ll find that there are so many options. It’s normal for beginners to get so lost in the sea of options they won’t know which to pick.

However, you can cut through the BS and get out on the field as fast as possible if you have the correct information. Here, we’ve taken our time to sort through the details. We’ve cut the list down to just seven after taking a detailed look at features, pros, and cons.

Every option in this list combines affordability, ease of usage, and top-level performance. Therefore, you can be sure that you are getting the best starter airsoft gun when choosing from this list. So let’s dive right in!

1. Colt M4A1 CQBR Dark Earth Combat Electric Powered Airsoft Gun

If you are a fan of the actual M4, this is an option you’ll want to try. It’s a full metal replica of the real deal without the complexities of top-level guns. The most significant selling point of this gun is its versatility. Novice players can use it for indoor play in tighter spaces where faster movements and lots of close-quarters combat are required. 

As a matter of fact…

… Most inexperienced players can’t handle the pressure of maintaining different weapons for outdoor and indoor play. Therefore, they’ll mostly opt for one that works well in both situations – Colt M4A1 CQBR airsoft gun.

Beyond the look of this gun and its unique functionalities, there are so many more that stand it out. For instance, the fun works with a 9.6v nunchuck battery, allowing for easier operation. At 6 pounds, this gun is not as heavy as most others in its class. However, despite the lightweight, it’s still difficult to tell its difference from the real thing. The gun features a shot velocity of between 359-380 FPS. We’ve also seen situations where the shot velocity increased because of the BB pallets used.

Pros 

• It’s lightweight and relatively easy to use. 
• It’s a versatile gun that works for both indoor and outdoor plays 
• The removable rear sight featured in the gun helps for better accuracy
• A compact design for easier maneuverability. 

Cons 

• Many users complain of the gun’s potential to misfire when enough attention is not paid to maintenance.
• BB may get stuck sometimes.

Quick Facts

• Shoots in full and semi-automatic modes
• The magazine holds up to 350 rounds of ammo
• Shoots between 300-350 FPS.

2. G&G Airsoft Combat Machine M4 Raider

One significant problem beginners face is finding an airsoft gun that adequately combines durability with dependability and affordable pricing. Unfortunately, most guns with these features do not do so well in looks. If this is your problem, you don’t need to worry anymore. The G&G Airsoft Combat M4 Raider is something to talk about. A quick scroll through online reviews would show you that it’s one of the most outstanding entry guns in the market. Straight of the pack, we are impressed by its resemblance with the real thing. In addition, the gun’s customizability rails make customization possible. 

Yes, it’s a battery-operated gun, but it still packs features that would make every airsoft play an adventure. At 380-400 FPS, you can take on outdoor and indoor battles with ease. The company claims that they’ve designed this gun for players seeking an inexpensive yet functional gun. 

Unlike most other guns with plastic designs, this one is durable and guaranteed to last through several rough usages. The use of reinforced fiber plastic in its body gives it the toughness of metal found. To further ensure its durability, the manufacturers didn’t fail to design the outer barrel, stock pipe, magazine casing, and other minor elements with solid metal. 

Pros

• The battery features a unique design that allows for easy replacement.
• It’s lightweight and relatively easy to operate.
• Maintenance and upgrading wouldn’t be difficult for newbies
• It is sturdy and durable. 

Cons 

• Some users complain of occasional magazine jams 
• Turning the hop-up can be pretty tricky.

Quick Facts

• 450 rounds capacity magazine
• Velocity of 380-400 FPS 
• It features a unique type of customization rail.

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

Although the Game Face brand is relatively new, it’s been making giant strides in manufacturing airsoft guns and accessories since 2009. This SMG from the brand is everything an airsoft newbie dreams of in a gun, from versatility to durability and reliability. On first look, it is evident that the manufacturers have put so much into producing a weapon that can withstand intense usage. Beyond its physical look, airsoft beginners would also find this gun’s operation fascinating. With a decent velocity of 320 fps, you can play in different terrains, and of course, you won’t be screened out by any field’s maximum FPS rule. 

The level of durability that this gun features is incredible, considering that it holds up perfectly after 10,000 rounds of fire. While testing the gun, we played with all its functionalities, and it worked as fine as we wanted. When we tried it under the rain, it still didn’t drop in performance. Its lightweight synthetic design makes it easy to carry around. 

Well, some reviewers do not fancy the fact that it doesn’t come with extra BBs, but that’s something you can easily workaround. In addition, the availability of an adjustable hop-up and a Picatinny rail helps for better customization. 

Pros 

• It features a decent look.
• It maintains impressive firepower across different terrains and weather conditions.
• The decent speed velocity allows for play in almost all playing fields.
• It does well in durability.

Cons 

• Its use of 0.20g BBs means that you may need to change as your shooting range improves.
• Overcharging may damage the battery.

Quick Facts

• 800-round drum magazine 
• Each pack comes with a battery charger and rechargeable battery
• Dual-action.

4. HK Heckler & Koch HK416 AEG 6mm BB Rifle Airsoft Gun (Best Beginner Airsoft Gun Under $100)

The versatility level of this gun makes it a fascinating option for both beginners and advanced airsoft players. One look at the gun, and you can tell that the manufacturers put so much effort into producing a weapon that looks like a real rifle. Yes, it is an electric-powered gun, but it works well for airsoft games, military tactical training, and several other needs. Many users are impressed with the gun’s accuracy level too, and we can see why. The presence of a flip-up sight, an integrated tactical railing, and an adjustable stock make top-notch targeting possible. Every beginner deserves a gun that would improve accuracy from the start. 

Not many airsoft guns in the price range of this one can offer the level of functionality that it does. At a shooting velocity of 340 FPS, you can rest assured that you won’t be left behind in any playing field. On its physical attributes, the HK416 AEG holds its ground. It is designed with a top-quality polymer body for improved durability. The gun’s rechargeable battery is conveniently housed on the stock so that users would not need the extra bulk of carrying a battery around. 

Pros

• A very convenient and easy to use gun
• It can easily be upgraded to suit your desire in looks and functionality
• It features a decent speed velocity level
• Works well on indoor and outdoor playing arenas.

Cons 

• It’s easy to overcharge the battery.
• Lack of proper maintenance may leave the mag prone to falling off. 

Quick Facts

• High capacity 250-round mag capacity
• Flip-up rear sight for better accuracy. 
• Shoots in semi and full-automatic modes.

5. FN Scar-L Spring Powered Airsoft Rifle (Best Beginner Airsoft Gun Under $50)

Most airsoft beginners understand that they can’t joke with affordability when buying an airsoft gun or any other accessories. This is why the best airsoft gun for beginners is one that doesn’t cost buyers an arm. Honestly, finding modestly priced guns that do well in quality can be pretty difficult, but they exist. In fact, the Scar-L Spring Airsoft Rifle from FJ combines these features with ease. It’s a spring-powered gun that does more than the average AEG in functionality and speed velocity. At 400 FPS, you can tell that it’ll outperform most options in its class. 

Whether you are a beginner or just want something to shoot at targets in your backyard, this is a gun worth considering. Like most other spring-powered airsoft guns, the FN Herstal SCAR-L has its pros and cons, although the pros outnumber the cons. The gun weighs 4 pounds, 3.5 less than the real gun, so you won’t be wrong to call it a lightweight replica. The gun is durable enough to last through years of rough handling. This quality makes it an ideal option for kids that are just entering the world of airsoft.

Pros 

• It is relatively lightweight and easy to use
• It doesn’t need a battery to work, so you can use it anywhere
• It features a unique hi-cap magazine
• It is sturdy and durable; guaranteed to last through years of tough usage.

Cons 

• Children may experience some difficulty trying to cock the gun
• Some users do not fancy the magazine feeding technique that this gun carries.
• Cocking the gun for every shot may slow you down. 

Quick Facts

• Two colors available (black and tan)
• It features a durable polymer construction
• Flip-up front and rear sights.

6. BBTac Airsoft Starter Kit Gun Package (Best Airsoft Starter Kit)

Another affordable option on our list for beginners. However, in this case, it’s not just the gun but a complete package of an M4 airsoft spring rifle, an entry shotgun, two CQB SMG, and mini pistols that you can use as sidearms. There’s no doubt about the fact that this set will get you battle-ready; after all, it contains a collection of powerful firearms that you can rely on when the battle gets intense. And yes… They do not compromise accuracy.

The shotgun and rifle in this pack are powerful spring airsoft guns designed to shoot at a minimum of 300 FPS (the number may go up depending on the weight of BB pallets being used). The most significant selling point of this set is the ease of operation that all its guns feature. Despite their ease of operation, they still do well when you need them for serious gameplay. It’s lightweight, durable, and reliable. An excellent option for users that fancy looks and versatility over other factors. 

Pros 

• It packs the right features to serve both beginners and expert airsoft players. 
• You are buying them in packages, so it’s less expensive than when you have to buy in pieces.
• A very realistic replica of the real deal. 
• Reliable and durable
• It features a lightweight design that allows for easier maneuverability

Cons

• The assault rifle included in the set is not automatic
• Many users would prefer the SMG pistol to be automated. 

Quick Facts

• Powerful spring-loaded 
• It doesn’t weigh so much
• It can be used for indoor and outdoor shots.

7. Walther P99 Blowback CO2 Powered 6mm BB Pistol Airsoft Gun (Best Beginner Airsoft Pistol)

Not many beginners would have the opportunity of handling a pistol in their early days of playing airsoft. The reason for this is not farfetched; you need to attain a certain degree of expertise to shop airsoft pistols without missing targets. Fortunately, this P99 Blowback CO2 pistol from Walther helps you cut out the long process of learning accuracy. Of course, it’s an ideal pistol for indoor and outdoor plays, but that’s not even the most significant benefit of the gun. 

Co-players who do not know this pistol’s power may underrate it, and that’s what puts you at an advantage. This gun shoots at an incredible speed velocity of 320 Fps, capable of withstanding the intensity of any battle. It’s a blowback option, so you can continue shooting for as long as you want. That’s not all… The gun also supports quick reloads. All you have to do is to press down the paddle-style mag release to smoothly eject the mag.

On first look, we loved the unique styled accessory rail, functional slide release, and manual safety that the gun features. Do we need to mention that this gun does well in durability? Yes, it does; it has a metal barrel and plastic handle that promises to outlast several years of mishandling. 

Pros

• A compact design that allows for easy storage and even easier operation
• It is very durable 
• It does well in supporting shooting accuracy
• The magazine release feature allows for easy changing of ammo during plays.

Cons

• The sound of the metal slide from the blowback can draw attention to you when firing.
• It doesn’t come with any hop-up adjustment.

Quick Facts

• Includes 15-round drop out mag
• A built-in hop-up system allows for better shooting accuracy.