In the world of airsoft guns, the 6-millimeter caliber is the standard. In addition to this common caliber, there are also variants in 4.5 mm and 8 mm. Particularly in the area of 4.5 mm caliber, there are both short and long guns capable of firing lead diabolo pellets as well as steel round balls (BBs). On airsoft fields, the 6 mm caliber has proven to be particularly reliable.
For optimal shooting results, it is crucial to match the projectile weight to the type and projectile pressure of the gun. Manufacturers often provide a recommended weight, with slight deviations allowed to optimize the gun's performance depending on the conditions of use. The following projectile weights are recommended for the 6 mm caliber, which are tuned to the projectile speed and thus to the performance of the gun:
- 0.12 g: For airsoft guns with less than 0.25 Joules.
- 0.15 g: Similar application as the 0.12 g BBs.
- 0.16 g and 0.18 g: For airsoft guns under 0.5 Joules.
- 0.20 g and 0.23 g: Standard weight for many airsoft guns with a power of 0.4 to 0.9 Joules.
- 0.25 g: Upper limit for common airsoft guns, offers more stable trajectories.
- 0.28 g to 0.30 g: Ideal for high-powered, modified airsoft guns and precision rifles.
- 0.36 g: Precision BBs, characterized by particularly stable trajectories.
- 0.43 g: Graphite-coated BBs, specifically for highly upgraded guns.
- 0.85 g: Steel ammunition, suitable only for extremely modified guns and not intended for fields.
BBs are mostly made of plastic in different quality levels. High-quality specimens are often additionally polished or coated to increase precision and consistency. For outdoor use, biodegradable "bio-balls" are a more environmentally friendly alternative. Metal balls made of aluminum or steel, on the other hand, are suitable for particularly precise firearms, as is common in airsoft IPSC or precision shooting.
It should be noted that purchasing cheap ammunition can often lead to expensive problems, as low-quality BBs can break or deform in the gun's barrel, potentially damaging the equipment. The best deals for airsoft ammunition are usually found at specialized retailers on Gunfinder.
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