Are automatic/semi-automatic airsoft guns allowed?

Fully automatic firearms - even air rifles - are considered war weapons in Germany, which civilians are not allowed to possess. Fully automatic airsoft guns with a muzzle energy of over 0.5 Joules would also fall under the War Weapons Control Act. Airsoft guns that are classified as toys (up to 0.5 Joules muzzle energy) are allowed to shoot fully automatically. However, these are not practical for the airsoft field - therefore, fully automatic airsoft guns play no role in the airsoft scene. Semi-automatic airsoft guns, however, are allowed.

What does S-AEG mean?

S-AEG stands for Semi Automatic Electric Gun. These are semi-automatic airsoft guns that are powered by a battery-operated electric motor. They have a muzzle energy of the BBs of at least 0.5 Joules. 

How are semi-automatic airsoft guns powered?

Semi-automatic airsoft guns are typically powered by a battery and an electric motor. The motor compresses a spring, which then accelerates the BB. The shooting process can thus be divided into two phases.

1. The motor compresses the spring when the trigger is pulled.
2. The spring is released. It pushes a piston forward, which compresses air. This, in turn, propels the BB projectile through the barrel.