Airsoft in the Winter-Truths and Myths
Regarding the functionality of airsoft weapons in the winter months, a number of half-truths, mistakes and myths circulate among the players. As always, some of them have a grain of truth in them, but others belong to the world of airsoft fantasy and are completely fabricated. In this article, we will try to shed light on how to operate airsoft safely in the winter.
Partion of airsoft weapons
Let's divide the individual airsoft weapons into categories according to the propulsion:
- Gas
- CO2
- HPA
- AEG
- Manual
Gas weapons: Even the manufacturers themselves do not recommend using gas weapons at lower temperatures, as they may cause the system to freeze. However, it depends on the method of firing, as some gas is adjusted to lower temperatures. In general, however, it can be confirmed that firing with a green gas weapon at a temperature below 10 ° C reduces its lifespan and at temperatures below freezing, some parts may be damaged immediately.
CO2 weapons: In winter, it is advisable to avoid CO2 models that have a blow back system. Practically the same applies with CO2 as with green gas, however, CO2 weapons can be used even at a temperatures around zero, but it is rather recommended to use them as backup weapons for a sniper rifles. It should be borne in mind that the hop up mechanism will not work properly at such a low temperatures
HPA based weapons: On the other hand, the HPA system is not prone to low temperatures, regardless of whether it is mechanical or electropneumatic. Thanks to the strong pressure, it is possible to shoot at the air even at sub-zero temperatures. The only thing you can meet is only slightly higher air consumption. However, you should pay attention to the strength of these weapons, because hitting frozen fingers is definitely not pleasant.
AEG weapons: For AEG weapons, low temperature has the greatest effect on the battery. At present, however, lithium polymer batteries are already widespread, which do not lose capacity even at temperatures around -10 ° C. However, it is necessary to take into account that at low temperatures some materials become brittle. This is especially true for plastics (pistons and heads, or bodies) and also for metallic Zn-AL alloys, from which basic gearboxes are made. Therefore, it is often recommended to use weaker springs in the equivalent of M100-M120 for temperatures below zero.
Storaging is also related to this-it is not good to have airsoft guns stored in a garage or in a car overnight, where materials can freeze. This will change their properties and easily damage them. At the same time, it also depends on the player's style of play-if a person shoots several bags of bbs during the action, then there is a high probability that some stressed part will be destroyed, regardless of the ambient temperature.
Manual-spring weapons: The most resistant categories are manual guns. They do not need gas or a battery for their performance, just the strength of the shooter. The only thing that can increase the risk of damage is the embrittlement of the materials. To do this, change the method for long-term exposure to temperatures below 0 ° C.
In winter, it is necessary to count with snow. Of course, it is not advisable for the weapon to lie on the snow for a long time, however, if you take good care of it after coming home and clean and dry it properly, you do not have to worry too much about major damage or destruction.
In general, it can be said that although the winter season presents more difficult conditions for an airsoft game, you can still enjoy it to the fullest if you choose the right weapon and take good care of it.
