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Writer's pictureKelly Hardwick

AIRSOFT 101 | 5 BUDGET FRIENDLY BEGINNER AIRSOFT GUNS

Hi friends! Welcome back to the blog.


In this post, we’re going to answer the age-old airsoft question - ‘What airsoft gun should I get as a beginner?’. We’ll be looking at 5 budget-friendly beginner airsoft guns that have great out-of-the-box performance, can be easily upgraded further down the line and that cater to different budgets. For your first couple of games, I strongly recommend you rent from a site or borrow from friends - just so you don’t spend hundreds on an airsoft gun only to find out you actually don’t enjoy airsoft. Renting equipment from a site is also a great way to get started as you’ll be given a full rundown on how to use them.


Nuprol Delta Pioneer Defender



The Nuprol Delta Pioneer Defender is a super lightweight and sturdy airsoft M4, that has been mainly constructed from polymer with some metal components. It features a metal flash hider and a quad hand-guard with numerous 20mm RIS/Rails for customisation. The rifle also has an ergonomic pistol grip, an ambidextrous sling plate, and a 6-position adjustable crane stock with a roomy battery compartment.


Internally, the rifle boasts a reinforced V2 gearbox, full steel tooth piston, high-torque flat motor, and micro-switch trigger for improved performance. It has an adjustable hop-up unit and a 6.03mm inner barrel for enhanced accuracy and range. The quick-change spring system allows for easy FPS adjustments.


Though lightweight, the polymer construction gives it a less premium feel compared to full metal AEGs, but it remains solid with no wobbles or rattles. It retails for £139.99. Read my full review here!


G&G CM16 Raider



A popular choice for starters and commonly used in airsoft rental fleets, the CM16 Raider from G&G is a lightweight and durable airsoft rifle with a polymer receiver, rail, and grip, along with an alloy outer barrel, sling plate, and stock tube. It features a birdcage-style flash hider, fixed front post iron sight, and a 20mm RIS/RAS rail system for accessories. The full-length top rail accommodates red dot sights, and the removable rear iron sight adds versatility. The six-point adjustable crane stock serves as a battery storage area.


Internally, it has a version 2 rear wired gearbox, 8mm brass gear brushing, a 233mm inner barrel, and an adjustable hop-up unit. The replica feels high-quality and well-constructed, typical of G&G's reputation. The retail price is £189.99. Read my full review here!


Specna Arms AEG SA-C04 Core Carbine



The Specna Arms AEG SA-C04 features a receiver, stock slide, stock, and pistol grip all made from tough fibre-glass reinforced polymer, while the barrel, RIS handguard, flash hider, charging handle, and sling points are an alloy giving it a sturdy build. The internal features 8 mm slide bearings, shimmed steel gears, four anti-reversal latches, and a polycarbonate polymer piston with a steel strip, type 1 cylinder, and a precise rotary Hop-Up chamber. The CORE™ quick change spring system allows easy FPS adjustments without special tools.


Aesthetically, it resembles a classic M4 with a 22 mm top RIS rail, flip-up rear sight, and fixed front sight. The receiver bears cool markings and a serial number. Priced at €154.61, It's an excellent option for new players due to its affordability, completeness, and durability. Read my full review here!


KWA KO EVE-4


The KO: EVE-4 AEG is a well-developed M4-style rifle by KWA, competing with its sister AEG, the Ronin T6. Weighing in at 4.6 lbs, it's a pound lighter than the Ronin T6 but shares the same great internals. The rifle features a KWA two-port Muzzle Brake and K.O.R.E 4 MLOK rail for attachments, high-strength polymer upper and lower receiver, and standard M4 controls. The side charging handle allows for easy hop-up adjustment, and the true PDW-style stock adds to its appeal.


Internally, it has the AEG 2.5+ Gearbox, KWA High Torque Motor, adjustable hop-up, and Electronic Trigger compatibility. The Variable Performance System (VPS) allows FPS adjustment using the included tool. Battery insertion might take more time due to the stock's smaller space, but it's manageable. It retails for £239.99 so it is a little more expensive than the others in this list but still great value for money. Read my full review here!


Delta Armory AR15 LONG MLOK ALPHA


The AR15 Long M-LOK ALPHA is a robust and realistic rifle from Delta Armory's latest generation of AR15-M4 rifles. Its full metal construction, including the handguard, body, trigger, and outer barrel, provides a solid feel. The rifle features a 13' lightweight M-LOK hand guard with front and body rails for customisation. The CNC Type A trigger enhances the shooting experience, and the 6-point stock allows easy battery installation.


Internally, the rifle boasts quality components, such as an SHS Piston, delayer chip, quick spring change system, mandrel with bearing, QRS motor, rotary hop-up chamber, 6.03mm inner barrel, and durable metal gear. The package comes in a Delta Armory branded box, and the rifle has a modern look with a nice silhouette due to the M-LOK rail. 


The UK retail price is approximately £264.95 so it is the most expensive rifle on this list. Overall, it is a reliable and well-performing rifle, ideal for outdoor/urban environments. Read my full review here!


Originally posted Wednesday 2 August 2023


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