What Are Airsoft Bullets Made Of?

Airsoft bullets have been a popular way of participating in simulated warfare for decades now. They offer a realistic military-style experience with a safe level of intensity. But what materials do these bullets require to provide this realistic experience? In this article, we'll explore the history, trends, and key insights of airsoft bullets and how they are made.

History of Airsoft Bullets

Airsoft bullets were first invented in Japan in the 1970s but didn't gain international popularity until the '80s. Unlike their real-world counterparts, these bullets were made from plastic and did not contain gunpowder. As such, they are the perfect ammunition for hobbyists looking for a safe way to experience military-style simulations.

As the years passed, airsoft bullets evolved into increasingly realistic simulations. For instance, manufacturers now use 'high-impact plastic' to make sure that airsoft bullets are heavier and defy gravity just as real bullets do.

Types of Airsoft Bullets

Airsoft bullets come in various shapes and sizes. Some of the most popular types include biodegradable bullets, rubber bullets, and hard-plastic bullets.

Biodegradable bullets are designed to decompose, eliminating the need for clean up. They are made from vegetable-based materials and are considered more eco-friendly than their traditional counterparts.

Rubber bullets, on the other hand, are made of soft rubber and are designed for particularly sensitive scenarios, offering a safe way to participate in simulated warfare.

Finally, hard-plastic bullets are considered the industry standard. These bullets are made of durable plastic and come in several sizes and paint colors, offering a realistic experience with safe distance.

Manufacture of Airsoft Bullets

The process of manufacturing airsoft bullets is quite intricate. Many manufacturers start by using specialized molds to create the desired shape and size.

After that, manufacturers rely on injection molding to insert materials into the bullet. They use a high-pressure device to ensure that these materials are securely weaved into the mold.

The material of choice for most airsoft bullets is a specialized plastic that is designed to minimize any trauma upon impact. Although there are several different plastics used, most manufacturers rely on a combination of bonded carbon and polyethylene.

Unique Considerations for Airsoft Bullets

When it comes to using airsoft bullets, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.

Velocity of Fire

Velocity is an important factor to consider when determining the safety of airsoft weapons. As such, most manufacturers recommend using a firing velocity of no more than 400 feet per second in an indoor environment.

Weight of Bullets

To provide a realistic experience, the typical weight of a single airsoft bullet should be no less than 0.12 grams. This provides a sense of gravity-defying heaviness that closely emulates the feeling experienced during real-world firefights.

Gun Choices

Airsoft guns also come in various sizes and shapes. The type of gun used will largely depend on the simulation scenario and the overall safety requirements.

Insights

Airsoft bullets have been a popular simulation tool for years. They offer a safe but realistic experience without any of the risks associated with real bullets. While the materials used to make airsoft bullets vary, most manufacturers rely on a combination of hard plastic and various plastics to reduce potential trauma. Unique considerations should also be made when choosing an airsoft gun and when using these bullets, such as the required velocity and weight of the bullet.

Overall, airsoft bullets offer a great way to participate in simulated warfare and enjoy the experience with a safe distance.