What Is FPS In Airsoft?

Introduction

Airsoft is an exciting, fast-paced sport that's enjoyed around the world. Whether you're an experienced player or just beginning to get into airsoft, one term that gets thrown around a lot is FPS'. It's an acronym for Feet per Second' and, as you might assume, is very relevant to the way airsoft is played. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the world of FPS and cover the historical context, key milestones, popular trends, and potential pitfalls encountered when playing with airsoft guns.

What Is FPS?

FPS is the measurement of the velocity of a projectile such as a BB or pellet. Higher FPS means the projectile is fired with more power, and can go faster and further before losing velocity. The higher the FPS, the more accurate the gun is when firing, and the more power it can deliver when striking a target. For example, a gun rated at 400 FPS will shoot further and more accurately than a gun with a lower FPS rating.

FPS Regulations

Because airsoft is a sport that requires a high level of safety, FPS limits are set in order to protect players from harm. The exact limit will depend on the type of gun being used, and also the type of airsoft event being held. The Olympic Sport of Airsoft has strict regulations and limits, with a maximum allowable FPS of 342 FPS, while recreational events such as skirmishes will typically have higher limits in place.

It's important to keep in mind that the FPS of an airsoft gun is not constant. As the gun is used, the FPS can change slightly due to air leakage from the gun mechanism. As a result, it's important to check the FPS of your gun regularly to ensure it's at the correct level.

Performance Upgrades

While the basic FPS limit for airsoft guns is set in stone, there are ways to increase the FPS through performance upgrades. By carefully selecting the right performance parts, such as barrels and hop-up systems, it is possible to squeeze out some extra speed from your gun.

It's important to note, however, that upgrading your airsoft gun can have potential pitfalls. If you increase the FPS too much, then you may find yourself getting disqualified from tournaments and events. In some cases, you may even end up damaging the gun itself, as certain parts can become ineffective or break if the gun is pushed too hard.

Popular trends

The popularity of airsoft continues to grow, and the FPS limits used for different events or games play an important role. For example, CQB (Close Quarters Battle) games tend to have a lower FPS limit of 350, while outdoor airsoft fields may use a higher limit of 500-600. This allows players to use different types of guns, all with varied performance levels, while keeping the game balanced and fun.

In addition to FPS limits, there is also a trend towards using internally upgraded guns that are factory tuned to higher numbers. While all airsoft guns come with a specific FPS limit, upgrades such as reinforced internals or custom springs can increase the FPS and performance significantly. This is a great way to get a high-performance gun without having to upgrade it yourself.

Insights

FPS is a key factor when playing airsoft, and understanding how it works can be a great way to get the most out of your gun. By understanding FPS regulations, performance upgrades, and popular trends, you can be sure to keep your games safe and enjoyable. With that in mind, happy shooting!