You Want To Be The Very Best, Like No One Ever Was

We understand.

Here at Airsoft GI, we all strive to be better airsofters. We believe that to be the best airsoft player, you have to work hard, learn new skills, and keep your gear in tip top shape.

We’re going to focus today’s article on the ways to improve your outdoor game. From playing at killer airsoft fields like D14 Airsoft or Wildlands, you can find outdoor fields all across the country. These fields are as unique as the cities they call home, and require you to flex a variety of different skills to succeed. Let’s dive into some of the tips and tricks to crush the outdoor playing field and become the best airsoft player in 2020.

 

Gear Check: Do You Have The Right Stuff?

While having a quality gun is obvious, and we’ve covered many ways to pick the best gun for you in the past, a lot of players overlook their gear. This crucial component of the airsoft hobby is a much bigger aspect of outdoor play than many give it credit for.

This does not mean that you have to have the best high end gear, or even any specific gear. The secret is to make sure you have the gear to carry what you need, and access it easily.

Take a good long look at what you typically need when you are playing outdoors. You’ll want a way to carry water for sure, so invest in a quality hydration system. You need magazines, so take count of how many you typically shoot in a game, add one or two, and make sure you have enough pouches. Make note of any supplemental gear you use regularly. Cans of green gas, speed loaders, radios, holsters and grenades are all items you want to take stock of. Make sure you have the pouches to carry and access that gear well.

From here, make sure your vest can accommodate all of these pouches in places where you can reach. If you haven’t considered offloading some of that load to a battle belt or leg platform, that can be a great alternative as well. The name of the game here is weight distribution and ease of access. From here, make sure all of your gear is fitted properly. Plate carriers, chest rigs and belts should be snug to your body, and not loose and flopping around. This will wreak havoc on your spine and make it harder to access your gear quickly through muscle memory. Seconds count, and those extra seconds you spend sifting through your vest for a fresh mag can get you shot.

 

Tactics: How To Work The Battlefield

Playing outdoor airsoft is as much a game of maneuver warfare as it is about gun fighting skill.

Being able to take aim and hit your opponents is important, but knowing when and where to push for better field position is key. This is no different from indoor play, but instead of pushing and holding lanes, you want to be much more aware of your surroundings, or taking the road less traveled.

There is a theory in outdoor combat that speaks about taking the path of most resistance to get to an objective if you want to avoid a fight. Enemy combatants (or in this case, the opposite team) is most likely to traverse the easiest or fastest route to a position, which means you are most likely to encounter enemy fire. Taking fights on your terms is the secret sauce to winning outdoor games, so this is very bad. If you can take an open road to a building you need to hold, or trek through the underbrush and take a wider berth, you are less likely to get caught out in the open with no cover in the latter situation.

Utilizing squad tactics is imperative here as well. Knowing how to handle things like bounding movements, patrol formations, and suppressing fire is huge in outdoor play. Often you can’t win a gunfight on twitch skill alone, and have to rely on your teammates to create opportunities to flank the enemy, or to create those opportunities yourself. Familiarize yourself with some basic squad level tactics, and understand how to teach players these skills on the fly with simple directions like “Go Here and Shoot There” or “Run there when we start shooting” to succeed.

 

The Magic of Hop Up

One of the biggest ways outdoor airsoft differs from playing indoor is the necessity for hop up. While hop up can and definitely is used for indoor play, the importance of a quality well tuned system in outdoor play is much higher.

Since outdoor games typically revolve around shooting at way farther distances than you get accustomed to at indoor arenas, you need to spend some time tuning and adjusting the hop up in your airsoft gun. We have some other articles on the blog detailing this process, but here are the main takeaways.

• Actually adjust the thing. So many players ignore this.
• Use heavy BB’s. This makes your hop up work better.
• If your gun needs a new bucking, consider replacing it for better performance.

Make sure you are using a heavy weight BB, a .28g round is the lightest you want to try for outdoor play. It will punch through brush better, fly straighter, and utilize the rotational force of your hop up for maximum effect. If your stock gun has a hop up you find lacking, consider an upgrade part.

 

Put It All Together, And Pay Attention.

Getting better at playing airsoft is a cumulative activity. No one blog article or youtube video is going to give you all the answers.

Take what you learned here, and keep it in mind every time you hit the field.

Every time you get shot, analyze why you failed, and do better when you respawn. If you aren’t having success in your current role, consider adapting a new play style, and switch to sniper gameplay or try a Light Machine Gun. The important thing is that success starts before you even hit the field. Stay prepared, stay ready, and be okay with failing as long as you learned something from it.

 

If you need to pick up any new kit, hit up the Airsoft GI WOMBO COMBO right HERE to load up on new kit to perfect your load out and save money!

 

Outdoor gameplay not your style? Keep an eye out for Part 2, where we cover how to become the ultimate indoor airsoft player.

 

 

 

It’s 2020. What are some of the best guns from LCT?

LCT has been around for a little while now, but in 2019 established themselves as a dominant force in the airsoft business. They have a reputation for making high quality guns both inside and out. With full metal external builds that rival real steel AK’s and some of the highest quality internal parts in a stock rifle, LCT is on fire and set to become one of the biggest manufacturers in 2020. Here are our picks for the Top 5 LCT rifles to keep an eye on in 2020!

 

5. LCT LR16A3

The LCT LR16a3 is unique among most of LCT’s offerings because it is an American firearm replica. While most of LCT’s lineup is RUSFOR pattern guns built for getting cheeki and also breeki, this rifle stands apart as a high quality option for the NATO kids.

It features a full 20 inch outer barrel, quad rail hand guard, full stock and removable carry handle, which makes this an A4 model replica perfect for those USMC load outs and other early GWOT style kits.

The  M16 from LCT also has the heft you expect from such a realistic recreation, giving your game play unparalleled realism as you traverse the field. Coupled with this gun’s sheer size, it’s the perfect option for kitting out as a marksman’s rifle and laying waste to the opposing team from afar.

 

4. LCT LC-3A3

The LCT LC-3A3 takes us from new school NATO to old school really quick for our number four pick. This gun again features more of LCT’s incredible construction outside and a sturdy and reliable gearbox on the inside.

This gun earned our number 4 spot for again being another non-AK replica, but also for the smorgasbord of parts that LCT has available for it. You can convert this gun to a tacticool battle rifle ready for your near-future milsim, or convert to some of the more traditional colors of furniture if you so choose. The possibilities are endless, and roller-block style rifles never go out of style!

 

3. LCT PKP

The LCT PKP Light Machine gun earns the number three spot on our list as the only LMG variant to grace this list. It’s beefy coming in at 22 pounds unloaded before you factor in the entire bottle of BB’s you’ll be able to fit into the included box magazine. While the price is certainly steep on this behemoth, it is a must for serious Russian kit collectors or milsim teams looking to outfit their team technical vehicle with a quality replica for suppressing fire.

This gun benefits heavily from Airsoft GI’s WOMBO COMBO as the free shipping alone knocks a mint off the price of shipping such  a heavy piece. Combined with the 2% rewards back when you buy from Airsoft GI, this gun can kick start your 2020 savings big time!

 

2. LCT PP-19 Vityaz

The LCT PP-19 Vityaz marks our SMG choice for this list at the number 2 position. This unique looking blaster takes a 9MM themed spin on the AK74 with a unique stick magazine fed design. The included flip-up railed dust cover makes battery insertion a breeze and the customization options are endless, as it takes most furniture for other airsoft AK style rifles.

With a small spring change, this gun sings as a close quarters option. Decimate your enemies up close, or use this as a sleeper battle rifle prepared for medium range engagements in a small package!

 

1. The LCT LCK12/LCK15

This rifle graced several of last year’s top gun lists for good reason. The LCT LCK12 is a fresh take on the AK platform with updates for the modern era. The dust cover is extremely easy to access giving great battery storage. The style is unique and visually identifiable near instantly. The addition of an ergonomic grip and collapsing stock mean this rifle is ready for any shooter!

Coupled with the already stellar LCT performance, this rifle commands a presence on the airsoft field in a way no other LCT rifle does. It is function and form beautifully combined into one package. It is hefty, but not heavy. Functional, but not formless. This is our must have LCT rifle of 2020.

 

So how do you snag one?

That’s easy! Airsoft GI has the best savings deal in the business, the GI WOMBO COMBO. The Airsoft GI Wombo Combo lets you snag free shipping on any order over $89, then use coupon code “2020” to get 10% off, and if that wasn’t enough, get 2% rewards back on every purchase so you can keep the savings rolling!

 

Every one of these guns would make a worthy addition to your arsenal! Use that WOMBO COMBO and save big time!

 

 

 

 

The vast majority of airsofters begin playing with AEGs. As they will typically be the most cost effective choice and requires the least amount of maintenance. With that stated, the maintenance required of AEGs is paramount and will lead to a longer lifespan for your airsoft gun. Listed below are some tips and tricks to keeping your AEG running for as long as possible.

Clean the inner barrel

This is probably the most undervalued piece of advice we can give. Not only does cleaning your inner barrel result in more accurate and consistent shots, it will help keep your inner parts from being destroyed.  The inner barrel is a direct route for debris to get inside your gearbox. Ask any tech and they will agree that your cylinder head, piston head, and more will thank you for keeping debris out.

Don’t leave batteries plugged into the gun indefinitely

This tip doesn’t solely apply to airsoft, but to electronics as a whole. Leaving batteries   plugged in your AEG can lead to a potential corrosion of the batteries. That same corrosion can have permanent effects on the airsoft gun.

Using the RIGHT battery

AEGs are capable of running many types of batteries of various voltages so long as the connectors are the same. However one should only use the recommended battery type for your specific model of AEG. Some batteries are of a higher voltage and discharge rating and can cause serious damage if your gun has not been modified to handle said voltage/discharge ratting.

 With this small list anyone should be able to properly maintain their AEG for years to come.

So You Just Started Sniping…

We’ve all been there.

You decide to try a brand new play style for the first time, but don’t want to commit all of your hobby dollars to it. This is how many airsofters end up with a budget bolt gun to try their hand at being an airsoft sniper.

While it’s far from the ideal location to begin your sniping career, it’s definitely not the wrong spot either. Many more manufacturers are making perfectly field usable rifles for budget prices. From the Classic Army SR40 to the JG BAR10 and everything in between, it’s never been more financially affordable to get involved in the long game. You’ll want to have some reasonable expectations, and make sure your budget rifle puts you in a good spot for growth in the future though.

Want to know more? Let’s break down the reality of being a long range baller on a budget.

 

Step 1: Picking your first rifle

The first step to budget sniping success is picking a great starting rifle.

Like we mentioned earlier, this doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. There is a specific criteria you want to pay attention to as you begin your sniper journey to make sure you get the most for your money, just like buying any other airsoft gun. We call it the “Three P’s”

The criteria to watch out for are the following:

• Price
• Performance
• Parts Compatibility

First, make sure you are looking at rifles within your affordable price range. There’s more to sniping than just the rifle. You’ll need scopes, and maybe some different tactical gear to really succeed, so make sure you budget for this. Second, pay attention to performance. Some budget rifles shoot better than others. While you don’t need the best thing, you want to be aware of what your rifle is capable of when you buy. Lastly, check what aftermarket parts are compatible for later. If you end up liking the sniper lifestyle, you’ll want to trick out your gun. You had the forethought to read this article first, so do yourself a solid and buy a rifle that CAN be upgraded later, even if you aren’t worried about dumping money into a new project just yet.

Once you’ve got your rifle picked out, you can start learning what to expect with it and how to best use it on the field!

 

You Have Your Rifle, Now What?

Let’s get a couple of preconceived notions many new snipers have out of the way first:

• This isn’t Call of Duty
• Your stock gun isn’t going to shoot 300 feet
• That’s totally ok.

Playing the sniper role is about so much more than long distance headshots and one shot-one-kill moments during games. You still have a solid rifle that by design should be significantly more consistent than most player’s automatic rifles. Consistency is the key to precision, and precision is the name of the game.

What your rifle should be capable of, when set up and tuned properly, before you add any parts is precise aimed fire. You’ll likely also have a scope attached which gives you an edge when it comes to reconnaissance. If you take the time to sight in your rifle properly (something a surprisingly large number of players don’t do) you’ll be able to nail those make-it-or-break-it shots, just from closer up and give your team the edge.

While a budget bolt gun is not perfect, it has it’s pro’s and cons like any other gun, and changing up your play style to maximize the good and minimize the bad will become the name of the game. Here’s a few tips to consider:

 

High Speed, Low Drag

Bolt guns are often very light weight. Try scaling down the rest of your kit to accommodate more mobile gameplay. Your rifle isn’t going to shoot accurately past 200 feet, so make sure you can stay mobile and small enough to close the distance and hit your targets. This is good practice for when your rifle is capable of longer shots in the future, and you have to beat feet across the field in a hurry to stay involved in the action.

 

Mind Games.

While your bolt gun is still stock, try leaving it “looking stock” for as long as you can. Forgo the painted stocks, crazy ghillie wraps and endless accessories that make your rifle look way more capable than it really is. You’d be surprised how many players put a priority on your friends, instead of you letting you hide in plain sight and get the drop on unsuspecting foes. Leave that orange tip on, and use it to your advantage!

 

No Battery, No problem!

You’ll never have to worry about running out of battery with your bolt gun either. This makes it a perfect gun for playing in sub-par weather conditions. Take it out in the rain, and don’t be afraid to sit in places that electricity-required players won’t be caught dead in for fear of damage. Be where the enemy will never expect you to be!

 

What comes next?

Before you even think about changing your first part inside of your gun, there are a couple of quick things you can consider to increase the performance on your bolt gun, and make it easier to minimize cons, and maximize pros of your new BB slinger.

• Heavy BB’s. Just be careful not to go too crazy
• Adjust your hop up. So many players don’t even know how.
• Take the time to sight your scope correctly.
• Spend time ranging your rifle, learn what it can do.

So much of the success of sniping is learning what your rifle can do, and finding easy ways to improve it. Just having an accurate optic system in place, and knowing exactly how far you really can hit makes miles of difference when it comes time to hit the field. Using quality BB’s of a weight heavier than you’d normally shoot (just don’t go too heavy for your stock gun) can make a world of difference in accuracy. You’ll shoot a bit less, so don’t worry as much about the cost of heavy ammo. Adjusting hop up to properly compensate for those heavy BB’s sends it home.

 

Combine all of these tips to get a quality stock rifle that shoots well and couple it with some out of the box advantage oriented thinking, and you are sure to find success with your new bolt gun, even if it’s not the highest end most upgraded blaster on the field!

No, It’s Not More M4’s.

We wanted to talk with you about what our favorite guns were in 2019 as we get into 2020.  We put together a great list featuring some of our favorite airsoft guns from VFC, Apex, Classic Army and more, The problem was when we lined them all up, every single one of them was an M4 style rifle.  We decided that’d be a really boring countdown, and decided to re do it using our favorite Non-M4 pattern rifles from the past year! Which guns did we pick? Read on and find out!

 

5. GHK SG553

The GHK SG553 Gas Blowback Airsoft Gun was one of our favorite weird picks to arrive this past year. It provides a different style of rifle to the standard M4 and AK fare you typically see. Being a Gas Blowback, it has unparalleled realism and recoil making it a blast to shoot. If you wanted a high quality gas blowback rifle, but didn’t want to buy the standard M4 everyone else bought, this would be a worthy addition to your collection.

 

4. JAG Scatterguns

How could you ignore the JAG Scattergun in a top 5 list? These guns are ubiquitous as one of the best shotguns on the market right now. 2019 was a big year for JAG with the updates and new models to the scattergun line, including a redesigned wood stock model, the RPR, and some of the updates from earlier in the year like the keymod fore-end found on the SPX.

All of these changes paired nicely with internal updates to the shotguns to make them more gas efficient and field ready than they ever were before. While not practical for every airsofter, when you’re using one in the right places, it is the most fun you can have playing airsoft.

 

#3. Arcturus Centaur CT-02 AEG

The Arcturus Centaur CT02 caught our eye because of it’s unique inspiration from a relic of airsoft past. This gun marries design elements of the AK and the ACR into a cohesive package that both looks and feels amazing in your hands.

Coupled with the already proven performance of Arcturus’ other offerings on the market, this is a unique rifle that delivers both function and form. You can’t afford to pass this one up. It has a built in tight bore, a microswitch trigger and very rugged dependable construction to keep you in the fight.

 

#2. Modify M24 USR150

The Modify M24 was the lone sniper rifle on our list this year. It is a purpose-built one-and-done rifle ready to wreak long range havoc on the airsoft field.

This rifle is the perfect option for players that don’t want to bash their head against a never-ending gauntlet of upgrades and spending to have a quality long range option on the airsoft field. Strap on your lightweight gear, throw a scope on this M24 and get ready to send it!

It has everything you need to be able to dominate the airsoft field from way outside of your targets engagement area. If you want to try sniping in 2020, this is your rifle.

 

#1. LCT LCK12

Dave’s final pick for the top non-m4 of the year went to the LCT LCK12. This stylish new twist on the tried and true AK pattern rifle won him over so hard, he’ll be picking up one of his own.

LCT is synonymous with full metal high quality exteriors. This particular model pairs it’s heavy duty construction with superior internal components and performance as well. Hitting above 400 FPS and well into the long range category, this is the perfect option for your next MILSIM or outdoor game.

 

Did Your Favorites Make The Cut?

That’s our list, but we want to know what guns you would have included in your own list! If you’d like to purchase any of the guns you saw here, check out Airsoft GI for all the best guns, tactical gear, and airsoft equipment on the market at the best prices!