Airsoft AEG

The airsoft AEG is the most popular airsoft gun used by airsoft players in airsoft games.

AEG is an acronym for automatic electric gun. The AEG comes in several different models including airsoft rifle and airsoft submachine gun.

Airsoft AEGs start in price at about $250 in the US. Certain AEGs may cost as much as $375.

The airsoft AEG is the most practical weapon to use in an airsoft game. AEGs are completely self-contained and do not require any external connections unlike older model gas powered airsoft guns or paintball guns.

How to load an airsoft AEG

BBs are actually loaded into the magazines which can be swapped when they empty - just like real guns.

There are two types of AEG magazines: high capacitiy ( aka hicap ) and low capactiy ( aka locap.) Every new AEG will come with a lo-cap magazine.

It depends on the AEG model, but typically the lo-cap magazines will hold 50-70 BBs. Hi cap mags hold between 200 and 600 BBs.

On the low end of magazine capacities you have AEGs such as the airsoft uzi and Thompson SMG. On the high-end, airsoft AK-47 hi cap mags hold 600 BBs.

Airsoft AEG Battery power

AEGs are battery powered. Depending on the gun model, the battery is stored either in the stock of the rifle or in a hand grip.

If you are playing in the cold or for a full day you want an AEG with a large battery. Full stock airsoft rifles such as the SR-16 and AK-47 use large batteries. Smaller airsoft sub-machine guns and collapsable stock airsoft rifles use mini or stick batteries. Examples include the M4 and MP5 PDW.

Airsoft AEGs use a battery for power. These batteries will cost you around $45 or $50. You will also need a battery charger to charge them. When charging aeg batteries first make sure that all the power is drained out of them. This will ensure that your battery not only has a longer life but also that you get the most power out of your aeg battery during an airsoft game.

Airsoft Upgrade

If you are planning on using your new airsoft AEG in an airsoft game you will want to get it upgraded.

Some people can upgrade airsoft AEGs themselves, but it is requires quite a bit of knowledge. Many times people who attempt to upgrade an airsoft AEG on their own simply end up with a broken gun which they have to pay someone else to repair and then upgrade again!

If you are good with mechanical things then you should be able to upgrade your airsoft gun on your own.

There is an electronic book available over at Airsoft Press called Practical A.E.G. Upgrade. Its only $22.50. They sent me a copy which I reviewed; it is definitely a good deal for anyone who likes to do things themselves.

The bottom line, it is easiest to pay a little extra money and pay an expert to upgrade your airsoft AEG for you. Check your countries & local laws before upgrading as there may be a legal fps limit depending on your geographic location.

Still have questions about AEGs?

Some people have problems with their airsoft aegs. It is important that you know which brands to avoid as a new player. I have listed recommended brands in my Must Read airsoft page.

Airsoft AEG - Airsoft Upgrade - Airsoft AEGs by Tokyo Marui, Classic Army, Top, G&G