What Propellants Are Used In Gas Airsoft Guns?
Cost of operation, accuracy, and realism are among the countless reasons why gas airsoft guns are rapidly increasing in popularity across the country. Owning a gas airsoft gun involves selecting the appropriate propellant, whether it’s 134A, green gas, or CO2 (which are the most frequently used). The correct use of propellant will ensure the best operation and maintenance of your gas airsoft gun.
The gas that should be used in any particular airsoft gun should be determined by more than one factor. First of all, the temperature in which the gun is being used can affect the gas pressure which in turn affects the gun’s firing power. Since one propellant may be appropriate in one temperature may be also be harmful to use in, say, a temperature that is 30 degrees Fahrenheit warmer, the fact that most gas type guns are designed for only one type of propellant is indeed a common problem.
The opposite can occur in cold weather. An airsoft gun can stop working completely in cold climates because gas pressure decreases significantly, resulting in the ultimate loss of firing power. It’s also possible for the valve to remain open following fire if it’s too cold, which will cause all of the remaining gas in the gun to leak out.
Always pay attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations and also to the current temperature when selecting a propellant for your gas airsoft gun. If you use a propellant that is too powerful or within the wrong temperature, you can cause damage to your gun.
The most commonly used gas for airsoft guns of Japanese origin (and other selected brands of different origin) is 134A. It can be used in practically any climate that is above forty degrees Fahrenheit, which is why it is such a popular gas to use. If you notice your airsoft gun is misfiring while using 134A, it could mean you need a more powerful gas like propane or green gas.
Green gas is the most frequently used propellant for an airsoft gun. If the airsoft gun you have is not made in Japan, it is likely designed to work best with green gas as its propellant. It’s important to pay attention to the climate when using green gas as it is too powerful for most summer climates and can destroy your gun.
In terms of quality, there is a wide range of airsoft guns using green gas, so it isn’t exactly possible to determine the exact temperature at which you should switch to a less powerful gas. You can play it safe by always keeping around some 134A and using that when the temperature exceeds 100 degrees F. You can also decide on the right gas by considering how often you’re using it and the amount of direct sunlight. For example, direct sunlight will heat up the gas faster whereas frequent firing actually decreased pressure and subsequently the temperature of the gun.
The most versatile gas propellant for an airsoft gun would be CO2; however, guns that use CO2 are notorious for being complicated and difficult to maintain. CO2 guns are few and far between, can become costly, and very rarely take any other type of gas. For these reasons and more, CO2 guns have the smallest following in the airsoft community.