Shotguns: An Underappreciated Platform

Airsoft guns come in many different shapes, sizes, and classifications. Rifles, DMRs, SMGs, pistols, and of course the most underappreciated class of them all: Shotguns. The airsoft shotgun category actually encompasses a variety of different airsoft guns with varying internal mechanisms.

The most affordable form of an airsoft shotgun would be the spring-operated variety. These are quite similar to spring powered pistols and sniper rifles as they need to be manually cocked before each trigger pull. The most popular version of the spring shotgun would be the M3 spring system as they offer a tri-shot spread of BB’s with every trigger pull. Their price range will always be a drawing factor as they are incredibly affordable. Don’t let their super attainable prices misguide you, these shotguns are not solely meant for target shooting in the backyard but hold up very well on fields. In fact, manner veteran Airsofters of 10 years or over will typically have owned one when starting off and will more than likely still play with it from time to time.

While not common, AEG shotguns do exist in airsoft and are a for sure way to ensure you have something unique on the field. Examples would include the Tokyo Marui AA-12 or SGR-12, both falling under the AEG classification and requiring only the pull of the trigger to get the next burst of BB’s off. These are incredibly fun options to play with, however many field have outright banned these from play as their ability to project several BB’s at once in rapid succession has led to some issues between certain types of players and the staff. Always recommended to look into your desired field’s rules regarding AEG shotguns as they can vary.

Perhaps the most popular and common type of airsoft shotgun you will encounter would be the Gas-powered variety, even more specifically would be the gas powered pump action shotgun. Similar function to real shotguns such as the M870 or M500, these shotguns offer the tri-shot function as their spring counterparts and still need to be cocked as such, the gas operation means cocking the pump back is significantly easier and can travel much farther. This combined with its “realism” factor make these an incredibly popular option for shotgun enthusiast and those looking to change up the way they play

Despite all the positives mentioned, there will always be negatives to any platform, shotguns included. Unlike other platforms like AEG M4s, Aks, spring sniper rifles, or even gas blowback pistols, there isn’t much of an aftermarket scene for shotguns. Granted, shotguns are not as complex as AEGs and don’t require much maintenance other than cleaning the barrel of debris from time to time. However, upgrades are more than likely not possible for most shotguns.

Regardless of all the cons, shotguns are a staple in airsoft and deserve more recognition as they’ve allowed for beginners on a budget to start airsofting and offer several models for many different types of players. They can provide new and unique experiences and can add more spice to your gameplay. What’s more, innovations are being made for the platform to this day. At the time of this blog being published, G&G’s newly crafted ESG B10 Gas Shotgun should be available on the site! Operating on green gas, this bullpup shotgun utilizes standard TM spec M4 AEG magazines, and offers a 5-shot and 10-shot function per trigger pull, a new record to be sure! Whether a newer player, or veteran of the hobby looking for something special, you genuinely can’t go wrong with an Airsoft Shotgun