Best Airsoft Shotgun

Unraveling the Magic of Airsoft Shotguns

Airsoft shotguns: they’re the unsung heroes of the airsoft world, often overshadowed by their flashy AEG (Automatic Electric Gun) counterparts. But for those in the know, these babies are the real deal. They shoot plastic BBs – not exactly stuff of nightmares, but trust me, in the heat of the game, they’re every bit as thrilling as the real deal!

The Airsoft Shotgun Bazaar

Airsoft shotguns are as diverse as the players wielding them. You’ve got the old-school pump-action, the reliable semi-automatic, and the Michael Bay explosive fully automatic! And that’s just the firing modes. Let’s talk power sources – gas, electric, spring – it’s like a buffet, but for guns!

You might be wondering where to find these bad boys. Start with your local airsoft shop, or go digital and scour the online marketplaces. And I’ll let you in on a secret: they’re pretty affordable too. Plus, for the tinkerers among you, these shotguns are as customizable as a high-end gaming PC. From scopes to grips, the world’s your oyster.

The Swiss Army Knife of Airsoft Guns

Airsoft shotguns are the Swiss Army Knives of the airsoft world. Sure, they’re a fan-favorite for close-quarters combat, with a wide spread that’s perfect for taking out multiple enemies. But don’t be fooled – they’ve got the range and accuracy to keep pace in long-distance firefights too.

Think about it: you’re playing capture the flag, zombie survival, or just a good old team deathmatch. Suddenly, you’re in a tight spot, surrounded by enemies. What do you do? Whip out your trusty shotgun, take aim, and watch as your foes scatter. The airsoft shotgun isn’t just a weapon; it’s a game-changer.

The Thrill of the Shot

There’s something about holding an airsoft shotgun that just feels right. Maybe it’s the weight in your hands, the way it forces you to make strategic decisions, or the sheer satisfaction of a well-placed shot. Whatever it is, there’s no denying that using an airsoft shotgun offers an unparalleled, immersive experience.

Spring-Powered Shotguns: The Old Reliable For Airsoft Rookies

If you’re just dipping your toes into the airsoft world, you might be looking for an entry-level weapon that’s user-friendly and won’t require you to sell a kidney to afford it. Say hello to the trusty spring-powered shotguns. [image: spring-powered shotgun]

These are the simple, yet effective tools of the trade. Powered by a spring mechanism, you’ll need to cock these beauties before each shot. Sure, they might seem a bit analog in our digital world, but their simplicity is a virtue, not a flaw. They’re as reliable as a Swiss watch and don’t demand batteries or gas to function, making them a budget-friendly option for those just starting out.

But here’s the fine print – while they fire with consistent power, they can be a tad slower than their gas or electric counterparts since you need to manually cock them after each round. They also add a bit of sound to your game, but then again, who doesn’t appreciate the satisfying ‘ka-chunk’ of a classic pump-action shotgun?

Gas-Powered Shotguns: A Taste of The Real Deal

Are you looking to ramp up the realism in your airsoft skirmishes? Gas-powered shotguns could be the answer. These metal monsters use compressed gas to eject the BBs, offering a lifelike recoil that makes your game feel like a Hollywood action sequence. [image: gas-powered shotgun]

Unlike their spring-powered siblings, gas shotguns can fire multiple rounds without the need for cocking, turning them into lean, mean, BB-popping machines. With adjustable power and capacity for multiple BBs per shot, these shotguns offer a level of adaptability that’s tough to beat.

However, with great power comes great responsibility. Gas shotguns are a bit fussier when it comes to maintenance. They need regular gas top-ups and frequent TLC, and their performance can fluctuate with temperature changes and gas leaks. But if you’re someone who doesn’t mind getting their hands dirty for the love of the game, the rewards are well worth it.

Electric-Powered Shotguns: The Cutting Edge of Airsoft

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about electric-powered shotguns. These are the Lamborghinis of the airsoft world, powered by an electric motor that doesn’t shy away from showing off.

![image: electric-powered shotgun]

These bad boys are as easy to use as your TV remote; just load in some batteries and you’re set. They offer high firing rates and minimal recoil, making them the go-to weapon for those high-octane, pulse-pounding airsoft bouts.

But just like any high-end gadget, they come with their own set of caveats. They’re vulnerable to elemental damage like water or dust and require batteries and chargers, which can add a few extra bucks to your airsoft budget. Plus, they lack the realistic kick of gas-powered shotguns, but if you value speed and precision over realism, these shotguns are your ticket to an electrifying game.

At the end of the day, the best shotgun for you boils down to your personal preferences and your style of play. So, choose your weapon and let the airsoft escapades begin!

Choosing Your Airsoft Shotgun: The Power Source Showdown

Spring-powered shotguns are the faithful workhorses of the airsoft world. They are powered by a spring mechanism – think of it as a pogo stick. You cock it, you shoot it. No frills, no fuss. They’re like your reliable old sweater, unaffected by whimsical weather or battery whims. But hold your horses! These trusty steeds can be a tad slow on the draw and might announce your position with their noise.

Enter the gas-powered shotguns, the suave, tech-forward cousins of the spring-powered ones. These smarty-pants use compressed gas to launch the BBs, and they offer semi-automatic or fully automatic options. Think of it as the James Bond of airsoft guns – you get a realistic recoil and a snappy response time. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility. They need gas refills and regular TLC.

And then we have the electric-powered shotguns. These are your modern, hassle-free options. They use an electric motor to power the firing mechanism. It’s like having an electric toothbrush – convenient and efficient. But beware, they’re sensitive souls that need batteries, chargers, and shelter from water and dust.

Finding Your Style: The Pump-Action, Semi-Automatic, or Fully Automatic Dance-off?

Now that we’ve got power sources covered, it’s time to talk style.

Pump-action shotguns are for those who love an old-school challenge. It’s like driving a stick shift – you cock before each shot. They’re tough but oh-so satisfying to master. Just remember, these babies can be a bit heavy and bulky, like lugging around a hefty backpack.

Semi-automatic shotguns are your modern dancers. One trigger pull, one shot – no cocking required. They’re versatile and great for different game modes and scenarios, like a Swiss army knife. But, they lack the gritty feel and sound effects of a pump-action shotgun. It’s like watching a movie without surround sound.

Last but not least, fully automatic shotguns are the rock stars of airsoft. They offer a barrage of shots per trigger pull without cocking. Ideal for close-quarters combat, they deliver an adrenaline rush that’s hard to match. But just like a rare vinyl record, they’re pricey and hard to find.

Budget

Now, let’s talk money, honey. Your budget will directly impact the quality and features of your shotgun. Here’s a quick rundown:

Low-end shotguns ($10 to $50): Perfect for beginners or casual players. Made of plastic or low-quality metal with basic features.
Mid-range shotguns ($50 to $150): Ideal for regular players. Constructed from metal or high-quality plastic with decent features.
High-end shotguns ($150 to $500): The choice for advanced players. Comes with advanced features and constructed from top-tier materials.

Top Airsoft Shotguns for 2023

Picked for their outstanding features, stellar performance, and rave reviews from users, these shotguns are set to rock your airsoft world. So, without further ado, let’s get the ball rolling!

EMG Salient Arms Licensed M870 MKII – The Cream of the Crop

Taking the crown as the king of airsoft shotguns, we present the EMG Salient Arms Licensed M870 MKII. This gas-powered beast is so realistic, you might forget you’re holding an airsoft weapon. So, what makes this shotgun the bee’s knees?

Let’s start with its realistic shell-ejecting mechanism and a CNC machined aluminum receiver. Sounds fancy, right? That’s because it is! This baby can fire up to 12 BBs per shot. Now, that’s what I call crowd control!

[image: EMG Salient Arms Licensed M870 MKII]

But that’s not all. This shotgun comes equipped with an adjustable hop-up system, ensuring optimal range and accuracy. Plus, its smooth bore inner barrel guarantees every shot counts. As for aesthetics and comfort, the textured pistol grip and stock make it both good-looking and comfy to handle. And we’ve got to mention the modular handguard with a Picatinny rail – the perfect place to mount all your cool accessories.

Now, let’s peek at the highs and lows:

Pros:

Realistic design that brings the real shotgun experience to your airsoft game
High power output of up to 400 fps with green gas, and a range of about 100 feet
Versatile firing modes (3 or 6 BBs per shot) and upgradable parts for customization

Cons:

On the pricier side. But hey, quality comes at a cost!
Often out of stock. Like a rock concert, the good stuff sells out fast!
Requires regular maintenance. But a little TLC never hurt anyone, right?
A bit on the heavy side. But think of it as a mini-workout!

Want to know more about the EMG Salient Arms Licensed M870 MKII? Check it out [link: here].

JAG Arms Scattergun – Your Affordable Ticket to Power

The JAG Arms Scattergun is a gas-powered airsoft shotgun that’s light on your wallet yet heavy on features. It’s every beginner’s dream come true, and here’s why.

This budget-friendly beast can blast up to 6 BBs per shot! It’s like your very own airsoft machine gun, but in the form of a shotgun. Plus, it features an adjustable hop-up system and three inner barrels, ensuring your shots are as accurate as they are powerful.

And let’s not forget about its full-length top rail that’s just begging for some cool optics. Meanwhile, the tri-rail handguard gives you plenty of room for all your favorite accessories.

Pros:

It’s an affordable entry into the world of airsoft shotguns.
You won’t have to worry about cocking or reloading before every shot.
Its power and BB output can be adjusted to match your gameplay style.

Cons:

It doesn’t have the realistic feel of a shell ejecting or the sound effects of a real shotgun.
Its accuracy can fluctuate with changes in temperature and gas pressure.
The hard plastic grip and stock might not be the most comfortable during extended gameplay.

Want to learn more about the JAG Arms Scattergun? Click here.

CYMA P799A Laser Riot Control Shotgun – Your Wallet’s Best Friend

Let’s get the ball rolling with a budget-friendly beast – the CYMA P799A Laser Riot Control Shotgun. This little dynamo is spring-powered, sports a plastic body, and operates with a pump-action mechanism. It’s a one-BB-at-a-time deal, featuring a fixed hop-up system and a smooth bore inner barrel.

[image: CYMA P799A Laser Riot Control Shotgun]

Pros:

It’s the steal of the century: At roughly $20, this shotgun is a no-brainer. It spares you the hassle of gas or batteries.
It’s as light as a feather: Weighing just about 2 pounds and measuring roughly 21 inches, it’s a breeze to handle.
It’s the life of the party: With a laser sight and flashlight, it’s not just about gameplay, it’s about making every round an absolute riot.

But let’s not sugarcoat it, it does have its drawbacks

Cons:

It’s not the real deal: Don’t expect shells, recoil, or sound effects. It’s more about fun than authenticity.
It’s a bit of a wild card: Shooting up to 250 fps with .12g BBs and a range of about 50 feet, accuracy isn’t its strongest suit.
It’s not a tank: The plastic body and parts might not withstand rough-and-tumble handling.

To dig deeper into the CYMA P799A Laser Riot Control Shotgun, click this link.

CYMA CM351 – The Triple Threat

Next up, we’ve got the CYMA CM351. This spring-powered shotgun is a metal marvel with a pump-action mechanism. It fires not one, not two, but three BBs per shot, courtesy of the adjustable hop-up system and three inner barrels.

[image: CYMA CM351]

Pros:

It’s all about value: For roughly $60, you bag a shotgun with a sturdy metal body and parts.
It’s a real performer: Shooting up to 300 fps with .20g BBs and a range of about 100 feet, it brings a touch of realism to your game.
It’s a jack-of-all-trades: With the option to fire in 1 or 3 BBs per shot and extra shell storage, it’s all about convenience.

Cons:

It’s a bit of a beast: Weighing about 6 pounds and measuring about 40 inches, it’s not exactly a walk in the park to handle.
It’s not a speed demon: You’ll have to cock it after each shot, and the rate of fire could be higher.
It’s a bit of a lone ranger: No rails or mounts for those fancy accessories.

For the nitty-gritty on the CYMA CM351, click this link.

The CA870 Spring Shotgun: A Powerhouse in Your Hands

As your trusty airsoft guide and fellow player, I can vouch for the adrenaline rush you get when you’ve got a spring-powered shotgun in your hands. It’s like holding a tiny thunderstorm, ready to unleash at your command. The CA870 spring shotgun is one such beast. Designed to mirror the iconic Remington 870, this metal-bodied wonder is a sight to behold and a powerhouse in hand. Now, you’re probably wondering, “Jos, why should I be googly-eyed over the CA870?” Here’s the lowdown.

The CA870 doesn’t just look good; it packs a punch too. With an adjustable hop-up system and a smooth bore inner barrel, it fires off one BB per shot. The full stock can conveniently hold an extra shotgun shell, which can be a game-changer during those intense airsoft showdowns. Plus, it features an iron sight to help you aim with precision. And, it comes with two shotgun shells, each capable of holding up to 10 BBs.

This shotgun isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s got power too. Using .20g BBs, the CA870 can shoot up to an impressive 400 fps, with an effective range of around 120 feet. So, if you’re looking for a weapon that combines power, accuracy, and durability, the CA870 is your shotgun.

But let’s not forget, every rose has its thorn. The CA870 can be a little heavy on the wallet, with a price tag of about $200. It’s also a bit of a rare gem, making it harder to find. Additionally, its one BB per shot firing capability and limited magazine capacity might not be everyone’s cup of tea. And let’s not forget, the metal grip and stock can start to feel a bit uncomfortable after a while.

The Tokyo Marui M870: The Airsoft Game Changer

Next on our exploration list is the Tokyo Marui M870. This gas-powered, pump-action shotgun is a revolution in plastic. Made with a tough polymer body, it’s lightweight, robust, and has a nifty trick up its sleeve: it can fire up to 6 BBs per shot, thanks to an adjustable hop-up system and three inner barrels. It’s like having your own mini firework show at your fingertips!

The M870 really stands out with its shell-ejecting mechanism. Each metal shell can hold up to 30 BBs, adding a whole new level of realism to your airsoft battles. Plus, the full stock houses an extra gas tank, and the front sight helps with precise aiming. The package includes three metal shells and a shell catcher, which is a great little gadget to save your shells from going AWOL during the heat of battle.

The M870 is all about versatility. It offers different shooting modes (3 or 6 BBs per shot) and a high magazine capacity, making it a formidable choice for any skirmish. Plus, its compatibility with various parts and accessories allows for customization and upgrades.

However, every silver lining has a cloud. The M870 comes with a hefty price tag of around $400. Also, the need for regular gas refills and maintenance might be a bit of a buzzkill for some. While the polymer body is lightweight and comfortable, it might not hold up as well as its metal counterparts. And while the shell-ejecting mechanism is cool, it might not be the most practical feature for everyone. After all, lost or damaged shells can be a pain, and the gas efficiency might not be up to par.

Remember, the best shotgun for you is the one that suits your style and budget. So, whether you go for the CA870 or the M870, just make sure you have a blast (pun intended!) while playing airsoft.

APS CAM870 – A Powerhouse of an Airsoft Shotgun

The APS CAM870 is a pump-action shotgun that’s made of metal and can unleash a volley of up to 12 BBs per shot. The fixed hop-up system and a smooth bore inner barrel give it a performance that’s as sleek as it looks.

But what really makes this shotgun special is its realistic shell-ejecting mechanism. The metal shells can hold up to 12 BBs each, giving your airsoft game that extra slice of authenticity. The full stock has enough storage for an extra CO2 cartridge, and the front sight will make you feel like a sharpshooter. Plus, it comes with four metal shells and a shell catcher to save you from losing your shells in the heat of the game.

Like any piece of airsoft gear, the APS CAM870 has its pros and cons. Let’s dive in:

Pros:

Power and Accuracy: This shotgun is a force of nature. It can shoot up to 450 fps with .20g BBs and has a range of around 150 feet. That’s some serious firepower!

Realism: The APS CAM870 doesn’t just play the part, it looks it too. Its design and functionality mimic a real shotgun, making your airsoft experience that much more immersive.

Customizability: This shotgun is like a blank canvas. You can modify it with different parts and accessories to suit your playing style and preferences.

Cons:

Price and Availability: Priced at around $500, the APS CAM870 is a bit of a splurge. Plus, it’s often out of stock, making it harder to get your hands on.

Maintenance: Because it uses CO2 cartridges, this shotgun needs regular upkeep to prevent malfunctions.

Weight and Dimensions: Tipping the scales at about 9 pounds and measuring roughly 41 inches in length, the APS CAM870 is no lightweight. It might take some getting used to, especially if you’re a beginner.

Accessorizing Your Shotgun – Amp Up the Fun

Airsoft shotguns can be tricked out with a range of accessories. Here are a few you might consider:

Magazines: These hold and feed the BBs into the shotgun. Some even look like real shotgun shells, adding that extra touch of realism to your game.

Shells: These containers hold the BBs and gas for gas-powered shotguns. They come in different colors and capacities, so you can choose what suits you best.

Gas Tanks: These store the compressed gas for gas-powered shotguns. They can affect the power, consistency, weight, and balance of your shotgun.

Magazine Tubes: These handy tubes give you extra storage space for shells or magazines, so you don’t have to reload as often.

Grenade Launcher Shells: If you’re looking for a blast, these are a fun add-on. They can be attached to shotguns with an under-barrel grenade launcher and fire multiple BBs or foam projectiles at once.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the best airsoft shotgun depends on your personal preferences and playing style. I would recommend consulting with experienced players and reading reviews before making a choice. Regardless of the gear you choose, remember that the real fun of airsoft lies in the game, not just the gear. So, dive into the world of airsoft, enjoy your journey, and feel free to reach out for any advice or suggestions.

Game on!