
Are you planning to buy Airsoft replica ? There is a lot of important decisions to make in front of you. One of them is to choose the power. Green Gas or CO2 – it's the most common dilemma for gas replicas users. Making that decision requires good understanding of how they work and what are the costs of maintenance.
Type of power have an impact on efficiency, performance and how Airsoft replica works. Depending if it's using Green Gas or CO2, it can work better or worse in different type of weather conditions. Difference is visible especially in efficiency , FPS speed and performance of the replica. Below we will discuss all these issues to help you choose between : Green Gas and CO2 - which one is better ?
Which type of power to choose?
Airsoft replica is a pneumatic version of real weapon. It's used in AirSoft Gun, the sport that is imitating hostilities or tactical actions. The visual look of replicas is the same as real weapons. Often their mechanizm works pretty much the same as in the real equivalents. In ASG plastic balls are used as an ammunition (usually 6mm) and there is specific types of power. Depending on power type, there are : spring, electric and gas replicas.
Spring replicas
Spring replicas shoot using compressed air in a cylinder located in the slide. It's a simple mechanism, that requires reloading before every shot. It's time consuming, that's why it's not often used in short distance airsoft games. Spring power is usually used in sniper rifles.
Electric replicas (AEP)
Electric ASG replicas are based on electric motor. Pressing the trigger causes the gear to move, which affects the spring tension. After it is released, as a result of the rapid movement of the piston and compressed air, it fires the ball.
Gas replicas (GBB)
In this article we will focus on popular gas replicas. The mechanism of action is based on a closed and compressed gas. Pressing the trigger causes the valve to open, releasing the gas which is responsible for accelerating the ball and then reloading the gun. This mechanism imitates the recoil of the bolt, thanks to which, these replicas look even more like real guns. That is why gas power is often chosen. The only question is: What to choose, Green Gas or CO2? Which one is better?
Green Gas replicas
Green Gas is a mixture of propane, silicone and fragrance oils. Fragrance oils allow you to smell the escaping gas.
The silicone protects and lubricates moving parts and prevents the seal from crumbling. Propane is responsible for stable shots.
Operating method
For many ASG players using Green Gas is very comfortable. The gas container in the replica can be refilled easily and quickly at any time. This is important especially during long airsoft games.
Gas charging and consumption
Green Gas has averaged pressure. Thanks to this, it fits not only all gas-powered ASG replicas, but also ensures the correct muzzle velocity of the BB.
It is impossible to clearly define how many shots one can of Green Gas is enough for. Its effectiveness depends on the replica type, manufacturer, tank capacity, as well as the environmental conditions during the game (especially the temperature).
Application
Green gas replicas are perfect for indoor games (i.e CQB). Games in such buildings require a replica with a lower muzzle velocity (below 350 FPS). This condition is met much more often by replicas powered by Green Gas than by CO2.
ASG gas pistols are not the best for the low temperatures. During Autumn/Winter season, it's better to choose proper type of power. Thankfully, in the market you can find Green Gas adapted for difficult weather conditions.
CO2 replica
Second type of Gas powered replicas is carbon dioxide replica.
Operating method
CO2 replica is usually stronger then Green Gas. This is a result of very simple fact, that carbon dioxide is compressed under much greater pressure.
Gas charging and consumption
Gas replicas use 12g CO2 cartridges. This containers can't be fully charged or discharged until they are empty. Changing the cartridges is time consuming. In practice it means, that during airsoft game, it's good to have an extra CO2 magazine, because changing the magazine is quicker then changing CO2 cartridge.
One load is enough for approximately 40 to 60 shots, so it's like 2-3 magazines with BB's.
Application
CO2 replicas, have high muzzle velocity (usually over 350 FPS), so they are perfect for long and medium distance games. However, during games in open space, they are exposed to low temperatures, which significantly reduce their effectiveness.
CO2 replicas are perfect option for people that care about realism in the game. These replicas are equipped with the Blow Back system- slide recoil mechanism. However, it can affect accuracy, so it is not recommended for new players.
Green Gas or CO2
Gas replicas are realistic copies of firearm, especially when it comes to its performance and handling. Usually they are recommended for experienced players, that care about realism. Their users can learn habits that can be useful in army and sport shooting.
There is no right answer to the question which replica to choose - Green Gas or CO2. All depends on preferences. It makes no difference if you use Green Gas or CO2 magazines, as their efficiency and power gets weaker in lower temperatures. These two have also similar operating methods. In both, gases are stored in the magazine of a pistol, shotgun or rifle, and therefore have a limited capacity. So if you want to use these replicas for more dynamic games, you should get few extra magazines. What is the difference between Green Gas and CO2 ? First of all, Green Gas magazine is filled with a cylinder through an external valve and in CO2, the capsule is mounted to the magazine, which involves its unscrewing. Green Gas replica therefore is easier and faster to use. However, big plus of CO2 is better performance and generating bigger power in low temperatures.
You know now what is the difference between Green gas and CO2 - the choice is yours! On our website you will find a lot of different gas replicas, ASG grenades and many more replicas, and ASG accessories. Check our offer!