Have you ever wondered what is the difference between Airsoft and Gel Blasters? With their similar look and feel, it’s easy to mistake one for the other. Airsoft and Gel Blasters are popular among enthusiasts and hobbyists, but what sets them apart?
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two thrilling pastimes. From performance and cost to safety and legal issues, we’ll help you determine which one is right for you. So let’s dive in and see what makes Airsoft and Gel Blasters unique!
Airsoft vs Gel Blasters: The Differences
Following are the primary differences between Airsoft guns vs Gel Blasters, including the type of projectiles, performance, range, cost, and availability, as well as safety and legal issues. By understanding these differences, you will be able to make an informed decision about which activity is right for you.
Type of projectiles:
The primary difference between Airsoft and Gel Blasters is the type of projectiles they use. Gel Blasters employ water-absorbing gel balls that inflate when they come into contact with water, whereas Airsoft guns discharge tiny plastic BBs. The BBs used in Airsoft are more accurate and consistent in terms of size and weight, while the gel balls used in Gel Blasters are larger and softer, making them safer to use.
Performance and Range:
Airsoft guns generally have a better range and accuracy than Gel Blasters. The BBs used in Airsoft can travel further and with more precision due to their smaller size and weight. Gel Blasters, on the other hand, have a shorter range and less accuracy due to the larger and softer gel balls they use.
Cost and Availability:
In terms of cost and availability, Airsoft guns tend to be more expensive and harder to find than Gel Blasters. This is because Airsoft is a more established hobby with a larger following, while Gel Blasters are still a relatively new phenomenon. Additionally, the cost of BBs and other Airsoft accessories can add up quickly, while Gel Blasters require only gel balls and water to function.
Safety and Legal Issues:
Both Airsoft and Gel Blasters have their own set of safety and legal issues to consider. Airsoft guns are often mistaken for real firearms, which can lead to dangerous situations. As a result, Airsoft guns are often subject to stricter regulations and safety requirements. Gel Blasters, while generally safer to use, are also subject to legal restrictions in some areas due to their similarity in appearance to real firearms. It’s important to research and follow all safety and legal guidelines when using either Airsoft guns or Gel Blasters.
Comparison of Airsoft and Gel Blasters in Action
Let’s take a look at the difference between these two in action.
Game Types:
Airsoft and Gel Blasters are played in similar types of games, including skirmishes, military simulations, and objective-based scenarios. However, Airsoft is more established and has a wider range of game types available, such as milsim (military simulation), speedball, and CQB (Close Quarters Battle) games. Gel Blasters, on the other hand, are still a relatively new phenomenon and don’t have as many game types available.
Rules and Regulations:
Both Airsoft and Gel Blasters have their own set of rules and regulations that players must follow. For example, players in Airsoft games are required to wear protective gear, and some games have FPS (Feet per Second) limits on the guns to ensure safety.
Gel Blasters have similar safety regulations, but the rules may differ depending on the specific state or country’s regulations. It is important to understand and follow all rules and regulations when participating in either activity.
Tactical Considerations:
Tactical considerations are another significant difference between Airsoft and Gel Blasters. Airsoft players tend to take a more serious approach to the game, with strategies, tactics, and coordinated team play being essential to success.
Gel Blasters, on the other hand, tend to be more casual and relaxed, with players often just having fun shooting at each other. This is due, in part, to the fact that Airsoft has been around longer and has a more established community that takes the game seriously. Nonetheless, Gel Blasters are rapidly gaining popularity and are starting to incorporate more tactical considerations in their games.
Read also: Paintball or Airsoft- What Hurts More?
Pros and Cons of Airsoft and Gel Blasters
In this section, we will explore the pros and cons of both Airsoft and Gel Blasters to help you decide which activity is right for you. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each activity can help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your recreational shooting experience.
Advantages of Airsoft:
Realistic Feel: Airsoft guns look and feel more like real firearms, giving players a more authentic experience.
Accuracy: Airsoft BBs are more consistent in terms of size and weight, leading to better accuracy and precision.
Established Community: Airsoft has been around for a while and has a larger, more established community, making it easier to find games and accessories.
Disadvantages of Airsoft:
Cost: Airsoft guns and accessories can be expensive, and the cost of maintaining an Airsoft kit can add up quickly.
Safety Issues: Due to the realistic appearance of Airsoft guns, they can be mistaken for real firearms, leading to dangerous situations.
Accessibility: Airsoft fields may not be available in all areas, making it difficult for some players to find games.
Read more: Paintball vs Airsoft
Advantages of Gel Blasters:
Cost: Gel Blasters are generally less expensive than Airsoft guns and require only water and gel balls to function.
Safety: Gel balls are soft and less likely to cause injury, making Gel Blasters safer than Airsoft guns.
Availability: Gel Blasters are widely available and can be purchased in many stores or online.
Disadvantages of Gel Blasters:
Shorter Range and Accuracy: Gel balls have a shorter range and less accuracy than Airsoft BBs.
Limited Community: Gel Blasters are still a relatively new hobby, and their community is not as established as Airsoft.
Legal Restrictions: Some states and countries have legal restrictions on the use of Gel Blasters, making it difficult to participate in the hobby in those areas.
Read more: Paintball vs Gel Blaster
Airsoft vs Gel blaster Gearbox
The gearbox is a critical component in both Airsoft and Gel Blasters, as it is responsible for firing the projectiles. In Airsoft guns, the gearbox is typically made of metal and is more complex than the gearbox in Gel Blasters.
This complexity allows for more customization options and greater control over the firing mechanism. In contrast, Gel Blaster gearboxes are usually made of plastic and are simpler in design. While this can make Gel Blasters easier to maintain, it also means that there are fewer customization options available.
Ultimately, the type of gearbox you prefer will depend on your personal preferences and the level of customization you desire.
Choosing between Airsoft and Gel Blasters
When choosing between Airsoft and Gel Blasters, it’s important to consider a variety of factors. One important factor is the level of realism that you desire, as Airsoft guns can look and feel more like real firearms.
The availability of fields or arenas in your area is also an important consideration, as Airsoft fields may not be available in all areas. Additionally, legal restrictions in your country or state may impact your ability to participate in either activity.
Personal Preferences:
Personal preferences are also an important consideration when choosing between Airsoft and Gel Blasters. Some players may prefer the more realistic feel of Airsoft guns, while others may prefer the ease and accessibility of Gel Blasters. Your preferred playing style, the types of games you enjoy, and the level of competition you’re seeking can all impact your decision.
Budget And Availability:
Budget and availability are also important factors to consider when choosing between Airsoft and Gel Blasters. Airsoft guns and accessories can be expensive, and the cost of maintaining an Airsoft kit can add up quickly.
Gel Blasters are generally less expensive and require only water and gel balls to function. Additionally, Gel Blasters are widely available and can be purchased in many stores or online, while Airsoft fields may not be available in all areas.
FAQs
Is airsoft the same as gel blaster?
No, airsoft and gel blasters are not the same. Airsoft is a shooting sport that involves using replica firearms that shoot 6mm plastic BBs, while Gel Blasters use water-filled gel balls as ammunition. While both activities involve shooting at targets or other players, they are distinct from one another.
What is the difference between an airsoft gun and a gel blaster?
The main difference between an airsoft gun and a gel blaster is the type of ammunition they use. In contrast to Gel Blasters, which fire water-filled gel balls, Airsoft guns fire 6mm plastic BBs. Additionally, airsoft guns tend to be more realistic replicas of real firearms, while Gel Blasters often have a more futuristic or sci-fi appearance.
What hurts more, airsoft or gel blasters?
The level of pain or discomfort from getting hit by either an airsoft BB or a gel ball can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the velocity of the projectile and the distance between the shooter and the target. In general, airsoft BBs are harder and can cause more bruising, while Gel Balls are softer and may not cause as much discomfort. However, it’s important to wear proper safety gear and follow all safety guidelines to avoid injury in either activity.
Can you convert gel blaster to airsoft?
Converting a Gel Blaster to an Airsoft gun is not recommended, as it could be dangerous and may not be legal in some areas. Airsoft guns and Gel Blasters operate differently, and attempting to modify a Gel Blaster to shoot airsoft BBs could cause the gun to malfunction or cause injury. It’s important to use only approved ammunition and equipment for each respective activity to ensure safety and compliance with local laws and regulations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision between choosing Airsoft or Gel Blasters comes down to personal preference, budget, and intended use. I’ve discussed the differences between the two, including the type of projectiles, performance and range, cost and availability, safety and legal issues, game types, rules and regulations, tactical considerations, as well as the pros and cons of each.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider the factors that are most important to you when choosing which activity to pursue. Both Airsoft and Gel Blasters offer unique and exciting ways to experience shooting sports, and we hope that this article has helped you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the world of shooting sports, we encourage you to explore and enjoy all that these activities have to offer.
