Airsoft What Is FPS

What Is Fps in Airsoft?

FPS, or feet per second, is an important metric for airsoft guns, as it determines the amount of power behind a projectile. As such, the higher the FPS rating on a particular airsoft gun, the farther, faster, and stronger it will shoot.

It is important to understand FPS because this number can determine the types of fields and targets that are safe and acceptable to use with any given airsoft gun. Generally, airsoft guns with a maximum FPS rating over 450 are considered too powerful for most regular airsoft fields and many organized events.

To explain FPS in simpler terms, it can be compared to the speed at which a car travels on the highway. The higher the speed, the more damage the car can cause and the more precautionary steps a driver must take to ensure a safe, enjoyable ride. Similarly, the faster an airsoft gun is shooting, the more damage it can cause, the more precautionary steps needed to ensure safe play, and the more skill required to use it correctly.

Let's explore the 8 major components of FPS in airsoft:

Barrel Length and Internal Components

The barrel of the airsoft gun plays a significant role in the gun's FPS; the longer the barrel, the more power and greater accuracy it will provide. Additionally, airsoft gun internal components such as the spring, piston, gears, and hash are all major factors in the FPS achieved.

Weight of Projectile

The weight of the projectile affects the power of the gun. Heavier BBs are slower but predictable with higher accuracy. Lighter BBs are much faster, but can be more difficult to control. Therefore, the FPS of an airsoft gun will differ depending on the weight of the BB being fired.

Field Type

The type of field also plays a role in determining FPS. Typically, fuel-powered guns have higher FPS on indoor fields compared to outdoor fields.

Wind and Weather Conditions

Wind and other environmental factors such as rain, snow, temperature, and humidity can all influence FPS. Although FPS can increase and decrease slightly depending on these conditions, the greatest impacts are typically seen in accuracy and distance.

Upgrades and Modifications

You can also increase an airsoft gun's FPS performance through upgrades or modifications. Popular FPS-increasing upgrades and mods include installing higher-powered springs, modifying internal components, and adding barrels or stocks.

Hop Up Unit

The hop up unit is an adjustable unit found in nearly every airsoft gun. It is responsible for improving the accuracy of a BB by applying a backspin to it before it leaves the barrel of the gun. It also affects FPS, as the heavier a BB is, the more spin it needs for accuracy, which increases the gun's FPS.

Power Source

The power source of an airsoft gun is critical in regards to FPS. Generally, high-powered AEGs and gas blowback guns will produce higher FPS ratings than spring-powered guns.

Gas and Battery Types

For gas and battery-powered guns, the type of gas and battery used can also affect the gun's FPS. Higher-end gasses such as green gas and CO2 usually produce higher FPS ratings than the lower-cost Propane gas. Similarly, higher mAh batteries can generate higher FPS ratings than lower-mAh batteries with the same voltage.

Brief Recap

Understanding FPS in airsoft is essential for ensuring safe game play and enjoying the sport. FPS is determined by factors such as barrel length, internal components, weight of the projectile, field type, environmental conditions, upgrades, modifications, hop up unit, power source, and gas and battery types. Taking these components into consideration can help airsoft players achieve the FPS rating they desire for their specific playing conditions.