What Are Biodegradable Airsoft Bbs?

Airsoft is an outdoor sport that has become increasingly popular over time. It is an activity that involves two teams competing with a plethora of guns, grenades, and other military-like equipment that uses plastic pellets known as Airsoft Bbs. Airsoft Bbs come in two types, biodegradable and non-biodegradable. In this article, we'll explore biodegradable Airsoft Bbs to understand what they are made of, the advantages and disadvantages of using them, and the best practices for using them.

Features

Biodegradable Airsoft Bbs are made of a variety of materials, the most common of which are cornstarch and Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF). Both of these materials create a dense pellet that is both light and aerodynamic. The pellets have a practice firing range velocity of between 180-370 FPS, depending on the size used, and average an impact on a human body between 1-3 Joules. The majority of these ammunition cartridges come in sizes of 6mm and 8mm in diameter and contain 0.12g or 0.20g respectively.

Cornstarch Bbs

Cornstarch Bbs are made of non-toxic cornstarch that is heated and transformed into a consistent mould. This process creates a pebble-like pellet that is porous and semi-transparent. The porosity of this ammunition correlates to its biodegradable properties that decompose at a quicker rate than MDF Bbs. These can be identified by their yellow or light-green colouring.

MDF Bbs

MDF Bbs are made from compressed wood granules and are most popularly used due to their less expensive material costs. This material is less porous than cornstarch so they break down more slowly in the environment. The pellets can be identified by their light-blue shade.

Benefits

Biodegradable Airsoft Bbs are a great way to make the activity of airsoft more environmentally friendly. They are made from all-natural materials, like cornstarch, that decompose over time, so they are productive for reducing plastic waste in outdoor fields and forests. Furthermore, due to their small size and low velocity, they are safer and more comfortable for players when faced with shorter playing distances.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Biodegradable
• Safer and more comfortable for game play
• Reducing plastic waste

Cons:

• Less aerodynamic
• More expensive than regular Bbs
• Not suitable for long range game play

Case Studies

Washington County, OR

In 2009, the Washington County Parks Department banned the use of non-biodegradable Bbs in favour of Biodegradable Airsoft Bbs when using their Forestry Fields. Since then, the Parks Department have reported a 94% decrease in plastic Bbs participating in their fields.

Victoria, Canada

In 2013, airsoft was banned in the province of British Columbia but allowed to remain in Victoria due to its small size and controlled population. The government of Victoria allowed airsoft to remain so long as biodegradable Bbs were the only ammo used in the activity. This regulation was later expanded to all of British Columbia when it was found to have reduced the plastic pollution in the forests.

New York City, NY

In 2016, the government of New York City put a ban on the use of non-biodegradable Bbs in favour of biodegradable ones. This was found to have greatly reduced the amount of plastic pollution in forests and parks around the city.

FAQ's

• Are biodegradable Bbs safe? Yes, biodegradable Bbs are a safe and environmentally friendly choice for airsoft players. They are made of all-natural materials, like cornstarch, that decompose over time so they are much less harmful to the environment than their non-biodegradable counterparts.
• What size Bbs are available? The majority of these ammunition cartridges come in sizes of 6mm and 8mm in diameter and contain 0.12g or 0.20g respectively.
• How do I know if I am using biodegradable Bbs? Cornstarch Bbs are identified by their yellow or light-green colouring. MDF Bbs are identified by their light-blue shade.

Mistakes People Make

People tend to make some common mistakes when it comes to biodegradable Airsoft Bbs. Many people think that they can use biodegradable Bbs for long range play, when in fact, they are not suitable for long distance game play. Additionally, it's important to remember that biodegradable Bbs are more expensive than regular Bbs and best used in short-term games.

Best Practices

The best practice for using biodegradable Airsoft Bbs is to use them for short-term games and at close range. Additionally, it is important to purchase biodegradable Bbs that are certified as biodegradable to make sure that they are as safe and eco-friendly as possible. Lastly, always be sure to clean up any ammunition cartridges after each game, even the biodegradable ones.

Summary

Biodegradable Airsoft Bbs are a great way to make the activity of airsoft more eco-friendly and are made of all-natural materials, like cornstarch and MDF, that decompose in the environment. They are best used in short-term games and at close range and always be sure that they are certified as biodegradable before purchase. Clean up any ammunition cartridges after each game. With these best practices, anyone can enjoy airsoft in an eco-friendly manner.