Although there are many efficient and affordable airsoft shotguns in the market, it can be challenging to choose the best airsoft shotgun that suits your skills.
In this article, I’ll cover the 5 best airsoft shotguns for different purposes and types of users, along with a buying guide that will help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Best Airsoft Shotgun Reviews
Crosman GameFace ASGM47 VooDoo Spring-Powered Airsoft Shotgun
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If you’re preparing for a CQB scenario, the Crosman GameFace ASGM47 airsoft shotgun is a great addition to your arsenal. This spring-powered single-shot pump action is ideal for tight spaces, and its action feels real. This is among the best airsoft shotgun for those not looking to spend tons on a shotgun. This airsoft shotgun has a metallic barrel and can shoot up to 390 FPS.
Features
- Adjustable stock
- Picatinny rail system
- 19-round magazine
- 26.5” length
- Synthetic material
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Powerful and accurate
- Great mid-level shotgun
Crimson Trace Shotgun Lasersaddle with Ambidextrous Control
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If you’re looking for a feature-filled airsoft shotgun, this is a great option. The Crimson Trace Shotgun Lasersaddle with Ambidextrous control features a 5mW peak, 620-670nm, and Class 3R visible red laser that conforms to the brightest beam allowed by the law. It comes with cR2032 lithium batteries that have three hours of battery life. This shotgun is easy to install and requires no gunsmithing. Additionally, it has an elevation and windage adjustment that doesn’t interfere with side saddles or top rails.
Features
- CR2032 lithium batteries
- Tap-off activation pad
- Master On/Off Switches
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Easy to sight in
- Great design
Cons
- It may be uncomfortable for some users
350 FPS DOUBLE EAGLE M401 Pump Action Spring Powered Airsoft Shotgun
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The 350 FPS DOUBLE EAGLE M401 airsoft shotgun is a great sidearm for close and long-range airsoft games. This airsoft shotgun has a muzzle velocity of up to 350 FPS, making it a great choice for most airsoft games. It has a durable design and can withstand continuous abuse and daily use. With this shotgun, you can face your opponents with accuracy and confidence.
Features
- 350 FPS muzzle velocity
- Plastic construction
- 21.25” length
- Spring powered
Pros
- Durable build
- Great accuracy
- Has a good range
m58b airsoft pump-action shotgun rifle 400 fps police
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This is one of the most realistic and powerful airsoft guns and has an impressive 375 to 400 FPS muzzle velocity. The m58b airsoft pump-action shotgun rifle 400 fps police is a great and reliable gun for its price. It’s made of metal alloy and hard ABS plastic, making it ideal for everyday use.
Features
- 375-400 FPS
- Hard ABS plastic and a metal alloy construction
- 14-round magazine capacity
- 6 caliber
Pros
- Nice pump action
- Durable design
- Perfect weight
- Quick and easy to reload
Double Eagles m58b Metal Tactical Shotgun Airsoft Gun 350-fps
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The Double Eagles m58b Metal Tactical Shotgun Airsoft Gun 350-fps is made from metal and poly-fiber, making it ideal for daily use. This airsoft shotgun has unmatched accuracy and is among the most sort after guns by airsoft enthusiasts. It comes at a pocket-friendly price and will suit the budget of most users. This shotgun has a lightweight design that makes it easy to carry and use. If you’re looking for an entry-level gun, this is a great choice.
Features
- Metal frame material
- 400 FPS muzzle velocity
Pros
- Durable construction
- Feels sturdy for the price
- It comes with a speed loader
Types of Airsoft Guns
Spring
Spring airsoft guns are cocked by hand and fired one shot at a time. They come with very few parts, making them dependable and durable. With a spring gun, every shot counts because of the slow rate of fire. These guns are the least expensive, so they are ideal for beginners. Most powerful airsoft shotguns are spring powered and operated by a bolt action lever that charges the spring and loads the next BB.
They can shoot up to 450 FPS or higher with 0.20g BBs. At high velocities, heavier BBs are the best for improved accuracy.
Gas
This is the most popular airsoft shotgun, which uses CO2 or green gas. When you pull the trigger, gas is released and used to push each BB out of the barrel. Mostly, green gas is semi-auto, with a few in semi/full-auto version.
CO2 airsoft guns operate similarly, but they use cartridges of compressed CO2. Most high-end airsoft guns have blowback action that adds a small amount of recoil to increase the realism of these guns.
Electric (AEG)
These airsoft guns are battery-powered and have both semi and full-auto functions. The battery powers the motor, which turns the gear in a gearbox to initiate the firing mechanism. Auto mode AEG’s will shot BBs continuously as long as you hold down the trigger and the battery is charged. In semi-auto mode, the gun releases one BB each time you pull the trigger. These guns don’t need cocking.
What is the Right Gun for You?
When choosing the right gun, personal preference has a great role. Since most guns serve the same purpose and are very similar internally, you should choose one that you think looks cool and suits your needs. However, shotguns are available in different styles and qualities to suit different users.
Beginners
As a beginner, you should be keen on both the quality and price. It’s not advisable to invest in the most expensive airsoft shotgun if you’re just getting started. Some guns have a very high price tag, and if you find that airsoft is not for you, you might get disappointed.
Intermediate Players
If you’ve played airsoft severally and have one gun or a few airsoft guns, you’re probably thinking of getting a high-end shotgun. You should pay attention to features like a high capacity magazine and a high FPS of above 300. You can also buy extra magazines. If you’re looking for an airsoft shotgun, go for a non-blowback green gas airsoft gun. It’s relatively inexpensive and shoots hard.
Experienced Players
If you’re an experienced airsoft player, you know what features you need and the type of shotgun you’re looking for. If you have problems finding the right shotgun for your skills, pick one from the list below.
FAQs
What Airsoft Equipment or Tactical Gear Goes With Airsoft Shotguns?
You can choose tactical vests and plate carriers explicitly designed to hold more shotgun shells. You can also go with a side caddy and a bandolier. A combination of these options will make great combat gear for long missions.
Can I Reuse Airsoft Shotgun Shells?
Yes. Airsoft shotgun shells are reusable, but you need a speed loader to load them.
How Far Will an Airsoft Shotgun Shoot?
Most high-quality airsoft shotguns can hit your target to 100 feet or higher. However, if you use BBs that are heavier than 0.25g, you will notice that the range will drop significantly.
Are There Any Semi-auto Airsoft Shotguns?
Currently, airsoft technology has not gotten to the point of creating semi-auto shotguns.
Can I Remove the Orange Tip?
All airsoft guns in the United States should be sold with an orange tip to differentiate them from real firearms. By removing the orange tip, you might be violating federal laws.
Airsoft Shotgun Buying Guide
Buying the best airsoft shotgun can be a challenging task. Fortunately, there are some factors that you should be keen on when purchasing an airsoft gun that will suit your skill levels and needs. These include:
Durable Construction
This is a crucial factor to consider when looking for the best airsoft shotgun. If you plan to spend most of your time on the airsoft field, look for something that can withstand repeated use and daily abuse. A quality shotgun is one that’s made of high-quality materials.
Grip
Ensure you get an airsoft shotgun that feels safe in your hands and has a comfortable grip because it will determine your performance on the battlefield.
Ease of Use
You don’t want a shotgun that gives you trouble in the field. The best airsoft shotgun should be easy to handle and not take a lot of time to set up. A high-quality shotgun should come with the necessary accessories and easy-to-use settings.
Accuracy
The precision of an airsoft shotgun varies from model to model. The length of the barrel and accuracy are some factors you should be keen on. If you truly want to win the game, you must invest in a shotgun that offers optimal precision.
Budget
Some shotguns have a higher price tag. Always set a budget that will help you get an airsoft shotgun that suits all your needs. Research the models available and choose one that has the features you want at a fair price.
Final Thoughts
As far as airsoft games go, these shotguns will offer you an outstanding gaming experience. Although choosing an airsoft shotgun that matches your gaming skills can be challenging, our comprehensive guide will sort you out. However, ensure you go for an airsoft shotgun with the right specs that fall within your budget.
