What is FPS in Airsoft?

FPS, or feet per second, is the term used to describe the measure of velocity a BB (or bullet-like projectile) travels as it leaves the barrel of an Airsoft gun. It is a common and essential measure for Airsoft players, since the velocity of any given Airsoft gun is often a major factor in determining its performance and safety. In this article we will examine the history, terminology, and importance of FPS in Airsoft.

History of FPS in Airsoft

The history of FPS in Airsoft dates back to the sport's birth in the early 1990s in Japan. Back then, the most popular guns had an average muzzle velocity of 200 220 FPS. While this was sufficient for the time, as Airsoft developed and grew in popularity around the world, advancements in gun technology and design made it possible to increase the muzzle velocity of Airsoft guns. Today, many guns shoot at velocities of 350 FPS or higher.

Terminology and Units

When discussing FPS in Airsoft, there are several common terms that should be understood. The first is muzzle velocity, which is the FPS that a gun shoots at within 1 meter of the muzzle. The second is grouping, which measures the accuracy of a gun by how tight a grouping of BBs will stay at a given range. The third is hop-up, a device that increases accuracy by imparting a backspin on the BB, which helps it to stay in flight and fly further and straighter. Finally, the fourth term used to describe FPS in Airsoft is joules, which is a unit of energy meaning the amount of energy needed to move 1 Newton over a distance of one meter. 1 Joule is roughly equal to 0.7 foot-pounds of kinetic energy.

Importance of FPS

FPS is an important measure in Airsoft since players need to ensure their gun is adhering to certain standards and regulations. For instance, indoor fields require guns to shoot at velocities lower than the standard 350 FPS. It's also important to measure the accuracy of a gun by measuring its grouping. Finally, FPS can also be used to measure a gun's consistency and power, with higher FPS guns typically being more powerful than lower FPS guns.

Popular Trends and Potential Pitfalls

One of the popular trends in Airsoft is the use of AEG (automatic electric guns) which tend to come with higher FPS, better accuracy, and more power. However, these guns can sometimes be prone to jamming or other mechanical issues so players should be aware of this before investing in an AEG. In addition, players should also be aware of the potential risks associated with using guns that shoot higher than the standard 350 FPS, as they can be more powerful and cause more damage to opponents.

Insights

In summary, FPS is an important measure in Airsoft that players should be aware of when purchasing or using a gun. It is important to consider the regulations of the field, the accuracy of the gun, and the power of the gun. Furthermore, players should also be mindful of potential pitfalls, such as mechanical issues or higher muzzle velocities that can cause more damage than desired. Ultimately, by understanding the importance of FPS in Airsoft, players can ensure they're playing safely and having a great time.