5 Best Airsoft M4 / AR-15 Guns for 2021
The M4 is one of the most popular airsoft rifles in the US (and maybe in the world) because it is perfect in CQB situations, it’s easily upgradeable and customizable, and accepts magazines from other M4 designs. Basically, the M4 is one of the less picky designs on the airsoft market. But, if you dig a bit deeper, at the very base of this platform you’ll find the AR-15 (or the Armalite Rifle model 15). While in the airsoft world you won’t find that many AR-15s, in the real steel world, the platform is held in high regard. Designed for civilian use, the real steel AR-15 only has semi-automatic fire mode, which is why it is so popular among real gun users. AR-15 vs. M4 The difference is well documented: the AR-15 was designed for civilian use (hence the semi-auto limitation) while the M4 (and its cousin, M16) were intended for military use (these can fire in full auto mode). In the airsoft world, where players can use rifles that fire in full-auto mode, it’s easy to understand why the M4 and M16 platforms are so popular and why the AR-15 is rare. After all, unless you truly want to use a semi-auto rifle, why would you go with this version? Most companies that do produce AR-15 airsoft rifles do so because they want to create a loyal replica of a beloved real-steel weapon. Factors that Matter for the Best M4 Rifle Now, since the M4 is extremely popular among airsofters, we will discuss the features that apply to this rifle model. However, since the AR-15 follows the same platform, the same features will apply. Quality of Internals I always recommend a rifle with a metal gearbox and metal gears. This is the basic requirement of a durable rifle that gives the user a good game experience. If the internals are plastic, the rifle won’t be as powerful and for sure won’t hold for longer than a few games! Yes, metallic internals usually means a more expensive gun, but you can choose rifles designed by brands like CYMA or ICS, which are famous for their affordable, but reliable products. I am not saying that reputable brands don’t have their duds, but it’s easier to identify a rifle with good internals. Finally, make sure you choose an airsoft rifle with adjustable hop-up. This is important for getting the right backspin on your BBs since each model has a different approach to shooting the BB out of the barrel. Power Because the best M4 airsoft rifles get most of the CQB action, the muzzle velocity (measured in FPS) is important. I hear and see airsofters bragging about their high-end rifle, with 400+FPS that will lay waste on their enemies. But high muzzle velocity, in a game of airsoft with other competitors, can be a downside. Powerful rifles can inflict injuries on other players and can get you disqualified from the game. Most M4 and Ar-15 rifles will get you about 350 FPS,…
