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Gas blowback (GBB) airsoft guns have maintained their popularity over the years, and at the heart of their performance lies green gas. Or, at least, that's what most airsofters will typically be running in their replica. While regular ol' green gas is the most universal tool for powering your gas blowback, there are quite a few other gas options on the market that might be able to better tailor your gas blowback action more to your liking. In this article, we'll explore the crucial role of gas selection in GBB guns, why optimizing your GBB can prove beneficial, and how to do it effectively.
Before we delve into the myriad of options, let's set some groundwork for best gas blowback care practices. First and foremost, so long as your gas has silicone integrated into it's mixture, it is best to keep your magazines pressurized with it for storage. The silicone lubricant will press against your seals, keeping them moisturized and protected against long term dry-damage the rubber seals can experience. In the case of CO2 magazines, remove the CO2 cartridge from the magazine for storage. The high pressure of a CO2 cartridge will slowly compress and damage the sealing membrane if left inside a magazine for too long. If you're planning on filling your magazines with CO2 cartridges the day before the game to save time, or playing in an extended event where they need to be ready with CO2 for a few days, then that's typically fine. Keeping CO2 for months at a time however is when damages typically begin to show. Most airsoft grade CO2 does have a little silicon oil integrated into the mixture, but adding a drop to the sealing membrane when installing a new cartridge can improve its lifespan significantly.
Best practices aside, let's get into the meat and potatoes! Here are some of the alternative gas options you can use to power your GBB replica!
Different PSI Gas Variants
Some companies offer specialized gas blends designed to enhance airsoft gun performance. These alternatives to traditional green gas can provide advantages such as improved consistency and reduced cooldown effects. The airsoft veterans out there may remember the days of Red and Black gas, which were popular green gas alternatives at the time. Many players began to become accustomed to using these higher pressure blends for better performance in colder temperatures. Over the years, its popularity as a choice waned, leading to Green Gas alone being the most popular choice. However, as of 2023, some new options have entered the market for gas blowback power versatility.
Swiss Arms Green Gas Bottle (Model: Lubricated / 600ml / 150 PSI / Single Bottle)
Unlike regular green gas, which usually operates at or around 130-115 PSI depending on the brand, Swiss Arms offers a can of gas coming in at a whopping 150 PSI. This increased pressure translates to a more potent propellant force, setting the stage for remarkable performance enhancements in the right situation. One of the standout features of Swiss Arms 150 PSI Green Gas is its remarkable resilience in colder weather conditions. When the mercury drops, standard green gas might struggle to maintain consistent power output. However, Swiss Arms 150 PSI gas remains steadfast, ensuring your airsoft gun performs reliably, even in chilly environments. This higher pressure gas can, in some cases, raise your muzzle velocity: If you're seeking to boost your airsoft gun's muzzle velocity, Swiss Arms 150 PSI Green Gas can be the mixture you're looking for. The higher pressure can result in increased velocity, offering you a power advantage on the field. Keep in mind, if you plan to use this gas, absolutely make sure you chrono your rifle using it. If you're caught using a higher pressure gas that you didn't chrono on, you could be suspended or banned from your local field.
An important consideration to take note of is that a higher power gas WILL put more stress on your internals, especially the nozzle. Running this gas on hot day is a good way to blast your GBBs nozzle into pieces. If you want to use this gas regularly for it's increased power,
Reasons you may want to use 150 PSI gas:
Swiss Arms Green Gas Bottle (Model: Non-Lubricated / 600ml / 110 PSI / Single Bottle)
On the other end of the spectrum, Swiss Arms also has their 110 PSI Light Gas option. Although upon first glance, it may seem like an option just for less internal stress and FPS reduction, here's an odd phenomenon we've discovered here at Evike.com: The Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa and Glock actually show some improved recoil and consistency when using this lighter gas. Now, initially, that may sound preposterous. How can a lower pressure increase felt recoil? Here's our theory: Every time you pull the trigger on a primed gas blowback, a spring is slamming a metal knocker into your gas release valve. If you've ever felt a gas magazine's release valve, you'll recall that it's firm when gassed and soft when empty. When using a heavier gas, that valve is even more firm than it normally would be. If a heavier gas means a firmer release valve and your metal knocker doesn't have the power behind it to depress the valve completely, you'll end up with less gas released in total. Since Tokyo Marui pistols are designed with plastic slides and lower power gas in mind, their stock hammer springs are typically also weaker. Using 110 PSI allows that weaker hammer spring to take in more gas per shot, allowing for better consistency and felt recoil despite the lower pressure.
Hopefully that small case study snippet shed some light on the fascinating mechanics behind gas blowbacks. Beyond Tokyo Marui gas pistols, 110 PSI Light Gas may be able to get you the lower FPS you need to allow your rifle to pass chrono. Though, if running a heavier bolt or slide, the lower power gas might not be enough to properly cycle your rifle. While this gas may be able to give the mechanics of your replica a better balance of power/pressure, be sure to consider whether the components of your airsoft GBB would work well with it!
Reasons you may want to use 110 PSI gas:
To lube or not to lube?
Checking out the different PSI gas options, you may have noticed that they offer non-lubricated gas variants. If silicon oil lubrication keeps the seals moisturized and running smoothly, why wouldn't you want silicon oil integrated? Here's the thing: Gas gets everywhere on a GBB. The unavoidable reality is that with integrated silicon, though it will keep a good seal on your O-ring components for longer, you'll be getting some of that oil where you don't want it. The oil will begin to build up in your inner barrel, graze the sides of your BB, and even make its way your hop up bucking. This can negatively impact accuracy if your goal is maximum shot-to-shot consistency. Furthermore, if you're running PTFE grease, that silicon can start to coat the PTFE, making it sticky.
If you demand precision and are willing to strenuously upkeep your rifle, non-lubricated green gas might be your calling. If you just want your rifle to work without too much extra hassle, lubricated does the job just fine.
Alternatives to Gas? What are the pros and cons?
CO2
CO2 cartridges are a common alternative to Green Gas. They offer several advantages, such as higher FPS and consistent power output in lower temperatures, making them suitable for a wider variety of airsoft scenarios. CO2 is particularly favored for its adaptability in different weather conditions, as it is less affected by temperature fluctuations. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The higher pressure of CO2 can potentially wear down your airsoft gun over time, and it provides less control over FPS compared to Green Gas as pressure decreases with each shot. Installing a new CO2 cartridge after one is emptied is also more time consuming than the 5 second fill green gas has the luxury of. Compatibility with magazines may also be limited, so it's essential to check if your airsoft gun supports CO2.
This CO2 comes pre-lubricated to keep your seals maintained! ASG ULTRAIR 12 Gram CO2 Lubrication Cartridge Kit (Type: Box of 10)
HPA (High-Pressure Air)
High-Pressure Air, or HPA, is another popular alternative propellant for airsoft gas guns. HPA systems allow for precise control over FPS, offering consistent performance in all weather conditions. There are primarily three different ways to run HPA through your gas gun: AEG Mag adapters for maximum ammo capacity and some retained realism, running a modified AEG Hi-cap mag, or simply replacing the gas fill valve of your gas magazine with a HPA tap. These options all have their pros and cons, but that deserves it's own article for discussion. Do always keep in mind that setting up an HPA system can be costly as it requires an external air source, which may limit its availability at some airsoft fields.
Primary Airsoft makes a crazy AEG M4 mag to Hi-Capa/Glock adapter! Check it out here!
Primary Airsoft HPA to M4 Magazine Adapter for Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistols (Model: TM Hi-CAPA 5.1)
Propane with Adapters
For those on a budget, propane with adapters is a cost-effective alternative to Green Gas. Propane is readily available, making it an attractive option for airsofters. However, it's important to note that propane lacks the silicone oil found in Green Gas, so additional lubrication is necessary to prevent wear and tear on your airsoft gun. Additionally, propane can have a distinct odor, which may be noticeable during gameplay. Other than that, it functions just like ordinary green gas with a tiny more power behind it.
This one works great!: Evike.com CNC Aluminum Propane Adapter w/ Integrated Silicone Port (Package: Adapter)
Exploring alternatives to running green gas in your airsoft gas blowback can open up a world of possibilities for enhancing your gameplay experience. Each alternative has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, so it's essential to choose the one that aligns with your preferences and playing style. Whether you prioritize consistency, power, or maintenance time-effectiveness, there's a propellant option out there to elevate your airsoft game.
Before we delve into the myriad of options, let's set some groundwork for best gas blowback care practices. First and foremost, so long as your gas has silicone integrated into it's mixture, it is best to keep your magazines pressurized with it for storage. The silicone lubricant will press against your seals, keeping them moisturized and protected against long term dry-damage the rubber seals can experience. In the case of CO2 magazines, remove the CO2 cartridge from the magazine for storage. The high pressure of a CO2 cartridge will slowly compress and damage the sealing membrane if left inside a magazine for too long. If you're planning on filling your magazines with CO2 cartridges the day before the game to save time, or playing in an extended event where they need to be ready with CO2 for a few days, then that's typically fine. Keeping CO2 for months at a time however is when damages typically begin to show. Most airsoft grade CO2 does have a little silicon oil integrated into the mixture, but adding a drop to the sealing membrane when installing a new cartridge can improve its lifespan significantly.
Best practices aside, let's get into the meat and potatoes! Here are some of the alternative gas options you can use to power your GBB replica!
Different PSI Gas Variants
Some companies offer specialized gas blends designed to enhance airsoft gun performance. These alternatives to traditional green gas can provide advantages such as improved consistency and reduced cooldown effects. The airsoft veterans out there may remember the days of Red and Black gas, which were popular green gas alternatives at the time. Many players began to become accustomed to using these higher pressure blends for better performance in colder temperatures. Over the years, its popularity as a choice waned, leading to Green Gas alone being the most popular choice. However, as of 2023, some new options have entered the market for gas blowback power versatility.
Unlike regular green gas, which usually operates at or around 130-115 PSI depending on the brand, Swiss Arms offers a can of gas coming in at a whopping 150 PSI. This increased pressure translates to a more potent propellant force, setting the stage for remarkable performance enhancements in the right situation. One of the standout features of Swiss Arms 150 PSI Green Gas is its remarkable resilience in colder weather conditions. When the mercury drops, standard green gas might struggle to maintain consistent power output. However, Swiss Arms 150 PSI gas remains steadfast, ensuring your airsoft gun performs reliably, even in chilly environments. This higher pressure gas can, in some cases, raise your muzzle velocity: If you're seeking to boost your airsoft gun's muzzle velocity, Swiss Arms 150 PSI Green Gas can be the mixture you're looking for. The higher pressure can result in increased velocity, offering you a power advantage on the field. Keep in mind, if you plan to use this gas, absolutely make sure you chrono your rifle using it. If you're caught using a higher pressure gas that you didn't chrono on, you could be suspended or banned from your local field.
An important consideration to take note of is that a higher power gas WILL put more stress on your internals, especially the nozzle. Running this gas on hot day is a good way to blast your GBBs nozzle into pieces. If you want to use this gas regularly for it's increased power,
Reasons you may want to use 150 PSI gas:
- Improved performance in colder temperatures.
- Can improve FPS in some cases.
- Can slightly improve felt recoil (Do read more about this in the 110 PSI section next)
- More resistant to cooldown.
- Can help with feeding issues in some cases.
On the other end of the spectrum, Swiss Arms also has their 110 PSI Light Gas option. Although upon first glance, it may seem like an option just for less internal stress and FPS reduction, here's an odd phenomenon we've discovered here at Evike.com: The Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa and Glock actually show some improved recoil and consistency when using this lighter gas. Now, initially, that may sound preposterous. How can a lower pressure increase felt recoil? Here's our theory: Every time you pull the trigger on a primed gas blowback, a spring is slamming a metal knocker into your gas release valve. If you've ever felt a gas magazine's release valve, you'll recall that it's firm when gassed and soft when empty. When using a heavier gas, that valve is even more firm than it normally would be. If a heavier gas means a firmer release valve and your metal knocker doesn't have the power behind it to depress the valve completely, you'll end up with less gas released in total. Since Tokyo Marui pistols are designed with plastic slides and lower power gas in mind, their stock hammer springs are typically also weaker. Using 110 PSI allows that weaker hammer spring to take in more gas per shot, allowing for better consistency and felt recoil despite the lower pressure.
Hopefully that small case study snippet shed some light on the fascinating mechanics behind gas blowbacks. Beyond Tokyo Marui gas pistols, 110 PSI Light Gas may be able to get you the lower FPS you need to allow your rifle to pass chrono. Though, if running a heavier bolt or slide, the lower power gas might not be enough to properly cycle your rifle. While this gas may be able to give the mechanics of your replica a better balance of power/pressure, be sure to consider whether the components of your airsoft GBB would work well with it!
Reasons you may want to use 110 PSI gas:
- Possible lower FPS.
- Can improve consistency when used with the right replica.
- Can be a better option for hot days if you're concerned about the pressure being too high.
- Less wear and tear on internals.
To lube or not to lube?
Checking out the different PSI gas options, you may have noticed that they offer non-lubricated gas variants. If silicon oil lubrication keeps the seals moisturized and running smoothly, why wouldn't you want silicon oil integrated? Here's the thing: Gas gets everywhere on a GBB. The unavoidable reality is that with integrated silicon, though it will keep a good seal on your O-ring components for longer, you'll be getting some of that oil where you don't want it. The oil will begin to build up in your inner barrel, graze the sides of your BB, and even make its way your hop up bucking. This can negatively impact accuracy if your goal is maximum shot-to-shot consistency. Furthermore, if you're running PTFE grease, that silicon can start to coat the PTFE, making it sticky.
If you demand precision and are willing to strenuously upkeep your rifle, non-lubricated green gas might be your calling. If you just want your rifle to work without too much extra hassle, lubricated does the job just fine.
Alternatives to Gas? What are the pros and cons?
CO2
CO2 cartridges are a common alternative to Green Gas. They offer several advantages, such as higher FPS and consistent power output in lower temperatures, making them suitable for a wider variety of airsoft scenarios. CO2 is particularly favored for its adaptability in different weather conditions, as it is less affected by temperature fluctuations. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The higher pressure of CO2 can potentially wear down your airsoft gun over time, and it provides less control over FPS compared to Green Gas as pressure decreases with each shot. Installing a new CO2 cartridge after one is emptied is also more time consuming than the 5 second fill green gas has the luxury of. Compatibility with magazines may also be limited, so it's essential to check if your airsoft gun supports CO2.
This CO2 comes pre-lubricated to keep your seals maintained! ASG ULTRAIR 12 Gram CO2 Lubrication Cartridge Kit (Type: Box of 10)
HPA (High-Pressure Air)
High-Pressure Air, or HPA, is another popular alternative propellant for airsoft gas guns. HPA systems allow for precise control over FPS, offering consistent performance in all weather conditions. There are primarily three different ways to run HPA through your gas gun: AEG Mag adapters for maximum ammo capacity and some retained realism, running a modified AEG Hi-cap mag, or simply replacing the gas fill valve of your gas magazine with a HPA tap. These options all have their pros and cons, but that deserves it's own article for discussion. Do always keep in mind that setting up an HPA system can be costly as it requires an external air source, which may limit its availability at some airsoft fields.
Primary Airsoft makes a crazy AEG M4 mag to Hi-Capa/Glock adapter! Check it out here!
Primary Airsoft HPA to M4 Magazine Adapter for Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistols (Model: TM Hi-CAPA 5.1)
Propane with Adapters
For those on a budget, propane with adapters is a cost-effective alternative to Green Gas. Propane is readily available, making it an attractive option for airsofters. However, it's important to note that propane lacks the silicone oil found in Green Gas, so additional lubrication is necessary to prevent wear and tear on your airsoft gun. Additionally, propane can have a distinct odor, which may be noticeable during gameplay. Other than that, it functions just like ordinary green gas with a tiny more power behind it.
This one works great!: Evike.com CNC Aluminum Propane Adapter w/ Integrated Silicone Port (Package: Adapter)
Exploring alternatives to running green gas in your airsoft gas blowback can open up a world of possibilities for enhancing your gameplay experience. Each alternative has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, so it's essential to choose the one that aligns with your preferences and playing style. Whether you prioritize consistency, power, or maintenance time-effectiveness, there's a propellant option out there to elevate your airsoft game.