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Here. Here is where it ends. Though the M4 platform has taken role as the dominant platform of choice in today's airsoft world, that doesn't mean that all other options are obsolete. There are wide variety of unique platforms that have what it takes to excel and exceed on the competitive airsoft field. Some of them just need to be given a chance! While there's no denying that the M4 system is tried and true, supported by an endless sea of upgrade parts to let you modify it to your hearts desire, certain other platforms simply work great as is without need for modification. In this article, we'll dive in to the underrated, non-M4 gems of the airsoft world. By illustrating the pros and cons of each platform, we hope to aid you in choosing your next airsoft platform to dominate the battlefield with!
Top 5 Best Performing Non-M4s
The UTR45 is a true diamond in the rough of the airsoft world. This UMP45 inspired AEG compromises on nothing to let itself stand out as an ideal M4 alternative. So long as the form-factor fits your fancy, the UTR is just as modular as any M4. With M-LOK and picatinny rail sections available, the UTR has plenty of room for attachments, allowing you to customize your rifle's utility to meet the situation's demands. Additionally, the UTR is fully internally compatible with the same aftermarket parts an M4 can take, as it utilizes a M4 V2 Gearbox and hop-up system. Though you have the freedom to upgrade this rifle's internals as you see fit, you honestly might not need to with how well it performs stock. The UTR takes advantage of an optical-MOSFET system right out of the box, making the trigger pull extremely smooth and easy to find a fast semi-auto with. The UTR MOSFET is also fully programmable, allowing you to change trigger sensitivity, firing modes, and even set your trigger into binary mode if that's what you prefer. To top it all off, the UTR also utilizes a quick change spring feature to allow for easy FPS changes without the need for full disassembly.
Pros:
- Sub ~$200 price.
- Options for a metal upper receiver or a polymer upper receiver depending on your preferences/budget.
- Optical MOSFET installed right from the factory.
- Plenty of room for attachments.
- Fully compatible with the same internal parts as an M4.
- Quick change spring system for easy FPS adjustments.
Cons:
- Uses a proprietary UTR magazine.
- Polymer is acceptable, but some other brands definitely offer a superior plastic.
- Uhhh... average accuracy out of the box? This thing is pretty damn good, it's hard to criticize!
The design of the CZ Bren hits a sweet spot in the realm of gun design. It's the perfect blend of seriousness and uniqueness, taking a form that's close but not quite the same as the more recognizable FN SCAR-L. By taking one of these on to the field, you're sure to get a few players asking what it is you're running. The aluminum and reinforced polymer give the CZ Bren an authentic firearm feel that few other platforms are able to meet, making this AEG perfect for someone searching for a more realistic experience. To keep it user friendly, the Bren uses standard M4 magazines that are widely available on the airsoft market. It's stock performance is admirable, and it can be further upgraded due to the standard V3 gearbox design it takes advantage of. For those who want to stand out with something rugged, realistic, versatile, and effective, take a look at the CZ Bren!
Pros:
- Unique rifle design that's sure to catch the eye of a curious player.
- Incredibly well built exterior to give it a highly realistic, quality feel.
- Solid out the box performance thanks to the King Arms internals/MOSFET
- Foldable stock for storage/tight engagements.
- V3 Gearbox compatible for upgrades
- Quick change spring system for easy FPS adjustments.
Cons:
- Comparatively on the heavier end of AEGs.
- Standard trigger contacts (Though this could be a Pro for those who prefer reliability)
- Bulky
For our airsofters more dedicated to high-speed competitive performance, the G&G PCC45 is for you. Taking advantage of G&Gs exceptional G2 gearbox, the PCC45 holds the potential to unleash a storm of BBs in semi-automatic. G&Gs E.T.U. Microswitch takes your traditional mechanically limited trigger contacts and evolves them into a tactile button capable of being quickly feathered for super fast follow up shots. The PCC45 specifically uses the 4th generation of their E.T.U. which features some of the best reliability and burnout protection G&G has to offer thus far. Though mostly polymer, The PCC45 feels more solid than some cheaper full metal rifles. Something about the specific blend of polymer G&G uses brings what would normally be a less durable budget material into something highly lightweight, competitive, and robust. Dominate your next game with this incredible AEG!
Pros:
- Utilizes G&G's E.T.U. for lightning quick trigger response.
- Arguably the nicest polymer available on the airsoft market.
- M-LOK and Picatinny ready for attachments.
- V2 Gearbox internals, making it accepting of most aftermarket internal upgrades.
- Above average range and accuracy right out of the box.
Cons:
- The stock is pretty extended and is non-adjustable, making it a little uncomfortable for those with smaller wingspans.
- Proprietary magazines that are on the more expensive side of things.
- Charging handle can feel a little flimsy.
This is airsoft. You don't need a stock to absorb/handle recoil! The Echo 1 GAT is perfect for those who fully take advantage of the run-and-gun playstyle more intense airsoft games can cater to. Coming right out of the box at a perfect 340 FPS, the GAT is ideal for indoor games. It's quick trigger response and super-compact profile allow you quickly take advantageous positions and take shots around corners with ease.
Pros:
- One of the most compact full-power AEGs on the market.
- Durable metal construction that ensures this SMG will stay put together under heavy use.
- Though the gearbox is a little unique, it's still compatible with most V3 internal parts.
- Can operate as a sidearm as well.
- Sub ~$200 Price Point.
Cons:
- Proprietary magazines.
- Not very attachment friendly
- Grip is required since it operates as a battery storage.
Though many less-common firearm platforms have been lost to obscurity in the airsoft world, Krytac made sure that the P90 would be done it's due justice. This iconic square submachine gun known for its appearance in video games and movies also functions fantastically on the airsoft field. A common plague many of these unusual platforms deal with is poor trigger design, leading to a sluggish and unresponsive trigger feel. Krytac has excelled in remediating this common flaw, mixing a microswitch trigger design with a high-end gearbox to give the Krytac P90 a smooth shooting experience that competing platforms often fail to meet. Combine this with their 200 round magazines that automatically disconnect the trigger when the magazine is empty and you'll be left with one of the most impressive AEG replicas airsoft has to offer!
Pros:
- High capacity mid-cap magazines.
- High quality build construction that mimics the feel of the real thing.
- Smooth trigger pull that allows for quick semi-automatic action.
- Krytac Gearboxes are notably some of the most reliable in the whole industry.
- Super compact design that makes round corners a breeze.
Cons:
- Ergonomically weird. The feel isn't necessarily bad, but it's not for everyone.
- The 200 round magazines are expensive. (Though it still works decently with regular P90 magazines)
- Small battery space.
- Limited upgradability.
- Iron sights are almost nonexistent. I would recommend a small red dot!
Sure, M4s are easy and convenient to use. All that means is when you dominate the field with something that isn't an M4, it just shows how impressive of an airsoft player you are! Add some variety to your arsenal today with one of these high performance AEGs!