What Is Green Gas In Airsoft?

Green gas is a propellant used in Airsoft replica firearms to generate the energy required to propel the BB projectile. It is filled in the Airsoft gun magazine. Green gas is a mixture composed mainly of propane and silicone oil, with some additional additives. The propellant works by providing a consistent and powerful pressure in order to get the BB to fly out of the barrel with enough power.

The Early Evolution of Green Gas

The use of green gas in Airsoft guns began in the country of origin, Japan. Prior to green gas, air guns were powered by spring power and air compressors. The idea of green gas originated in the early 1900's after propane was used in firearm designs in an attempt to create a more powerful and accurate gun. The compressed air in a pneumatic gun's cylinder was replaced by the evaporation of propane gas, resulting in a more powerful and more consistent shot.

The Development of Propane-powered Airsoft Replicas

Since then, the technology has been adapted and improved upon to make it suitable for use in Airsoft replicas. In the 1980s, the first prototypes of GBBs (Gas Blowback) appeared, utilizing the pressure generated by the vapor of green gas to operate the magazine-fed repetition semi-automatic firing system. The term GBB appears in the name as a reference to the action of the bolt being pushed back with each shot, similar to the action of a real firearm.

The design and technology of green gas firearms was refined over time, and by the 1990s, airsoft guns became widely available and popular in Japan and other Asian markets. By mid-2000s, the technology was adapted to use in some of the most popular replica Airsoft models.

How Green Gas Works?

Green gas is stored in a pressurized canister and vaporized when rapidly released through a valve at the bottom of the canister. The propellant gas is then introduced into the gun through the magazine and is subjected to the pressure generated by the gas, creating propulsion for the BBs. As the pressure reduces, the gas can be refilled in the magazine by a manual pump or valve on the magazine.

Safety Concerns

Green gas is highly flammable, and therefore must be used in a safe and controlled environment. It should not be stored for long periods of time, as it can cause corrosion and damage to the gun. Additionally, it should not be used in poorly ventilated rooms as the gas is toxic and inhalation of the gas can cause health problems.

Green Gas Alternatives

Green gas is not the only type of propellant available for use in airsoft guns. Other gases, such as red gas, CO2 and HPA (High Pressure Air) are also used in gas blowback guns. Of these, HPA is the most popular and is widely used for a number of reasons. HPA is a clean, dry gas with low fire risk, allowing for more consistent performance than other gas propellants.

Advantages of Different Types of Propellant Gas

The pros and cons of using each type of propellant will depend on the environment and intended use of the replica. Green gas is generally the easiest to use and the most affordable, but its temperature sensitivity can potentially cause weak and inconsistent performance. Red gas and CO2 are often more reliable, but they require frequent recharging and are also temperature sensitive. HPA, on the other hand, provides the most consistent performance in any temperature and the refill rate is much slower.

Insights

Green gas is a popular and effective propellant used in airsoft guns that offers the user an easy and reliable way to propel the BB projectile. Its relatively low cost and ease of use make it a popular choice for many airsoft enthusiasts. However, it is important to be aware of the potential safety risks associated with the gas, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of other gases such as CO2 and HPA.