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That’s where AEGS come into the picture. With most able to fire as fast as you can pull the trigger without the shooter having to pull the bolt back each time, AEGs make excellent airsoft guns. However, there is usually one major downfall of airsoft AEGs; and that is the price.
To have an electric airsoft gun use to mean forking over hundreds of dollars. That’s not the case anymore. With the advancements in technology and demand for AEGs at an all-time high, it is now possible to get a good quality electric gun and on a budget.
What we’ve done is taken the time to put together a list of cheap electric airsoft guns that, while they may be cheap in price, still retain an excellent quality. The guns on our list are great substitutions for those high-dollar guns that make you break the bank.
BBTAC M83
- Weight: 6 lbs.
- Length:
- Skill Level: Beginner
As far as beginner AEGs go, the BBTac M83 is definitely a leader of the pack. Designed to be a full replica of the M16 assault rifle, the M83 has excellent accuracy in a sturdy, durable build. There’s no wonder why the M83 is so popular among novice and expert players alike.
Weighing in at six lbs., the M83 is easy to carry and won’t cause you to grow tired, ever after hauling it all day. The sturdy, fully adjustable stock and fore grip allow the M83 to be adjusted to fit the shooter. This feature allows for more comfort for an extended amount of time. Additionally, the M83 guns with fully metal sling hooks for those times where you need to carry it on your back through challenging terrain.
A rechargeable battery powers the high-grade electric that gives it a shooting velocity of around 250 feet per second, getting it a max range of around 75 feet. However, the adjustable hop-up feature can allow you to dial in the range, making it possible to accurately hit 100+ feet away, depending on the weight of your ammo.
Perhaps an impressive feature on the M83 and the reason why most people want an AEG in the first place is its ability to shoot in semi-automatic, as well as full-automatic. With the high rate of fire possible on full-auto, you’ll shoot the 40 bbs the magazine holds in as little as 5 seconds.
The M83 is fully customizable, as well. With upper and lower Picatinny rails, you can add any accessories you wish. Furthermore, the M83 comes with a red dot scope, flashlight, and a laser sight; all included in the box. These add-ons make the deal on the M83 even sweeter. This gun is the perfect starter kit for anyone looking to get into airsoft.
Kalashnikov AK47
- Weight: 4.6 lbs.
- Length: 36.5 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner-Advanced
Designed to be rugged and durable, the Kalashnikov AK47 is the perfect replica of its real steel counterpart. Just as the original AK47 aims to take the roughest abuse possible and keep firing, the airsoft version is one of the most dependable rifles on our list. Additionally, it is one of the most exciting and comfortable guns to shoot.
The magazine on the AK47 holds up to 300 rounds, allowing the shooter the ability to send more shots down range. However, with the setting on full-auto, you will go through those rounds in less in than 5 seconds. The gun can also be fired in semi-auto, giving you more control over the fire rate.
The battery that comes with the AK47 is amazing. With only 3 hours of charge on it during testing, the gun lasted all day and never showed any signs of losing power. The gun can shoot upwards of 80 feet and 250 feet per second, giving it excellent accuracy at such a low cost.
One of the fears in purchasing a cheap electric airsoft gun is that the plastic will be inexpensive and break easily. With this AK47, that fear is quickly laid to rest. When you first pick up the gun, you can tell it is well made and capable of withstanding any abuse put on it. The high-grade ABS polymer body and metal inner workings allow his gun to shoot consistently, regardless of the scenario being played out.
What we found to be excellent about this AK is that, during testing, there were very few misfires. Anybody wanting a durable, consistent gun to get started in airsoft with would be extremely pleased with the rifle. You will be hard pressed to find another gun of this quality at such a low price.
Well M1 D69
- Weight: 4 lbs.
- Length: 36 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner
Fashioned after the WWII Carbine, the M1, the Well M1 D69 features the same marvelous look and feel of its real steel counterpart. When you first pick up the Well D69, you’ll feel the same sturdiness and construction that WWII soldiers came to trust. Though not made of metal, the D69’s High-Grade ABS Polymer will give any shooter the degree of confidence you expect in a gun, even at such a low price.
Able to hold 100 rounds, the D69’s stick magazine looks exactly like the real thing. The battery powering the gun is capable of firing rounds at an amazing 300 feet per second. Additionally, the gun does have the select fire options that most shooters desire on AEGs. The D69 is capable of shooting in both semi-auto and full-auto modes. You’ll be emptying your magazine on as little as 3 seconds in full auto.
What we like about the D69, and the reason we wanted it on our list, was because of how simple it is to operate. Well, the designer of the D69, built the WWII replica with simplicity in mind. The magazine is easy to snap into place as well as the battery goes securely into the butt of the gun. Any aged player looking for an entry level gun that is easy to learn the basics with will not be disappointed in the D69.
Though it has no ability to hold accessories directly on the gun, the iron sights that are attached to the rifle allow the shooter to be extremely accurate. They do adjust, allowing you to compensate for the wind, length, and the size of the round. Overall, this gun is perfect for any skirmish you wish to engage. It will continue to shoot consistently round after round.
Soft Air FN Scar-L
- Weight: 5 lbs.
- Length: 34 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner
For an excellent entry-level gun for an amazing price, the Soft Air FN Scar-L is the perfect gun. Fashioned after the same gun the Marines use, the Scar-L is sure to please any level of shooter.
Though made of high-grade plastic, the Scar-L feels just as solid as the metal, higher priced, versions. An excellent rechargeable battery powers the Scar-L. Even after 45 minutes on the charger during testing, it can pop round off at over 300 feet per second. Not to mention, the battery last longer than any gun on the list, giving you more time in the field and allowing you more rounds down range.
Designed to be a replica of the real steel Scar, the iron sights on this airsoft version sit high on the gun. Though they can be folded down to allow for increased optics, the iron sights, alone, allow you to be accurate to over 100 ft. With a magazine that can hold 200 bbs in its reserve chamber, that equals the Scar-L being an important part of your arsenal.
A feature that comes on the Scar-L that isn’t common among cheap airsoft guns is the fact that the stock is capable of being collapsed and adjusted. This feature allows the shooter to change the position of the weapon quickly to accommodate for different shooting styles. Whether you want the gun set up for long range takedowns or close-quarter combat, the Scar-L can be adjusted to meet your needs.
Though no accessories, other than the foregrip, come with the gun, the Scar-L has a Picatinny rail system that allows for the addition of whichever accessories and optics you might have or desire. The gun is perfect for any level of shooter looking to add a cheap gun to their arsenal. Its consistency during tests will make it an excellent and trustworthy gun.
BBTAC BT-022
- Weight: 3.6 lbs.
- Length: 36.5 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner
Designed after the infamous AK-47, the BBTac BT-022 is the perfect replica in the looks and feel of the gun. Designed to withstand the struggles of any scenario, the BT-022 can hold its own during any skirmish.
BBTAC intends for this to be a low-budget alternative to the higher-priced competitors. Thus the BT-022 is made up entirely of high-grade plastic construction. Don’t let that fool you, though. The gun is solid and feels just as expensive as those higher in price.
The BT-022 is entirely electric, so the semi-auto and full-auto firing modes are capable on this gun. However, the reason we wanted the BT-022 on our list was the adjustable hop-up addition. Not seen on many cheap AEGs, this adjustable hop-up allows the BT-022 to have enhanced accuracy at longer distances. By adjusting for the curve of the bb, the BT-022 can easily reach distances of 100 feet or more without breaking a sweat.
Built for sheer dependability and not customizability, the BT-022 doesn’t have any rails for added optics or accessories. However, during testing, the adjustable iron sights on the BT-022 proved to be extremely useful. The rear sight can be raised and lowered, as well as adjusted to compensate for the shooting conditions and weight of the round. These sights more than made up for the inability to add additional optics.
This gun is ready to shoot directly out of the package. No assembly is required; just place in the battery and load the high-capacity mag and you are golden. The banana clip style of the magazine is built to mimic the real thing and can hold 300 bbs in its reservoir chamber. All in all, this gun is recommended to those looking for an authentic replica at an incredibly low price; you will be glad you bought this gun.
Navy Commando M-16
- Weight: 6 lbs.
- Length: 37 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner
For a great started gun that’s easy on the wallet but impressive on the features, the Navy Commando M-16 is the right gun for you. Designed as a replica, as far as size is concerned, for the military-issued M-16, the Navy Commando version gives you an excellent tactical style AEG at a remarkably low price.
Amazingly, during testing, this M-16 held its own against some very high priced guns in both accuracy and consistency, something rare in cheaper guns. Additionally, weighing in at 6 pounds, the gun feels exceptionally sturdy in the hands of even a novice shooter.
The features that come with this gun are excellent, and the reason we wanted to ensure this M-16 was on our list. The gun comes with a laser sight, red dot scope, foregrip, flashlight, along with two Picatinny rails that are big enough to hold any other accessories you may want. These features and accessories make the M-16 the perfect tactical gun, especially since it also has select fire between semi-auto and full-auto.
The stock magazine holds around 50 bbs. It doesn’t have a reservoir chamber but does have a speed loader, making reloading simply and fast. The rate of fire provided by the rechargeable battery is amazing as well. In semi-auto, you’ll be able to shoot as quickly as you can pull the trigger, which itself has a smooth, light pull. Also, in full-auto, the mag will empty in roughly 5 seconds; impressive for a cheap AEG.
Another fantastic feature of this gun is its ease of use. No matter what age the player is, this gun will be simple to use and allows for even the most novice of players to be an effective tool in the airsoft war. The magazine is easy to seat into position and incredibly easy to load, meaning even the youngest of players can use it safely, making it great for parents as well.
Double Eagle M85p
- Weight: 6 lbs.
- Length: 32 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner
Perhaps the best gun on our list is the Double Eagle M85p by BBTac. Considered an LPEG (Low-powered electric gun) do to its entirely plastic assembly, the M85p can still keep up with the big guns. For the usability and customizability of the M85, it is perfect for entry-level players looking to see what airsoft is all about.
The firing rate of the M85p is unlike any other gun on our list. Like any other AEGs, it can select between semi-auto and full-auto modes, as well as a working safety. In full auto, the 7.2-volt rechargeable battery-powered gearbox and crank out the rounds impressively at 500 rounds per minutes at approximately 260 feet per second.
Looking for a gun that will break down for tight fits? The M85p is it. The mock silencer easily unscrews, and the stock can collapse onto itself, making the gun’s length be nearly cut in half. This adaptability allows you to maneuver through tight quarters and efficiently clear buildings and obstacles.
The battery life on the M85p is also unlike any other gun on our list. During testing, the 7.2-volt battery was able to give 8 hours of shooting per charge before any difference in shooting quality was noticed. Additionally, the M95’s construction allows for easy access to the battery for recharging or replacing while in combat.
The included attachments on the gun are potentially what makes it such a great deal. It comes with a red-dot scope, bright flashlight, foregrip, laser, and carrying strap. Additionally, there a three weaver rails for any addition accessories. The Gun looks as mean as it shoots with the mock bullets on the magazine and all-black finish. It is truly a great gun and will not leave you empty-handed on the battlefield.
Double Eagle CQB 614
- Weight: 6 lbs.
- Length: 34 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner-Advanced
Designed with accuracy and precision as its top priorities, the Double Eagle CQB 614 is an extreme gun for its price range. In fact, it may very well be the most accurate gun on our list, especially at long ranges. Overall, this gun is a must have for any level of player.
The rate of fire, though not as high as some, is still pretty impressive considering we are talking about a cheap gun. Additionally, the gun is extremely sturdy and can withstand multiple major hits before coming apart. This durability makes it perfect for those players who like to get down and dirty when they play.
It is the accuracy, however, that made us put the CQB 614 on our list. With the 7.4-volt battery, the plastic inner parts can send a round through the barrel at a whopping 310 feet per second. With the adjustable hop-up, the gun is capable of shooting upwards of 200 feet consistently with no problem. In fact, during testing under perfect wind conditions, the 615 was hitting targets at 500 feet! For a cheap airsoft gun, that kind of range is almost unheard of in this industry.
It comes with all of the accessories you would need to get started in any skirmish. The included flashlight works extremely well, as does the laser sight, which is visible during the day. Likewise, the red-dot scope can be adjusted and used in the day time. If you prefer going it the old-fashioned way, the iron sights mounted on the top of the gun are adjustable and very accurate. Additionally, the Picatinny rail system allows for increased options and customizability.
The magazine holds an almost unheard of 250 rounds in its reservoir chamber, allowing for easy loading during the heat of battle. For it’s easy to use build and accuracy, this gun is perfect for beginners and advanced players alike.
Heckler and Koch 416
- Weight: 5.3 lbs.
- Length: 32.1 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner-Advanced
Licensed with the infamous Heckler and Koch name, the H&K 416 is designed to dominate on any airsoft battlefield, especially close-quarter combat. This airsoft version is a replica in size and feel of the H&K416, which was created using the standard AR-15 platform for extreme accuracy and durability. The airsoft version leaves nothing to question its legitimacy as an extreme AEG, even at a low price.
It’s impressive shot velocity is what landed the 416 on our list. Using .12g bbs during testing, the 416 was reaching speeds upwards of 340 feet per second consistently on a medium-charged battery. Fully charged, the 416 can shoot even .20g bbs at more than 320 fps.
Though the central portion of the 416 is construction with durable ABS polymer, the critical parts are metal. These include the inner barrel, trigger, fire selector switch, and the front and rear sights. Additionally, unlike the other guns on our list, the magazine for the 416 is metal as well, adding to its durability.
The battery that comes with the 416 is an 8.4-volt nunchuck style battery. This powerful battery is what allows for such high velocities from the metal gear box. Furthermore, the battery can last an exceptionally long time before a charge is needed.
Adding to the cool factor of the HK 416 is the fact that the design of its internal parts come from its real steel counterpart work. The charging handle pulls backward and forwards assisting being fully operational. This feature makes the 416 perfect for the replica enthusiasts out there.
The HK 416 can be extended or shortened, depending on the style of play you are in at that moment. The added features, including the Picatinny rails and monolithic top rail, make it the perfect gun for customization. It would definitely be a great gun, no matter what level you play at or how experienced you are.
Double Eagle R36c
- Weight: 5.5 lbs
- Length: 32 in.
- Skill Level: Beginner
Designed after a weapon the has been made famous by many SWAT teams, the Double Eagle R36c is the perfect gun for airsoft wars where military simulation is at its finest. Designed to be adjustable to the style of shooting, the R36c can be broken down or extended, for short or long-range play.
It’s highly durable plastic construction makes the R36c feel as robust as its metal competitors, though just a fraction of the weight. Additionally, the gun is accurate and consistent in its firing, making it the perfect cheap AEG.
This AEG is excellent for the younger player looking for a reliable, safe gun. It has the selected fire ability between semi and full auto, as well as a working safety that can be turned on with the simple flip of the thumb. It is ergonomic, so remaining comfortable for hours of shooting is not a problem. Not to mention that the ease of use, with regards to loading the magazine and battery into the gun, is exceptional for a gun in this price range.
The flashlight and red-dot scope that is included with the gun work perfectly. Additionally, the upper rail allows for any additional optics, should you decide you need to upgrade. Also, the foregrip makes the gun easy to hold and maneuver through tight spots without making it uncomfortable.
All in all, the R36c is the perfect gun for beginners who want to be effective in military-style combat. The accuracy of this gun will have you shooting enemies from as far away as 100 feet with ease while the full-auto firing rate will have you unloading the mag in less than 5 seconds. It definitely doesn’t disappoint in how fun it is to shoot, either. This gun is perfect for hours of non-stop fun.
Conclusion
To be a powerful asset to the team, it’s nearly a requirement that you have an AEG. And, though you want to be effective, you don’t want to break the bank when you purchase one either. That’s why our list is so important. We found some of the best AEGs available that are also the cheapest on the market.
Though none of these have a full metal construction or enhanced optics that is more than a red-dot scope included with the purchase, they have the same sturdy design and some surprising firing rates. These guns will have you showing your team, and the enemy, you mean business at a fraction of the cost of the higher priced guns.
Take the time to do you research and find the perfect gun for you. Find one that matches your style and needs but doesn’t cause you to have to take out a second mortgage on your home. These guns are perfect for anybody who needs a cheap AEG; you won’t be disappointed.
