Dry Firing an Airsoft Gun: Understanding the Impact on Performance and Durability

Dry Firing and Airsoft Guns

The debate around dry firing an airsoft gun has been a hot topic among enthusiasts. Many believe that without a bb in the chamber, the act of pulling the trigger will cause significant damage to the gun. However, this is a myth that has been debunked over the years. In reality, dry firing can be a safe and valuable tool for checking the internal components of your airsoft gun. Let’s delve into the details.

Myths vs. Reality

Years ago, there was a belief that dry firing an airsoft gun would damage the air nozzle because the barrel was designed to handle the pressure of a bb. While it’s true that BBs do create pressure, the BBs are not held in place with much pressure, and they only come into contact with the nub/spacer and the barrel once they are in the hop-up chamber. Therefore, the air nozzle does not come into contact with the BB. So, you can dry fire your airsoft gun without worrying about causing any damage.

On the other hand, if your gun is jammed, you should not attempt to fire it. This can cause significant damage to the internal components of the gun. The opposite is true for dry firing a functional gun that is in good working condition.

System-Specific Considerations

The impact of dry firing can vary depending on the system your airsoft gun uses.

Electric-Driven Airsoft Guns

Electric-driven airsoft guns are the most prone to damage from dry firing. These guns often have moving parts that require a cylindrical force to function properly. When dry firing, the piston or cylinder only moves air, which can cause more wear compared to when it is moving a bb. Dry firing in this case would be like running a water pump without any water - it is best to move the mass that it was designed to move.

Gas-Powered Airsoft Guns

Gas-powered airsoft guns, on the other hand, are generally fine for dry firing. These guns typically have fewer moving parts, such as the pin that depresses the magazines and the gas well valve. Keeping the parts oiled and lubricated is essential, but dry firing should not cause significant damage. However, it is still recommended to keep the gun in good condition to prevent any unexpected issues.

Hybrid Systems and Polar Star Airsoft Guns

Hybrid systems, such as those used in Polar Star airsoft guns, fall somewhere in between. These guns incorporate both electrical and gas systems, leading to more moving parts and potentially more wear. Therefore, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use appropriate oils to reduce wear and deterioration.

General Guidelines for Dry Firing

Although dry firing can be safe in most cases, it is still not recommended to do it excessively. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Check for BBs: Dry firing can be used to check if there are any BBs loaded in the gun. This can be useful before firing. Install New Parts: If you have recently installed new parts, dry firing can help you ensure they are properly in place before loading the gun. Gun Storage: If the gun has been in storage for a long time, dry firing can help you confirm that everything is working correctly.

It is important to note that while dry firing can be safe, excessive use can cause unnecessary wear and tear. A good rule of thumb is to dry fire no more than about ten times per thousand real shots.

Conclusion

While dry firing can be a valuable tool for airsoft enthusiasts, it is essential to understand the impact it can have on your gun. Follow the guidelines mentioned above to ensure you are using dry firing safely and effectively. Remember, the best practice is always to read the manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.