What to check when buying a used airsoft gun

Before you pay for a used airsoft gun, see it fire. Check that it feeds and shoots consistently, that the hop-up adjusts, and that the seller tells you what's been changed. Meeting at a field makes this easy, since there's usually a chrono and a safe place to shoot.

Wear eye protection when you test, and follow the field's rules.

Ask first

• How old is it, and how much has it been used?
• What's been upgraded or repaired, and by whom?
• What FPS does it shoot, and with what BB weight?
• What comes with it: how many mags, a battery and charger, any spare parts?
• Why are they selling it?

Any gun

• Look for cracks in the body, stock, and grip, and for loose or wobbly parts.
• Shoot a few mags. It should feed every time without jamming or double-feeding.
• Turn the hop-up up and down and watch the shots change.
• Chrono it if you can, so you know it's legal at the fields you play.
• Try every mag that comes with it, not just one.

Electric (AEG)

• Fire on semi and full auto. Trigger response should be quick and even.
• Listen to the gearbox. Grinding, clicking without firing, or a burning smell are bad signs.
• Ask what battery connector it uses so you know your batteries will fit.

Gas (GBB)

• Fill each mag and listen for leaks. Mags that won't hold gas are a common, real cost.
• The slide or bolt should cycle fully and lock back on an empty mag, if the model does that.

HPA

• Ask which engine and regulator it has, and whether the line and tank are included.
• Hook it up and check for leaks at the fittings.

Red flags

• The seller won't let you test it.
• The price is far below anything similar near you.
• It's missing mags or parts that normally come with it, and the listing doesn't say so.

Looking for one? See where to buy used airsoft guns near you.