Posted: 7/2/2006 8:12:23 AM EDT
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My department does not have a firearms range. We use other agencies ranges when we need to train and therefore I do not get to the range as much as I would like to. I have seen high quality airsoft pistols (GLOCK models) and have been considering purchasing one to use for training. I realize that they are not a substitute for range time but I believe any training, if done properly, can be beneficial. Obtaining one of these would enable me to train in my garage or backyard. Does anyone else use these? If so, can you recommend a quality manufacturer and source for purchasing? Thanks Cory (Phylodog) |
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I don't use them, but I can recommend some manufacturers. Tokyo Marui and KSC make some nice gas blow back pistols. The gas blow back offer realistic weight, some recoil and cycling, but i'm not sure how it compares to the real thing. Try Redwoldairsoft.com ETA: the site is still up and has a bunch of new stuff. If anything, you can browse the site and find pistols, manufacturers, etc. |
Thanks for the replies. We use Simunitions during SWAT training but it's a little more than I can afford to purchase the pistol & ammo. The airsoft BB's are inexpensive and while not terribly accurate, would still give decent feedback on hits at close range. |
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I don't use them directly for training but I shoot them in practical type/IPSC competitions. Don't forget that we aren't allowed the real thing over here and even airsoft might go or be severely restricted later this year. Anyway, we treat them as real regarding safety & drills and they are ok for distances out to about 15 yards. Functionality is as per the real thing. Obviously less recoil but still noticeable, with mag capacities generally between 20 -30 rounds. They can be a bit tempremental and are quite high maintenance, so go for the good quality ones like Western Arms or KSC. Tokyo Marui look promising as well. One tip, don't dump mags onto a hard surface or they will crack or damage the feed lips. Use a padded dump box or something soft but not bouncy. Bean bag cushions are good. I think all training is beneficial. as I said, I don't train specifically with airsoft, but I can outshoot most of my instructors for speed and accuracy and these are all I use. |
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You can do good training with airsoft, but as noted by others, the mags are fragile (no dropping on ground, or slamming into the pistol). I've used both KSC and KWA G17s with good success, and also have the SVI and Capsian licensed 1911 versions. Don't expect a perfect fit into your holster/mag pouches. You can build a mini-range inside your garage using smaller-scale targets. Works good. We just started using airsoft (gas powered guns) for Force on Force and have been pleased with the results. |
+1 on the fragile Glock mags i would go w/ a modded glock/beretta or any other weapon they make...i've even seen AR's modded to handle the 9mm simmunition rounds or the 9mm airmunition rounds. 9mm airmuntions are good b/c they're more like the real thing, hurt like a mofo if hit just right (i have a bruise on my finger from a week and a half ago from being shot w/ one at approximately 10 ft.), constructed of PVC. I do however prefer the 9mm simmunition rounds b/c you can tell what you're hitting. I would look into the sim rounds b4 buying a Glock airsoft (also are these the ones w/ the CO2 charged magazine?...if so those'll break the skin......trust me...but like it's been stated the mags are very fragile!!!) |