Echo 1 M4 RIS Review

Echo 1 M4 RIS Review

If you have been into airsoft for a while then you know about Echo 1, but incase you haven’t here is the shake down. Echo 1 shook up the airsoft market about 10 months ago by providing high performance airsoft guns for a fraction of what you would normally pay. A year go from today if you wanted a quality built airsoft gun, inside and out, you had to spend close, to or more than, $300.00. However if your budget was closer to $150.00 to $200.00 the only airsoft guns available at that price could barely shoot and the only guarantee you had was that it would break, and leave you no other option than to buy another gun. Since October 2006 Echo 1 has been providing durable, performance airsoft guns for players on a budget. The Echo 1 AEG’s performance is on par with well established airsoft gun makers like Tokyo Marui and Classic Army, but Echo 1 only cost about half as much. High performance guns at low costs, it doesn’t get much better than that right? Wrong! This may seem unfathomable but Echo 1 has made their guns even better. One of the hottest selling guns on the market, the Echo1 M4 Carbine, is now available with a rail interface system (RIS). It may seem like only a minor improvement but it can make a world of difference.

RIS units are a must have for players that want an edge over their opponent. The RIS in itself has no bearing on the gun’s firing capability, but what it does is allow for an increase in the gun’s potential and the user’s efficiency. When two players square off against each other the gun with the RIS could be the deciding factor between who sits out and who keeps playing, assuming both players are of similar skill and experience. If tactics and shooting capability are the same then the only remaining factor is physics. The player with the RIS that has a flashlight attached to it will have a fully illuminated target; on the other hand the player with no RIS cannot fire with confidence because they would not be able to see what they are shooting at. Adding a laser sight to a RIS is especially effective for quick target acquisition. By combining those two tools and activating them with pressure switches attached to a vertical grip, which allows the user to fire with a more natural wrist position, the user is completely combat ready.

This gun is a perfect example of a RIS that is utilized to its full potential:

The Echo 1 M4 RIS is the cheapest monetary solution to having a completely upgradeable airsoft gun, internally and externally. The M4 RIS is the perfect airsoft gun for novice players who are ready to buy their first AEG. The price is right, only $155.00, for a gun with sound internals and externals ready to be accessorized as the user develops more skill. When considering what to buy for a first airsoft gun it is important to keep the future in mind. At first thought some might think that they would never use a RIS so they wouldn’t consider spending the money on it. However it is better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. The Echo 1 M4 RIS is only $10.00 more than the standard M4 Carbine, but if you have regular M4 and bought the RIS separately then the total cost of that gun would be $200.00 or more. It is always going to be a little bit cheaper to buy an airsoft gun already equipped with a RIS than to assemble it afterwards, in the case of the Echo 1 guns it is a lot cheaper. Just try it out for yourself, the best way to understand the advantages of having a RIS is to use one in battle.

Sniper Rifles and Tactics

Sniper Rifles and Tactics

Airsoft gun games are the most exciting ways to enjoy and explore the use of guns in a safe and secure environment. If organized well they can provide all the thrills and the adrenalin rush of a real battle situation without the fatalities.

Participants play in a variety of simulated situations. Players can engage in short term skirmishes, organized situations with a number of players involved, military simulations and even historical re-enactments. Airsoft gun games using both pistols and Airsoft rifles can be played during daylight hours or the heat can be turned up by playing in night time conditions. Each situation calls for some guidelines on how to achieve the aims of winning. We are here into a discussion of tactics. In its broadest sense, tactics are about finding the right actions to take to achieve a particular set of aims. In the context of airsoft gun games we are talking about establishing a military strategy where strategy is the larger-scale framework of direction and control and it follows that military tactics include specific offensives or maneuvers in the presence of battle. This is not a game for woosies!

Despite having the overall aim of taking down the enemy, different guns with their respective features are used in different ways to achieve this goal. And each player using their particular weapon will have a different role in the overall strategy of the game.

Below are some of the basics of tactics in Airsoft gun military strategy:-

Positions for carrying your gun – these include tactical carry, alert carry, guard positions and threat positions.

Basic Gun Marksmanship – including shooting position essentials, correct body support, trigger squeeze and firing positions.

Firing during combat – including rapid semi-auto firing, rapid reload and quick firing.

Target Detection – this includes search techniques, target indicators, target marking and use of the ‘Map Method’.

Other strategies include covering and concealing personnel, co-coordinating the team, guidelines for tactical movements and night –time fighting.

While everybody can join in the game, one of the most popular roles is the ‘Airsoft Sniper’ sometimes known as the Lone Wolf or ‘Rogue of Airsofting’. This seems to be because of the marksmanship of the role such as the stealth involved, the power of the sniper rifle, and for many the sheer ‘coolness’ of being the sniper. His main tactical aim is to set up the perfect ambush and take out the enemy with a combination of cunning, speed and precision.

What would the sniper choose as his weapon? This Airsoft warrior plays with a Sniper Airsoft Rifle, designed for accurate, long range shooting with high velocity.

In a snap shot, here’s how to be an effective ‘sniper’.

In order to become an effective sniper or marksman, here are a few tips:

• Know the features of your gun. This is basic for all airsoft players alike, but crucial for the airsoft sniper. Knowing the shooting range of your gun and the best way to hit your target.

• Travel light. Whether you are a mobile sharpshooter or a stationary sniper, try to travel light. The Sniper Airsoft Rifle allows you to fire quietly, that’s its advantage, but moving quickly is aided by traveling as light as possible.

• Choose your BB’s well. Heavier BBs allow for better accuracy but you may lose on the ability to cover a longer distance.

• Be patient. Patience and stealth is the hallmark of a good sniper. Don’t just fire the first time you see your target. You do not want to be detected a missed shot could mean your position is compromised.

• Stay cool. Being nervous means your hands will shake, your goggles mist over and you lose sight of your target. Stay cool and wait for the best shot.

• Work with a spotter. As in the military, most snipers do not actually work alone. Your spotter is there to support you if things are not right for you to snipe effectively.

• Fine tune your skills. While it might be the most exciting role in the game for some, it is also one of the most skilled. The more you know your Sniper Airsoft Rifles and its capabilities, how to use different cocking positions and accessories like a bipod and shoulder strap the easier it will be to find the best sniping maneuvers that ensure success in the game.

There are many types of Sniper Airsoft Rifle available. A good, quality internet stockist will be able to provide you with the most appropriate model for your level of skill and ability and of course provide you with an upgraded model as you hone your sniping skills.

5 Tips When Shopping for Airsoft Guns

5 Tips When Shopping for Airsoft Guns

For one reason or another, gun enthusiasts around the world are turning to airsoft as an alternative to paintball and BB guns. It all began in Japan, where owning any type of gun is illegal.

To keep the gun enthusiasts in Japan law-abiding citizens, the airsoft market flourished by creating all types and sizes of guns as identical replicas of real firearms. Every detail, including any trademarks, is recreated for this plastic BB shooting gun to make everything as authentic-looking as possible. They look so real that many police and military training programs around the globe use airsoft guns for training purposes. Many countries mandate orange painted barrel tips on all airsoft guns to help authorities differentiate real guns from airsoft.

Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or an old pro at airsoft, you’re going to need to buy new equipment at some point. Here are 5 tips for you to keep in mind when you’re shopping for airsoft guns :

1) Be sure that you’re dealing with a reputable company, not one that’s only been around for just a few months. A good sign is a business that has a brick and mortar location, not just a post office box. A phone number in addition to an email address is also a good sign.

2) A good selection of guns (pistols, rifles and shotguns), ammo (including BB’s and loaders), tactical gear and clothing, gas, lubricants and batteries/chargers. Keep in mind that even though you are into one particular type of gun now, your hobby might eventually lead you down another weaponry path, so it’s important to keep your options open. Kits to upgrade and maintain your current gun are also good things for your chosen e-commerce website to carry.

3) A good return policy is another thing to keep in mind while shopping for you airsoft gun. The majority of retailers do have an “All Sales Final” policy, but if your gun doesn’t work when you receive it, that’s another story altogether.

4) Make sure the website is secure. Above and beyond anything else, your security from every possible angle should be their concern, and you shouldn’t settle for anything other than the latest in Internet security. The best e-commerce sites will prominently display security badges on their homepage for the entire world to see.

5) Look for a troubleshooting section on their site. Just because the semi automatic mode on your gun doesn’t work it doesn’t mean that you need to send it in for repairs, especially if you’re somewhat of a newbie to the sport. A good company will value you as a customer and try to help you when they can. One of the best ways for a company to show you their appreciation is by saving you the hassle of a needless return.

Protective Airsoft Clothing - A Must Buy Or Not?

Protective Airsoft Clothing - a Must Buy or Not?

Airsoft always starts off as just a hobby for most people. First you buy the gun itself and some extra ammo and gas/batteries to go with it. After that people have a tendency to buy targets and other small accessories for their new "toy". This is when you're in the plinking stage of being an airsoft fan. Eventually the time will come when you'll want to get involved in airsoft wargames. This will leave you with no choice but to invest in some tactical and safety clothing for your own protection. How much or how little of this clothing you own is entirely down to your own preferences and how realistic and enjoyable you want your airsoft experience to be.

So what type of clothing and accessories will you need if you're to be an airsoft nut? There are some critical items and other optional items that you may want to consider.

Safety Glasses: Even if you don't intend playing airsoft wargames then you should consider purchasing some airsoft safety glasses - this includes if you're firing indoors. You'd be surprised at just how far a bb can ricochet and with how much force. If you want to play tactical airsoft outdoors then you simply have to protect your eyes. Full automatic airsoft rifles spraying dozens of rounds around an area at speeds of well over 300 feet per second... what happens if one of these hits you in the eye? It would probably blind you for life. Wear googles at the minimum and ideally wear a full facemask for maximum protection.

Body Armor: Airsoft bbs may be small but they definitely hurt when they hit unprotected skin. They have a smaller surface area than a paintball but that doesn't mean that they won't cause bruises in the same way. Also remember that paintballs are hollow whereas airsoft bbs are solid - they won't break when they hit you which means the damage could even be worse. There are light airsoft vests available that contain small plastic plates that protect sensitive parts of the body from impacts. This body armor also has the advantage of looking a bit like the real thing which can really add to the atmosphere of airsoft gaming.

Tactical Vest: Being an airsoft hobbyist means carrying around bbs, co2 cartridges, gas and lots of other small items that are quite easy to lose. Why not save yourself a lot of hassle and just invest in a tactical vest? These act like a carryall or backpack except you wear it like a jacket. Tactical vests come in either a harness or sleeveless jacket format. Is a tactical vest essential? Not so much essential as just very, very useful. You could even use it for holstering a holdout gun like a blowback Glock for example.

Of all of the above items the safety glasses are the ones that can be firmly categorized as an essential item. Protect your eyesight as it's something you only get one chance at in life. Never, ever take chances with your health or your safety.

Information on Cleaning an Airsoft Gun

Information on Cleaning an Airsoft Gun

Cleaning an airsoft gun often confuses many airgun users. Many ask if precision airsoft guns require periodic maintenance. Yes, an airsoft gun does require a certain amount of upkeep. In fact an airsoft gun should be maintained the same way that you would maintain a firearm.

Now, that last statement is what confuses many airsoft gun users. There are differences and similarities between an airsoft gun and a regular firearm. A precision airsoft gun is not related mechanically to firearms the airsoft gun still requires general maintenance that closely resembles pneumatic tools or automotive shock absorbers.

An airsoft gun cleaning kit is a must have for airgun owners. An airsoft gun cleaning kit can be purchased for fewer than fifteen dollars. The maintenance kit is perfect for use with an airsoft gun. The kit comes with a barrel brush, cleaning rods, a jag and a barrel mop.

When cleaning airsoft guns never use petroleum lubricants or a strong solvent. The only thing that should be used in the regular upkeep of the airgun is a damp, soft cloth to clean the exterior of the gun.

You should also use one hundred percent silicone oil spray to clean the barrel of the airsoft gun. The maintenance of the internal gearbox mechanisms should be performed by a professional. It is important not to soak the airsoft gun in any sort of water or lubricants.

Airsoft guns require a minimal amount of cleaning. The one part of the gun that should be cleaned regularly is the barrel. To clean the barrel take a cleaning rod and thread a patch through the slit of the airsoft gun’s barrel.

The gearbox of the gun should be cleaned and relubricated every six month period. This should be done by a professional. By following these airsoft gun cleaning tips you will ensure that your gun lasts for a longtime.

To clean your airsoft in a nutshell, follow these simple 5 steps:

1. Turn off your airsoft gun.
2. Remove the battery or gas tank.
3. Wipe down the barrel, magazine, and exterior parts.
4. Use cotton swabs for the tough dirt.
5. Your finished cleaning your airsoft gun.