Monday, December 29, 2014

Secret DoD File Just Released

Ask A Firearms Question:
No question today ....

Secret DoD File just obtained showing Santa Claus was protected worldwide from Terrorist on his deliveries by the United States Air Force.

Happy Holidays to one and all.


Answer:
You can bet that Old Santa felt a lot safer with America at his side.












Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: DoD, Department of Defense, Santa Claus, United States Air Force, Santas Toys, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Santa Knows When You Are Bad, Good Santa, Bad Santa, Santa Has a CCW, Xmas, Gifts, Gift Wrapping, Ammo, Ammunition, Fastest Delivery, Free Delivery, USMC, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Gun Rights, Twitter, Pinterest, NRA, GOA, SASS, Cowboys, Safety First, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, USA Midway, Sportsman Warehouse, The Firearms Guy, Concealed Carry, Secrets, Government Documents, DoD Files, NATO,            

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.

Friday, December 26, 2014

Firearm Forum Question: Gun Ownership, the ATF and Legal Stuff

Ask A Firearms Question:
What is the Law for putting a Rifle Scope on an AR15 Pistol?
Thank you 30_cal Guy.


Published for Readers Information and Content Only
Not a Legal Opinion

AR15 Style Pistol with Scope:

Federal (United States) Law:
ATF - Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms formerly part of the U.S. Treasury Department.
BATF - Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms is now part of Department of Justice (DOJ).
The role of the ATF/BATF has not changed just the federal government structure and organization.

Answer:
Blog Administrator -
I am NOT a lawyer and therefore am not allowed to answer legal questions nor would I want to.
Saying that, I will post what is common knowledge and can be found on the BATF Website (formerly the ATF) about firearms, weapons, and general classifications. These rules cover Federal U.S. Laws only.
Individual State, County, City, and Township laws where you reside may be more stringent and have additional restrictions - The State of California is a good example.
Please check with your local law enforcement or consult an attorney before proceeding if you feel you are on questionable ground about anything concerning a firearm or weapon.
Note: Often times a CCW (Concealed Carry Weapons Permit) class will answer many questions. Also most states put out extensive hunting guidelines which cover aspects of what firearms can be used and for what.

ATF Weapons Classifications:
1) ALL Rifles must meet the following standard to be legal ...
Purchased from Manufacturer or Modified (cut down from original) - A Rifle Barrel length cannot be less than 16-Inces. Measure Barrel Length from front tip to breach opening. 
The total overall length of the Rifle must be 26-Inches or longer. This includes a modified stock (cut down or altered). Measure Total Length from the further most front point to the further most rear point for overall total length.
Note: Recommendation - If you are altering a barrel length make sure that the barrel is 16.5-Inches or longer to have a safety margin. Make sure the overall length is 26.5 or 27-Inches.
Under ATF Rules both sets of criteria must be met.

2) ALL Shotguns must meet the following standard to be legal ...
Purchased from Manufacturer or Modified (cut down from original) - A Shotgun Barrel length must be 18-Inces or longer. Measure Barrel Length from front tip to breach opening. 
The total overall length of the shotgun must be 26-Inches or longer. This includes a modified stock (cut down or altered). Measure Total Length from the further most front point to the further most rear point for overall total length.
Note: Recommendation - If you are altering a barrel or barrels length make sure that the barrel is 18.5-Inches to have a safety margin. Make sure the overall length is 26.5 or 27-Inches.
Under ATF Rules both sets of criteria must be met.

You do NOT need a Tax Stamp or approval to thread the barrel or add a Flash Hider. You would be required to obtain a $200.00 Federal ATF Tax Stamp for a Suppressor (silencer) if you wish to add one to any firearm.

IMPORTANT: Prior to strick regulations by the ATF on Barrel and Overall Gun Lengths, some manufacturers sold firearms that do not meet the ATF current minimum standards. These weapons now require a $200.00 Tax Stamp and prior ownership approval from the ATF.
If you own an Old Rifle or Shotgun you can legally modify it (cut it down or alter the stock and barrel length) if it meets the criteria listed above. If you wish to have a firearm that does not meet the minimum standards in length stipulated above, you must get approval and pay for a $200.00 Tax Stamp to legally own the firearm.
Firearms that are sold NEW from the manufacturer must meet the same standards, if they do not, they can still be sold but only after the purchaser obtains a $200.00 Federal ATF Tax Stamp.
ATF Federal Tax Stamps are required for each firearm you own that does not meet the standard requirements.
Caution - Weapons such as the AR15 Pistol and others avoid the requirement by classifying the weapon as a Pistol. But if you alter or modify the weapon, then you are subject to meeting the criteria above for barrel and overall length.
Private Purchase - People sell altered weapons all the time. So if you buy a firearm that has been modified from a private seller, including a Gun Show, measure both the barrel and overall length. If it does NOT meet the requirement do NOT purchase it.

Conclusion: These shorten legal Pistols such as the AR15 and Draco may be fun to shoot but they are not practical in my opinion.
As for putting on a Rifle Scope or some type of Optics (Green Dot, Red Dot) is just not practical. A Green Dot Laser would be the only one that may make any sense.
There are no ATF requirements for a Rifle Scope or Optics, these types of weapons are sold online all the time through GunBroker.com and ArmsList.com, but again State and Local laws may prevent you from even owning this type of firearm, check with your local police or sheriff department or a licensed FFL dealer in your state. Remember laws and rules change all the time, so before you buy or sell check the latest laws and regulations.

Finally, this is the only Topic Post I will do on ATF Rules and Regulations for firearms.

Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: Rifles, Shotguns, Pistols, Handguns, Revolvers, Modified Firearms, ATF, BATF Rules and Regulations, Home Defense, Hunting, Cowboy Shooting, Tactical Shotguns, Double Barrel, Pump Action Shotgun, Single Barrel, Sawed Off Shotgun, Sawed Off Rifle,Tactical Accessories, Over Under Shotgun, Semi Auto Shotgun, Break Action, Lever Action, Gun Repair, Test Firing, Semi Auto, Full Auto, Center Fire, Rim Fire, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Firearm Accessories, Target Shooting, Gunsmith, Physics of Shooting, Gun Rights, Outdoor Shooting Range, Twitter, Pinterest, Indoor Shooting Range, NRA, GOA, SASS, Safety First, Damaging Your Weapon, Gun Parts, Defensive Weapons, Targets, Military Weapons, Police Weapons, The Firearms Guy, Firearm Maintenance, Protect Your Firearms, Ammo, Tax Stamp, Modifying a Weapon, Rifle Scopes, Laser Scope, Red Dot Optics, Green Dot Optics, Hunting Rules and Regulations, Game and Fish, Hunting License, States Rights, Gun Laws, Legal Stuff, Owning a Firearm, CCW, Concealed Carry Permit, Lawyers, Silencers, Suppressors, Picatinny Rail,    

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

2014, Merry Christmas from The Firearms Guy

Ask A Firearms Question:
No question today ....
Just wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to one and all.

In today's violent cruel unstable world, even Santa Claus has to travel armed.

Santa is coming have you been good?

Answer:
You can bet that Old Santa has his CCW Permit, do you?









Youtube Video: Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer ....

Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: Santa Claus, Santa with a Gun, Santas Packing, Santas Toys, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Santa Knows When You Are Bad, Santa's Got an AK47 Assault Rifle, Bad Santa, Santa Has a CCW, Xmas, Gifts, Gift Wrapping, Ammo, Ammunition, Fastest Delivery, Free Delivery, USMC, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Gun Rights, Twitter, Pinterest, NRA, GOA, SASS, Cowboys, Safety First, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, USA Midway, Sportsman Warehouse, The Firearms Guy, Youtube Videos, Concealed Carry,           

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.

Friday, December 19, 2014

Firearm Forum Question: 12 Gauge versus 20 Gauge Shotguns

Ask A Firearms Question:
I just bought a Mossberg 20-Gauge Persuader Shotgun, which shotgun is best a 12 Gauge or 20 Gauge?
Thank you John Lowney.

Here are some Mossberg Home Defense / Tactical Shotguns:


Answer:
Blog Administrator -
To determine what is the best shot shell diameter size that is best for you (most common are the 410-Gauge; 20-Gauge; and 12-Gauge) the end use drives the final decision. Shotguns are used for sport (Trap and Skeet, or Hunting), and for Home Defense. Some people elect to use a Shotgun for both purposes. To be used for both purposes they need to be full size, not shorten as you may find in a Self Defense Tactical style Shotgun.
A Shotgun may also be used for Cowboy Shooting these are generally double barrel coach style shotguns. They maybe with or without hammers. They may also be lever action shotguns.
Also note there are two other gauges: a 10-Gauge and a 16-Gauge.
The next consideration is who will use the shotgun. Children under the age of 15 and women with small frames will find the 410-Gauge quite accommodating for hunting. Adult women generally prefer the 20-Gauge for either Hunting or Tactical / Home Defense because the 20-gauge has less recoil. Adult men generally prefer the 12-gauge for all uses.
Next thing to look at is the shot shell length capacity. A shotgun chambered that can handle 3-inch shells can shoot 3-inch, 2 3/4-inch, and 2 1/2-inch shells. In other words you can go down in length but not up, i.e. a shotgun chambered for 2 3/4-inch shotgun shells cannot handle a 3-inch shell.
Capacity is the next thing to consider. Semi-auto and Pump Shotguns will hold the most rounds. Double Barrel and Over/Under Shotguns handle 2-rounds only. Single Barrel (common in 410-gauge and 20-gauge) hold one round.
Cost may be a factor as well both in ammo and firearm. Shotguns do NOT have to be expensive to work well. I have owned Stevens/Savage, Mossberg, Remington, Ithaca, Winchester, and Saiga Shotguns.
Generally 12-Gauge Shotgun Shells are less expensive than any of the others. Again brand doesn't play a really big part in standard shot size. I have used everything on the market at one time or another. 12-Gauge and sometimes 20-Gauge can be bought in bulk keeping the per unit cost down.
Some people for home defense like the Pump Shotgun, they say if an intruder hears the pump action it will frighten the Intruder/Burglar away. Personally I think that is a bunch of bunk simply because in the middle of the night you are sleeping and don't want to think about trying to pump a round into the shotgun that should all ready be loaded and ready to fire.
The most common question I get is 'What Shot Shell Size (load number) should I use for Home Defense?'
All my shotguns are loaded with #6 Shot, this works the best for Home Defense. It has lethal impact and a good spread that covers the entire doorway or window where an intruder would be coming through.

=> To answer your question, again who is going to use this Shotgun only you, or others in the house such as your wife. If others are possible users the 20-Guage probably is the better choice. But in either case both will work.

Parts of a Shotgun Shell:

Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: Mossberg, Shotguns, Home Defense, Hunting, Trap and Skeet, Cowboy Shooting, Tactical Shotgun, 12 Gauge, 20 Gauge, 410 Gauge, 10 Gauge, 16 Gauge, Shot Shells, Shotgun Shells, Coach Guns, Double Barrel, Pump Action Shotgun, Savage, Stevens, Ithaca, Winchester, Remington, Saiga, Stoeger, Tactical Accessories, Over Under Shotgun, Semi Auto Shotgun, Single Barrel, Break Action, Lever Action, Gun Repair, Test Firing, Semi Auto, Center Fire, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Cleaning Your Weapon, Firearm Accessories, Target Shooting, Gunsmith, Physics of Shooting, Gun Rights, Outdoor Shooting Range, Twitter, Pinterest, Indoor Shooting Range, NRA, GOA, SASS, Safety First, Damaging Your Weapon, Gun Parts, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, USA Midway, Sportsman Warehouse, Defensive Weapons, Targets, Military Weapons, Police Weapons, The Firearms Guy, Gun Rust, Corrosion, Firearm Maintenance, Reloading, Dillon Precision Reloading EquipmentProtect Your Firearms, Ammo, Independent Test, Recoil, Men Shooting, Women Shooting, Bird Shot, #6 Shot, Buckshot, Shotgun Slugs, Shredders,            

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Firearm Forum Question: Simple Do It Yourself Magazine Jamming Repair

Ask A Firearms Question:
One of the people at my Indoor Gun Range bought a New Metal 9mm Magazine at the recent Gun Show. Upon test firing the weapon a round repeatedly jammed on the last round being fed into the chamber of the handgun.
This is a simple do it yourself repair that works most of the time.
Thank you 'J' for your input and video.

Note: This is a follow-up on a previous Topic Post in June 2014 Titled:
What Causes Semi Auto Handguns to Jam,
here is the link to that Topic Post -
http://askafirearmsquestion.blogspot.com/2014/06/firearm-forum-question-what-causes-semi.html

New Metal Handgun Magazine with Burrs ....
 Standard Sandpaper Fingernail File ....

Important Notes:
1) Never use a Metal File.
2) Never use a Dremel Tool.
3) Don't use any type of Metal object such as a screwdriver to hold the magazine feed down while performing the repair. If you need to use anything use a wood dowel.

=> Normally you would return a defective magazine but since this was purchased at a Gun Show that is quite impossible. This is also a downside to buying items at Gun Shows. Similar issues may occur if you bought a used firearm with magazines. This is also more likely to be an issue if you purchased an 'After Market Magazine.'

Answer:
Blog Administrator -
This Topic Post helps clarify one aspect of Jamming.
I asked 'J' if he would make a Homemade Video showing how to correct this common problem found on New Magazines both Metal and Plastic.





Homemade Video: This shows a simple Do It Yourself Repair that corrects Jamming most of the time on New Magazines (both metal and plastic) ....


Also, see this related Topic Post at the Firearms Forum:
What’s the Difference between Berden Primed and Boxer Primed Ammo -

Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: Jamming, Magazines, Gun Repair, Test Firing, Semiautomatic Pistol, Semi Auto, Handguns, Large Bore, Center Fire, Small Bore, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Cleaning Your Weapon, Firearm Accessories, Target Shooting, Gunsmith, Physics of Shooting, Gun Rights, Outdoor Shooting Range, Twitter, Pinterest, Indoor Shooting Range, NRA, GOA, Safety First, Damaging Your Weapon, Gun Parts, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, USA Midway, Sportsman Warehouse, Defensive Weapons, Targets, Military Weapons, The Firearms Guy, Gun Rust, Corrosion, Firearm Maintenance, Reloading, Dillon Precision Reloading EquipmentProtect Your Firearms, Homemade Videos, Upgrading Your Firearm, Ammo, Independent Test, Simply Firearm Repair, Do It Yourself Instructions,          

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.

Saturday, December 13, 2014

Firearm Forum Question: Test Firing the Springfield TRP 45 ACP with Bull Barrel Semi Automatic Handgun

Ask A Firearms Question:
Could you do a subject on the Newer Models of the Springfield Model 1911 Handgun and there capabilities.
Thank you Mr. Stiffy.

Presented by: The Firearms Guy
.... I had the opportunity to Test Fire the Springfield TRP 45acp with Bull Barrel, Semiautomatic Handgun.
Springfield was offering Gun Owners at my Indoor Range the chance to Test Fire this handgun.

The Springfield Model 1911 TRP from Springfield's Website:


Answer/Results:
Blog Administrator -
This is a variation to the standard Model 1911 in 45 ACP caliber. TRP means Tactical Response Pistol.
I elected to Test Fire this weapon myself and post it here.
I have included my opinion of this handgun after firing it, and a Youtube Video below on recommended upgrades.



Youtube Video: Recommended Upgrading the Springfield TRP ....

My TEST Firing of the Springfield Model 1911 TRP 45 ACP Handgun ....
I fired 10-Rounds at 35 Feet. Here is the Target at an Indoor Gun Range.
Targets, Ammo, and Handgun all furnished by Springfield.
My evaluation of the latest factory issued model was not good. I thought the hand grips were poorly designed. I also was not impressed with the shooting performance of the handgun. I think there are better handguns on the market that perform better.
The better choice for a Model 1911 would be a Colt.
Recommendation: Pass on this weapon, but if you all ready have one or are determined to purchase one make sure you do the upgrades shown in the video above.

I carried a Colt Model 1911A1 in Vietnam and really like it.
A picture of a similar 1970 Nam version shown below ....
My personal shoulder holder for the Colt Model 1911A1 in Vietnam ...
My personal double magazine holder for the Colt Model 1911A1 in Vietnam ...


I have a previous Topic Post, Dated May 16, 2014, Entitled: Disassemble, Reassemble, and Clean a the Model 1911 Handgun.
Here is the Link -
http://askafirearmsquestion.blogspot.com/2014/05/firearm-forum-question-disassemble.html

Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: Test Firing the Springfield TRP, Model 1911, Springfield, 45 ACP, Semiautomatic Pistol, Colt Model 1911A1, Handguns, Large Bore, Center Fire, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Test Firing, Cleaning Your Weapon, Firearm Accessories, Magazines, Gun Repair, Semi Auto, Target Shooting, Gunsmith, Physics of Shooting, Gun Rights, Outdoor Shooting Range, Twitter, Pinterest, Indoor Shooting Range, NRA, GOA, Safety First, Damaging Your Weapon, Gun Parts, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, USA Midway, Sportsman Warehouse, Defensive Weapons, Targets, Military Weapons, The Firearms Guy, Gun Rust, Corrosion, Firearm Maintenance, Reloading, Dillon Precision Reloading EquipmentProtect Your Firearms, Jamming, Vietnam, Nam, Air America, Colt Firearms, Springfield Armory, 45 acp, 45 Caliber, Youtube Videos, Upgrading Your Firearm, Ammo, Independent Test,         

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Firearm Forum Question: Test Firing the H&K MP5A3, 9mm Full Auto Machine Pistol

Ask A Firearms Question:
Presented by: The Firearms Guy
.... I had the opportunity to Test Fire the H&K MP5A3, 9mm, Full Auto Rifle using Two 20-Round Magazines.
Note - As of original service date (1966), there are over 100 variations of this assault rifle, called a machine pistol in Germany. The Firearm actually is considered a handheld machine gun (fully automatic weapon), and in the USA requires a civilian (private owner) to have a Tax Stamp and BATF approval.

Latest version of the 9mm H&K MP5 (from Heckler and Koch Website) ....
Other versions of the 9mm H&K MP5 ....
H&K MP5 Specification Sheets ....


Answer/Results:
Blog Administrator -
I elected to Test Fire this weapon myself and post it here.
Personally I have always wanted to own one, but the price is way out of my affordable range.
I got to Test Fire 40-rounds of 9mm FMJ in Full Auto Mode using two 20-Round Magazines.
I thought I would share my experience and opinions of this fine German made weapon.
I have included some background, Youtube Videos, and my Target I shot at the Indoor Gun Range.

Here is the MP5A3 Model I Test Fired ....

My own personal target firing 40 rounds of 9mm FMJ ammo.
The first 20-round magazine was on full auto at 35-Feet.
The second 20-round magazine was on full auto at 50-Feet.
The MP5 handles remarkable well, little recoil and vary accurate. I would recommend this weapon to anyone looking to purchase a full automatic weapon.

Background:
The military versions and full auto version for civilian ownership are all 9mm caliber. The full auto version sells for between $19,000.00 and $27,500.00, if you can find one.
In 1983 H&K made a semi auto version called the HK94, currently they sell for around $4,000.00
H&K now produces a 22 Caliber called GSG5 in semi-auto.
This firearm is often shown in a lot of Hollywood movies.
It has been used by many special ops and special forces around the world including the Navy Seals. 
About the MP5 ...
The MP5 Variants ...


Youtube Video: Firing the MP5 on Full Auto ...

Youtube Video: Firing the MP5 on Semi Auto, Full Auto, and with a Suppressor ...


Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: Test Firing the MP5A3, MP5, Heckler and Koch, H&K, 9mm, Full Auto, Machine Pistol, German Made, Full Automatic, Machine Gun, Assault Rifle, Large Bore, Center Fire, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Test Firing, Cleaning Your Weapon, Firearm Accessories, Magazines, Gun Repair, Semi Auto, Target Shooting, Gunsmith, Physics of Shooting, Gun Rights, Outdoor Shooting Range, Twitter, Pinterest, Indoor Shooting Range, NRA, GOA, Safety First, Damaging Your Weapon, Gun Parts, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, USA Midway, Sportsman Warehouse, Defensive Weapons, Targets, Military Weapons, The Firearms Guy, Gun Rust, Corrosion, Firearm Maintenance, Reloading, Dillon Precision Reloading EquipmentProtect Your Firearms, Jamming, Bullet Proof Vests, Body Armor, Germany, NATO, GSG5, HK94, Navy Seals, Special Ops, Hollywood Action Movies,       

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.

Saturday, November 29, 2014

Firearm Forum Question: Airsoft versus Paintball versus Laser Tag

Ask A Firearms Question:
1) How come you never do anything on either Airsoft or Paintball? I would like to see your evaluation on which one is better.
Thank you Jason Nesbith.
Also requested by: John Manners; Ken Schmidt, Timothy Baldoon; Haik Buhami, and Leonard Richards.

2) Can you explain the Military's use of Laser Tag versus Paintball?
Thank you Larry Gunn.
Also requested by: Funky Foo Fighter, Pigeon Killer, and Grovin Daddy Bear.

Some Paintball Weapons and Accessories:
A popular sport by both Men and Women -
Typical Paintball Guns ...
Paintball Gun Parts ...
Paintball Gun Design Variations ...
Paintball Gun Accessories ...
Mask -
Vest -
Hopper -
Paintballs, various colors -
Paintball Target ...
Paintball Bruises -
Paintball Warning Sign -

Some Airsoft Weapons and Accessories: 
Typical Airsoft Guns, they virtually look like the real thing ...
Airsoft Gun Silencer ....
Airsoft Gun Accessories ....
Mask -
Vest -
Airsoft Gun Ammo (pellets) ....
Airsoft, BB, and Pellet Gun Target Box by Crosman  ....

Laser Tag:
Laser Tag can be defined into there basic categories ...
1) Professional use - Primarily by the Military.
2) Commercial Game use - Laser Tag centers where people come together and play at a store front located in a shopping center or mall.
3) Home use - Laser Tag equipment bought for home use. These can range from $30.00 to over $900.00.
Military Laser Tag -
Commercial Laser Tag -
Indoor Games ....
Advanced Outdoor Competition ....
Home Use Laser Tag -
Upscale Laser Tag set that sells for around $900.00 ....
Family Laser Tag set that sells for around $89.00 ....

Answer:
Blog Administrator -
This Forum is about Firearms and I did not want to deviate onto other items such as Paintball, Airsoft, Laser Tag, Pellet and BB Guns, Archery, etc.
However, I have received several request do something on the subject of Airsoft versus Paintball; and on Paintball versus Laser Tag.

For the record, I do not do either Paintball or Airsoft weapons, and haven't done Laser Tag since my children were young. I have tried Paintball a few times. I understand the worldwide following of these sports.

Originally Paintball guns primarily all looked the same. They are now being offered in a variety of firearm copied styles such as assault rifles. Paintball weapons vary in price and quality. Paintball basically is what the name implies, it shoots a colored ball that splats like paint on impact. The paintball comes in different colors and often times is competitive by teams. Competition is clear on target acquisition and successful shot because the Paintball shows up upon impact.

Airsoft shoots a BB type pellet, and impact in competition is more of an honor system because you cannot always tell if someone has been shot. Airsoft weapons are realistic in appearance and come in every form possible from handguns to assault rifles. An Airsoft weapon when sold almost always comes with either a red or orange tip on the front of the barrel to disguise it from a real firearm.
Caution: Do not remove the colored tip at the end of barrel. People have been shot by police because once the colored tip is removed they look so much like a real firearm the police often cannot tell the difference.

To end on argument, both airsoft and paintball are used by various law enforcement and military around the world for training, some use both, it just depends on that particular groups choice. 

Airsoft - versus- Paintball, the Pros and Cons, History, Methodology:
Background:
Paintball was founded in 1976 in the United States. The concept of paintball was based on The Most Dangerous Game that came from Capture the Flag.
Airsoft was founded in late 1970′s in Japan. This was in direct response to firearm restriction laws imposed on the Japanese, which basically states that no civilian may own firearms. Needless to say, demands for firearms skyrocketed, but with the firearms ban, companies soon began making replicas of famous firearms. Most notably assault rifles.
Evolution:
Paintball - Although play style, rules, and safety regulations have changed very little since its founding, paintball markers themselves have gone though huge advancements in technology. They were originally very simple, with their propulsion being an internal gas reservoir with manual bolt action loading. This was then replaced with a pump action. The major leap came in external High Pressure Air rigs and automatic loading. Today, these are the standard among paintball markers.
Airsoft - Developed completely independently from paintball. However, Daisy Outdoor Products, an American company most known for their pellet guns, took Airsoft in its early stages to the USA, where it was slow to catch on in part due to the popularity of Paintball. However, Airsoft continued to thrive in Japan were Paintball was outlawed. The simple spring loaded mechanisms of early Airsoft guns were soon replaced by gearboxes. These gearbox mechanisms were driven by a motor to turn a series of gears and pull back a spring loaded piston, effectively creating an automatic Airsoft Gun. Today we have three leaders in the Airsoft industry; Tokyo Marui, Maruzen, and Marushin.
Rules and Regulations:
The general rules of Paintball and Airsoft are very similar. You get hit by a BB or Paintball, call yourself out, then return to restart, and continue the fight.
Paintball - Requires a full seal face mask. FPS (Feet per second, basically the speed) is generally limited to 280 FPS for recreational Paintball and 290 FPS for tournaments. Finally, Paintball markers are usually restricted to semi- automatic.
Airsoft - Doesn’t require a full seal face mask. Only full seal goggles. FPS limits are 400 for automatics and 500 for spring guns (a.k.a. sniper rifles).
Pain (getting hit with either Paintball or Airsoft):
While both activities deliver some pain, a major debate between Airsoft users and Paintball is about the level of pain. Paintballers usually claim that Paintball hurts more, because it is a larger ball. This is highly contentious due to the fact that full automatics are not allowed in Paintball but are in fact the norm with Airsoft.
Note: See pictures above of bruises sustained in both Paintball and Airsoft and decide for yourself.
One must understand that because Paintball is semi automatic, it is much harder to land successive shots on target. Less Paintballs on target equals less pain. Also, Paintballs splatter on their targets, dissipating some of its energy over a wider area, which means less pain.
Airsoft is a solid BB which means a smaller area is hit, unlike Paintball, where it can dissipate to a larger area. Also, the fact that fully automatics are allowed means a lot of BB’s can be landed on a target in a shorter amount of time.
Firing Cap - Paintball markers rarely exceed 20 shots per second. However, Airsoft guns can easily exceed 20 shots per second, and can go up to 60 with some custom tech work.
Trying to say that one hurts more than the other is absurd because it depends on where you get hit and how many times, and how much padding (layers of clothing) you have on, if any.
Realism:
This is the part when Airsoft and Paintball really split. No matter how much anyone loves their sport, there is no denying that Airsoft is much more realistic.
Case and Point:
Super realistic Airsoft guns can be found as cheap as 300.00 dollars simulating every feature of an assault rifle, except for its ability to fire real bullets.
For Paintball guns to achieve a similar level of realism you are looking at all kinds of aftermarket parts and possibly some custom work.
Use as training:
There is a common misconception that the U.S. military uses Paintball Guns as a training tool. They use something called simulation. It’s basically a Paintball loaded into a live cartridge such as a 9mm round. This hurts way more than any normal Paintball or Airsoft marker. They do use paintballs but they do not use Paintball markers. They use modified M16 standard issue assault rifles. Paintball is used by the police but not to the extent of Airsoft. Airsoft is cheaper, more realistic, and that is the reason why law enforcement is getting away from Paintball and substituting Airsoft as training tools.
Paintball is still used in riot and crowd control situations. Most law enforcement use pepper spray for this application.
Operation:
Airsoft weapons can operate on either electric (battery) or gas.
Paintball weapons operate on Carbon Dioxide (CO2), or Compressed Air and sometimes Nitrogen Gas.

=> So after interviewing people that I know and trust who do both Paintball and Airsoft, I have included a topic page, comments as always are welcome. Below is a Youtube Video whereby, Paintball versus Airsoft, is explained ....


Youtube Video #1: Target Practice with a Paintball Gun .... 

Youtube Video #2: Target Practice with a Paintball Gun .... 



Laser Tag is a team or individual sport where players attempt to score points by 'Tagging' their opponents generally with an infrared emitting beam. The laser sets off an alarm that beeps when you have been targeted successfully (killed). The advantage of Laser Tag is any age can play and it is painless.
Professional style Laser Tag Equipment is used by the military. It generally fits onto the weapon assigned to the individual soldier or marine. 
Youtube Video: Laser Tag Explained and Demonstrated ...


Please ADD Your Comment to this Blog.

Key Search Words: Paintball, Airsoft, BB Gun, Pellet Gun, Crosman, Daisy, Competition Shooting, Team Shooting, Laser Tag, Lasers, Firearms Forum, Firearms Discussion Board, Ask A Firearms Question, Q-n-A, Firearm Pictures, Test Firing, Cleaning Your Weapon, Firearm Accessories, Magazines, Gun Repair, Semi Auto Handguns, Target Shooting, Gunsmith, Physics of Shooting, Gun Rights, Outdoor Shooting Range, Twitter, Pinterest, Indoor Shooting Range, NRA, GOA, Safety First, Damaging Your Weapon, Gun Parts, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, USA Midway, Sportsman Warehouse, Targets, The Firearms Guy, Paintball Maintenance, Gun Diagrams, Firearm Maintenance, Vests, Body Armor, Headgear, Face Mask, Camouflage Gear, Rifles, Handguns, Shotguns, Assault Rifles, Capture the Flag, NATO, Paintballs, BBs, Europe, Japan, USA, Team Sports, Air Rifle, CO2, Compressed Gas,       

To submit a Question, email it to:

Help this blog grow by joining Google Friend Connect, follow me.

Please follow me on Twitter - @firearmsqa
And on Pinterest - askafirearmsque

Attention Firearm and Ammunition (ammo) Manufacturers, and Makers of Firearm Accessories. I am now Testing Products and issuing reviews on the Firearms Forum (Ask A Firearms Question) site.
If you want your Product TESTED, Reviewed, and Posted here, please contact me.