Airsoft Guns in Very Cold Weather: What You Need to Know – Airsoft is a year-round hobby, but shooting in very cold weather brings unique challenges. Cold temperatures affect your Airsoft Guns, batteries, ammo, and even your gameplay. Understanding how to adapt is key to maintaining performance and having fun without frustrating surprises.
In this guide, we’ll cover what you need to know to keep your Airsoft Rifles and Airsoft Pistols working smoothly in freezing conditions.
Cold Weather Affects Gun Performance
Airsoft guns are mechanical and/or electronic devices, so they react to temperature just like any other equipment.
- Electric guns (AEGs) may run slower because cold can make motors less efficient.
- Gas guns (GBBs, pistols, rifles) are heavily impacted because gas pressure drops in cold weather, leading to weaker shots or even misfires.
- Spring-powered guns are less affected but may feel “stiffer” if lubricants thicken.
Tip: If you often play in very cold weather, consider AEGs or spring guns over gas guns for consistent performance.
Battery Care Is Critical
For electric guns, cold weather is tough on batteries:
- Lithium-ion and LiPo batteries lose capacity in cold temperatures, so you may notice shorter game times.
- Always keep spare batteries warm in your pocket until you need them.
- Never charge batteries in freezing conditions, as this can damage them.
Pro Tip: Rotate batteries between games and store them in an insulated case during transport.
Gas Guns Struggle in Freezing Temps
Gas guns rely on the expansion of compressed gas to fire. Cold air reduces gas pressure, which leads to:
- Lower FPS and shorter range
- Inconsistent shot cycles
- Difficulty firing semi-automatic or automatic modes
Workarounds:
- Use green gas with silicone oil, which performs better in cooler weather than CO₂.
- Consider high-pressure air (HPA) systems or switch to spring-powered alternatives in very cold conditions.
Lubricants and Maintenance Matter
Cold temperatures affect oils, grease, and silicone lubricants:
- Thickened lubricants can make guns feel stiff and affect trigger pull.
- Metal parts are more prone to wear if lubrication is insufficient.
Best Practices:
- Use cold-weather-rated silicone oils for gearboxes and moving parts.
- Keep your gun clean and dry to prevent rust from condensation.
Ammo and Feeding
Airsoft BBs behave differently in cold weather:
- Some BBs become brittle or slightly smaller in freezing temperatures, which may affect feeding and hop-up consistency.
- Keep BBs in a room-temperature container until just before use.
Pro Tip: Avoid old or low-quality BBs, which are more likely to crack or jam in cold weather.
Protect Yourself and Your Gear
Cold weather doesn’t just affect guns — it affects players too:
- Gloves reduce dexterity, so practice your trigger pull while wearing them.
- Fogged goggles are common; anti-fog treatments are a must.
- Keep guns in insulated cases during transport to prevent condensation when moving indoors.
Spring-Powered Guns Are Reliable Alternatives
If you want guaranteed performance in freezing conditions, spring guns shine:
- Independent of batteries or gas
- Less sensitive to cold lubricants
- Simple to maintain and repair
A spring-powered rifle or pistol can be your backup or main weapon for winter airsoft games.
Final Tips
- Test your guns before heading to the field – cold weather surprises are frustrating.
- Plan battery swaps and gas refills carefully.
- Keep all gear dry and clean to prevent rust and jams.
- If you play often in freezing conditions, consider upgrading to HPA or spring guns.
With a little preparation, your airsoft guns can handle cold weather just as well as you do. Winter games can be fun, safe, and full of surprises – as long as your gear is ready.
Summary: Cold weather impacts FPS, gas performance, battery life, and lubrication. Spring-powered guns are the most reliable, but proper preparation can keep electric and gas guns performing well.
About This Blog
Address: Just BB Guns, Trimex House, Pier Road, Feltham, TW14 0TW
Call: 0330 900 5224
Website: www.justbbguns.co.uk
Blog Title: Airguns in Very Cold Weather
Blog Author: Mark Watts