Airsoft sniper rifles are modeled after sniper rifles and designed for the same basic purpose: to take precise shots at long distances. The most important prerequisite for this is that the BBs are accelerated with high energy. Legally, up to 7.5 Joules of muzzle energy (the energy of the projectile at the muzzle of the weapon) is allowed for free weapons. Free weapons are those that can be sold freely to individuals aged 18 and over. However, 7.5 Joules is far too high for an airsoft weapon, as players shoot at each other during the game. 7.5 Joules would pose a significant risk of injury. Airsoft sniper rifles typically have a muzzle energy of about 3 Joules.
Sniper rifles are usually bolt-action rifles; for the sake of realism, airsoft sniper weapons are also constructed based on the concept of bolt-action rifles. The advantage of bolt-action rifles over semi-automatic weapons is that the bolt does not open during the firing cycle, which affects the center of gravity of the weapon and thus negatively impacts precision. The disadvantage of a bolt-action rifle compared to a semi-automatic weapon is the reduced rate of fire - also referred to as firing rate, shot frequency, or firing speed. With bolt-action rifles, you cannot fire multiple shots as quickly as with a semi-automatic assault rifle.
Which weapon one acquires is entirely a matter of personal taste. The most important thing at the beginning is that it is fun to play. In this regard, airsoft sniper rifles have three disadvantages compared to the semi-automatic assault rifles that we recommend: Firstly, the reduced rate of fire - opposing players can put an inexperienced sniper under fire with multiple shots while he is still busy with the reloading process. Secondly, airsoft sniper weapons only have an advantage at long distances if they accelerate the BBs with high energy. However, this leads to the energy that the BBs deliver at short shooting distances being very high - and very painful for the hit players. In most games, a minimum distance for sniper weapons is therefore agreed upon, which limits their operational capability. For snipers, this means that they actually need a backup weapon - for example, a pistol with low muzzle energy and speed for quick shots at short distances. However, quickly switching from a sniper rifle to a pistol requires technical finesse and training - precise shooting with a handgun also needs to be trained. For these reasons, we advise beginners against acquiring sniper weapons and rather recommend purchasing a semi-automatic assault rifle.
Depending on the playing field and mode, sniper weapons are subject to a maximum energy and a minimum distance. However, they also bring the advantage of being able to reliably hit targets and opposing players at long distances. A skilled shooter can reliably hit targets at about 100 meters with a good sniper replica. As a game tactic, it is advisable to utilize this ability. The best way to do this, as with real snipers, is from a high vantage point with a good overview and good camouflage.
Auction
