The gearbox is the heart of any AEG airsoft gun and is crucial to its performance and durability. There are different versions of gearboxes available to suit specific gun types, as well as upgrade options that can improve functionality and durability. Here's everything you need to know.
The different versions of gearboxes
V2 Gearbox
- Typical use: Used in AR platforms such as the M4 and M16 as well as some MP5 models.
- Advantages:
- Easy to find spare parts and upgrade parts.
- Simple to work with and very versatile.
- Disadvantages:
- Less robust and may have issues with air tightness under high load without upgrades.
V3 Gearbox
- Typical use: AK series, G36 and some SMGs.
- Advantages:
- More robust than V2, ideal for high-torque setups and heavy-duty springs.
- Disadvantages:
- A bit more complicated to work with due to the design.
V5 Gearbox
- Typical application: P90 platforms.
- Advantages:
- Compact and suitable for smaller weapons.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited selection of spare parts and upgrades.
V7 Gearbox
- Typical application: M14 platforms.
- Advantages:
- Designed for long-range weapons like DMRs.
- Disadvantages:
- More complex design, making maintenance and upgrades more difficult.
V9 Gearbox
- Typical use: SIG 550 series and other niche models.
- Advantages:
- Designed for specific weapons, allowing for custom customizations.
- Disadvantages:
- Hard to find spare parts and less flexibility.
Advanced gearbox upgrades
Material choice: Aluminum gearboxes
An upgrade to an aluminum gearbox can significantly improve durability.
- Advantages:
- Withstands higher loads, especially when using heavy-duty springs and high-torque motors.
- Reduces the risk of cracks and increases the life of the gearbox.
- Improved heat dissipation.
- Disadvantages:
- Higher price and requires precision during installation.
Quick Spring Change (QSC) system
A QSC system makes it easy to change springs without disassembling the entire gearbox.
- Advantages:
- Quick and easy adaptation of FPS to different games and rules.
- Reduces time and effort in maintenance.
- Disadvantages:
- Typically a feature in advanced gearboxes, which can increase the price.
Other upgrades
- High-torque and high-speed gears: Adjust the gears to your desired firing rate or power.
- Reinforced bushings and ball bearings: Reduces friction and increases gearbox life.
- MOSFET and ETU: Electronic upgrades protect internal parts and improve response time.
When should you upgrade your gearbox?
- High load: If you use heavy springs (M130+) or play intensively, an aluminum gearbox may be necessary.
- Flexibility: A QSC system makes your weapon easy to adapt to different game scenarios.
- Improved performance: If you want to optimize your gearbox for high-speed or DMR configurations, upgrades like reinforced gears and mosfets are a benefit.
Conclusion
Gearbox selection and upgrades depend on your playing style and needs. Standard V2 and V3 gearboxes work well for most setups, while advanced gearboxes with aluminum and QSC systems are perfect for specialized setups where durability and flexibility are a priority.
