So you have got into airsoft. Maybe you have tried it at a friend's event, watched videos online, or heard about it from someone you know. Now you are ready to invest in your own gear — and the first and most important question is, of course: which rifle should I start with?
That is the question we ask ourselves every single time a new customer calls or writes to us at Handelshuset Aulum. And the answer is not necessarily the most expensive gun in the shop. It is about finding the right rifle for you — your play style, your site and your budget.
This guide is written for you if you are completely new to the sport and want a clear and honest answer.
Why start with G&G?
There are many brands in the airsoft world, but G&G Armament is without doubt one of the most recommended starting points — and that is no accident. For years G&G's Combat Machine series has sat at the top of the recommendation lists of experienced players worldwide, and it comes down to three things:
Reliability. G&G rifles are built to last. The polymer body is robust and can take the knocks and drops that inevitably happen when you are new and still learning the game. The internals are well matched from the factory and need minimal maintenance.
Features from the start. Many cheaper beginner rifles offer a bare, basic experience. G&G gives you a MOSFET, ETU and adjustable hop-up at the entry price — electronics and mechanics that otherwise usually require an upgrade later.
Upgradability. Once you have outgrown the beginner stage and want to tune your rifle, the G&G platform is well documented and supported by a huge aftermarket. You don't start over — you build on what you have.
The most important things to understand before you buy
Before we dive into the models, there are a few things you should know as a new player:
AEG is the way to go for beginners. AEGs (automatic electric guns) are battery-powered rifles and by far the most common choice on the field. They are easy to use, reliable in all weathers and need minimal maintenance. Start here — gas-powered rifles and HPA are for when you know the game better.
Velocity limits matter. Most airsoft sites have rules on how powerful your rifle may be. Typical limits are around 107 m/s for CQB and around 122 m/s outdoors, but they vary from site to site. All G&G Combat Machine rifles are set to fall within these limits from the factory.
BB quality matters more than most people think. Cheap BBs give poor accuracy and can damage your rifle. Start with Hank Tactical BIO in 0.20 g or 0.25 g — biodegradable BBs that suit G&G rifles.
Which G&G should you choose? Three clear recommendations
Here is our honest guide to which G&G suits you, depending on what you will use it for:
If you mainly play outdoors: CM16 Raider or CM16 SRS
The CM16 Raider is the classic and most recommended beginner rifle in G&G's range — and there is good reason for that. It is light, compact, easy to handle and delivers exactly what a new player needs: reliability and trouble-free operation from day one.
The CM16 SRS is the slightly modernised alternative with an M-LOK rail and a more up-to-date look. The internals are the same, but it is better suited to modern accessories such as lights and foregrips.
Both models are excellent starting points for outdoor play on open fields and in woodland.
If you mainly play CQB or indoors: G&G ARP9
If you are drawn to indoor sites and close-quarters combat, the ARP9 is the obvious choice. It is extremely compact and light — only approx. 2 kg — and its PDW design gives you a manoeuvrability that a standard M4 simply can't match in tight rooms and corridors.
The ARP9 is easy to learn and has a MOSFET and ETU as standard. It is not only for beginners either — you will see it in the hands of experienced CQB players worldwide. You start with something you won't outgrow quickly.
If you want it all and don't plan to upgrade for a while: CM18 Mod1
The CM18 Mod1 is a little shorter than a standard M4, but versatile enough to work well both outdoors and in CQB. It is a good choice if you don't yet know exactly which play style you will end up preferring — it performs well in both scenarios.
What else do you need from the start?
A rifle alone is not enough. Here are the things you need to get on the field:
Eye protection — the most important of all. Every site requires approved eye protection (ANSI Z87.1 or equivalent). Don't cut corners here — these are your eyes.
Battery and charger — most G&G rifles need a 7.4 V LiPo battery. It is not always included in the box, so check what your package contains. A smart charger is a good investment — it protects the battery against overcharging.
BBs — start with Hank Tactical BIO 0.20 g for most rifles, or 0.25 g if you want a bit more accuracy outdoors. Never use BBs lighter than 0.20 g.
Spare magazines — the supplied magazine is rarely enough for a full day on the field. A couple of extra mid-cap magazines will make your day much better.
Face and teeth protection — many sites require a full face mask for players under 18. Many adult players prefer one too — a BB in the teeth is no fun.
Our best advice for you as a new player
Spend the first seasons learning the game rather than spending money on upgrades. A G&G Combat Machine straight from the factory is good enough to compete on any site — what separates experienced players from beginners is tactics and experience, not gear.
Get out there, play a lot, and let the gear wait. Once you know which play style you prefer — CQB, outdoor field play or milsim — you will be much better placed to invest in the right gear next time.
At Handelshuset Aulum we are happy to help you find the right starter package. Browse our G&G range here → G&G Armament airsoft – find your next G&G rifle, or get in touch — we reply quickly and honestly.
