Post by snakedoc on Jun 26, 2008 10:22:06 GMT 8
MANUFACTURERS
Japan & HK
• Hudson - produces high-end theater-quality gas-operated airsoft guns, mainly of WWII replicas.
• Sheriff – Full Metal custom pistols using Western Arms based components, as well as building Maruzen based bolt action rifles. Sheriff also made gas airsoft rifles for a time, including the now discontinued Highlander Magnum.
• Sunproject – Known for their M203s and CO2 driven Gas Blow Back M-16s.
• Supercell Development, Inc. - Inventors of the spring-powered airsoft claymore.
• G&G (Guay Guay Gunshop)] – specializes in internal and external upgrades and accessories. G&G manufactures higher end guns, but their M14 is known for breaking down, the RK, GR, SCAR, L85, and their UMGs are quite durable internally. Their guns are known for poorly made hop-up. They have just release the sportline which is the same guns but for a cheaper price and without a metal body, so far with only the GR16 produced.
• Top Tech - Works very close with the G&G company and they produce rifles that are fitted with a blowback system that is not operated by gas, they are in fact guns operated by electricity and are modified to have the bolt and piston attached together so they move when the gun is being fired. Not available in many places since they have just started production. Prototypes have been made and will be released soon.
• [G&P], A Hong Kong based company that specializes in aftermarket upgrades and external accessories, also make a variety of high quality AR-15 series AEGs along with an M249 SAW Heavy Machine Gun.
• ICS (I Chih Shivan)] – ICS is considered one of the "Big 3" manufacturers of airsoft guns (the others being Tokyo Marui, and Classic Army, respectively). Manufactures M4 Carbines, MP5s, and an AK-74M replica. In addition, they have also come out with the split gearbox design for their M4 series, in which the upper gearbox (which includes the cylinder and spring assembly) disconnects from the lower gearbox (which houses the gear assembly) for easier repair and upgrades.
• Escort - Highly realistic gas blowback rifles such as their M4 and MP5 series, usually hard to find and available mostly in Asia.
• Tanio Koba - High end gas powered pistols that are made in Japan
• Inokatsu – High-end and High-priced manufacturer famous for their Full Metal M60 Machine Guns and AK47/74.
• [Deep Fire] – Founded by the chief engineers at Classic Army, Deep Fire is known for innovative and unique products like their Titanium pistons for AEG rifles, M72 Launcher, airsoft hand grenades and distraction devices.
• KSC – Located in Japan; specializing in handguns. Their gas blow back pistols are of high reliability and accuracy, having gained themselves a reputation for 'practical' skirmishing sidearms. KSC manufactures an HK33 AEG line that features manual thingying in the event of a dead battery however is quite hard to find and usually is only available in Asia and upgrade parts for it is very uncommon.
• [KWA] – Located in Taiwan, KWA is one of the OEM manufacturers for KSC's GBB pistols. In 2007, KWA released their first AEG, the KG36C followed by their first "Lithium Polymer Ready" AEG, the KWA KM4A1. KWA AEG's are widely regarded as some of the best "stock" AEG's available on the market in America because they are around 380-400 FPS out of the box. KWA AEG's are fast becoming popular for its strong internals and li-po ready capabilities.
• [Mad Bull Airsoft] – makers of many types of Airsoft grenades, grenade launchers, tight-bore barrels, triggers, mines, and various other parts.
• [Marushin] –Known for their 8 mm BB firing guns as well as their ultra-realistic M1 Garand.
• Maruzen – One of the very first airsoft companies, Maruzen is well known for its APS series of sniper rifles. The APS-2 and APS-2 Type 96 are among the most popular and best-selling airsoft sniper rifles on the market.
• Olympic Arms – Manufactures ICS replicas with trademarks
• STAR – Specializes in more expensive, highly realistic, easy-to-disassemble airsoft guns, but they discourage beginners because of their complex internals.
• Systema Engineering – which specializes in high-end professional training weapons (PTWs) that are very close to the real steel, nearly indistinguishable between real or fake, as well as internal and external upgrades that are known for their high quality and durability. Systema makes six different PTWs the M4, M4A1, the M4A1 CQB, the M16A2, the M16A3 and the Mp5. Their PTWs use color coded cylinders that can be swaped quickly for FPS change, the red cylinder which is the strongest can make the gun shoot around 500 FPS, and the black cylinder which is the weakest shoots at around 270 FPS.
• Tanaka Works – specializes in high-powered gas gun revolvers and rifles. Known for having high end gas shotguns and revolvers.
• Tokyo Marui – Most commonly renowned as the very pinnacle of airsoft technology, reliability, and durability. Created the first automatic electric gun (AEG) - the FAMAS F1 - and was responsible for the invention of the 'Hop Up' System (which, by means of an adjustable rubber pad in the barrel, creates a spin on the fired BB, greatly increasing range). Marui has manufactured a wide variety of AEGs, smaller AEPs (Automatic Electric Pistols), along with gas and spring powered weapons. They have also been responsible for other great advancements in airsoft. Tokyo Marui is the largest airsoft manufacturer worldwide, and is seen as the Airsoft "standard" for which nearly all after market products are tailored.
• Classic Army - A Hong Kong company that is often seen to rival Tokyo Marui. Manufactures high-end AEGs featuring all metal bodies, which Tokyo Marui do not have.
• RealSword - a Hong Kong-based company manufacturing replicas of Chinese assault rifles, their guns are highly realistic and very close to the real steel, however their guns are usually turned off by beginners because they require constant maintenance of their gearboxes and the gearbox is usually hard to get to and takes an amount of time.
• TOP - specializes with manufacturing light and heavy machine gun airsoft replicas.
• Western Arms - largely specializing on the 1911 .45 and its derivatives as well as Beretta, S&W and SV. High end pistols without customization. They have also released a M4A1 that is gas powered with a blowback function.
• VFC/GB TECH (Vega Force Company) - Recently began production of unique AEGs. Highly realistic replica but have reputations for breaking down and they will require constant maintenance and repair to keep them in fully working condition. Not commonly used by beginners because of their unique internals and they are usually hard to get to. The guns also have realistic field stripping that takes a while to get used to. Some parts are usually harder to find so when problems exists it may take a while to get it repaired. Their first batch of AEGs, the HK416 is the one with the most problems and many people avoid buying them, but their second version of the HK416 is said to be improved. So far the only guns that this company manufacturers are the HK416 series, the AK series, BARs, Squad automatic weapons (SAWs), SCAR series, and few snipers including the Barret M82.
• King Arms - known for their variety of optics and scopes.
• Airsoft Surgeon-Sells external and internal modifications for airsoft sniper rifles.
Taiwan
• KWC (Kien Well Corporation) - Taiwanese manufacturer known for its CO2 powered Mini UZI, classic M16 gas rifles and spring-power guns retaining fully licensed trademarks.
• KJW (Kuan Ju Works) - (also known as Y&P) Taiwanese manufacturer of high powered metal-constructed replicas. Their most popular model is the replica Beretta 92 FS.
• HFC (Ho Feng Corporation) - Taiwanese manufacturer of spring- and gas-powered guns, mainly KSC and Tokyo Marui copies. The company was made famous for their semi-automatic HFC M190 gas blowback model, a replica of the Beretta 92FS with the addition of an RIS system.
• WE Taiwan (Wei-E Tech) - known for their range of fullsize metal-bodied Colt M1911 and Hi-Capa pistols
• AIM - AEG series manufactured by ICS but lacking the full metal bodies.
• Modify - Taiwanese manufacturer, specializes in designing and manufacturing internal airsoft upgrade parts.
• TECHPRO - A Japanese owned company in Taiwan, specializes in manufacturing innovative parts to give your AEGs more power.
• SRC (Star Rainbow Company) - Taiwanese company manufacturing M4/M16 and AK47 replicas, copied from Tokyo Marui designs. They now release full metal versions in addition ABS plastic versions that fires around 300-330 fps out of the box.
China
• Gamma – Known for their clone of the Supercell Dev. airsoft claymore mine.
• Unicorn - Chinese maker, primary products the AK-74 series, full steel and wood AEGs and conversion kits.(http://www.unicorn-industry.com/)
• CYMA - Earlier models include the CM027 MP5J and CM028 AK47. Their release for 2006 includes the CM031 which is externally a CA SLR-105 clone but internally similar to its version of the AK47 with a different hop up chamber and inner barrel. Until the CM027, CYMA were known for making inexpensive and relatively low durability airsoft guns. Their latest model is the CM0121 which is a full auto Desert Eagle AEP.In 2008 Cyma have launched new range of full metal and wood AEGs and have improved their overall quality ,reliability and performance. Some Cyma models are nearly equal manufactures of high-end AEGs. New models include the CM031, CM031b, CM031c, CM031c, CM035, CM036, CM037, CM039, and the CM042.
• WELL/WELLFIRE - A low-end airsoft manufacturer. It's gearbox and motor proved to be surprisingly durable although both guns suffer from air compression problems. They later released the R7 or M4A1 with full stock and R8 G3SAS which surprised many with its robustness and accuracy. WELL is the first company to release the TM clone of MP7 or R-4 as well as releasing the first low-power clone of Tokyo Marui's P90, which is the D90 and the R9.
• Double Eagle (DE) - The company that revolutionized LPEGs with its famous M83. Double Eagle has been proven to make exact copies of Tokyo Marui's weapons. Their version of the AK47 and Spetsnaz were met with lukewarm enthusiasm as most other Chinese companies were able to produce better performing AEGs. Their M50 springer rifle was quite popular and easily "upgradeable" to 400fps by simply wrapping the inner barrel and hop up chamber area with teflon tape to seal air leaks. In early 2007, Double Eagle released a version of M4 S-System (the M88) and G&G-based UMP (the M89).They have been notably making the lowest quality LPEGs compared to Well and CYMA
• Both Elephant (BE) - Manufactures copies of the MP7, G3SG1, XM8, Steyr Aug, G36K, and the SL8. Most of their AEGs are offered with either a plastic or metal gearbox, the latter being more reliable. However, even the metal gearbox versions are inferior in quality to similar models produced by other Chinese clone manufacturers. They are often light weight and lack the same quality of finish and trademarks. Currently their plastic gearbox and metal gearbox variants have dropped drastically in price because of their quality, but they have still been making some of the strongest LPEGs and they were leading some of the strongest MGB Guns until JG came back in the production.
• Jing Gong (JG, also known as Golden Bow) - Manufacturer quality low priced airsoft guns. They usually have plastic bodies, but some are now made with metal. The prime choice for beginners because they require low amounts of maintenance, they last long, and shoot a decent FPS.In 2008 JG have a new and improved AEGs, most of the new 2008 upgrade version shoot well over 400fps with improved interals current new models are a full metal SVD,Full metal and wood AK47, AK47s,V2 full metal HK416 in 3 variants,JG model nearly equal manufactures of high-end AEG.
• A&K - It's M4 S-System with metal RIS (rail interface) has become a big winner in a market saturated with Armalites. The S-System was followed by other rifles from the M16 family: M16A4, M4, M933 and M4 CQB, and an M249 clone was released in mid August 2007. The A&K M249 clone is far cheaper than the original CA Version; It retails in the United States for $300-400USD and retains nearly all of the high quality and features offered by the CA version, including the PGC 8 mm bearing gearbox capable of quick swap springs. Their new releases for 2008 includes the M16A4, SPR MOD 1, SPR MOD 0, SR25K and the SR25, all of whom retails up to and over $200.
• Kart/New Star - this low-end/economy-priced company, commonly linked to A&K, has débuted with releasing an M14 copy soon after the Tokyo Marui model appeared. Other models include M14 SOCOM rifle, M40 and Steyr AUG (although the last one was discontinued due to poor build).
• AGM - Entered the market with its surprising accurate and powerful springer rifle, the MP001 aka VSR (since it is a visual replica of the TM VSR10). Their MP007 (MP40) was an instant hit as an alternative to other expensive and fault-prone rifles; featured a version 3 all metal gearbox and reinforced gears and piston.
• BOYI - They gained their fame when they manufactured the AR-15 lines (BIM4) Their latest line is branded as KALASH, manufacturing AK-74s and AKS-74Us. Many of their MPEGs consist of many metal parts, and metal bodies most MPEGs do not have. Also, majority of their internals are metal.
• Galaxy - known for their PDWs (MP5K, MP5 PDW and MP7A1), Galaxy produces good-quality compact AEGs. They are rumored to be working on a P90 replica with a metal gearbox.
• JLS - producer of the airsoft SCAR, two full metal HK33 variants (copied from relatively obscure KSC hybrid AEG/springer design) and the first FN F2000 replica. Also the biggest producer of the "cheap" EBB's (Electric Blow Back) pistols which have a high failure rate but one of best sellers for their fun.
• BELL - Released a G3SG1 replica, which was unsuccessful for its low velocity and quality. Also the first Chinese manufacturer to release a gas pistol replicas: a full-metal Beretta M9 model based on the semi-only version of HFC's M190 pistol, a M10 shell-loaded revolver and a Colt M1911 replica based on Tokyo Marui design, with fully-trademarked plastic body.
Others
• Unicorn Hobby Corporation (UHC) - Offering very reliable, yet economical alternatives to higher-end companies including the MP5 SD3, the M1911A1, M92FS, as well as the Super 9.
• KHC - Famous for their Maverick Bullpup and spring pistols.
• Omega - Famous for their Beretta 93R.
• Academy - South Korean company best known for their DPMS Kittycat, L85, and A-15 rifles.
• AZR Machine & Tool Co.
Customized builders of airsoft accessories, replica wood rifle stocks for the M1 Garand, Thompson, Mauser98k, FAL, and AKM. Also manufactures drop-in gearboxes for AEGs and conversion kits for Rifles. This company offers a wide range of customized services for there clients that wish to have there own designs to there replica rifles.
• UTG(Under The Gun) - UTG is a brand by Leapers Inc which manufactures scopes and red dots.
DISTRIBUTORS
These companies purchase product directly from the factories for distribution to retailers or resellers.
• 3L International LLC, an importer and wholesale distributor of airsoft guns, tactical gear and accessories. (http://www.3L-INTL.com)
• Airsoft Assist, Founded in 2006, this company is a new distributor in Europe. With over 161 dealers in 24 European countries. They mainly focus on the European continent. They provide high end products like VFC, MODIFY, MAGPUL PTS, BIOVAL BBB's etc. Their head office is near Antwerp Belgium.
• Airsoft Elite - Smaller importer and distributor of ICS and VFC products.
• Airsoft Extreme - A popular California-based distributor of high-end airsoft guns, accessories, parts, and airsoft-related tactical gear. Airsoft Extreme has retail locations in southern California, Oakland, Sacramento, as well as an online store.(http://www.airsoftextreme.com)
• Airsoft GI - A southern California-based retailer of Airsoft guns and related accessories and gear. It's online store (http://www.airsoftgi.com) is steadily gaining a reputation as one of the most reliable US-based online retailers today, carrying a wide selection of affordable mid-range to high-range guns.
• AirsoftGunny US based airsoft armory which sells airsoft guns & MILSIM gear. Specializes in G&G, JG and most mid level AEGs. Rebrands Chinese made MILSIM equipment under the Airsoft Gunny brand. Founded Early- 2005 (http://www.airsoftgunny.com)
• Airsoft World - UK based importer and distributor of mostly Chinese AEGs. Exclusive European distributor of '2-Tone' AEGs, Maxenon and other products. Airsoftworld.Net
• AirSplat - A southern California-based retailer / distributor of Airsoft guns and related accessories and gear. It's online store (http://www.airsplat.com) is one of the largest airsoft online retailers, carrying a wide selection of affordable low-range to high-range guns.
• Socom Tactical Airsoft - UK online based importer and distributor of Airsoft Tactical gear including Scopes, sights and torches and assault vests and rigs Socomtactical.Net
• AIRSOFT ZONE CORPORATION - An American-based direct importer and distributor of a wide barrage of airsoft weapons and accessories.
• Aliz.fr – A French company offers selection of GBB and AEG ; importing and selling replicas - produced by WE (wei e tech) and AIM.
• ECHO 1 – An American company, spun off from JAG Precision, that rebrands AEGs. They test, repackage and rebrand many high quality Chinese clones, mainly from Jing Gong. They are known for their M4 line and the G36c. Their products come from China, which have been rebranded with, sometimes, few added accessories. They are one of the best choices for beginners for their selection of high performance and high quality AEGs or anyone on a tight budget. They also have a warranty for their guns and a guarantee that their AEGs are packaged with metal bushings and spring guides, which Jin Gong, unfortunately does not have. Some companies who are carrying JG’s products said that ECHO 1 USA is exactly the same as JG. This is totally incorrect. ECHO1’s products have been carefully selected before they ship to the US and even the internal parts are different.
• Crosman, offering mainly low-quality Chinese entry-level electric rifles, spring and CO2 powered pistols.
• Europe Accessoires, (French) an importer and wholesale distributor of airsoft guns, tactical gear and accessories. (http://www.europe-accessoires.com)
• Evike, A BBB certified retailier based out of San Gabriel, California; offers a large selection of AEGs and Gas powered guns. Also specializes in custom-made airsoft guns.
• FIREPOWER (Palco Sports) - The company offers a warranty on their products and often sells low quality products.
• JAG Precision, One of the most reputable and oldest distributor in USA. The owner has real solid background and also work with Hollywood movie industry. They are also the exclusive distributor for Japan CAW, MadBull, Modify, Echo1USA, and more...
• Leapers, one of the oldest Airsoft importer in the US. They offer weapons and accessories they outsource to manufacturer or manufacturer themselves. Their origins are from real fire arm's accessories and add on's. Their recent endeaver into airsoft is under UTG and NeonFire.
• MrAirsoft, One of the leading online distributors of Airsoft Guns & Accessories in North America. (http://www.mrairsoft.com)
• Redwolf Airsoft, Founded in the 90's, this company wholesales to retailers across the globe. This company has offices in multiple cities, and focuses on mid to high end airsoft products. The company also has a retail unit. they also have the airsoft surgeon Clarence Lai, who modifies guns to make them extremely high end. known for his modified tanaka shot guns which feature unique airsoft shells.
• Spartan Imports, Spartan Imports is the exclusive US distributor of products by Classic Army, Inokatsu, KWA, Tokyo Marui, Maruzen, Marushin, and G&G Armament. They are based in Northern California. They also carry high quality parts and accessories from AMP Tactical, Madbull, MAG, DevGru, Private Parts Airsoft, KM Head, Leapers, Beamshot, and more. Partially owned by AEX.
• STTI (SpringTime Taiwan Inc.) - Parent company of KJW and SRC
• Team SD, one of the oldest Airsoft importer in the US. They offer weapons and accessories from many of the leading manufacturers, including ICS, SRC, HFC, and WE. They admit to simply re-branding some products, but claim to offer feedback to manufacturers to improve product quality on most. Warranty is offered on most products.
• Tippmann (Spring, CUCOK, and electric guns)
• Toko Airsoft, (Indonesia) distributor of airsoft guns, tactical gear and accessories.
• UK ARMS, imports mostly Chinese airsoft products.
• Umarex, operating mainly in Germany and selling various replicas of Walther, Beretta, Desert Eagle, Smith and Wesson, and Heckler and Koch guns - produced by KJW, KWC, HFC and WELL.
• Umarex USA, offers entry-level spring and electric pistols in Walther shapes and mid-upper level electric and CO2 models with metal gears under the Tactical Force (WELL) brand.
• UTG / Neonfire - Two subdivisions of Leapers that re brand lower-end Chinese-made guns from WELL, CYMA, and Double Eagle. Usually packs them with extra accessories like an extra battery, magazine, or sling.
• Bangketa Yero, a Tondo Library org that distributes in the Philippines, mainly in the National Capital Rgion, also known for producing school weapons. They tend to repackage low-end spring pellet guns and pre-load the magazines with 0.12gram pellets.
• Westside Outlet - US-California based direct importer and distributor which carries all China brands Airsoft guns, AEG and accessories, tactical gears.
• War Gamers Shop - Hong-Kong based direct importer and distributor which carries nearly all brands of Airsoft guns, AEG and accessories, tactical gears.
Japan & HK
• Hudson - produces high-end theater-quality gas-operated airsoft guns, mainly of WWII replicas.
• Sheriff – Full Metal custom pistols using Western Arms based components, as well as building Maruzen based bolt action rifles. Sheriff also made gas airsoft rifles for a time, including the now discontinued Highlander Magnum.
• Sunproject – Known for their M203s and CO2 driven Gas Blow Back M-16s.
• Supercell Development, Inc. - Inventors of the spring-powered airsoft claymore.
• G&G (Guay Guay Gunshop)] – specializes in internal and external upgrades and accessories. G&G manufactures higher end guns, but their M14 is known for breaking down, the RK, GR, SCAR, L85, and their UMGs are quite durable internally. Their guns are known for poorly made hop-up. They have just release the sportline which is the same guns but for a cheaper price and without a metal body, so far with only the GR16 produced.
• Top Tech - Works very close with the G&G company and they produce rifles that are fitted with a blowback system that is not operated by gas, they are in fact guns operated by electricity and are modified to have the bolt and piston attached together so they move when the gun is being fired. Not available in many places since they have just started production. Prototypes have been made and will be released soon.
• [G&P], A Hong Kong based company that specializes in aftermarket upgrades and external accessories, also make a variety of high quality AR-15 series AEGs along with an M249 SAW Heavy Machine Gun.
• ICS (I Chih Shivan)] – ICS is considered one of the "Big 3" manufacturers of airsoft guns (the others being Tokyo Marui, and Classic Army, respectively). Manufactures M4 Carbines, MP5s, and an AK-74M replica. In addition, they have also come out with the split gearbox design for their M4 series, in which the upper gearbox (which includes the cylinder and spring assembly) disconnects from the lower gearbox (which houses the gear assembly) for easier repair and upgrades.
• Escort - Highly realistic gas blowback rifles such as their M4 and MP5 series, usually hard to find and available mostly in Asia.
• Tanio Koba - High end gas powered pistols that are made in Japan
• Inokatsu – High-end and High-priced manufacturer famous for their Full Metal M60 Machine Guns and AK47/74.
• [Deep Fire] – Founded by the chief engineers at Classic Army, Deep Fire is known for innovative and unique products like their Titanium pistons for AEG rifles, M72 Launcher, airsoft hand grenades and distraction devices.
• KSC – Located in Japan; specializing in handguns. Their gas blow back pistols are of high reliability and accuracy, having gained themselves a reputation for 'practical' skirmishing sidearms. KSC manufactures an HK33 AEG line that features manual thingying in the event of a dead battery however is quite hard to find and usually is only available in Asia and upgrade parts for it is very uncommon.
• [KWA] – Located in Taiwan, KWA is one of the OEM manufacturers for KSC's GBB pistols. In 2007, KWA released their first AEG, the KG36C followed by their first "Lithium Polymer Ready" AEG, the KWA KM4A1. KWA AEG's are widely regarded as some of the best "stock" AEG's available on the market in America because they are around 380-400 FPS out of the box. KWA AEG's are fast becoming popular for its strong internals and li-po ready capabilities.
• [Mad Bull Airsoft] – makers of many types of Airsoft grenades, grenade launchers, tight-bore barrels, triggers, mines, and various other parts.
• [Marushin] –Known for their 8 mm BB firing guns as well as their ultra-realistic M1 Garand.
• Maruzen – One of the very first airsoft companies, Maruzen is well known for its APS series of sniper rifles. The APS-2 and APS-2 Type 96 are among the most popular and best-selling airsoft sniper rifles on the market.
• Olympic Arms – Manufactures ICS replicas with trademarks
• STAR – Specializes in more expensive, highly realistic, easy-to-disassemble airsoft guns, but they discourage beginners because of their complex internals.
• Systema Engineering – which specializes in high-end professional training weapons (PTWs) that are very close to the real steel, nearly indistinguishable between real or fake, as well as internal and external upgrades that are known for their high quality and durability. Systema makes six different PTWs the M4, M4A1, the M4A1 CQB, the M16A2, the M16A3 and the Mp5. Their PTWs use color coded cylinders that can be swaped quickly for FPS change, the red cylinder which is the strongest can make the gun shoot around 500 FPS, and the black cylinder which is the weakest shoots at around 270 FPS.
• Tanaka Works – specializes in high-powered gas gun revolvers and rifles. Known for having high end gas shotguns and revolvers.
• Tokyo Marui – Most commonly renowned as the very pinnacle of airsoft technology, reliability, and durability. Created the first automatic electric gun (AEG) - the FAMAS F1 - and was responsible for the invention of the 'Hop Up' System (which, by means of an adjustable rubber pad in the barrel, creates a spin on the fired BB, greatly increasing range). Marui has manufactured a wide variety of AEGs, smaller AEPs (Automatic Electric Pistols), along with gas and spring powered weapons. They have also been responsible for other great advancements in airsoft. Tokyo Marui is the largest airsoft manufacturer worldwide, and is seen as the Airsoft "standard" for which nearly all after market products are tailored.
• Classic Army - A Hong Kong company that is often seen to rival Tokyo Marui. Manufactures high-end AEGs featuring all metal bodies, which Tokyo Marui do not have.
• RealSword - a Hong Kong-based company manufacturing replicas of Chinese assault rifles, their guns are highly realistic and very close to the real steel, however their guns are usually turned off by beginners because they require constant maintenance of their gearboxes and the gearbox is usually hard to get to and takes an amount of time.
• TOP - specializes with manufacturing light and heavy machine gun airsoft replicas.
• Western Arms - largely specializing on the 1911 .45 and its derivatives as well as Beretta, S&W and SV. High end pistols without customization. They have also released a M4A1 that is gas powered with a blowback function.
• VFC/GB TECH (Vega Force Company) - Recently began production of unique AEGs. Highly realistic replica but have reputations for breaking down and they will require constant maintenance and repair to keep them in fully working condition. Not commonly used by beginners because of their unique internals and they are usually hard to get to. The guns also have realistic field stripping that takes a while to get used to. Some parts are usually harder to find so when problems exists it may take a while to get it repaired. Their first batch of AEGs, the HK416 is the one with the most problems and many people avoid buying them, but their second version of the HK416 is said to be improved. So far the only guns that this company manufacturers are the HK416 series, the AK series, BARs, Squad automatic weapons (SAWs), SCAR series, and few snipers including the Barret M82.
• King Arms - known for their variety of optics and scopes.
• Airsoft Surgeon-Sells external and internal modifications for airsoft sniper rifles.
Taiwan
• KWC (Kien Well Corporation) - Taiwanese manufacturer known for its CO2 powered Mini UZI, classic M16 gas rifles and spring-power guns retaining fully licensed trademarks.
• KJW (Kuan Ju Works) - (also known as Y&P) Taiwanese manufacturer of high powered metal-constructed replicas. Their most popular model is the replica Beretta 92 FS.
• HFC (Ho Feng Corporation) - Taiwanese manufacturer of spring- and gas-powered guns, mainly KSC and Tokyo Marui copies. The company was made famous for their semi-automatic HFC M190 gas blowback model, a replica of the Beretta 92FS with the addition of an RIS system.
• WE Taiwan (Wei-E Tech) - known for their range of fullsize metal-bodied Colt M1911 and Hi-Capa pistols
• AIM - AEG series manufactured by ICS but lacking the full metal bodies.
• Modify - Taiwanese manufacturer, specializes in designing and manufacturing internal airsoft upgrade parts.
• TECHPRO - A Japanese owned company in Taiwan, specializes in manufacturing innovative parts to give your AEGs more power.
• SRC (Star Rainbow Company) - Taiwanese company manufacturing M4/M16 and AK47 replicas, copied from Tokyo Marui designs. They now release full metal versions in addition ABS plastic versions that fires around 300-330 fps out of the box.
China
• Gamma – Known for their clone of the Supercell Dev. airsoft claymore mine.
• Unicorn - Chinese maker, primary products the AK-74 series, full steel and wood AEGs and conversion kits.(http://www.unicorn-industry.com/)
• CYMA - Earlier models include the CM027 MP5J and CM028 AK47. Their release for 2006 includes the CM031 which is externally a CA SLR-105 clone but internally similar to its version of the AK47 with a different hop up chamber and inner barrel. Until the CM027, CYMA were known for making inexpensive and relatively low durability airsoft guns. Their latest model is the CM0121 which is a full auto Desert Eagle AEP.In 2008 Cyma have launched new range of full metal and wood AEGs and have improved their overall quality ,reliability and performance. Some Cyma models are nearly equal manufactures of high-end AEGs. New models include the CM031, CM031b, CM031c, CM031c, CM035, CM036, CM037, CM039, and the CM042.
• WELL/WELLFIRE - A low-end airsoft manufacturer. It's gearbox and motor proved to be surprisingly durable although both guns suffer from air compression problems. They later released the R7 or M4A1 with full stock and R8 G3SAS which surprised many with its robustness and accuracy. WELL is the first company to release the TM clone of MP7 or R-4 as well as releasing the first low-power clone of Tokyo Marui's P90, which is the D90 and the R9.
• Double Eagle (DE) - The company that revolutionized LPEGs with its famous M83. Double Eagle has been proven to make exact copies of Tokyo Marui's weapons. Their version of the AK47 and Spetsnaz were met with lukewarm enthusiasm as most other Chinese companies were able to produce better performing AEGs. Their M50 springer rifle was quite popular and easily "upgradeable" to 400fps by simply wrapping the inner barrel and hop up chamber area with teflon tape to seal air leaks. In early 2007, Double Eagle released a version of M4 S-System (the M88) and G&G-based UMP (the M89).They have been notably making the lowest quality LPEGs compared to Well and CYMA
• Both Elephant (BE) - Manufactures copies of the MP7, G3SG1, XM8, Steyr Aug, G36K, and the SL8. Most of their AEGs are offered with either a plastic or metal gearbox, the latter being more reliable. However, even the metal gearbox versions are inferior in quality to similar models produced by other Chinese clone manufacturers. They are often light weight and lack the same quality of finish and trademarks. Currently their plastic gearbox and metal gearbox variants have dropped drastically in price because of their quality, but they have still been making some of the strongest LPEGs and they were leading some of the strongest MGB Guns until JG came back in the production.
• Jing Gong (JG, also known as Golden Bow) - Manufacturer quality low priced airsoft guns. They usually have plastic bodies, but some are now made with metal. The prime choice for beginners because they require low amounts of maintenance, they last long, and shoot a decent FPS.In 2008 JG have a new and improved AEGs, most of the new 2008 upgrade version shoot well over 400fps with improved interals current new models are a full metal SVD,Full metal and wood AK47, AK47s,V2 full metal HK416 in 3 variants,JG model nearly equal manufactures of high-end AEG.
• A&K - It's M4 S-System with metal RIS (rail interface) has become a big winner in a market saturated with Armalites. The S-System was followed by other rifles from the M16 family: M16A4, M4, M933 and M4 CQB, and an M249 clone was released in mid August 2007. The A&K M249 clone is far cheaper than the original CA Version; It retails in the United States for $300-400USD and retains nearly all of the high quality and features offered by the CA version, including the PGC 8 mm bearing gearbox capable of quick swap springs. Their new releases for 2008 includes the M16A4, SPR MOD 1, SPR MOD 0, SR25K and the SR25, all of whom retails up to and over $200.
• Kart/New Star - this low-end/economy-priced company, commonly linked to A&K, has débuted with releasing an M14 copy soon after the Tokyo Marui model appeared. Other models include M14 SOCOM rifle, M40 and Steyr AUG (although the last one was discontinued due to poor build).
• AGM - Entered the market with its surprising accurate and powerful springer rifle, the MP001 aka VSR (since it is a visual replica of the TM VSR10). Their MP007 (MP40) was an instant hit as an alternative to other expensive and fault-prone rifles; featured a version 3 all metal gearbox and reinforced gears and piston.
• BOYI - They gained their fame when they manufactured the AR-15 lines (BIM4) Their latest line is branded as KALASH, manufacturing AK-74s and AKS-74Us. Many of their MPEGs consist of many metal parts, and metal bodies most MPEGs do not have. Also, majority of their internals are metal.
• Galaxy - known for their PDWs (MP5K, MP5 PDW and MP7A1), Galaxy produces good-quality compact AEGs. They are rumored to be working on a P90 replica with a metal gearbox.
• JLS - producer of the airsoft SCAR, two full metal HK33 variants (copied from relatively obscure KSC hybrid AEG/springer design) and the first FN F2000 replica. Also the biggest producer of the "cheap" EBB's (Electric Blow Back) pistols which have a high failure rate but one of best sellers for their fun.
• BELL - Released a G3SG1 replica, which was unsuccessful for its low velocity and quality. Also the first Chinese manufacturer to release a gas pistol replicas: a full-metal Beretta M9 model based on the semi-only version of HFC's M190 pistol, a M10 shell-loaded revolver and a Colt M1911 replica based on Tokyo Marui design, with fully-trademarked plastic body.
Others
• Unicorn Hobby Corporation (UHC) - Offering very reliable, yet economical alternatives to higher-end companies including the MP5 SD3, the M1911A1, M92FS, as well as the Super 9.
• KHC - Famous for their Maverick Bullpup and spring pistols.
• Omega - Famous for their Beretta 93R.
• Academy - South Korean company best known for their DPMS Kittycat, L85, and A-15 rifles.
• AZR Machine & Tool Co.
Customized builders of airsoft accessories, replica wood rifle stocks for the M1 Garand, Thompson, Mauser98k, FAL, and AKM. Also manufactures drop-in gearboxes for AEGs and conversion kits for Rifles. This company offers a wide range of customized services for there clients that wish to have there own designs to there replica rifles.
• UTG(Under The Gun) - UTG is a brand by Leapers Inc which manufactures scopes and red dots.
DISTRIBUTORS
These companies purchase product directly from the factories for distribution to retailers or resellers.
• 3L International LLC, an importer and wholesale distributor of airsoft guns, tactical gear and accessories. (http://www.3L-INTL.com)
• Airsoft Assist, Founded in 2006, this company is a new distributor in Europe. With over 161 dealers in 24 European countries. They mainly focus on the European continent. They provide high end products like VFC, MODIFY, MAGPUL PTS, BIOVAL BBB's etc. Their head office is near Antwerp Belgium.
• Airsoft Elite - Smaller importer and distributor of ICS and VFC products.
• Airsoft Extreme - A popular California-based distributor of high-end airsoft guns, accessories, parts, and airsoft-related tactical gear. Airsoft Extreme has retail locations in southern California, Oakland, Sacramento, as well as an online store.(http://www.airsoftextreme.com)
• Airsoft GI - A southern California-based retailer of Airsoft guns and related accessories and gear. It's online store (http://www.airsoftgi.com) is steadily gaining a reputation as one of the most reliable US-based online retailers today, carrying a wide selection of affordable mid-range to high-range guns.
• AirsoftGunny US based airsoft armory which sells airsoft guns & MILSIM gear. Specializes in G&G, JG and most mid level AEGs. Rebrands Chinese made MILSIM equipment under the Airsoft Gunny brand. Founded Early- 2005 (http://www.airsoftgunny.com)
• Airsoft World - UK based importer and distributor of mostly Chinese AEGs. Exclusive European distributor of '2-Tone' AEGs, Maxenon and other products. Airsoftworld.Net
• AirSplat - A southern California-based retailer / distributor of Airsoft guns and related accessories and gear. It's online store (http://www.airsplat.com) is one of the largest airsoft online retailers, carrying a wide selection of affordable low-range to high-range guns.
• Socom Tactical Airsoft - UK online based importer and distributor of Airsoft Tactical gear including Scopes, sights and torches and assault vests and rigs Socomtactical.Net
• AIRSOFT ZONE CORPORATION - An American-based direct importer and distributor of a wide barrage of airsoft weapons and accessories.
• Aliz.fr – A French company offers selection of GBB and AEG ; importing and selling replicas - produced by WE (wei e tech) and AIM.
• ECHO 1 – An American company, spun off from JAG Precision, that rebrands AEGs. They test, repackage and rebrand many high quality Chinese clones, mainly from Jing Gong. They are known for their M4 line and the G36c. Their products come from China, which have been rebranded with, sometimes, few added accessories. They are one of the best choices for beginners for their selection of high performance and high quality AEGs or anyone on a tight budget. They also have a warranty for their guns and a guarantee that their AEGs are packaged with metal bushings and spring guides, which Jin Gong, unfortunately does not have. Some companies who are carrying JG’s products said that ECHO 1 USA is exactly the same as JG. This is totally incorrect. ECHO1’s products have been carefully selected before they ship to the US and even the internal parts are different.
• Crosman, offering mainly low-quality Chinese entry-level electric rifles, spring and CO2 powered pistols.
• Europe Accessoires, (French) an importer and wholesale distributor of airsoft guns, tactical gear and accessories. (http://www.europe-accessoires.com)
• Evike, A BBB certified retailier based out of San Gabriel, California; offers a large selection of AEGs and Gas powered guns. Also specializes in custom-made airsoft guns.
• FIREPOWER (Palco Sports) - The company offers a warranty on their products and often sells low quality products.
• JAG Precision, One of the most reputable and oldest distributor in USA. The owner has real solid background and also work with Hollywood movie industry. They are also the exclusive distributor for Japan CAW, MadBull, Modify, Echo1USA, and more...
• Leapers, one of the oldest Airsoft importer in the US. They offer weapons and accessories they outsource to manufacturer or manufacturer themselves. Their origins are from real fire arm's accessories and add on's. Their recent endeaver into airsoft is under UTG and NeonFire.
• MrAirsoft, One of the leading online distributors of Airsoft Guns & Accessories in North America. (http://www.mrairsoft.com)
• Redwolf Airsoft, Founded in the 90's, this company wholesales to retailers across the globe. This company has offices in multiple cities, and focuses on mid to high end airsoft products. The company also has a retail unit. they also have the airsoft surgeon Clarence Lai, who modifies guns to make them extremely high end. known for his modified tanaka shot guns which feature unique airsoft shells.
• Spartan Imports, Spartan Imports is the exclusive US distributor of products by Classic Army, Inokatsu, KWA, Tokyo Marui, Maruzen, Marushin, and G&G Armament. They are based in Northern California. They also carry high quality parts and accessories from AMP Tactical, Madbull, MAG, DevGru, Private Parts Airsoft, KM Head, Leapers, Beamshot, and more. Partially owned by AEX.
• STTI (SpringTime Taiwan Inc.) - Parent company of KJW and SRC
• Team SD, one of the oldest Airsoft importer in the US. They offer weapons and accessories from many of the leading manufacturers, including ICS, SRC, HFC, and WE. They admit to simply re-branding some products, but claim to offer feedback to manufacturers to improve product quality on most. Warranty is offered on most products.
• Tippmann (Spring, CUCOK, and electric guns)
• Toko Airsoft, (Indonesia) distributor of airsoft guns, tactical gear and accessories.
• UK ARMS, imports mostly Chinese airsoft products.
• Umarex, operating mainly in Germany and selling various replicas of Walther, Beretta, Desert Eagle, Smith and Wesson, and Heckler and Koch guns - produced by KJW, KWC, HFC and WELL.
• Umarex USA, offers entry-level spring and electric pistols in Walther shapes and mid-upper level electric and CO2 models with metal gears under the Tactical Force (WELL) brand.
• UTG / Neonfire - Two subdivisions of Leapers that re brand lower-end Chinese-made guns from WELL, CYMA, and Double Eagle. Usually packs them with extra accessories like an extra battery, magazine, or sling.
• Bangketa Yero, a Tondo Library org that distributes in the Philippines, mainly in the National Capital Rgion, also known for producing school weapons. They tend to repackage low-end spring pellet guns and pre-load the magazines with 0.12gram pellets.
• Westside Outlet - US-California based direct importer and distributor which carries all China brands Airsoft guns, AEG and accessories, tactical gears.
• War Gamers Shop - Hong-Kong based direct importer and distributor which carries nearly all brands of Airsoft guns, AEG and accessories, tactical gears.
