FPS represents feet per second. The speed is used to measure the initial velocity of a BB as it exits the airsoft gun barrel. At about 6mm, the small pellets speed can be measured using the chronograph. The measuring machine has often been compared to the police speed radar guns.
Some countries may measure the velocity in meters per second (m/s). You can easily convert FPS to meters per second b dividing the number by 3.3. Universally, the FPS is used or understood by airsoft players.
Several variables might alter the FPS. These include the weight of an airsoft pellet. The standard weight of BBs across the airsoft game is 0.20 grams. If the BB is lighter, for instance, 0.11 g, it will travel faster than a heavy BB weighing 0.3g. Note that this is proven as long as the propellant is not changed.
Why Is FPS So Important to Airsoft Players?
At airsoft games, the FPS measurement of each gun is always important. There are different methods of playing airsoft and each form allows its players to use a specific FPS measurement. This gives each player a fair chance during the game.
Apart from a difference in the types of airsoft, different countries enforce different FPS regulations. Generally, all countries fail to allow any gun that shoots beyond the FPS requirement. According to set rules, the offending gun might be disqualified or in serious cases, confiscated.
To understand the regulations, note that the airsoft submachine gun has a lower FPS compared to a sniper rifle. Each game may also have Minimum Engagement Distance (MED) for some guns. For instance, the sniper rifle can only be allowed in long distances to prevent injury.
What Aspects of a Paintball Gun Will FPS Affect?
Many aspects of your gun may be affected but they all converge onto three basic points. The gun’s power, accuracy, and range. To discuss the three main aspects affected by FPS, picture throwing a ball at a target. Here, FPS is the force behind a throw.
Power – this aspect is probably the most important when discussing FPS. The more power you put behind the ball, the faster it travels. It also hits the target harder. Note that the more time the ball stays in the air, the more energy it loses. The ball will also have the most energy when leaving your hand.
Range – as mentioned above, the more the force applied, the faster the ball travels. Also, the more distance it travels in the air, the more gravity will act on the ball. Having gravity means that a weak throw will force the ball to lose momentum before hitting the target.
Accuracy – lastly, accuracy is also affected by FPS. Although the aspect is covered by many other factors, it is greatly dependent on FPS. Picture throwing your ball. The force you exert on the ball will determine your accuracy in this way. If you throw it hard enough, it will reach the target faster than external factors start acting on the ball.
In airsoft terms, your lightweight pellet will need less force but is more likely to become affected by external forces. In contrast, the heavy pellet will need much more force as you hope to hit your target without much effect from external factors.
