Choosing a proper airsoft pistol for AIPSC

Shooting is a quite demanding sport when it comes to hardware. Marksman skills are paramount, but when two highly trained shooters meets, the selection of appropriate weapons can not be overestimated. So, before you purchase one, you should 5 times consider the choice.

The first point to write that there are 3 AIPSC handgun shooting divisions, differed by a accepted level of handgun modifications:

• open - all modifications are allowed
• standard - making it simple: all modifications that don't change pistol's external dimensions are allowed
• production - no modifications are allowed; moreover, the gun can not be single-action-only

When choosing a gun one must take into account:

• availability of spare parts
• availability of extensions and upgrades
• availability of magazines

These are, in my oppinion, the most important criteria that must be met by airsoft pistol. They are followed by the length of the barrel, ergonomics and personal preferences.

There are many interesting airsoft pistols on the market for which it is impossible to get an extra magazine, forget the internal components. If you want to compete in open or standard divisions, generally you should avoid KWA/KSC pistols. There are no or at least very few custom elements which you could use to improve their performance. The best choice is to invest in TM constructions or their clones - KJW or WE (WE guns are not 100% clones and some parts do won't fit). The manufacturer doesn't play a big role - sooner or later you will replace most of the elements with strengthened ones. As for the model of gun, I would recommend Hi-Capa 5.1, various 1911 models or Glocks. That's because there are lots of available parts and modifications.

Proffesional AIPSC guns are usually completely custom builds and their prices often exceed $2,000. You can buy complete builds, however, players usually choose to select and install components on their own. The possibility of tinkering and modifying individual gun adds a flavor to this sport. Therefore, the open class is the most popular. Some guns are just little pieces of art.

Choosing athe gun isn't an easy task. But it is worth to spend a little bit more time on selecting the right one, instead of regretting the quick choice.