Tokyo MaruiThey are one of the top manufacturers of airsoft guns. Even though their major market is in Japan, their market travels around the world through third party retailers. Tokyo Marui manufactures several different types of airsoft guns.
Types of Guns
They are well known for having extremely realistic airsoft guns. The Tokyo Marui trademark is the only difference between the real things.
Automatic Electric Guns (AEG)
Most of these guns are made of ABS plastic body and shoots 0.2gram pellets at around 270 to 295 fps. The Tokyo Marui AEG guns include Ak47, SIG 550, M4A1, and M16A1.
Automatic Electric Pistols (AEP)
These pistols operate on 7.2V rechargeable batteries and are more reliable than gas pistols in the cold. These pistols include the Glock 18C, Mac 10, M93R, and H&K USP.
Spring Operated Rifles
These manufactured airsoft rifles include XM177E2, G3 A3, MP5, and M16A1.
M203 Grenade Launchers
Airsoft players have two choices when selecting a Tokyo Marui M203 Grenade Launchers. They can select between the mounted or tactical. The mounted attaches to the M16 or M4 airsoft gun. The tactical is stand-alone airsoft gun that fires without needing any other gun.
Shotguns
Tokyo Marui developed a small selection of shotguns. These are all spring powered airsoft guns. The shotguns include SPAS 12, M3 Super 90 andM3 Shorty.
Pistols
Tokyo Marui manufactured several Gas Blow Back (GBB) pistols, including a berretta M92F, Desert Eagle, Glock, and SIG P226.
History
In the mid 1980s, Tokyo Marui was also developing radio control hobbies with a line of electric buggies, monster trucks, NASCAR; however, they had to pull out of the market because from Tamiya.
Visit the Tokyo Marui website however it is in a different language.
Tokyo Marui Airsoft
Tokyo Marui is the most popular airsoft gun make in the world. Tokyo Marui airsoft guns are known of their quality and also their detail. Tokyo Marui is one of the pioneers in the airsoft industry in part because of the gun laws in Japan. Since real fire weapons are not allowed in Japan, airsoft companies have been able to sell plastic replicas of popular gun models as an alternative. Tokyo Marui introduced the electric airsoft gun with introduction of their version of the FAMAS assault rife used by the French foreign legion, which features the first gearbox, a version 1.
CYMA AIRSOFT COMPANYCYMA airsoft is a Chinese manufacturer of spring and electric Airsoft guns. Their primary production line is dedicated to low priced, low powered electric guns (LPEGs for short). These guns fire at less than 200fps with 0.12g bb pellets. They have plastic gearboxes with little to no metal content inside of them and are generally made with low quality control.
While CYMA airsoft is mainly known for their lower-end Airsoft gun models, they also make a range of spring-action pistols. In fact, in 2005 these guns began to stir interest since they are located at the "competition end" of the Airsoft spectrum. It was also in this year that CYMA actually abandoned their creation of low-end Airsoft guns in order to move towards a more higher-end market. Herein they have been known to "clone" designs from well-known makes such as Tokyo Marui and Classic Army.
When it comes To CYMA's "clone" releases, their first one was their CM.027-J, which is a near-direct copy of the Tokyo Marui MP5A5. However, with this Airsoft gun a few of the gun's parts, including its aluminum-constructed inner barrel, are not actually compatible with the original Tokyo Marui model. On the other hand, some of the better statistics about CYMA's include the fact that it is able to fire at around 300 fps with 0.2g BBs. It is also able to boast of a high metal content. Thanks to this Airsoft gun replica the way that the Airsoft community viewed CYMA changed for the better.
Following the release of the CM.027-J CYMA went on to release the CM.028 and CM.028S. These 2 Airsoft guns are also direct copies of 2 of Tokyo Marui's other Airsoft guns: the AK 47 and the AK 47S. Of course, there are also quality differences here as well. For instance, the CM.028 series uses a 450mm barrel combined with the same motor as the CM.027-J. This results in a more accurate AEG. However, the barrel is made of aluminum and the hop-up chamber has to be replaced before a tightbore barrel will be able to fit it.
After CYMA released these Airsoft guns, they also went on to make a copy of the TM Glock G18C AEP (automatic electric pistol), which was called the CM.030. This Airsoft gun was a 100% clone of the TM version, except for its trademarks and the fact that it also includes a higher-rated battery.
Another Airsoft gun that was released by CYMA is the CM.031, which was a clone of Classic Army's SLR-105. Of course, this Classic Army Airsoft gun was a replica of a civilian, US/Romanian made AK-74. The CM.031 has just recently arrived at United States retailers. Its body is made out of sturdy plastic instead of metal. There are a lot of players who actually hail this Airsoft gun as the best MPEG to date.
CYMA AirsoftCYMA airsoft guns are primarily clones of other more popular and high quality airsoft guns. CYMA makes a wide selection of airsoft electric guns, many of them being AK47 and Mp5 replicas. Although CYMA has been known in the past for making low-end aeg models, they have recently improved their quality to be considered a decent mid-range airsoft gun.
CYMA - Earlier models include the CM027 MP5J and CM028S 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. They also recently released a TM clone G18c AEP, however their products lack the quality and precision of higher end brands. They also manufacture LPEGs, which are quite popular among beginners.
JG (JING GONG) Airsoft CompanyAlso known as JG and Golden Bow, this China based manufacturer provides the market with mid-quality low priced airsoft guns. Their guns usually have plastic bodies; however, recently they have begun developing some of their guns with metal bodies. These airsoft guns are ideal for players that are just starting out in this sport cause of their low amount of required maintenance, decent rate on the FPS for the price, and the longevity of the gun.
Jing Gong noticed the rising wants of the players needs with higher quality airsoft guns. They decided to supply that need in 2008 by creating and improving their Automatic Electric Guns (AEGs). These new upgraded versions are capable of shooting over 400fps and full metal SVD improved internals. The most noted upgraded airsoft guns were the AK47, AK47 v2, and HK416 with three variations. These were upgraded with full wood and metal. Current models of Jing Gong guns are almost equal to Automatic Electric Guns (AEGs) manufactured by higher end airsoft companies.
Airsoft players on a limited budget should consider purchasing an airsoft gun from Jing Gong because of the improvements and lower prices compared to other companies.
Jing Gong
Jing Gong, also known as Golden Bow has a reputation for making high quality mid-range airsoft electric guns at a very affordable price. Jing Gong products are typically replicas of more expensive airsoft gun models such as Tokyo Marui and are less harsh on the pocket book. If you looking for a good quality AEG at a good price, check airSOCOM.com's selection of Jing Gong airsoft guns.
Jin Gong - JG's first normal-power AEG release was the first series of M5 - MP5 replicas (MP5A4, MP5A5, MP5-SD5, MP5SD6) based on plastic bodies of their earlier LPEGs, fitted with a modified V2 gearbox and non-standard hop up system. Those replicas, prone to breaking and having poor performance, were soon discontinued. The next series of JG AEGs, the AK47 series – built around a copy of Tokyo Marui V3 gearbox and AK47 hop up system – proved more successful. Aside from standard AK47 and AK47S, the series included a copy of TM Beta Spetsnaz AK, a folding stock variation of the Beta Spetsnaz and a copy of Guarder "AK-to-SVD" kit (able to achieve velocity in 380-400 fps range after replacing poor quality cylinder and barrel).
In late 2006, Jin Gong introduced its M16 line (consisting of M4A1, M16A2, M16A4, M4 S-System), the second, revised series of MP5s, Steyr AUG A2 and a G36C, all capable of BB velocity of 350 fps and more. Jin Gong are often referred to as "Tokyo Marui of Chinese AEGs" due to high quality of their products. Their latest release of M4s: M16A4 (Referred as SPR), M4 S-System, CQB and SR-16 have achieved high velocities, confirmed to be about 400 fps with 0.2g BB(1.49J) out of the box.
ECHO1 Airsoft CompanyEcho 1 is a U.S. based company whose focus is to offer quality airsoft products at reasonable prices. Although they do not actually manufacture guns Echo 1 works very closely with their factories when designing their products. This allows Echo 1 to take extra steps to ensure that a quality product is provided to the customer. Working mainly with respected airsoft gun manufacturer Jing Gong, Echo 1 provides re-branded and upgraded versions of popular airsoft rifles. As a result, Echo 1 is one of the most popular brands of airsoft rifles among both beginners and highly experienced airsoft players.
ICS Airsoft CompanyI Chin Shivan Enterprise ( ICS ) is a manufacturer or Airsoft guns that was founded in 1983. In the early stages of this company, I Chin Shivan mainly concentrated upon the development and production of airgun and gas pistols.
In 1998, ICS made the decision to totally devote their time and attention to the research and development of AEG. Their main objective at this time was to create the best quality and priced AEGs for Airsoft lovers.
It was not until recently that their AEGs went onto the mainstream market. Other products that are related to these AEGs were on the market in Japan before this time though. Therefore, since this company is use to the pricing in Japan, the cost is extremely high in the United States today. There are also some problems with customer care after the purchase as well as spare parts. Of course, this is aggrevating to Airsoft lovers.
The research and development of AEG parts and upgrades has been continuous. They are bringing more and better products onto the market in hopes that the market will support them. So far this has been true as this company is 1 of the top 3 most popular Airsoft gun manufacturers. Their most popular products include AK-74M, Armalites and MP5s replicas. These come equipped with high quality metal parts.
ICS Airsoft guns
ICS or I Chih Shivan is one of the top 3 most popular airsoft brand on the market. ICS airsoft guns are made with quality parts and engineering practices making them one of the most reliable airsoft brands available. The ICS M4 line has features that are proprietary to their brand. One, they have a split version 2 gearbox making it easier to access during game play if the gun malfunctions and also a gear release that alleviates tension on the spring when you are done firing.
KWC CompanyThe Taiwanese toy culture gave birth to the successful company that manufactures Matchbox cars. Of course, as you well know, this company went on to become a great success. What you may not know is that this is the company that gave birth to the Kine Well Company in 1978. Of course, this took place several years after the invention of the Airsoft-type pellet guns. However, in 1984 the Kine Well Company (KWC) began to manufacture BB guns. It was not until 1993 though that the Kine Well Company brand made its first appearance in the Airsoft arena.
Kine Well Company (KWC) is a company that is based within the country of Taiwan where they manufacture high quality Airsoft guns. This company's primary focus is upon the development and production of gas-powered Airsoft guns, such as the Firepower Negotiator Gas Powered Airsoft Gun, which is made out of all metal. Of course, they also have made numerous rifles including numerous respectable replicas of handguns from manufacturers like:
Glock
Smith and Wesson
Beretta
Colt
The Kine Well Company (KWC) is also the manufacturer of the AEG (Automatic Electric Gun), which is the most popular Airsoft gun to date to be used by Airsoft players in Airsoft games. This gun actually comes in several different models, all of which are made by the Kine Well Company. This gun is made as both a rifle and a submachine gun. They range in cost from $250 to $375, a price that most of the serious Airsoft players think is well worth every penny. These people feel that this is the most practical gun to use in the Airsoft game because they are completely self-contained and do not require any external connections. For all of these reasons, this gun has become quite popular and made a real name for the Kine Well Company.
While all of this great machinery may make you think that the Kine Well Company (KWC) would be considered to be one of the top manufacturers in the Airsoft industry, this is not true. However, all of these great guns have gained this company a great deal of respect. Nevertheless, these guns are sold throughout the world. The Kine Well Company also produces a full line of accessories and replacement parts for these guns as well.
It is also important to note that while these guns are not the premier guns in the industry, they also do not cost as much as the premier guns. Instead, this company focuses upon providing a reliable product that has good firing characteristics and a respectable degree of realism.
Classic Army CompanyClassic Army, abbreviated as “CA” within the Airsoft community, is also known as Yick Fung International. This company is based in Hong Kong where it got its start in 1997. They are manufacturers of Airsoft guns, accessories and replica parts. This company is especially known for producing automatic electric guns (AEGs). While the Classic Army's guns really closely resemble real guns, these replicas are able to fire 6mm BBs at safe velocities.
These realistic products are loved by war game enthusiasts and collectors around the world. However, their primary area of competition is within the Toyko, Marui Airsoft market. Regardless of where these guns are being sold, the company's main goal is to provide all of their customers with excellent products and services. For this reason, the company often upgrades their equipment and facilities so that they can continue offering excellence. This is part of the reason why they have a long history of success in their field. The other reason for this company's great success is that their guns have delicate designs and their metal bodies are very finely furnished. Furthermore, this company is continuously researching and developing new products.
Compared to other manufacturers
Whenever this company is compared with the other manufacturers of Airsoft guns, they will stand out from these other companies because their guns have numerous metal pieces. Some of these parts include the frame, body, spring-guides, bushings and MechBox. All of these are made of metal. The replicas that are made by this company also feature internals that have already been upgraded and pistons that are made out of polycarbonate.
Automatic Electric Guns
Most automatic electric guns (AEGs) use rechargable batteries, as do the replicas that have been made by Classic Army. If you should happen to purchase 1 of these guns in an un-modified condition you can expect that they will fire 0.2g BBs at an approximate distance of between 300 and 350 feet per second, which is written as FPS.
All of this works together to make the Classic Army company a great company to not only purchase your Airsoft guns, accessories and replica parts from, but you can also get your Airsoft motors, flashlights and C-magazines here as well. When you do, you can rest assured that these items will come with the international safety certificate (CE). This will allow you, the customer, to freely enjoy all of their products.
Classic Army
Classic Army, often referred to as CA has been one of the world’s leaders in making metal body airsoft guns since 2000. Classic Army airsoft guns are high-end electric guns made with high performance motors and gearboxes. Classic Army airsoft guns are very easily upgradeable with most common after-market parts.
JIEKE/WELL - The Chinese company that revolutionized the MPEG market with the release of their R5 MP5 and R6 M4A1 in mid 2005. Its 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.
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 with small upgrades, which results in greater durability and utility. Their version of the AK47 and Spetsnaz were met with lukewarm enthusiasm as most other Chinese companies, many unknown, were able to come up with 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).
Both Elephant (BE) - Not a very good company, weak guns don't manage in hard use and break easily. Manufactures copies of the MP7, G3SG1, G36K, and the SL8 sniper rifle. 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 Jin Gong (JG). They are often light weight and lack the same quality of finish and trademarks.
A&K - Its M4 S-System with metal RIS (rail interface) has become a big winner in a market saturated with M4A1s. The S-System was followed by other rifles from the M16 family: M16A4, M4, M933 and M4 CQB and a M249 clone was announced to for release in July 2007.
Kart/New Star - this company, commonly linked to A&K, has débuted with releasing a M14 copy soon after the Tokyo Marui model appeared. Other models include M1A SOCOM rifle, M40 and Steyr AUG (although the last one was discontinued due to poor build).
AGM - a latecomer that surprised the market with its surprising accurate and powerful springer rifle, the MP001 aka VSR (since it is a visual replica of the TM VSR10). While its MP004/s AK 47 version did not gain popularity mainly due to the headstart gained by CYMA and the AGM offering nothing new, its MP007 (MP40) was an instant hit as an alternative to expensive and fault-prone TOP MP40 and MP008 (M14) surprised the market with its use of the version 3 spring guide and stock gears.
BOYI/DBOYS' - Known for their M4s. The M4 CASV is one of their greatest hits
ARMY - Little known manufacturer only known for product is a full stock AEG version of the AK-47 and an L85 AEG.
JLS- producer of the airsoft SCAR and two full metal HK33 variants and a FN F2000.
Note: There have been inaccurate claims that CYMA, Double Eagle, and/or WELL are the same company. They are in fact separate companies although closely related, possibly with family connections between some co-owners. What is sure is that they have close business ties and sometimes coordinate their product development efforts. Also important to note is the prolific pirating of Chinese products within China. Many smaller factories duplicate the larger factory's product in exact detail, copying even the factory marks (WELL for example). Consumers and retailers must be aware that purchasing factory-direct (non-branded) product does not mean that the product is legitimately from that factory.
SYKES(Sand-Viper)