Airsoft players are constantly seeking ways to improve their gameplay and gain an advantage over their opponents. One of the critical factors that can impact performance is the type of BBs being used. Heavier BBs are often touted as having a superior advantage over lighter BBs, but why is this so? In this blog post, we'll delve into the physics behind why heavier airsoft ammo travels farther at the same joule (kinetic energy) as lighter ammo.
The concept of momentum plays a crucial role in understanding the relationship between the weight of airsoft ammo and its distance traveled. Momentum is defined as the product of an object's mass, m (the BB Weight), and velocity, v (or an airsoft guns FPS), and is mathematically represented as:
p = m * v
or
Momentum = BB Weight * Velocity
When two objects with different masses are given the same amount of kinetic energy, KE, the heavier object will have a lower velocity but a higher momentum compared to the lighter object.*
As airsoft BBs travel through the air, they encounter air resistance and other external factors that can decrease their velocity over time. BBs with higher momentum will be able to maintain their velocity for a longer period before losing energy and stopping, allowing them to travel farther than lighter BBs.
In conclusion, the choice of BBs should be based on the specific requirements of the game and equipment being used. Heavier BBs, such as BLS .36-.48g BBs, may provide the extra distance and accuracy needed to gain an advantage, but may not be the best option for all players and situations. In general though, for the maximum range, you should choose the heaviest BBs you can afford.
*Here are the equations that prove for the claim that when two objects with different masses but the same amount of kinetic energy, the heavier object will have a lower velocity but a higher momentum compared to the lighter object:
KE = 1/2 * m1 * v1^2 = 1/2 * m2 * v2^2
v2 = sqrt(2 * KE / m2) < v1 = sqrt(2 * KE / m1)
p2 = m2 * v2 > p1 = m1 * v1