Many of the traits that made real Glocks so popular have made airsoft replicas popular just as well. Lightweight, polymer frames, intuitive operation, and amazing ergonomics, as well as reliability, have encouraged more than one airsoft player into packing a green gas Glock 17 or two into the tactical vest before a match.
But while the popularity of Glock replicas is not in question, the fundamental operation is. While almost all Glock replicas used in competitive play are GBB (gas blowback) airsoft pistols, there are two different types of gas used – green gas and CO2.
The two gases are quite different. Green gas is basically propane that has had any odors removed and has had a little bit of silicone oil added to it. On the other hand, CO2 is effectively just compressed carbon dioxide gas. Typically, the pressures under which CO2 is loaded are much higher than those associated with green gas cartridges.
That is effectively where the differences between them end – but does it make a difference for CO2 and green gas Glocks?
Advantages of CO2
There are a number of advantages associated with the use of CO2 as a propellant in airsoft guns. The most noticeable is that all things being equal, CO2-powered Glocks will be able to deliver higher FPS ratings because of the higher pressures involved.
It’s also true that CO2 produces more realistic recoil, which a lot of airsoft players prefer because they like to simulate “the real thing” as closely as possible.
Also, since CO2 cartridges are loaded to higher pressures and are typically self-contained, they often perform better at extreme (low) temperatures than green gas.
Disadvantages of CO2
One of the potential disadvantages of CO2 as a propellant is cost. It’s more expensive than green gas and doesn’t usually go as far. A cylinder of CO2 can cost more than a dollar and typically will give you no more than 50 shots before it needs to be replaced.
Also, CO2 is a bit harder on the airsoft gun due to the higher pressures at which it is loaded. They can potentially cause part wear and fatigue earlier than green gas-powered guns – but many players consider this negligible.
Advantages of Green Gas Glocks
Just because CO2 allows for higher FPS ratings than green gas doesn’t mean it’s all good news with CO2. Green gas has a number of advantages as well.
One is specifically that it is loaded to lower pressures than CO2. This produces less recoil and smoother cycling, even though it costs a bit in the way of FPS. It’s also easier on the gun, and since green gas usually contains silicone oil, using green gas helps to lubricate the gun’s internals.
Green gas is also considerably less expensive than CO2, which combined with the fluid operation of green gas airsoft guns and lower pressures make them more desirable to some.
Disadvantages of Green Gas
The main disadvantage of green gas, if there really is one, is that it is not as “powerful” as CO2 due to the canisters being loaded at lower PSI ratings.
If you want an Elite Force/Umarex Glock replica that really kicks on full-auto mode, CO2 is probably a better choice.
Which One Is Better?
There really is no superior choice when it comes down to CO2 and green gas Glocks – it’s just what you prefer.
And, regardless of which you prefer, you can score a deal on either of these types of official Glock replicas over at MiR Tactical (MiRTactical.com).
They carry a wide range of Glock replicas and other airsoft guns, parts, and accessories, as well as green gas and CO2 propellant, airsoft ammo, and much more – all covered by a price match guarantee and low, flat rate shipping.
Visit their website or get in touch with them today at 800-581-6620 for more assistance.
