The SMG (Sub Machine Gun), also called a submachine gun, is a replica category in its own right. Ultra compact and able to fire in both semi and full-auto, it sits between the pistol and the assault replica. Shorter and lighter than an assault replica, the airsoft SMG is especially popular in CQB. The best-known models are the MP7 and the MP5.
An SMG is recognized first and foremost by its magazine: short and slim, pistol-style, it reflects the 9 mm or .45 calibers of the real firearms. In airsoft, every replica fires 6 mm BBs, but this magazine format remains the defining criterion. A compact replica fed by M4 magazines, such as the ARP556, is therefore a shortened assault replica, not an SMG.
Most SMGs come with a collapsible stock. Once folded, the replica is easy to handle in spaces where an assault replica would be cumbersome. Some sniper players also carry an SMG as a backup replica, in a leg holster.
The SMG range is split evenly between electric and gas, with a smaller selection in compressed air:
There are no spring-powered SMGs.
The MP7 and the MP5 are the two most common submachine guns in airsoft. G&G's ARP9 is also among the flagship models, as is the Kriss Vector, one of the great SMG classics, recognizable by its unusual silhouette made famous by the movies. The catalog also includes Scorpion EVO 3, MPX and MP9 models, in both electric and gas versions.
GBB conversion kits can also turn a GBB pistol into an SMG.
Compact and light, the SMG is easy to carry and handle, which makes it well suited to a first purchase. These qualities also make it a favorite among female players.
Its magazine format has another advantage: two SMG magazines take up roughly the space of a single M4 magazine. On a vest or plate carrier, the player can carry more ammunition.
Finally, an SMG often costs a little less than an assault replica, although the price gap remains small.
Powair6 was born in a tech workshop. Our 6Labs custom workshop offers upgraded versions of several SMGs from the catalog (ARP9, MP5, Kriss Vector, Scorpion EVO 3, LT-35), in both AEG and HPA. For advice on choosing your SMG, our team is available by phone at +33 5 34 27 88 10.
The magazine. An SMG uses a short, slim, pistol-style magazine (9 mm or .45 on the real firearms). A compact replica fed by M4 magazines is an assault replica, not an SMG.
Start with the power source: AEG is the simplest and most self-sufficient, while gas (GBBR) brings realistic recoil but needs more maintenance. As for models, the MP7 and the MP5 are the best known, and the Kriss Vector and the ARP9 are among the flagship models.
Yes. More compact and lighter than an assault replica, it is easy to carry and handle, and often a little cheaper.
In a leg holster. Some snipers use this kind of carry to keep an SMG within reach for close-range engagements.
No. An SMG does not need more workshop servicing than any other replica. As with assault replicas, the gas version simply needs more maintenance than the electric one.
Yes, with a conversion kit, which gives a GBB pistol the format of a submachine gun.
