Choosing the right BB gun involves understanding its size and features. This guide will help you navigate through different BB gun types and their specifications. We’ll provide a detailed size chart, discuss trade-offs, and highlight challenges to ensure you make a well-informed decision that fits your needs perfectly.
BB Gun Size Chart
| Lead Shots | Buck Shot | Steel Shot | |||
| Size | Pellet Diameter | Size | Pellet Diameter | Size | Pellet Diameter |
| 12 | 0.05 inch 1.27 mm | No. 4 | 0.24 inch 6.10 mm | 6 | 0.11 inch 2.79 mm |
| 9 | 0.80 inch 2.30 mm | No. 3 | 0.25 inch 6.35 mm | 5 | 0.12 inch 3.05 mm |
| 8.5 | 0.85 inch 2.16 mm | No. 2 | 0.27 inch 6.86 mm | 4 | 0.13 inch 3.30 mm |
| 8 | 0.90 inch 2.29 mm | No. 1 | 0.30 inch 7.62 mm | 3 | 0.14 inch 3.56 mm |
| 7.5 | 0.95 inch 2.41 mm | No. 0 | 0.32 inch 8.13 mm | 2 | 0.15 inch 3.81 mm |
| 6 | 0.110 inch 2.79 mm | No. 00 | 0.33 inch 8.38 mm | 1 | 0.16 inch 4.06 mm |
| 5 | 120 inch 3.05 mm | No. 000 | 0.36 inch 9.14 mm | Air Riffle | 0.177 inch 4.49 mm |
| 4 | 0.130 inch 3.30 mm | – | – | BB | 0.18 inch 4.57 mm |
| BB | 0.180 inch 4.57 mm | – | – | BBB | 0.19 inch 4.83 mm |
Shot/ BB Caliber Pellet Size chart
| Shot number | Diameter of shots in(inches and centimeters) | Number of lead pellets per(ounce and grams) | Number of steel bbs per (ounces and grams) |
| 12 | .05 inches 0.127 cm | 2385 Oz 67613.61 g | n/a |
| 9 | .08 inches 0.2032 cm | 585 Oz 16584.5 g | n/a |
| 8 | .09 inches 0.2286cm | 410 Oz 11623.3 g | 577 Oz 16357.7 g |
| 7 | .10 inches 0.254 cm | 300 Oz 8504.86 g | 420 Oz 11906.8 g |
| 6 | .11 inches 0.2794 cm | 225 Oz 6378.64 g | 317 Oz 8986.8 g |
| 5 | .12 inches 0.3048 cm | 170 Oz 4819.42 g | 243 Oz 6888.93 g |
| 4 | .13 inches 0.3302 cm | 135 Oz 3827.19 g | 192 Oz 5443.11 g |
| 3 | .14 inches 0.3556 cm | n/a | 154 Oz 4365.83 g |
| 2 | .15 inches 0.381 cm | 90 Oz 2551.46 g | 125 Oz 3543.69 g |
| 1 | .16 inches 0.4064 cm | n/a | 103 Oz 2920 g |
| B | .17 inches 0.4318 cm | n/a | 86 Oz 2438.06 g |
| BB | .18 inches 0.4572 cm | 50 Oz 1417.48 g | 72 Oz 2041.17 g |
| BBB | .19 inches 0.4826 cm | n/a | 61 Oz 1729.32 g |
| T | .20 inches 0.508 cm | n/a | 53 Oz 1502.52 g |
Shotgun Cartridge Size chart
| Size | Diameter in millimeters | Diameter in inches | Weight of pellets per (ounce and grams) |
| 9 | 2.03 millimeters | 0.080 inches | 580 Oz 16442.7g |
| 8 | 2.21 millimeters | 0.087 inches | 440 Oz 12473.8g |
| 7 ½ | 2.30 millimeters | 0.090 inches | 369 Oz 10461g |
| 7 | 2.41 millimeters | 0.095 inches | 340 Oz 9638.84g |
| 6 ½ | 2.51 millimeters | 0.099 inches | 300 Oz 8504.86g |
| 6 | 2.59 millimeters | 0.102 inches | 272 Oz 7711.07g |
| 5 | 2.79 millimeters | 0.110 inches | 220 Oz 6236.9g |
| 4 | 3.05 millimeters | 0.120 inches | 170 Oz 4819.42g |
| 3 | 3.25 millimeters | 0.128 inches | 140 Oz 3968.93g |
| 1 | 3.63 millimeters | 0.143 inches | 100 Oz 2834.95g |
| BB | 4.09 millimeters | 0.161 inches | 70 Oz 1984.47g |
| AAA | 5.16 millimeters | 0.203 inches | 35 Oz 992.233 |
| SSG | 6.83 millimeters | 0.269 inches | 15 Oz 425.243g |
| Special SG | 7.57 millimeters | 0.298 inches | 11 Oz 311.845g |
| SG | 8.43 millimeters | 0.332 inches | 8 Oz 226.796g |
| LG | 9.14 millimeters | 0.360 inches | 6 Oz 170.097g |
Short Gun Amo Box Information Chart
| Gauge in (inches and centimeters) | Weight of shot in (ounces and grams) | Impact velocity in (ft per second and meters per second) | Drams equivalent |
| 12 to 2- ¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 Oz 28.3495 grams | 1180 ft per second 359.664 meters per second | 2-¾ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 Oz 28.3495 grams | 1290 ft per second 393.192 meters per second | 3-¼ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ⅛ Oz 28.3495 to 3.54369 grams | 1145 ft per second 348.996 meters per second | 2-¾ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ⅛ Oz 28.3495 to 3.54369 grams | 1200 ft per second 365.76 meters per second | 3 |
| 12 to 2- ¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ⅛ Oz 28.3495 to 3.54369 grams | 1255 ft per second 382.524 meters per second | 3-¼ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ⅛ Oz 28.3495 to 3.54369 grams | 1300 ft per second 396.24 meters per second | 3-½ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ¼ Oz 28.3495 to 7.08738 grams | 1220 ft per second 371.856 meters per second | 3-¼ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ¼ Oz 28.3495 to 7.08738 grams | 1330 ft per second 405.384 meters per second | 3-¾ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ½ Oz 28.3495 to 14.1748 grams | 1260 ft per second 384.048 meters per second | 3-¾ |
| 12 to 2 -¾ inches 30.48 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ⅜ Oz 28.3495 to 10.6311 grams | 1295 ft per second 394.716 meters per second | 3-¾ |
| 12 to 3 inches 30.48 to 7.62 centimeters | 1 to ⅝ Oz 28.3495 to 17.7185 grams | 1280 ft per second 390.144 meters per second | 4 |
| 12 to 3 inches 30.48 to 7.62 centimeters | 1 to ⅞ Oz 28.3495 to 24.8058 grams | 1210 ft per second 368.808 meters per second | 4 |
| 20 to 2 -¾ inches 50.8 to 6.985 centimeters | ⅞ Oz 24.8058 grams | 1210 ft per second 368.808 meters per second | 2-½ |
| 20 to 2 -¾ inches 50.8 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 Oz 28.3495 grams | 1165 ft per second 355.092 meters per second | 2-½ |
| 20 to 2 -¾ inches 50.8 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 Oz 28.3495 grams | 1220 ft per second 371.856 meters per second | 2-¾ |
| 20 to 2 -¾ inches 50.8 to 6.985 centimeters | 1 to ⅛ Oz 28.3495 to 3.54369 grams | 1175 ft per second 358.14 meters per second | 2-¾ |
| 20 to 3 inches 50.8 to 7.62 centimeters | 1 to 3/16 Oz 28.3495 to 5.315541 grams | 1195 ft per second 364.236 meters per second | 3-½ |
| 20 to 3 inches 50.8 to 7.62 centimeters | 1 to ¼ Oz 28.3495 to 7.08738 grams | 1185 ft per second 361.188 meters per second | 3 |
| 28 to 2- ¾ inches 71.12 to 6.985 centimeters | ¾ Oz 21.2621 grams | 1200 ft per second 365.76 meters per second | 2 |
| 28 to 2 -¾ inches 71.12 to 6.985 centimeters | ¾ Oz 21.2621 grams | 1295 ft per second 394.716 meters per second | 2-¼ |
Types of BB Guns
BB guns come in various types, each designed for specific purposes and experiences. First, let’s explore spring-powered BB guns. They are simple and reliable, requiring no external power source, but they can be less powerful than other types. Next, CO2-powered BB guns offer more power and consistency but come with the cost and inconvenience of CO2 cartridges.
Moving on, electric BB guns (AEGs) are popular for their automatic firing capabilities and ease of use. However, they require batteries and maintenance, which can be a trade-off for their performance. Lastly, gas-powered BB guns provide high performance and realism but can be more complex to maintain and operate.
Considering these factors will help you choose the BB gun that best meets your needs, balancing performance, convenience, and maintenance.
Choosing the Right BB Gun for You
With a clear understanding of the different sizes and types of BB guns, the next step is to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Begin by considering your purpose and usage. For example, are you looking for a BB gun for target practice or for competitive shooting? Your choice will impact the type and features you need.
Next, focus on comfort and handling. A BB gun that feels comfortable and is easy to handle will enhance your shooting experience. Test different models if possible to ensure they fit well in your hands and are easy to maneuver.
Finally, budget considerations play a crucial role. While higher-priced models often offer better performance and features, they may also come with added costs for maintenance and accessories. Weigh these factors carefully to balance your budget with your desired performance.
By considering these aspects, you’ll be able to select a BB gun that not only fits your needs but also provides a satisfying shooting experience.
FAQs
1. How do I choose the right BB gun size for my needs?
Choosing the right BB gun size depends on your intended use. If you’re looking for a gun for target practice, a standard size with moderate power should suffice. For competitive shooting or more serious applications, you might need a model with specific dimensions and features. Always consider the balance between size, power, and your personal comfort when making your choice.
2. What are the main differences between CO2 and electric BB guns?
CO2-powered BB guns offer consistent performance and higher power but require CO2 cartridges, which can be an ongoing cost. In contrast, electric BB guns (AEGs) use batteries to provide automatic firing capabilities and are generally easier to maintain but may require more frequent recharging and can be heavier due to battery packs. Consider your preferences for power, convenience, and maintenance when choosing between the two.
3. Are there any budget-friendly BB guns that still offer good performance?
Yes, several budget-friendly BB guns provide excellent performance. Spring-powered models often offer good value as they are simple and cost-effective. However, they may not have the power or features of more expensive models. Research and compare different models within your budget to find one that meets your needs without compromising on quality.