With the increasing number of people approaching the discipline of airsoft and its evolution in so many directions, airsoft gun manufacturers have faced an ever-increasing demand for specific replicas for certain scenarios. Urban scenarios often lead players to clash in so-called Close Quarter Combat (CQB) scenarios, in which operational priorities change radically from those you might find in a forest, maritime, or mountainous scenarios. CQB (Close Quarters Battle) is a short, high-intensity type of airsoft game played in close quarters in which the objective is to eliminate the other team.
Weapon maneuverability, compact equipment, speed, and quick access to tools become essential when entering such a dynamic scenario. Many airsoft guns that would be particularly suitable in different situations, lose much of their effectiveness in CQB because of the clutter, weight, or lack of speed during the movements. However, some airsoft guns are designed specifically to address such scenarios, allowing operators to be fast, effective, and efficient.
To help you choose the best airsoft gun for CQB, we decided to analyze and review airsoft replicas that we consider are the best and most effective for such scenarios. So without further ado, let’s start and take a look at the best airsoft guns for CQB that will make you dominate your opponents easily.
Table of Contents
12 Best Airsoft Guns For CQB (Close Quarter Battle): What are the best CQB airsoft guns?
| Best Overall Airsoft Gun For CQB |  G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine Airsoft AEG |
| Best Overall Airsoft Gun For CQB (if the price isn’t the problem) |  Krytac Kriss Vector Airsoft AEG SMG Rifle |
| Best buy Airsoft Gun For CQB |  Umarex Elite Force H&K MP5 A4/A5 SMG Competition AEG Airsoft Gun |
| Best budget Airsoft Gun For CQB |  Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) Airsoft AEG Sub Machine Gun
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| Best Airsoft Gun For CQB Under $150 | Elite Force H&K MP5 A4 Airsoft AEG Submachine Gun A&K NS15 Full Metal Lipo Ready M4 CQB Stubby Killer Airsoft AEG Rifle |
G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine Airsoft AEG
This airsoft replica from G&G is our top choice for CQB. Very small and compact, with high ROF (Rate of Fire) and excellent precision, G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine AEG is a valuable friend to have during a CQB matches. This airsoft gun made from a high-quality polymer features adjustable hop-up, durable polymer carbine receiver, adjustable flip-up iron sights, adjustable PDW style collapsible stock, fully upgradeable and metal ver 2 gearbox, and an electronic trigger unit.
G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine Airsoft AEG is our top pick for CQB matches.
It’s lightweight (it weighs 2350 grams) and easy to maneuver with collapsible stock so you can easily adjust the length of the gun from 50 to 59 cm. Based on the G&G CM16 series, ARP9 mounts a 300 rounds 9mm style magazine with a rate of fire of about 30 rounds per second, which is pretty high. Magazines come in low, mid, and high cap configurations (30-60-300 rounds), and their price goes from $15 to $30. While the short inner barrel makes it more fit for CQB engagements, it is still powerful and accurate enough for long-range battles.
G&G CM16 ARP9’s compactness is its forte: it allows rapid movements and easy pick and fire maneuvers. It can go both semi and full auto, for cover fire situation. It mounts a classic 7.4V LiPo, that has to be kind of small to fit the battery compartment which is set into the rifle stock. While one single battery should be just fine for a couple of matches, we recommend that you take some extra batteries with you, just in case so that you can stay relaxed while playing. Especially if you need to stay on the field for a very long time (not very common in CQB, but of course it can happen).
With around 350 FPS muzzle velocity, great accuracy, decent range, and high ROF, this is an excellent CQB gun that will give you a serious advantage over your opponents. It’s really fun to use, the trigger response is great and while it’s pretty loud it also sounds great while shooting. G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine Airsoft AEG is our top pick for CQB matches.
Features
- Adjustable hop-up
- Durable polymer 9mm style carbine receiver with matte anodized finish and stamped G&G roll marks
- Adjustable PDW style collapsible stock with the stock tube
- Adjustable flip-up iron sights
- 5″ M-LOK handguard is compatible with all M-LOK accessories
- An ergonomic motor grip with an enhanced trigger guard allows for easier use of the carbine with gloves
- Flat-faced competition style trigger, textured selector switch, and mock bolt catch provide the ARP9 with aggressive details
- Integrated MOSFET protects wiring and is programable to fire either 3-round burst or fully automatic
- ETU (enhanced trigger unit) improves trigger response and cyclic rate
- Muzzle velocity: 330-350 FPS with 0.20g BBs
- Length: adjustable (500mm – 590mm)
- Weight: 2350g
- Inner Barrel: ~150mm
- Magazine Capacity: G&G 9mm style carbine magazine / 300 rounds
- Gearbox: Ver 2 Full Metal, Fully Upgradeable
- Fire modes: Semi/Full-Auto, Safety
- Battery: 7.4V Small Butterfly Type recommended
- Package Includes: Gun, Magazine, Manual
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Tokyo Marui FNH Licensed P90 (with Built-In Red Dot Sight Airsoft AEG PDW)
The next airsoft replica on our list comes from Tokyo Marui, a Japanese manufacturer known for build quality, reliability, accuracy, and range of their replicas. Tokyo Marui P90 is a classic of urban operations that provides lots of effectiveness with minimum footprint. Although it shoots at „only“ 265 FPS with 0.20g BBs, Tokyo Marui’s replicas are known for outperforming many competitors even with lower FPS guns in terms of range and accuracy due to their hop-up and barrel quality.
It may not be as easy to use as some other SMGs, but this lightweight airsoft gun is very precise, stable, and compact, and can be a really good choice if properly trained to use it. It’s long 50 cm, weights 1660g and mounts a 330 rounds magazine. This weapon offers everything you may need in CQB engagements while still powerful enough for long-range battles. Different kinds of magazines are available for players who prefer to use low-cap and midcap magazines.
Despite not being our first choice this is still a very good gun for CQB and deserves our recommendation as we could see many players ruining opponent’s day using this SMG.
Tokyo Marui P90 features adjustable hop-up, side rail designed for mounting lights or lasers, and a fully upgradeable Ver 6 Gearbox. The red dot sight, which is provided with the gun, needs 2x AAA batteries to work and will be just right to aim properly in such short distances. 9.6v NiMh or 7.4v LiPo batteries are recommended, but not usually sold along with the rifle. The biggest issue with this rifle is getting used to magazine changes, which can be a little tricky for anyone who never tried a P90. However, with just enough training, anyone can overcome this problem and reload quickly and correctly.
Tokyo Marui is one of the most valuable airsoft brands on the market, and the Tokyo Marui P90 is no exception. Despite not being our first choice this is still a very good gun for CQB and deserves our recommendation as we could see many players ruining opponent’s day using this SMG.
Features
- Adjustable hop-up
- High-quality injection molded reinforced polymer receiver w/ licensed FN-Herstal trademarks
- Metal barrel assembly
- Ultra-lightweight, compact, and ergonomic
- Bullpup design allows for a longer inner barrel to improve accuracy and range
- Ambidextrous controls allow the weapon to be operated with ease by both left and right-handed shooters
- Built-in adjustable red dot sight requires 2x AAA batteries
- Side rail for lights or lasers
- Muzzle velocity: 265 FPS with 0.20g BBs
- Length: 500mm (19.69″)
- Weight: 1660g (3.66lbs)
- Inner barrel: 260mm
- Magazine Capacity: 330rd Hi-Capacity. Compatible with Matrix, Tokyo Marui and other similar AUG Series Airsoft AEG Magazines
- Gearbox: Fully upgradeable Ver 6
- Fire Modes: Semi/Full-Auto, Safety
- Package Includes: Gun, Magazine, Vertical Grip, Manual
- Battery: 9.6v P90 type NiMH or 7.4v 1500mAh PEQ type LiPo recommended (Battery not included), requires 2x AAA batteries for the red dot to turn on
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Krytac Kriss Vector Airsoft AEG SMG Rifle
Krytac Kriss Vector SMG is a great looking and pretty realistic airsoft replica that shoots fast and narrow. This SMG is one of the kind and many people’s favorite. The gun is pretty short and compact, with adjustable length going from 45 cm with folded stock to 65 cm with extended stock. It’s also pretty lightweight (2600g), with its sharp silhouette look matching the taste of many when it comes to operating in CQB engagements.
Krytac Kriss Vector Airsoft AEG is a sturdy, durable, and well-made airsoft SMG and our pick for best Overall Airsoft Gun For CQB if price isn’t the problem.
Krytac Kriss Vector Airsoft AEG SMG features an adjustable hop-up, folding stock, flip-up iron sights, a couple of different fire modes, and Picatinny rails for the easy mount of tactical accessories. The whole outer parts of the gun are made out of high-quality water and heat resistant polymer, and the rails and inner components are made out of steel and metal. The weapon is very stable, thanks to its particular design, which allows players to hold it firmly and reduce the recoil. The stock folds on the right side, allowing the player to perform proper maneuvers even in really tight spaces. It has a pretty high rate of fire thanks to the 11.1v LiPo battery it mounts. However, make sure to buy a less than 116 mm battery, or it will not fit the compartment, which is pretty small because it’s located into the gun’s grip. Krytac Kriss Vector Airsoft AEG SMG Rifle mounts 95 rounds mid-cap dedicated magazine. Fire modes include semi and full-auto modes, but also a two-round burst mode that really comes in handy when you need to double-tap without wasting too many BBs. As we said, it has two Picatinny rails, one above for folding sights (included), and one below to mount grips, flashlights, or laser pointers.
Although this airsoft gun is pretty expensive, it is worth the cost as it has many pros and little cons. The build quality is excellent without wobbling or creaking parts, it has a nice weight and provides you with great range and accuracy. You can easily modify it or put various attachments on it. There are also many replacement parts and mods available for this SMG. The biggest problems are the small battery compartment and the high price. Still, Krytac Kriss Vector Airsoft AEG SMG Rifle is a sturdy, durable, and well-made airsoft SMG that performs well out of the box and a great choice for CQB. Go ahead and purchase this one if the higher price isn’t the problem.
Features
- Licensed KRISS Vector GEN II housing
- Licensed KRISS Vector GEN II folding stock
- Licensed DEFIANCE flip-up iron sights
- Adjustable hop-up
- Ambidextrous fire selector, Semi, two-round burst, full auto fire modes; Ambidextrous safety
- KRISS Vector GEN II pivoting trigger
- MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny top rail, MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny bottom rail
- 8mm VECTOR gearbox
- Integrated Krytac FET system
- Electronic trigger
- Quick change spring, Padded cylinder head, Relief cut cylinder window
- Adjustable rotary hop-up
- Temperature and wear resistant bucking
- Krytac 30K neodymium magnets, high torque, short type motor
- Muzzle velocity: 350~380 FPS
- Adjustable length: 445mm / 665mm (folded / total)
- Weight: 2600g / 5.73 lbs
- Inner barrel: 155mm
- Magazine capacity: 95 round VECTOR Mid-Cap
- Gearbox: 8mm VECTOR proprietary gearbox
- Fire Modes: Semi/two-round burst/Full-Auto, Safety
- Package Includes: Gun, Magazine, Manual
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You can also purchase Krytac Kriss Vector Airsoft AEG SMG Rifle on Evike, Airsoft Megastore, or Airsoft Station. There is also pretty cool The KRISS Vector AEG New Year’s Bundle available which includes KRISS Vector AEG by Krytac in a cool Dual-Tone colorway, Avengers Micro Reflex Dot Sight w/ QD Riser, 3x extra Vector magazines, Matrix Tactical Systems Ultimate Airsoft Goggles, 5,000rds of EMG Match Grade 0.20g BBs, and 6mmProShop 400rd Universal BB Speed Loader.
KWA Ronin T6 VM4 PDW Airsoft AEG Rifle
Powered by KWA’s upgraded VM4 v2.5 gearbox KWA Ronin T6 VM4 PDW features adjustable hop-up, M-LOK handguards, improved PDW stock, and SOCOM-style muzzle brake. KWA Ronin T6 VM4 PDW, featuring a totally aggressive look, is a well built and lightweight (2580g) airsoft gun with the receiver fully made out of metal, while the rails and folding sights are made out of steel. It also has a fire selector on both sides, which is great for both lefties and righties, and a PDW tanker stock. Its rate of fire is not that high but sometimes that can be useful because you’re not going to waste too many BBs. The battery compartment is set into the stock which can be folded. The buttstock has to be removed in order to place the 7.4v LiPo inside of the compartment. The stock can be set into 3 different positions and brings the rifle’s length from 552 to 673cm. The Mid-Cap magazine which holds 120 rounds is made out of heavy-duty ABS.
KWA Ronin T6 VM4 PDW feels very sturdy and durable while providing you with good accuracy and range out of the box. Like most guns on this list, the battery compartment is very small. Still, this is one more great and pretty reliable choice for CQB.
Features
- Gearbox: KWA’s upgraded VM4 v2.5 gearbox
- Full metal construction with the PTS EP series standard Dupont Zytel High-Performance Reinforced Polymer furniture
- Adjustable hop-up
- Drop-in trigger ready, easily install your favorite MOSFETs or electronic triggers
- Aluminum M-LOK handguard
- PDW stock
- Adjustable FPS
- Muzzle velocity: 340-370 FPS with 0.20g BBs
- Adjustable length: 552.45mm (21.75″) / 673.1mm (26.5″)
- Weight: 2.58kg (5.7lbs)
- Outer barrel: 171.45mm (6.75″)
- Inner Barrel: 184.15mm (7.25″)
- Magazine capacity: 120 rounds (Mid Cap)
- Rate of Fire (ROF): 18 RPS
- Fire Modes: Semi/Full-Auto, Safety
- Battery: 7.4v LiPo
- Package Includes: Gun, Magazine, Manual
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You can also purchase KWA Ronin T6 VM4 PDW Airsoft AEG Rifle on Evike, or Airsoft Megastore. There is also a pretty cool KWA Ronin T6 VM4 PDW Go Airsoft Starter Package available from December 2020 which includes KWA Ronin T6 VM4 PDW Rifle, Magazine, 2x Spare BAMF Mid Cap magazines, 2x Matrix 7.4v LiPo batteries, 1x BMS LiPo charger, 1x LiPo safety bag, red dot sight, and airsoft safety sack.
Umarex H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 Airsoft EBB AEG SMG Rifle
Umarex H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 is a classic of CQB old-style SMGs. This electric blowback airsoft gun from Umarex is small enough and easy to work with during CQB engagements. It has a folding stock, a short barrel, and mounts long hi-cap magazine that holds 400 rounds (works with Umarex, G&G, Tokyo Marui and other compatible UMP / UMG series Magazines), with the typical 9mm look.
Umarex H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 features fully licensed HK trademarks and is ideal for close-quarters battles (CQB). The gun is 685mm long but due to the foldable stock, it shortens to 440mm when the stock is folded which gives you great maneuverability in tight environments. The folded stock allows you to reach to the battery compartment, which can store a 9.6v small stick battery. The whole gun is made from fiber-reinforced polymer, except for the metal rails and fixed iron sights. It also features 4 metal rails: upper, lower, and one for each side. That means a lot of room for tactical equipment like flashlights, lasers, and grips. The hop-up is adjustable, and you can set the weapon in three fire modes (safety, semi-auto, and full-auto). This SMG is really easy to handle and feels good when it comes to maneuvers like folding the stock, changing magazines, and switching side of shooting. It’s also precise enough to be used in mid-range clashes and not only in tight spaces.
The weight is not its strong point. The reason for the extra weight is the blowback system that adds weight, but also gives you a recoil which enhances the shooting experience. While blowback on this one is light and not as good as on some GBBs or GBBRs, it’s still noticeable enough and we’re sure you’re going to enjoy it. By the way, if you’re interested in airsoft guns with realistic recoil we suggest that you check our recommendations for AEG’s with the most realistic recoil or GBBs with the most realistic recoil.
Although it’s made out of polymer, Umarex H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 is a sturdy and durable SMG with great trigger response, very good accuracy and range, and decent recoil. While it’s not our first choice you won’t make mistake if you purchase one.
Features
- Adjustable hop-up
- Build: Nylon and Polymer Exterior Frame, Full Metal Gearbox
- The tri-rail handguard features a 20mm accessory side and top rails
- Firing modes: Full-auto, two-round burst, semi-automatic, safety mode
- In line MOSFET provides a two-round burst mode
- Muzzle Velocity: 340-356 FPS with 0.20 BBs
- Magazine capacity: 400 rounds
- Gearbox: Version 3, full metal, fully upgradeable
- Battery: 9.6V Stick
- Weight: 4100g (5.6 Lbs)
- Inner barrel length: 205 mm
- Foldable stock
- Length: 440mm (17.5″) / 685mm (27.5″) (folded / extended)
- Fully licensed H&K trademark graphics located on the lower receiver
- Realistic electric blowback action
- Threaded outer barrel
- Adjustable sights
- Package Includes: Gun, Magazine, Manual
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You can also purchase Umarex H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 Airsoft EBB AEG SMG Rifle on Evike, or Airsoft Megastore.
Classic Army Skirmisher AR4 ECS SBR Airsoft AEG Rifle
This AEG from Classic Arms, a valuable brand that produces many high-quality replicas, is similar to the KWA T6 VM4 PDW we already checked out, but way less expensive. This gun provides you with everything you may need in a CQB clash. Weights just 2200 g and is long 640mm when extended and 550mm when folded. It is fully made out of polymer and mounts a 300 rounds classic STANAG magazine. This feature is very important, as we already said since these magazines are way more common during MILSIMs and you can get your hands on them way easier than you could have done with 9mm like magazines.
Classic Army Skirmisher AR4 ECS SBR has many rails available to place lots of tactical equipment. It also has an adjustable hop-up, brand-new electronic control system which can be programmed to shoot at 3 to 5 round burst, inline MOSFET protected trigger contacts, and mounts a 9.6v small butterfly type battery that is set into the buttstock battery compartment. Adjustable stock like the KWA T6 VM4 PDW one, can be set in 2 different positions. Ver 2 gearbox is full metal and fully upgradable.
This gun from Classic Army is a lightweight and compact, durable, precise and stable with a high rate of fire. It works just fine out of the box and doesn’t require any modification. Adjustable sights are provided, but the gun gives its best with a red dot type optic which is not provided in the package. This is our humble opinion with Echo1 GAT the best budget option if you’re looking for an airsoft gun for CQB.
Features
- Durable injection-molded polymer body
- Polymer 20mm RIS handguard accepts most standard 20mm accessories, with M-LOK compatible side rails
- Adjustable hop-up
- Full length 20mm top rail for mounting optics and other accessories
- Easy spring-change system gearbox with 9mm bearing bushings and inline MOSFET
- Programmable Electronic Control System provides 3/5 round burst, motor protection and low battery detection
- 2-Position PDW-style stock
- Battery and wall charger included
- Muzzle velocity: 340-350 FPS
- Length: 550mm-640mm
- Weight: 2200g
- Inner barrel length: 155mm
- Magazine Capacity: 300 rounds Hi-Cap
- Gearbox: Ver 2 full metal, fully upgradeable
- Battery: 9.6v Small Butterfly Type recommended (Battery included)
- Fire Modes: semi/full-Auto, Safety
- Package Includes: Gun, Magazine, Manual, Battery and wall charger
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You can purchase Classic Army Skirmisher AR4 ECS SBR Airsoft AEG Rifle on Evike, Airsoft Megastore, or Airsoft GI.
Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) Airsoft AEG Sub Machine Gun
The Echo1 GAT (which stands for General Assault Tool) is an ultra-compact, versatile and lightweight SMG designed for CQB. This sturdy SMG is made of metal (upper receiver, barrel, & sling loops) and polymer (lower receiver) and features an accessory rail under the barrel, adjustable hop-up, upgradeable full-size gearbox, steel tooth piston, and ported piston head. An 8.4v NiMH battery, which is included in the package, is housed in the front grip and Echo1 GAT shoots at around 340 FPS with 0.20g BBs at around 13 rounds per second. But you can also use 7.4v Mini LiPo instead to increase the rate of fire.
Echo1 GAT is a well made and balanced SMG with very good accuracy and range for an SMG that works well out of the box and it’s fun to use. It’s not the best option on our list. Its rate of fire is not that high when compared with some other guns on our list, the battery is a little tricky to get in and out, the hop-up is a little bit weird with lighter BBs so we recommend using 0.25g BBs or heavier, and if you’re not careful it can eat BBs pretty quickly in full-auto. But for the price you pay (it’s one of the cheapest guns on our list), it’s one more very good choice for CQB and we’re pretty sure you won’t be disappointed if you pick this one. One of the best budget options if you’re looking for an airsoft gun for CQB.
Features
- High impact reinforced polymer lower receiver
- The metal upper receiver, barrel, & sling loops
- Lightweight, compact design
- Reinforced internals
- Accessory rail under barrel shroud
- Lipo-ready
- Adjustable hop-up
- Muzzle velocity: 330 FPS with 0.20g BBs
- Length: 13.5″
- Weight: 3.5lbs
- Inner Barrel: ~165mm (6.06mm Diameter)
- Magazine Capacity: 250 rounds High Capacity
- Gearbox: 8mm Custom
- Motor: Short Type
- Fire Modes: Full-Auto
- Battery: 8.4v Mini Type or 7.4v Mini LiPo recommended
- Package Includes: Gun, 2x Magazines, Battery, Wall Charger, Manual
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You can also purchase Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) Airsoft AEG Sub Machine Gun on Airsoft Megastore, or Evike.
KWA Umarex H&K MP7 Hard Kick Gas Blowback Airsoft SMG
KWA Umarex H&K MP7 is one more ultra-compact, versatile, lightweight, quality built, and highly maneuverable SMG. This officially licensed Heckler & Koch airsoft replica is made from a fiber-reinforced polymer composite with a steel barrel and features adjustable hop-up, Picatinny accessory rails for easy mounting of various tactical accessories, comfortable and stable folding forward grip, and adjustable front and rear flip-up iron sights. The length of this SMG is also adjustable and goes from 590mm with the extended stock down to 380mm with folded stock making it the perfect size for CQB scenarios.
KWA Umarex H&K MP7 is a Gas Blowback (GBB) SMG which means you’ll get a pretty nice recoil while shooting which adds to the realism. It shoots in semi or full-auto modes at around 370 FPS with 0.20g BBs with the rate of fire of about 16 rounds per second and provides you with very good accuracy and range out of the box. One more good thing about this SMG is that it features ambidextrous controls (firing selector switch, and charging handle) making it ideal for both right and left-handed players.
If you purchase KWA Umarex H&K MP7 we doubt you’ll regret it. It’s a light, sturdy and well-built gun without wobbling parts, it shoots straight with very good accuracy and range while giving you a pretty nice recoil. It’s also comfortable and fun to use and due to its size, it’s pretty maneuverable making it great for CQB. The biggest problems with this one are low magazine capacity and expensive additional magazines. It’s also loud which is both pro and con. By the way, if you find Tokyo Marui MP7, go ahead and purchase it, as it is maybe even better than this one.
Features
- Lightweight and high strength polymer frame
- Fully trademarked Heckler & Koch engraving
- Realistic, hard-kick blowback
- Telescopic two-position retractable stock with rubber buttpad
- Metal rails, flash hider, magazine, fire selector, slide release, iron sight, and retractable stock
- Functional cocking handle with realistic bolt movements
- Metal Picatinny accessory rails
- Integrated flip-down vertical grip
- Adjustable front and rear flip-up iron sights
- Completely ambidextrous: Ambidextrous firing selector switch, bolt release, mag release and charging handle
- Muzzle velocity: 370 FPS with 0.20g BBs
- Adjustable length: 380mm / 590mm (folded / extended)
- Weight: 1610g
- Inner Barrel: 160mm
- Magazine Capacity: 40 rounds
- Fire modes: Semi-Auto, Full-Auto, Safe
- Adjustable hop-up
- Package Includes: Gun, Magazine, Manual
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You can also purchase KWA Umarex H&K MP7 GBB SMG on Airsoft Megastore, Evike, or Airsoft Station.
ICS MP5A4 / Umarex Elite Force H&K MP5 A4/A5 SMG Competition AEG Airsoft Gun
One of our personal favorites, ICS MP5A4 is one of the most famous and classic SMGs ever. Solid, compact, and highly trustworthy, the MP5 always guarantees high performance and reliability to players who seek a realistic approach to airsoft. The fixed iron sights provide a nice and easy aiming, but if you don’t like fixed sight the upper rail will eventually allow the deployment of red dots and optics. It has an H&K type ambidextrous selector, with secure, semi, and auto fire modes. The body is full metal, it has a metal gearbox, and steel gear and adjustable hop-up. There’s no need to work on the replica since it works just fine out of the box. This is, according to us, the best buy option you have.
Unfortunately, ICS MP5A4 is very hard to find these days so we suggest that you take a look at the Umarex Elite Force H&K MP5 A4 SMG Competition AEG Airsoft Gun. It is a fully licensed Hecker and Koch MP5 replica (with trademarks) made from polymer and metal. It features ambidextrous selector switches (which makes it perfect for both right and left-handed players), adjustable hop-up, full metal and upgradeable Ver 2 gearbox, and semi-auto and full-auto firing modes. This Competiton MP5 package includes 2 high-cap magazines and 2 interchangeable stocks, fixed style stock and a collapsible stock. You’ll get A4 stock and A5 stock so you can use this MP5 as either an A4 model or an A5 model which makes it not only a great choice for CQB but also for outdoor play – if you need compact size and maneuverability for indoor play use smaller, collapsible M5 stock and in case you’re going to play outdoor switch it for the included full stock. The collapsible stock has a very limited battery space but the full stock has plenty of battery space.
Although it’s pretty lightweight and partly made from polymer it’s actually sturdy and doesn’t feel cheap. It doesn’t feature the highest rate of fire, it’s not very accurate on longer distances and the trigger has a long pull. But it is still a very good choice for CQB especially when you consider the price. Its build quality is pretty solid (expect collapsible stock which is a little wobbly), the gun is very accurate under 150 feet, ambidextrous controls make it perfect for both right and left-handed players, iron sights are good, and comes with 2 hi-cap magazines and 2 stocks (collapsible and full stock) which makes it the best buy option for airsoft CQB gun.
Features
- Fully licensed Hecker and Koch MP5 with trademarks
- Injection-molded polymer receiver and stock with a metal alloy outer barrel
- Ambidextrous HK style selector switches
- Includes both a fixed style stock and a collapsible stock
- Ideal for CQB environments
- Full metal version 2 gearbox
- Charging handle locks open for easy hop-up adjustment
- Includes 2x hi-cap magazines
- Muzzle velocity: 320-330 FPS
- Weight: 2000g
- Inner Barrel: ~210mm
- Magazine Capacity: 200 rounds Hi-Cap (works with Tokyo Marui, G&G, Umarex and other compatible MP5 Series Airsoft AEG Magazines)
- Thread Direction: H&K 3-lug Design
- Gearbox: Ver 2 full metal, fully upgradeable
- Motor: Long Type
- Fire Modes: Semi/Full-Auto, Safety
- Battery: 7.4v Small Type recommended
- Adjustable hop-up
- Package Includes: Gun, 2x Magazine, A4 stock and A5 stock
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If you want only the gun you can get it at Airsoft Megastore.
Tokyo Marui G18 GBB
Here’s something that should never be missing in a CQB set-up. A good pistol. The Glock G18 has features that are a must for a good CQB gun. It’s compact, lightweight, durable, and easy to use. Mounts a 25 rounds magazine, which is enough to rely on if anything goes wrong with your primary weapon, but also enough to take down many opponents if you simply like to play pistols only matches. It has a manual safety just like the real one and fixed front and rear sight. Works both in a double and single action. This gun uses Green Gas to shoot, which is set into the gas tank located in magazine.
Keep in mind the propulsion mechanism of the gun you’re using and how it will react to different temperatures. The whole gun is really solid and is water, heat, and shock-resistant. When you fire, you can really feel the blowback, which is a loved feature by the players who seek realism. You can feel it even more while using it in the full-auto mode, which can come kind of handy if you need firepower but everything you have is your pistol. This is something valuable since not many pistols have such feature. The gun is around 20cm long and weighs around 700g.
Features
- Gas-powered (GBB)
- BlowBack action
- Fire Modes: semi-auto, full-auto, safe
- Length: 202 mm
- Weight: 700g
- Adjustable hop-up
- Inner Barrel Length: 97 mm
- Magazine Capacity: 25 rounds
- Muzzle velocity: 295 FPS
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You can purchase Tokyo Marui G18 GBB at Airsoft Europe.
Tokyo Marui M870 Tactical Airsoft Pump Action Gas Shotgun
Let’s consider something different. Shotguns are not much loved by many players, but they have some quality after all. They’re forgiving if you’re not accurate, give something more in a matter of realism, and are really fun to play with. This M870 replica from Tokyo Marui is a valid choice if you want to do something different. It can fire 3 or 6 bbs simultaneously and mounts 30bbs green gas-powered shells, so you can fire multiple times, and then you will have to change the shell from the rear door, like with a real one. It’s pretty long if compared to the other weapons mentioned in this article: 955mm. The weight is a little higher too since it’s made out of metal, except for the buttstock that’s made from ABS.
Shotguns in airsoft are mainly used to add realism to the simulations, but some of them are capable of performing nice enough to make a valuable choice too. Of course, it is not as maneuverable as an SMG, but it has other qualities. The rifle is obviously pump action and has a fixed hop up and an upper rail to mount optics. The gas tank is set in the buttstock and can be refilled with normal airsoft green gas. Remember that green gas propelled replicas will work differently with high and low temperatures and will require different types of gas in order to work properly, which may result in spending more money on the different types of gas.
If you’re familiar with Tokyo Marui’s replicas than you’ll know what to expect. This is one more high-quality built and reliable replica with good accuracy and range. If this shotgun is too expensive for you but you would like to have some fun with shotgun we suggest that you take a look at CYMA Polymer M870 3-Round Burst Multi-Shot Shell Loading Airsoft Shotgun (which is much cheaper) featured on our list of Best Airsoft Guns Under $100.
Features
- System: Gas, Pump Action
- Gas Type: Green Gas, 134a
- Selectable 3rd / 6rd firing system
- Removable 30rd Shell
- Heavyweight metal receiver
- Metal barrel and magazine tube
- Heavy-duty polymer stock and handguard
- Removable gas reservoir hidden inside buttstock
- Integrated scope rail
- Built-in ghost ring iron sights
- Magazine tube holds extra shells
- Smooth racking action
- Uses standard TM spring shotgun shells
- Length: 955mm
- Muzzle velocity: 300~350 FPS with 0.20g BBs and Green Gas
- Magazine capacity: 30 rounds
- Firing modes: 3rd / 6rd, selectable
- Fixed hop-up
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You can purchase Tokyo Marui M870 on Evike or Airsoft Megastore.
If this shotgun is too long and heavy for you and you want something as good as this one but more compact, we recommend that you take a look at Tokyo Marui M870 Airsoft Pump Action “Breacher” Gas Shotgun which is 500mm long and features selectable 3 rounds or 6 rounds firing system, integrated 20mm optic rail, heavyweight metal receiver, metal barrel and magazine tube, removable gas reservoir hidden inside the grip and fixed hop-up.
You can also purchase it on Evike or Airsoft Megastore.
Honorable Mentions – Best Airsoft Guns For CQB
There are even more airsoft guns that will be a good choice for CQB so we decided to mention them in case you can’t find other guns on our list.
Krytac Full Metal Trident MKII PDW Airsoft AEG Rifle is full metal, sturdy, durable, and accurate AEG which features an ambidextrous fire selector, realistic locking bolt and bolt release, and adjustable rotary hop-up among others. The next one is Umarex H&K Licensed Limited Edition MP5K Airsoft AEG w/ PDW Stock, fully Licensed H& MP5 replica made of polymer and metal with fixed front and adjustable rear sights, Picatinny rail for attaching optics and tactical accessories and adjustable hop-up. Under $150 you can get A&K NS15 Full Metal Lipo Ready M4 CQB Stubby Killer Airsoft AEG Rifle which features a fully upgradeable metal Ver 2 gearbox, compact fixed stock, adjustable hop-up and QD front sight and flip-up rear sight. If you’re on a budget this is a good choice for the best CQB airsoft gun under $150.
A&K M4 CQB-L Metal RIS AEG Airsoft Rifle is one more good choice for a CQB airsoft gun under $150. It features a durable ABS Body, full metal gearbox and gears, 300 rounds hi-cap magazine, adjustable hop-up, and full-auto, semi-auto, and safe fire modes. If you would prefer a handgun and can’t find Tokyo Marui G18 then we suggest that you check out Elite Force Fully Licensed GLOCK 18C Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol – it’s a lightweight and sturdy fully licensed GLOCK replica.
If you’re really on a budget we suggest that you check our previous article Best Airsoft Guns Under $100. There are a couple of solid options there like JG Scorpion R2 VZ61 VZ-61 100% Tokyo Marui Clone Airsoft Electric SMG, Umarex Walther P99, Elite Force H8R Gen 2 CO2 Revolver, or WE Tech 1911 3.8 Baby Hi-Capa Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol.
Summary
The choice of the weapon to be used in a CQB scenario will have a major impact on the player’s performance. Leaving aside the price, there are several aspects to keep in mind when choosing the CQB gun.
Try to get a weapon that’s not too bulky and doesn’t weight too much, make sure it always works properly, try to choose stable and precise replicas, possibly with foldable stocks. Don’t rule out peculiar choices like handguns and shotguns as primary weapons. Using unusual weapons can provide an advantage over opponents, who are unlikely to be fully ready to face weapons with different characteristics from the ones they expect. It’s also worth checking out your needs about the ROF of the different replicas: higher ROF weapons will allow us to have a higher volume of fire, but they could also lead us to run out of shots and fire unnecessarily. Low ROF replicas, on the other hand, may not provide us with the amount of fire we need to ensure we eliminate our opponents. The choice must therefore be taken calmly, properly assessing all the different aspects.
We hope you found this article helpful and that we helped you choose the best airsoft gun for CQB (Close Quarter Battle).
1 comment
Good list. I own Krytac Kriss Vector and it’s a beast.