M16A3 vs. AK-47 Airsoft AEG review
Written by Cody/Tyler

    
Two of the most popular airsoft AEG’s out right now, are the AK-47 and the M-16. Both have a few different versions to choose from, here we will discuss them, and compare the different models to each other. 

The most popular M-16 is the M-16A2, having a round fore grip, rather than the “triangle” style of the A1. The newest model is the A3, with the only difference being the removable carrying handle. This M-16 runs off of a large battery, which goes into the stock. Having a large battery enables upgrading the gun without altering any wiring or anything. The AK-47 also runs off of a large battery, unless you grab the AK-47S with a folding stock. This runs off of a “stick” battery, and is pretty much not upgradeable.

Both of these guns have a larger than average barrel length, thus giving them better accuracy than an MP5, or the cut-down versions of the M16 and AK; the M4 and AK-Spetsnaz, respectively.  So depending on if you plan on sitting back and firing long distance, or skirmishing the mid-field, both of these AEG’s would suit you well. This also means that they might not be too conventional for close quarters battle (CQB), seeing as how you cannot easily hide behind objects, or sneak around corners without the barrel giving you away.

Now for the accessories. The M-16 has an almost endless amount of possibilities for accessories. Lasers, scopes, flashlights, slings, and even the famed M203 grenade launcher are not uncommon the fields. So if you’re going for a more tactical look, you might want to consider the M-16 series for that reason alone. The AK on the other hand, obviously cannot escape the terrorist stereotype. If you just want a great gun, without doing too much externally, it’s a great choice. Either way, no matter which style you want to play or what look you want to have, both guns are made exceptionally well and will hold up as long as you take care of them regularly.

The AK-47 is primarily made by Tokyo Marui as the M16 is made by several other manufactures including Tokyo Marui, Classic Army, Airsoft Elite and others.  Hi-cap magazines can be purchased for each of these airsoft guns for about the same price although the capacity is significantly different.  The normal capacity for an M16 hi-cap magazine is 300 rounds, where the normal capacity for an AK-47 hi-cap is 600.  So if you do the math, you will see that the AK-47 airsoft rifle will have much more available bb's than the M16.  This could play a big role in the tactics you use in your airsoft scenarios.  For instance, you might want to have a player with an AK-47 to lay down suppression fire as you advance on your opponent.

The cost on both of these AEG's are about the same and they each fire about the same velocity.  Other than the obvious style difference, the internal modification process is about the same.  Systema offers FTK (full tune up kits) for both weapons, so internal modifications are definitely an option on both AEG's.