You’ll likely encounter a jammed airsoft gun at some point in your airsoft journey. Fortunately, unjamming an airsoft gun can be a quick and easy process if you know what to do. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely and effectively unjam your airsoft gun.
Firstly, you should always treat your airsoft gun with care and respect. Regular maintenance, like cleaning the barrel and using high-quality BBs, can prevent jams from occurring in the first place. However, if you encounter a situation where your airsoft gun is jammed, don’t panic.
Before diving into the unjamming process, ensure you have the right tools and a suitable workspace. A basic understanding of your airsoft gun’s components and functions will also come in handy. So, let’s get started on unjamming your airsoft gun and getting you back in the game.
Understanding the Causes of Jamming
The key to fixing a jammed airsoft gun is knowing the possible causes of jamming. In this section, we’ll discuss three main factors that can lead to a jam:
Dirty Barrel
One major cause of jamming in airsoft guns is a dirty barrel. Dirt, debris, and residue can accumulate over time, affecting your gun’s accuracy and causing jamming. Here are a few common causes:
- Excess lubrication: Applying too much lubricant can attract dirt and debris.
- Low-quality BBs: Using low-quality or damaged BBs can lead to jamming and other issues.
- Environmental factors: Dust, sand, and dirt from the field can make their way into your barrel.
Misaligned Hop Up
The hop-up system puts a backspin on the BBs, increasing their range and accuracy. A misaligned hop-up can cause jamming in several ways:
- Improper adjustment: Over-tightening the hop-up may cause BBs to get stuck.
- Worn components: Parts like the hop-up rubber or nub can wear out, affecting your gun’s performance and causing jamming.
Faulty Magazine Well
The magazine well is where your airsoft gun’s magazine is inserted. Problems with the magazine well can also lead to jamming:
- Loose parts: Loose components, like the magazine release or mag catch, can prevent the proper feeding of BBs.
- Deformed or damaged magazines: If your magazine is damaged, it may not fit properly in the well or feed BBs correctly.
By understanding these leading causes of jamming, you’ll be able to identify the source of the problem and fix any issues quickly and efficiently.
Tools and Materials Needed
Rod
You will need a cleaning or unjamming rod to unjam your airsoft gun. These rods are typically longer than the barrel of your gun, ensuring that you can easily reach and clear any obstruction. Choose a rod with a hooked or slotted end to effectively grip and remove jammed BBs or debris.
Barrel
A clean and well-maintained barrel is essential for the smooth operation of your airsoft gun. You will need a soft cloth or cleaning patches to wipe down the interior of the barrel. Consider using a silicone-based cleaning spray to lubricate and protect the barrel from rust and future jams.
Gun
Before you begin the unjamming process, disassemble your airsoft gun to access the inner barrel. Acquaint yourself with the specific model of your gun, as this will help you understand how to disassemble and reassemble it safely.

For assistance, consult the gun’s manual or seek online resources tailored to your specific make and model.
Here’s a summary of the tools and materials needed:
- Cleaning rod or unjamming rod
- A soft cloth or cleaning patches
- Silicone-based cleaning spray
- Airsoft gun manual or online resources
Steps to Unjam an Airsoft Gun
Step 1: Removing the Magazine
First, ensure your airsoft gun is switched to the safe mode, then remove the magazine. Confirm that no BBs are left in the magazine by gently tapping it against your hand.
Step 2: Clearing the Chamber
Point the airsoft gun in a safe direction and pull the trigger to release any tension in the spring. If a BB is stuck, use a cleaning rod to push it out gently.
Step 3: Inspecting and Cleaning the Barrel
Inspect the barrel for any visible obstructions or dirt. To clean the barrel, use a cleaning rod with a cloth, and insert it through the barrel, twisting as you push it through to remove any debris.
Step 4: Adjusting the Hop Up
Check the hop-up setting, as improper adjustment could cause BBs to jam. You can adjust the hop-up by rotating its dial – confer your airsoft gun’s manual for detailed instructions.
Step 5: Reassembling the Gun
You can now reassemble your airsoft gun with the barrel clean and the hop-up adjusted. Carefully attach the magazine and make sure it’s properly seated. Finally, test-fire the airsoft gun in a safe and controlled environment to ensure it’s working correctly.
Preventing Future Jams
As an airsoft enthusiast, it’s essential to take proper care to avoid future jams. This includes regular maintenance, using quality BBs, and proper gun storage and handling. Let’s dive into each of these aspects.
Regular Maintenance
Keep your airsoft gun in optimal condition by performing regular inspections and cleaning. Pay special attention to the magazine and ensure it’s feeding BBs smoothly. Clean the barrel with a cleaning rod and use minimal silicone oil to keep the parts lubricated.
While your gun is cocked, visually inspect the chambers, springs, and gears. Promptly replace any worn-out or broken parts to prevent future jams.
Use of Quality BBs
Always opt for high-quality BBs from reputable brands. Low-quality BBs are prone to breaking inside your airsoft gun, leading to jams and possibly damaging your weapon. Stick with BBs that have a polished surface and are free of seams or imperfections.
Resist the urge to reuse BBs, even if they appear undamaged. They may have invisible cracks or cause jams when fired.
Proper Storage and Handling
Store your airsoft gun in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, to protect its components from heat and humidity. When not in use, remove the magazine and ensure the weapon is not cocked to reduce stress on the springs.
Transport your airsoft gun in a padded case to prevent any damage, and handle it carefully to avoid accidental dropping or bumping, which can lead to malfunctions.
Conclusion
In your journey to unjam your airsoft gun, you’ve learned the importance of safety precautions, proper maintenance, and the role of high-quality BBs. Prioritize safety when handling your gun by wearing appropriate gear and never pointing it at anyone who is not part of the game.
As an airsoft enthusiast, it’s necessary to inspect and clean your gun regularly to prevent jams and ensure optimal performance. Using a cleaning rod and silicone oil to maintain your gun will go a long way in extending its lifespan.
Lastly, never underestimate the power of using quality BBs, as poor-quality ammunition can cause more harm than good. Stick to the recommended weight and caliber, and avoid low-grade, misshapen, or dirty BBs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable airsoft experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use WD-40 to unjam my airsoft gun?
While WD-40 can sometimes help unjam an airsoft gun, it’s not recommended. Instead, use silicone oil or a specially designed airsoft lubricant to maintain and unjam your airsoft gun.
Q. What causes an airsoft gun to jam?
Common causes of jams in airsoft guns include using low-quality BBs, dirt or debris inside the barrel, and misfeeds caused by magazine issues. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance can help prevent most jams.
Q. How often should I clean my airsoft gun?
Clean your airsoft gun after each use to ensure smooth operation and prevent jams. If your playing environment is particularly dirty or dusty, cleaning during gameplay breaks can also be helpful.
Q. Can a jam damage my airsoft gun?
Yes, a jam can cause damage to your airsoft gun, especially if you continue firing without resolving the issue, and it could lead to broken gears, pistons, or other internal parts. Additionally, stop firing and safely clear the jam before continuing your game.