A CO2 Glock or a Green Gas Glock: Which Is Better?

Mar 17th 2021

Gas blowback airsoft pistols are awesome. We’re sure you’re in the same camp as we are on that matter. They’re smooth cycling, fast-shooting, and a whole heck of a lot of fun to use. Also, the realistic actions and performance of these types of airsoft pistols endear them even more to some players - more, at least, than electric airsoft guns and spring-powered airsoft guns.

So you’re probably here because you’re looking for more information on CO2-powered Glocks versus green gas glocks. Many of these are fully-licensed, high-quality reproductions, some of which are capable of full-auto firing modes.

Additionally, as you might have expected, each comes with its own benefits. Check these out and let us know if we can help you further with your decision, by calling us at 800-581-6620.

Benefits of CO2 Glocks

Carbon dioxide, also known more commonly as CO2 (and occasionally as red gas) is a gas that is used to power certain gas blowback pistols. There are plenty of Glock 17 and Glock 19 airsoft pistol reproductions that use CO2, which speaks to its efficacy. The following are some of the benefits that CO2 can provide.

1.Higher muzzle velocities mean more power

The real advantage, that is, the main advantage, of CO2 powered airsoft guns comes from the fact it enables more raw power and higher muzzle velocities. Sometimes what you need is the ability to reach further with your shots or to hit harder at close range. CO2 gives you the ability to do that.

2.More consistent performance, especially in extreme temperatures

Partly because the cartridges exert more pressure on the gun’s internals, the FPS performance and reliability of CO2, especially under extreme temperatures (particularly the cold) is very consistent. Some players lean on CO2 for this, coupled with the fact that CO2 adds more power.

Now, with these benefits in mind, it should also be stated that CO2 is very hard on a gas blowback pistol and will cause the internals to wear out more quickly than green gas. Additionally, CO2 is more expensive and the gas charge will provide anywhere near as many shots as a green gas cartridge.

Benefits of Green Gas Glocks

Green gas Glocks take green gas, which is a mixture of propane and a tiny bit of silicone oil. Green gas pistols offer quite a few distinct advantages over CO2, as described below.

1.Cartridge lifespan: Green gas cartridges will last much longer

Whereas a fill of CO2 will last you (likely) less than 100 shots, a green gas cartridge will probably last you over 1,000 shots. It’s important to note here that most CO2 cartridges are smaller and easier to carry around, as compared to green gas canisters; still, when compared relatively, green gas will outlast CO2.

2.Lubrication and maintenance

Another thing some players appreciate about green gas is that it exerts lower pressures on the gun, and since it is treated with a little bit of silicone, it lubricates the gun as it works. This means the action will cycle more smoothly and sometimes more quickly. It also means that you’ll have to clean and lubricate your airsoft gun less frequently. One more thing: a green gas gun will likely not need to have its internals replaced as frequently.

3.The overall cost is lower with green gas

Not only does green gas provide you with more shots-per-dose than CO2, but green gas also costs comparatively less. This is in part probably due to the fact that green gas is typically not sold in the same little canisters as CO2, but the reason hardly matters as much as the bottom line: green gas is more cost-effective as a propellant.

4.Green gas isn’t as tough on the airsoft gun

Since green gas exerts lower pressures on the gas blowback pistol and is treated with silicone oil, it actually has the potential to extend the lifespan of the GBB. it will certainly help to lubricate the internals, which will mean that the GBB can go longer between disassembling and cleanings. If it saves you a few dollars on components over the lifespan of the airsoft gun, you can consider that a win, too.

It’s not all sunshine and rainbows with a green gas glock, though. Keep in mind that this form of propellant lacks the raw power of CO2 and that it’s easier to carry around multiple cartridges of CO2 in a match.

If you want to learn more about the actual models we offer and their specifics, just visit our collection of gas blowback airsoft pistols and give us a call if you need a little help understanding the fine differences.

You can reach us at 800-581-6620 anytime you need some assistance. We’ll help you pick the perfect Glock replica, but perhaps the answer is that you need both a CO2 and a green gas model!