There are a million and one ways to spend money on airsoft attachments. Some units, like mock flash hiders and muzzle brakes, do little more than look cool. They have no actual function for an airsoft gun.

But there are some airsoft attachments - like airsoft tracer units - that offer a lot of value if you get a good unit and use it for the right applications.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is an Airsoft Tracer Unit?

An airsoft tracer unit is an airsoft attachment that mounts to your airsoft gun’s muzzle. Firing special airsoft ammo through a tracer unit will cause it to glow, which will allow you to see where your shots are falling.

This can help you improve accuracy, and improve your ability to lay down suppressive fire, and on top of that, the whole setup is downright cool.

How Does an Airsoft Tracer Unit Work?

In a nutshell, an airsoft tracer unit is basically a muzzle device that’s enclosed and which blasts airsoft BBs with a little bit of ultraviolet light before they exit the barrel. This is what makes them glow - but you need special ammo (see below).

With a Tracer Unit Work with Regular Airsoft Ammo?

Airsoft tracer units will not work with standard airsoft ammo. You need special tracer ammo that is treated with fluorescent materials (usually phosphor powder) that will glow when irradiated by UV.

Can You See Tracer Rounds in Daylight?

It depends how bright it is outdoors but generally, yes, you can see airsoft tracer ammo in daylight. At night and indoors it’s even easier to see.

What Makes Airsoft Tracer Units Useful?

Airsoft tracer units have a wide range of practical applications beyond the clear and obvious fact that, as airsoft attachments, they’re pretty cool.

One is that you can see where your shots are landing. When shooting from the proverbial hip, it can be tough to know where your fire is actually landing, but a tracer unit makes it easy at a glance.

The same goes for when you are shooting with a poor mount and haven’t lined up your sights. Or maybe your red dot sight’s batteries died, or something like that.

With a tracer unit, you can actually gauge where your shots are landing and adjust instinctively.

Another good use of a tracer unit is that you can use it to forward suppressive fire. Your opponents will not react defensively if they don’t know they’re under fire and tracer units leave little to the imagination.

You can also fire more accurately at greater ranges with tracer ammo since you can better see where your shots are landing.

What Are Some Top Airsoft Tracer Units?

If you’re looking for a specific airsoft tracer unit, consider one of the following:

• G&G Battle Owl: The G&G Battle Owl features tough aluminum construction and comes with a rechargeable battery. It’s push button-activated and features a high-powered internal LED to ensure BBs are well-illuminated before leaving the barrel.

• G&G UVT106: The UVT106 tracer unit is also a top pick. It’s easy to install (twist on/off), is micro-USB rechargeable, and also features durable, lightweight aluminum construction. (Green BBs only).
• G&G UVT106 2.0: The UVT106 2.0 offers a lot of what the original offers, but this one is compatible with both red and green tracer BBs and features a power save mode.

Any of these tracer units could make a good choice for you and all are fairly affordable. Just make sure you get the right airsoft tracer ammo with them, as some are only compatible with specific types.

What Are Some Other Useful Nighttime Airsoft Attachments?

Tracer units are immensely practical nighttime airsoft attachments, but they are far from the only ones.

If you are interested in some suitable low-light or nighttime attachments, consider adding a WML light to your AEG. A light can be immensely useful in CQB in the dark and can even be removed from the platform for general utility.

Infrared sights and equipment can also be useful at night, but they are very expensive and can quickly cost much more than your entire AEG outfit is, to begin with - they’re still practical though, and can give you an edge in the dark.

Questions on These and Other Airsoft Attachments?

Do you still have questions about these airsoft attachments? Are you wondering about compatibility or do you want a specific recommendation for your build?

Get in touch with us at 800-581-6620 and we will be happy to help.

Also, make sure you get your tracer units and other attachments here, and other airsoft accessories like spare magazines. We offer the industry’s lowest prices (guaranteed, with no airsoft coupon code required) and certain orders even qualify for free shipping.

Gear up for your next MilSim or airsoft event here and be ready for the worst the match can throw at you.