Airsoft Motors

Torque or speed?

A high-torque motor uses strong neodymium magnets and a winding that pulls a heavy spring with ease; it gives a crisp trigger response on semi-auto and runs cooler, which is why it is the first motor most players buy, especially for DMR builds and anything above M110. A high-speed motor spins faster for a higher rate of fire with standard springs, at the cost of more current and heat, and pairs well with high-speed gears. Balanced motors sit between the two for all-round AEGs. Brushless motors deliver torque and speed with almost no wear but need a compatible MOSFET or ETU.

Long, medium or short shaft

Motor length must match the grip: long motors fit M4, M16, SCAR and most V2 pistol grips, short motors sit inside the gearbox of AK, G36 and other V3 designs, and medium motors fit a handful of models such as the AUG and some SMGs. The type filter separates them. Check the pinion gear as well: most motors ship with a D-type pinion, and the motor height must be adjusted so the pinion meshes cleanly with the bevel gear, or the whine will tell you.

Pairing with battery and gears

A torque motor on an 11.1 V LiPo with 13:1 gears is a fast, reliable set-up; a speed motor needs 18:1 gears and a strong battery to shine. Gears and bushings are in gearbox and internals. Motors are unrestricted parts.