What was once an obscure brand with limited options has quickly grown into one of the most prevalent names on Evike.com. Around the start of 2022, Golden Eagle decided they wouldn’t be left behind in the airsoft market’s swift push into a new age. Their wide array of sub $200 options have made getting into the hobby not nearly as much of a money sink. And, with their impressive selection of inexpensive gas-blowbacks, gas shotguns, and unique AEGs, they have an inexpensive offering for just about any playstyle you’d want to try while beginning your airsoft campaign. As we dive into Golden Eagle’s top offerings, you might find that a type of rifle you’re dying to add to your arsenal might be cheaper than expected!
Golden Eagle 6612 9" M4 Airsoft AEG with Modular Handguard and Retractable Stock (Package: Black - Gun Only)
Almost every airsoft company has a lineup of good ol’ effective M4s and Golden Eagle is no exception. Impressively, Golden Eagle’s roster of M4s has a diversity to it that not many other airsoft companies have. Here are a few of my favorites:
For most of Golden Eagle’s M4s, they’ve chosen to stick to a classic tried-and-true internal design reminiscent of older Tokyo Marui style rifles. Many of their M4s have two-piece hop-up units that allow for the rifle’s receiver to be popped open in the same way a real ARs would.
Sometimes, simplicity is a blessing for airsoft guns. Golden Eagle AEGs don’t come with any flimsy electronics or non-standardized parts. Every single internal component on these rifles can be easily swapped out for more advanced aftermarket options down the line. The system isn’t anything revolutionary, but that just means it doesn't have to rely on gimmicks to carry itself forward. Golden Eagle’s AEGs are perfect if you’re looking for a straightforward no-nonsense addition to your airsoft collection.
“A GBBR is going to cost you an arm and a leg.” they warned.
“You can’t cheap out on gas blowbacks!” cried the masses.
To be fair, I don’t disagree with most of the community’s sentiment on gas blowbacks. If you’re truly trying to have a good time taking a GBBR to the airsoft field competitively, cheaping out isn’t going to be doing you any favors.
But, come on. This is literally a sub $200 GBBR. At that price point, why bother with how competitively viable it is? Every shot you take with this training rifle will send the bolt blasting back into the buffer tube, delivering a realistic recoil experience. It might not be the most gas efficient nor the most accurate GBB on the market, but for nearly half the price of other options you can have a blast with a highly realistic training rifle that will familiarize you with the controls and feel of a real AR. The bolt locks back on empty, and the process of field-stripping the rifle is pretty identical to the real deal. This is an excellent option if you’re looking to bask in a rifle’s functional realism!
Golden Eagle Block 3 Gas Blowback Airsoft Rifle w/ MLOK Rail (Model: 13" Rail / Black / Metal Receiver)
I won’t deny it: I’m not a personal fan of spring-action tri-shot shotguns. Although they’re usually the least expensive competitive primary you can get for airsoft, having to rack back that heavy spring every shot really wears a guy down. Should I just hit the gym? Absolutely. Or, I could just recommend the wonderful creation that is airsoft gas shotguns, which have an incredibly smooth pump action feel that allow you to take hassle-free rapid fire shots!
Airsoft gas shotguns excel at their given role. In a close-range situation, shooting off a spread of BBs can help ensure that one of your shots will land you an elimination. Even with their BB spread, the integrated fixed hop-up system makes their range nothing to scoff at. It’s not all too difficult to take out targets at 100 ft away with one of these bad boys. The ability to slam-fire off 3-6 BBs per trigger pull will put fear into the heart of whoever dares to face you in a close quarters skirmish. At the humble price Golden Eagle comes in at, getting a taste for the airsoft shotgunner playstyle might not require you to fast until your next paycheck. Pick one up today and see if pump-action performance is perfect for you!
Once a lesser-known brand, Golden Eagle has positioned itself as a leader in providing affordable, quality airsoft rifles, catering especially to newcomers in the hobby. Their diverse range of products, from gas-blowbacks to unique AEGs, not only offers something for every playstyle but also challenges the notion that starting an airsoft hobby requires a hefty investment. For those new to airsoft or looking to expand their arsenal without breaking the bank, Golden Eagle offers a modest starting point. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Golden Eagle adapts to meet the ever-dynamic needs of airsoft enthusiasts.