It’s the one that ticks all the boxes on speed, accuracy, range, maneuverability, ease of use, and of course, realism.
In this guide on how to buy the best airsoft DMR, we provide you with detailed information on everything you might want to know when selecting and using a marksman rifle.
Take a quick look at the top 3 airsoft DMRs available on the market.
And for a more exhaustive list of the main features, pros, and cons of each of these rifles, check out the descriptions following the brief overview.
- BEST OVERALL
AGM M14 SOCOM
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SUMMARY
SUMMARYThis is a fully automatic and fully adjustable gun that can be adapted to your specific needs using the right add-ons.
PROS
PROSA high performance and high accuracy rifle.
CONS
CONSIt is relatively heavy for many players.
- Runner Up
Lancer Tactical Warlord
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Summary
SummaryLancer Tactical’s Warlord Type A DMR Airsoft Rifle is an impressive gun that you definitely wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Pros
ProsThe electric firing system is designed to maximize battery life so you can get the most shots with each charge.
Cons
ConsThe bright orange muzzle tip reduces the visual appeal of the gun.
- BEST FOR THE MONEY
Evike CYMA M14
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Summary
SummaryThe CYMA M14 Airsoft AEG DMR by Evike is a great choice for anyone on a tight budget.
Pros
ProsA user-friendly rifle that is suitable for both novice and advanced players
Cons
ConsThe purchase does not include the battery and charger.
As diehard fans of airsoft games, we are constantly on the lookout for the best airsoft gear that hits the shelves.
But we don’t just love to collect top-notch guns and other combat equipment for an adventurous game – we want to help other airsoft enthusiasts benefit from our experience too.
To help you pick the best airsoft DMR, we have shortlisted the top five guns available on the market.
Take a look at the specs, pros, and cons of each of these high-quality airsoft DMRs to decide which one’s best for you.
Best Airsoft DMR Reviews & Recommendations For 2019
- AGM M14 SOCOM Airsoft Rifle
- Lancer Tactical Warlord Type A DMR Airsoft Rifle
- Krytac Trident SPR MK2 DMR AEG Airsoft Rifle
- ICS Proline CXP MMR DMR Airsoft Rifle
- CYMA M14 Airsoft AEG DMR
Best Airsoft DMR Overall: AGM M14 SOCOM Airsoft Rifle
Clear the field in style using the high-performance M14 SOCOM Airsoft Rifle by AGM. Based on the real steel rifle of the same model number, this automated electric gun is prized for its reliability and ease of use for an extended time period.
It is capable of firing over two hundred shots in rapid succession, and can easily shoot targets at a distance of up to 400 feet. This is a fully automatic and fully adjustable gun that can be adapted to your specific needs using the right add-ons.
Benefits
- A high performance, high accuracy rifle
- Its high capacity, drop-free magazine reduces dead times between loading and reloading the gun so that you stay on top of your game at all times
- Has an adjustable hop-up that makes it compatible for use with different types of BBs
- Its polymer stock is by far, the best airsoft DMR platform amongst skilled players
- It is easy to use and maintain
- This rifle is an affordable option for most airsofters
DRAWBACKS
- It is relatively heavy for many players
- The front sight is not adjustable (although the rear sight is)
EXTRA FEATURES
- Comes with an 8.4V NiMH battery and charger
- Features an integrated 20 mm Picatinny rail for mounting accessories like optic sights
- Includes a two-point sling that makes it a breeze to carry this weapon around
The M14 rifles were originally produced during the ’40s for use in WWII. They were designed to help intermediary soldiers effortlessly eliminate targets that were hard to reach for those on the front of the line – and the AGM M14 SOCOM is meant to serve the exact same purpose in reenactment battles.
If you are looking for a DMR airsoft gun that packs all the essential features of a marksman rifle in one powerful weapon, look no further than the AGM M14 SOCOM.
Technical specifications
- Modeled on the M14 rifle used in WWI and WWII
- Fires with 420 FPS (when used with 0.20g BB ammo)
- Weighs approximately 12 lbs
- Made from strong and durable ABS plastic
- Built-In polymer foregrip
RUNNER UP: Lancer Tactical Warlord Type A DMR Airsoft Rifle
Lancer Tactical’s Warlord Type A DMR Airsoft Rifle is an impressive gun that you definitely wouldn’t want to miss out on. The Warlord is basically a carbine – a long gun firearm with a barrel shorter than that of a standard rifle.
The best part about this gun is that it is designed for use in both close-quarter battles as well as for long-distance shooting. It is priced relatively higher than the AGM M14 rifle, but makes up for the extra dollars in terms of incredible functionality achieved through additional features.
Benefits
- Comes with an attachable sling mount and adjustable crane style stock that makes it suitable for use in long-range skirmishes
- Features a robust full metal assembly with Dytac foregrip to enhance maneuverability
- It includes high power front and rear sights that help you focus on distant targets without requiring any extra optics
- You can easily upgrade this rifle using the Lancer Tactical 2nd Generation Gearboxes
- The electric firing system is designed to maximize battery life so you can get the most shots with each charge
DRAWBACKS
- The bright orange muzzle tip reduces the visual appeal of the gun
- The battery is not included in the package and must be purchased separately
EXTRA FEATURES
- It has a 20mm long Picatinny rail with multiple RIS segments to accommodate extra accessories
- The gun consists of a Quick Spring Change System that allows users to adjust the firing speed by adding or removing springs
- Includes a two-point sling that makes it a breeze to carry this weapon around
To sum it up, the Lancer Tactical Warlord Type A DMR Airsoft Rifle is a great choice to consider if you aren’t reluctant to splurge some extra dollars on your airsoft gear.
Technical specifications
- 1.5 feet (18 inches) long barrel
- Muzzle velocity of 395 FPS (with 0.20g BB ammo)
- Weighs 4.83 lbs
- Full metal body with a polymer grip
- Barrel diameter of 6.03mm
- Built-in polymer pistol foregrip
Honorable Mention: Krytac Trident SPR MK2 DMR AEG Airsoft Rifle
The Krytac Trident SPR MK2 rifle is anything but cheap – don’t say we didn’t warn you. But if budget isn’t the first thing on your mind, then purchasing the MK2 is surely worth a try.
This all-purpose battle rifle allows you to take precise shots at distances that cannot be covered by an average gun. It offers an impressive range of features that take your MilSim experience to a whole new level.
Benefits
- It’s a lightweight gun specifically designed to optimize both function and flair of airsoft rifles
- Has a high capacity 350 round magazine
- The DEFIANCE rail system ensures stability when the rifle is used for prone fire
- The two-tone color scheme makes it a stealthy rifle for use in a desert loadout, a mid-forest fight, or any other airsoft scenario
- A threaded metal flash hider included in the purchase helps you conceal the bright orange muzzle tip characteristic of ‘toy’ guns
DRAWBACKS
- Comes with a hefty price tag that makes it off-limits for most players
EXTRA FEATURES
- Includes a set of adjustable two-point iron sights that can be removed as per your needs
- Comes with a five-slot KeyMod rail for adding accessories
The SPR MK2 rifle by Krytac Trident is one of the most deadly weapons in the airsoft world. Incredible performance coupled with unmatched visual aesthetics is what allows you to experience the ultimate realism with this DMR.
Technical specifications
- 16 inches long barrel
- Modeled on the MK2 close-range battle rifles
- Muzzle velocity of 365 to 355 FPS
- Aluminum body
- Built-in foregrip
BEST WITH ELECTRIC BLOWBACK: ICS Proline CXP MMR DMR Airsoft Rifle
If you are specifically looking for an airsoft DMR with an electric blowback, we suggest going for the ICS Proline CXP MMR.
This fully upgradeable rifle features metal internals housed in a sleek and slender steel body for added durability.
The tan polish on top of it further ups the style and longevity of the gun. It’s an authentic DMR that will help you neutralize close as well as distant targets with speed and style.
Benefits
- Its unique high capacity magazine (300 rounds) has a small window so you can keep track of the ammo remaining in the rifle
- The Quick Change Spring System enables you to adjust bullet speed as required
- The ambidextrous magazine release and sling mount for the buffer tube make this gun the ideal choice for left-handed players
- Enables you to choose between semi-automatic and fully automatic modes with just the flip of a button
DRAWBACKS
- It is priced at more than $400 which might not be an affordable option for many players
- The purchase does not include the battery pack
EXTRA FEATURES
- Inline MOSFET switch to protect trigger contacts
- Compatible for use with Version 2 gearbox by the same manufacturer
The ICS Proline CXP MMR is a popular choice amongst advanced players. If you know your guns well and are skilled at using them effectively as well, consider adding the ICS Proline DMR to your collection.
Technical specifications
- Full metal assembly with steel parts
- Fires at around 440 FPS (with 0.20g BB)
- Weighs 7.4 lbs
- Inner barrel diameter of 458mm
- Ergonomically designed polymer foregrip
BEST FOR THE MONEY: Evike – CYMA M14 Airsoft AEG DMR
Airsoft can be a really addicting game if you have the right equipment at your disposal; but what about those players looking for ways to have fun on a budget?
A lack of money shouldn’t stop you from experiencing the thrill that these MilSim games have to offer. And for that, you can rely on the Evike CYMA M14 Airsoft AEG DMR to help you enjoy the airsoft adventures without breaking the bank.
Benefits
- An affordable and reliable DMR
- Consists of an adjustable cheek rest and integrated pistol stock that makes taking long distant shots as easy 1, 2, 3
- A user-friendly rifle that is suitable for both novice and advanced players
- Compatible with Version 7 upgrade components
- Its performance can be enhanced by adding optics, lasers, and other similar accessories
DRAWBACKS
- The purchase does not include the battery and charger
EXTRA FEATURES
- Unlike M14 rifles sold by other manufacturers, this products comes with a pre-installed stock
The CYMA M14 Airsoft AEG DMR by Evike is a great choice for anyone on a tight budget. It packs all the essential features of an airsoft DMR into a reasonably priced option that wouldn’t disappoint you on the field with its remarkable performance.
Technical specifications
- 1127mm long rifle
- Modeled on the famous M14 rifle
- Firing velocity of 380 to 400 FPS
- Weights 12 lbs (5.5 kg)
- Full metal assembly with polymer chassis
- Has an inner barrel length of 500mm
- Built-in foregrip
Here Are Some Terms You Should Look Out For
The airsoft DMR world can seem quite intimidating to the outside world. This is partly due to the very specific terminology used in the airsoft community. Here are some of the terminologies you should keep in mind to make your search much easier.
- Airsoft– Also referred to as “soft air” guns, this is a category of gun that shoots plastic BBs. They are usually designed to look like a real steel weapon, which makes them great for training. Over the years, airsoft has seen a sport develop around it, which has grown in popularity across the globe.
- AEG– This acronym stands for Auto Electric Guns. They are powered through a battery, allowing them to function as semi and fully automatic rifles. An AEG differs from other airsoft guns in the mechanism it operates. It features a series of motors that turn gears which in turn trigger the firing mechanism. AEG-powered airsoft guns are referred to as full metal gearbox, while the lower-powered ones are referred to as LPEGS.
- BBs- These are the 6mm plastic balls that airsoft guns use as ammunition. They are graded best on their weight, with the balls falling into the 0.12g, 0.2 g, and so on. Heavier airguns will typically use much heavier BBs, making them even more powerful.
- High-Cap Magazine- Standing for high capacity magazine, this is a type of magazine that holds more BBs than is typical for airsoft guns. It has a wheel at the bottom that pushes the BBs into the firing mechanism, which is the cause of its greatest drawback. The magazine has to be wound after every 30 to 70 shots to be effective.
- FPS– This is the velocity at which the BB shots leaves the airsoft gun, which represents how powerful it is. It is measured in feet per second, but users have to gauge the BB shots to judge the gun’s power properly. Typically, heavier shots will have a lower FPS but have greater accuracy.
- Close Quarters Battle (CQB)- This is a type of combat where the opponents are in close quarters with each other. They are marked by their ability to have high rates of fire and a shorter barrel to ease movement.
- RIS (Rail Integration System)- These are rails mounted in front of the gun to mount various accessories. On this rail system, you have the option of mounting different sights, scopes, specialized grips, and even grenade launchers. Going for a full-size RIS rail will give you the best results.
- Gearbox– These are the system of gears connected to an electric motor used to power the firing mechanisms. The quality of an airsoft gun is directly tied to the quality of the airsoft gun.
- Pump-Action– This is the shot-gun variant of the airsoft gun. Its handgrip is specially designed to be pumped when readying the gun by loading the spring. Before each shot, the gun has to be pumped.
DMR Airsoft Guns: Buying Advice
What to Look for When Buying an Airsoft DMR
The following are the things you need to take into account when buying a DMR airsoft rifle.
- Range – The effective range of a well-performing airsoft DMR lies between 200 and 250 feet
- Caliber – A good DMR is usually a 0.308 or 7.62mm caliber rifle. This provides sufficient power to take out the target with a single shot
- Firing Mode – A general rule of thumb is that a DMR must be an automatic gun. Avoid buying fully automated weapons or make sure that the rifle has a semi-auto firing mode as well
- Ammunition – The DMR must be compatible for use with heavier pellets to counteract wind drift and provide better accuracy over long-distance shots
- Scope – The gun should include a 2x or 4x scope, or have accessory rails for mounting one yourself
- Weight – An ideal DMR must not be heavier than 12 lbs (5 kg) otherwise you will be easily exhausted when using it for a long time period in the field
- Muzzle Velocity – The best airsoft DMR is the one that fire at, or just under 450 FPS when used with 0.20g BB ammo
- Barrel Length – The barrel length of a DMR should be at least 400mm for the best results
- Hop-Up – Try to go for DMRs with an adjustable hop-up as it increases the functionality of the gun
- Minimum Engagement Distance – Most DMRs are rendered useless when it comes to shooting targets less than 100 feet away. Make sure to account for the minimum engagement distance when choosing an airsoft DMR rifle
- Price – Keep your budget in mind as it will help you decide whether it’s better to buy a premium DMR or upgrade instead
Tips for Using Airsoft DMR Guns
You might be tempted to use a 6x scope to get the best visuals on your target. But keep in mind that you are not sniping.
Using a high magnification scope creates a tunnel vision. Therefore, do not use a scope higher than a 4x magnifier.
There might be an opponent next to the one you are zeroing in on. But you won’t be able to see them because the high power scope compromises the vision on either side.
Before you know it, the player will be too close to take out with your rifle or even take any other measure to defend yourself for that matter.
Airsoft DMR FAQ
The type of weapons you use during an airsoft battle play a major role in determining who wins or loses the game.
But you cannot buy the best equipment unless you very well know what you are looking for.
To make you more knowledgeable about airsoft DMRs, we have answered the common questions that most players frequently ask when buying a quality mid-range shooting gear.
What is a DMR in Airsoft?
Have you heard the term ‘DMR’ before or perhaps even used a DMR in some game, but aren’t really sure what it means and its exact purpose in an airsoft battle?
As mentioned earlier, DMR stands for Designated Marksman Rifle. It’s a weapon that is typically carried by the marksman in the squad.
A marksman is a soldier with good shooting proficiency. They typically take the place between infantry soldiers and the sniper.
If you pay close attention to this definition, you will be able to identify that a DMR is meant to serve as a bridge between a standard rifle and a sniper rifle.
It is designed to be used in the mid to long-distance range, although it does not typically fire as far as a proper sniper rifle.
In airsoft games, you might require a DMR when playing the role of a spotter, marksman, or any other soldier tasked with eliminating opponents at a medium distance.
What Makes a Rifle DMR?
In the real steel world, a DMR gun is an infantry rifle capable of firing beyond the standard range.
In the world of airsoft games, this translates to any rifle with a semi-automatic firing system and high-end optics, capable of shooting at an average of 400 – 450 FPS with medium weight pellets like 0.25g BB ammo.
However, as it turns out, there’s no cookie-cutter approach for defining what makes a rifle a DMR.
A DMR can be a specially manufactured hybrid between bolt action and fully automatic rifles.
Or it can even be a low-end sniper rifle upgraded with certain accessories to improve its performance over the desired range.
What Are the Most Popular DMRs out There?
In addition to the top 5 airsoft DMRs discussed above, there are various other options that you can choose from.
For instance, the Evike ARES SR25-M110K Airsoft Rifle is a highly sought after option as it comes with a range of accessories including scope mount, rail covers, sling swivels, and more.
Similarly, the Lancer Tactical Interceptor is favored for its lightweight (approx 4 lbs) and low cost that helps you say mobile without compromising on the performance of the gun.
What Is Better for Airsoft, Bolt Action Sniper, or DMR?
Whether you should get a bolt action sniper rifle or a DMR depends on various factors. These include:
- The type of position that you have to fill
- The nature of the game
- The maximum shooting range that you need to cover
If you are merely practicing long-distance shooting, DMR is the ideal choice to consider. These guns are easier to work with and upgrade when required.
Also, they make for a more useful rifle on the field in terms of versatility. You can use a DMR effortlessly from a stationary position as well as when on the move.
You should go for a bolt action rifle if it’s decided that you will be sniping for the team.
This is because bolt action sniper rifles do an excellent job of helping you maintain the advantage of concealment.
They are a reliable option for stealthy shooting and deliver unparalleled performance when compared to DMRs.
Is a DMR a Sniper Rifle?
To answer this question, you first need to understand what constitutes a sniper rifle.
A sniper rifle is not a class of weapons. The term refers to high quality, top performance rifles specifically designed for skilled long-distance shooters.
In other words, a sniper rifle is any rifle used by a qualified sniper. So, if a sniper chooses a DMR for sniping, then technically a DMR is a sniper rifle, right?
No, wrong. That’s because any prudent sniper would never use a DMR when trying to eliminate distant targets.
The shooting range of a DMR, as well as its firepower, is significantly lesser than what is required for sniping.
Plus, a DMR is always used in a semi-auto firing mode, whereas a dedicated sniper’s rifle can be bolt action or semi-auto depending on the needs and preferences.
Put simply, a DMR is not considered a sniper rifle because it does not normally meet the criteria for sniping effectively.
Unlike sniper rifles, DMRs can be used by anyone on the team. Sniper rifles help you detect and destroy far-off targets while maintaining a stealthy position.
But DMRs give you the ability to engage targets located at a distance slightly greater than what other squad members are capable of targeting with their regular weapons.
Is the FAL a DMR?
The FAL is an airsoft rifle modeled on the real steel version of the same name.
The gun was originally designed by Belgian small arms designers and is one of the most widely used battle rifles in history.
In airsoft gear, the FAL replica is a series of electric blowback guns with different features.
In other words, the answer to the question ‘is FAL a DMR’ depends on the type of FAL airsoft rifle that you go for.
For example, the Evike ProShop FAL Carbine Airsoft AEG is an impressive gun that fits well under the category of airsoft DMRs.
It comes with a 20mm accessory rail for mounting the required optics and has a muzzle velocity of 380 – 400 FPS with 0.20g BBs.
The rifle has semi-automatic and fully automatic firing modes, and a high capacity magazine that ensures efficiency on the field.
Is DP 28 a DMR?
Well, not really.
The DP-28 is a trivia of the Light Machine Gun (LMG) that was originally manufactured in Russia.
It features a unique 47-round magazine and considerably strong recoil that provides maximum realism.
However, DP-28 has a rather slow cyclic rate of fire and is capable of dealing out serious damage to 50 meters (165 feet) only.
This reduces its effectiveness in taking down distant targets quickly. However, as we said, there’s no standard definition for categorizing a gun as a DMR.
If you feel that the specs of DP-28 fulfill your requirements for medium to long-distance shooting gear in a particular arena, you can very well use it as a DMR.
What Is the Role of the DMR In Airsoft?
As you might have understood by now, the primary role of a DMR in airsoft battles is to take down opponents that are too far for an average player to shoot successfully, and too close for a sniper to eliminate using their specialized, long-distance rifle.
In most scenarios, this usually means that with a DMR, you should have no trouble in hitting targets that are between 200 and 250 feet away from you.
In terms of firepower, the role of a DMR is to shoot targets rapidly with high precision and good consistency, i.e., you must shoot with a success rate of at least 75%, missing no more than 25% of all shots fired.
Given their ‘middle’ range requirements, a DMR should ideally have a firepower of 400 FPS when used with 0.2g BBs.
What Caliber Qualifies as a DMR Airsoft?
Considering the real steel weapons, good DMRs have a caliber of 7.62mm or greater.
Many armies prefer using 5.56mm to 7.62mm caliber rifles for pinpoint accuracy. But that’s for fields where you have to shoot over 500m as a designated marksman.
That’s more than 1600 feet away!
However, the MilSim field is quite different from the actual battlefield.
Despite the supreme realism provided by modern-day airsoft technology, there’s hardly any ‘toy gun’ that can cover this range.
No matter what premium gear you use, you typically cannot fight from such large distances.
Therefore, what caliber qualifies as a DMR airsoft mainly depends on the overall functionality of the rifle rather than just the number value of the internal barrel diameter.
Additionally, it’s a wise idea to check in with the event’s organizing authority.
Many times, airsoft arenas have certain rules and regulations for the key specs of guns that can be used as a DMR.
So, you can contact the relevant authorities to find out what caliber DMR you should buy for the game.
Conclusion
A DMR is an important weapon in airsoft warfare that often creates the difference between winning and losing the fight.
Whether you are playing the role of a marksman or trying to take out opponents at a medium distance, you will need to have the best airsoft DMR at hand.
The five airsoft DMRs listed in the article top the charts in terms of performance and overall user experience.
In the end, you must remember that different airsoft fields have different definitions of a DMR.
So, make sure to discuss with your local field whether or not your gun qualifies for the said role and shooting needs.
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