What is a AEG motor and what does it do?

All contemporary airsoft AEGs use a mechanical system inside their gearbox that contains a combination of three gears and a motor to allow a smooth transfer of electrical energy into mechanical energy. This process begins with a simple trigger pull which in effect results in trigger contacts closing and completing the electric circuit from the battery to the motor. The motor then receives power to begin spinning and engages the first (bevel) gear.

In other words, when the trigger is pulled and the battery sends electricity to the motor, it is then responsible for initiating the movement of the gears inside the gearbox which subsequently results in the replica shooting. Therefore a motor can dictate the rate of fire and the responsiveness of semi-auto. We’ll discuss how to upgrade later on in this article.

Note: there are two sizes of motors: long and short. Before you purchase a new one, double check your replica’s manual which type is installed as stock!