Airsoft grenades are tactical force multipliers designed to change the tempo of a firefight. In CQB and milsim scenarios, a well-placed grenade buys your team seconds of dominance: it disrupts defenders, forces movement out of cover, and creates openings for entry or flanking. This category covers everything from impact BB-shower units to loud sound grenades and timed devices that mimic real-world behavior while remaining safe for airsoft play.
Why add grenades to your kit
Grenades add options to your playbook. Instead of charging a defended doorway, you can use a grenade to flush targets, break a stalemate or create a diversion. The tactical value is simple: control space without exposing yourself. For teams that practice coordinated entry and comms, grenades become an essential tool for planned assaults and improvisational play alike.
Main grenade types and how they work
Impact grenades
Impact grenades detonate when they hit a solid surface. Their internal valve dumps gas and propels a burst of BBs in a 360-degree pattern. Because activation is immediate on hard impact, these units are preferred for quick room clears and hit-confirmation scenarios.
- Pros: Instant activation, repeatable use after refilling gas and BBs, reliable in hard-surface environments.
- Cons: Reduced reliability on soft or absorbent surfaces like thick grass or deep mud; proper toss technique matters.
Timed grenades
Timed grenades employ a short delay between triggering and detonation, offering a more realistic experience. After removing a safety pin or releasing a lever, the device counts down and explodes after a few seconds.
- Pros: More realistic tactics, allows rolling or controlled placement, good for coordinated team entries.
- Cons: Delay gives defenders a chance to react or throw the device back if they’re quick and rules allow.
Sound grenades
Sound grenades emphasize disorientation over physical hits. They generate a loud concussive noise (via CO2 or proprietary charge) to distract, mask movement, or trigger an instinctive reaction from opponents.
BB-shower vs sound - choosing by mission
Pick BB-shower grenades when you need area denial and immediate incoming fire to hit exposed targets. Choose sound grenades when you want diversion, to mask a team movement, or to create a non-lethal disruption that forces opponents to reveal themselves.
Practical use-cases on the field
- Room clearing: Toss a grenade into a room before entry to force defenders out or pin them down long enough for the team to sweep.
- Breaking stalemates: Use a grenade to remove an entrenched player from a choke point without exposing a teammate.
- Distraction & diversion: Detonate a sound grenade at one objective while your team moves on another.
Safety, rules and best practices
Grenades are subject to strict field rules. Always check the site’s regulations before use. Never deploy grenades where bystanders or non-participants may be harmed, and keep to recommended engagement ranges. Maintain and inspect O-rings, valves, and housing before play. Use approved pouches and transport methods for filled devices, and practice safe arming procedures during team drills.
Refills, maintenance and logistics
Quality refills and routines extend service life. Use manufacturer-approved gas or CO2 cartridges, high-quality BBs to avoid jams, and carry spare O-rings and seals. Clean the interior blast chamber after heavy use and replace worn parts promptly. Tactical pouches keep grenades secure and allow fast access during loadouts.
Buying guide - what to consider
- Intended use: CQB teams often prefer impact or short-delay timed units; milsim groups may pick timed grenades for realism.
- Durability: Look for robust housings and replaceable seals.
- Refillability: Reusable units reduce long-term cost versus disposable pyro devices.
- Compatibility: Ensure your pouches and kits are sized correctly and follow field transport rules.
Benefits of buying from TacticalShop
- Free shipping on orders over €80
- Fast dispatch and reliable delivery
- Curated, reliable models from trusted brands
- Refill kits, pouches and spare parts available
- Technical support and safe-use guidance
FAQ
Are reusable airsoft grenades safe?
Yes, when used according to manufacturer instructions and field rules. Regular maintenance and seal checks are essential.
Which is better for CQB - impact or timed?
Impact grenades give instant results; timed grenades offer realism and tactical placement. Many CQB teams favor impact units for speed.
How many BBs do grenades carry?
Typical payload ranges from about 80 to 200 BBs depending on model and intended effect.
Do grenades need special BBs?
Standard 0.20-0.25 g BBs work in most units, but high-quality, consistent BBs reduce jams and improve performance.
Can I transport filled grenades in my kit?
Use approved pouches and follow field transport rules. Some fields require safety pins removed or devices to be carried empty until staging.
TL;DR
Airsoft grenades are powerful tactical tools - impact for immediate BB-shower effects, timed for realism and synchronized entry, sound grenades for distraction. Always follow field rules, use quality refills and maintain seals for safe, reliable operation.
USP: Curated selection • Refill kits & spare parts • Technical support
CTA: Choose the right grenade for your team - shop grenades and refill kits now.