Items you will need
Some old newspaper to set the parts on
Digital camera to take pictures of the various steps of disassembly
Airsoft guns are usually replicas of real guns that shoot small plastic pellets and are usually powered by compressed gas. Many of them are realistic enough that they can be disassembled in the same way as their real-life counterparts. This article will focus on the disassembly of automatic blowback-style pistols. Keep in mind that even among this category of airsoft gun, there are important differences in they way they are disassembled. Thus, one should always consult the manual that came with your gun or search for model-specific advice online.
Ensure that the gun is unloaded and that the magazine or gas cartridge is removed from the body of the gun. Guns with hammers should have the hammer in the cocked position before beginning disassembly.
At each step in the process, take a photo with a digital camera to use for reference when it comes time to put it back together.
Determine how to begin the take-down process. For most gas-powered auto blowbacks, the process begins by removing the slide. Many models, such as those based around the Beretta 92, have a take-down lever on the side which must first be pulled down. Other models, such as 1911 type guns, require that the bushing on the front of the barrel be removed and then the slide stop is pulled out. Now the slide can be freely pulled off in a forward direction.
Remove the guide rod. Once again, this varies from gun to gun, however, keep in mind that the guide rod is held in place by a spring, and if care is not used, this spring can fly away with surprising force. The process varies from gun to gun, but there is usually some sort of catch that must be moved to release the spring.
Remove the barrel. Typically, the barrel slides out easily toward the rear of the gun.
Do not disassemble the gun further that this, if your only purpose is cleaning. Taking down the hammer and trigger mechanisms is much more complicated and is best left to experts.
