Airsoft guns like the M4 often have a selector switch that allows you to choose between safety, semi-automatic, and fully automatic firing modes. While this selector switch is a cool feature, some airsoft players may want to remove it for aesthetic or functional reasons. Removing the selector switch on an airsoft M4 is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few steps with some basic tools.
Why Remove the Selector Switch?
There are a couple of reasons you may want to remove the selector switch from your Airsoft M4:
- Aesthetics – Some players remove the switch because they prefer the clean, simple look without it. This gives the gun a more real steel appearance.
- Functionality – The semi/auto functions don’t work on many cheaper airsoft M4s. Removing the useless switch declutters the weapon.
- Realism – For realism purposes, players replicating a real firearm that lacks a selector switch may want to remove it from their airsoft replica.
So if you want a slicker-looking airsoft M4, find the selector gets in the way, or are modeling a real gun, removing the selector switch can be beneficial.
Tools Needed
Removing the selector switch requires just a few basic tools:
- Hex key set – Also called Allen keys. A set with metric sizes will be needed to remove selector screw(s).
- Phillips screwdriver – To remove pistol grip screws.
- Punch – A basic pin punch to push out selector detents.
- Hammer – To tap out the selector axle pin.
Having these basic tools on hand will allow you to smoothly remove your Airsoft M4’s selector switch.
Step-By-Step Guide
Follow these steps to safely remove the selector switch from your airsoft M4:
1. Clear the Airsoft Gun
- First and most importantly, make absolutely sure your airsoft gun is unloaded and there are no BBs or magazines loaded. Point it in a safe direction throughout the process.
- Put the selector switch on “SAFE” just to be extra cautious.
- Physically and visually check that no magazine is loaded and the chamber is clear.
2. Remove the Pistol Grip
- Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screw(s) at the bottom of the pistol grip.
- Detach and set aside the pistol grip to expose the gearbox and selector mechanism.
3. Remove the Selector Plate Screw
- Use a hex key to unscrew the selector plate screw located in front of the trigger opening. This screw holds on the external selector switch plate.
- Set the screw aside in a safe place.
4. Detach the Selector Plate
- There are likely two detent pins that hold the selector plate in position. Use a pin punch and a small hammer to tap these pins out.
- With the pins removed, the selector plate should detach easily. You may have to wiggle it free.
5. Remove the Selector Axle
- The selector axle pin goes horizontally through the entire gearbox and holds on the actual selector axle.
- Use a hammer and punch to firmly but carefully tap out this pin. Don’t force it.
- Pull out the selector axle and set it aside.
6. Close Up the Gearbox
- With all selector parts removed, the gearbox is open where the selector switch was.
- You can leave it open or install a dummy selector plate to close it up.
- If closing it, re-insert the detent pins to hold the dummy plate in place.
7. Reinstall Pistol Grip
- With the selector removed, screw the pistol grip back into place on the lower receiver.
- Ensure the screw(s) are tightened securely.
That covers the basics of fully removing the selector switch from an Airsoft M4. Always exercise caution and point any airsoft gun in a safe direction when working on it.
Removing Switch Doesn’t Impact Performance
Eliminating the selector switch is a cosmetic change that doesn’t impact the functional performance of your Airsoft M4.
The firing modes are electronically controlled by the contacts connecting the trigger assembly to the gearbox. This happens whether the external switch is present or not.
So you can safely remove the selector switch without affecting firing performance. The gun will operate the same in semi and full-auto modes.
Alternatives to Removing the Switch
If you don’t want to fully remove the selector switch, there are a couple of quick alternatives:
- Disable it – Use superglue or epoxy to glue the switch in the “semi” position so it can’t be moved.
- Replace it – Install a dummy or replica selector switch that doesn’t actually function.
- Deactivate it – Open the gearbox and disconnect the cut-off lever so the switch does nothing.
These options allow you to keep the selector for aesthetics while disabling its functionality.
Reinstalling the Selector Switch
If you change your mind later, reinstalling the selector switch is easy:
- Insert the selector axle pin through the gearbox.
- Position the axle and reattach the selector plate facing the proper direction.
- Insert the detent pins to hold the plate aligned.
- Attach the selector screw so the plate stays securely in place.
- Test that the switch functions properly before reassembling the airsoft gun.
Take your time and ensure all parts are oriented correctly when reinstalling.
What is a selector switch on an airsoft M4 and what to do?
A selector switch on an airsoft M4 is a small lever that is mounted on the left side of the gun just above the trigger. This switch allows the user to select what mode they want the gun to fire in. There are three options on most selector switches, safe, semi-automatic, and full-automatic.
The safe setting prevents the gun from firing even if the trigger is pulled. The semi-automatic setting allows the gun to fire one round each time the trigger is pulled. The full-automatic setting allows the gun to fire multiple rounds with each pull of the trigger.
The selector switch is an important safety feature on airsoft guns. It allows the user to control how fast the gun can shoot. In a close-quarters battle situation, it is important to be able to control the rate of fire to avoid wasting ammo and to prevent friendly fire incidents.
Some airsoft guns have a two-position selector switch that only has safe and semi-automatic settings. These guns are not capable of fully automatic fire. Other airsoft guns have a three-position selector switch that has safe, semi-automatic, and full-automatic settings.
The type of selector switch that is on an airsoft gun will determine what modes the gun is capable of firing in. It is important to know what type of selector switch your gun has so that you can use it properly.
What to do if the selector switch is damaged or not working properly?
If the selector switch on your Airsoft M4 is damaged or not working properly, there are a few things you can do to fix it. You can replace the selector switch, or you can try some tips for using and caring for your Airsoft M4 selector switch.
Replacing the selector switch is not a difficult task, but it does require some knowledge of airsoft M4s. You’ll need to know how to disassemble the gun and where the selector switch is located. Once you’ve located the selector switch, you can remove it and replace it with a new one.
If you don’t want to replace the selector switch, there are some things you can do to care for and use it properly.
- First, make sure the switch is in the “off” position when you’re not using the gun. This will help prolong the life of the switch.
- Second, be careful when handling the selector switch. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to too much force. If you do damage the switch, it may not be possible to repair it.
- Third, clean the selector switch regularly. A build-up of dirt and debris can cause the switch to malfunction. Use a soft cloth or brush to clean the switch, being careful not to damage it.
- fourth, if the selector switch is still not working properly, you may need to replace it. This is a more difficult task, and you’ll need to take the gun to a professional for help.
- fifth, if you’re having trouble with your selector switch, don’t hesitate to ask for help from an airsoft M4 expert. There are many resources available online and in airsoft stores that can help you troubleshoot the problem.
Conclusion
Removing the selector switch on an airsoft M4 only requires some simple tools and carefully following a few steps. Just be sure the gun is completely clear and pointed in a safe direction throughout the work.
Eliminating the switch is an easy modification for players looking for a sleeker aesthetic, less cluttered layout, or increased realism from their airsoft M4 replicas. Just take care not to lose any small parts!
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