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Prior to 2022, Airsoft AKs were in an odd position in the airsoft market. They had not received much significant support compared to their modular M4 competitor. In a market where brands were fighting tooth and nail to offer the best beginner rifle possible, modernization of the slightly less popular AK became second priority.
Then, out of nowhere, every major AK brand on the airsoft market stepped up their game at once. I go into more detail on this in one of my previous blogs (Check out that article by clicking here!), but the synopsis is that airsoft AKs might not be the “lower performance, higher reliability” option they’re typically stigmatized as in airsoft anymore. E&L is one of those brands that significantly improved their design in recent years. Though they have a long history as an airsoft brand, there was a strange period of time where they seemingly disappeared from the market. Their original AKs were highly praised for their incredible realism and attention to detail, leaving many AK enthusiasts in the dark when major retailers stopped carrying them. In the background, E&L was brewing something. They put together their collective wisdom as a player in the airsoft AK market to deliver the ultimate package at the most competitive price possible.
My oh my, they absolutely delivered.
A good AK is sturdy as a rock, able to handle even the harshest of field abuse. A good AK looks and feels excellent, even if it's picked up a few battle scars after a fair 20-30 missions. A good AK should be able to keep pumping BBs down range no matter how battered or beaten its years of abuse have left it.
If such is the case, then E&L’s New Essential line are damn good AKs.
I’d argue that there are four major brands leading the charge in the development of electric airsoft AKs: CYMA, LCT, Arcturus, and E&L. CYMA offers itself as the budget-friendly reliability-oriented option, LCT stands out as the premium option with some of the best feeling externals possible, Arcturus leans more towards a modernization focus with advanced internals designed to perform, and E&L fits somewhere squarely in the middle of all these options. Price wise, they fit snugly in the middle of their competitors. Their externals are on par with that of LCT, but come in at a comparatively lower price. A simple yet-sturdy design allows them to be as reliable as a CYMA, and their newly included MOSFET and modern Deans plug included right out the box gives them a touch of the internal modernization that makes Arcturus so great. In general, the E&L AK cuts no corners. It takes a little bit of excellence from each realm of the airsoft AK world and combines it into one ultimate package that’ll leave you astounded at its exceptional value. While I’m not entirely sure what E&L stands for, it might as well mean “Effort & Love” considering that’s exactly what they poured into the design of these rifles.
E&L offers a decent variety of AKs to ensure they carry the platform that looks the coolest to you. Here’s a few of my favorites!
The enduring allure of the AK is undeniable. These rifles, with their vintage charm and proven durability, offer more than just a tool for airsoft enthusiasts or real steel aficionados; they provide a sense of history, reliability, and unmatched quality. E&L AKs are truly a testament to the fusion of artistry and engineering. They embody the ideal balance between cost, functionality, and sheer excellence, cementing their place in the market as a centerpiece gem option. For those who seek authenticity and performance excellence, you have your answer for which brand to choose from next.