In this field test video, I put the Umarex AER16 AEG Full Auto 4.5mm BB Carbine through its paces to measure velocity, accuracy, and get a sense of the rate of fire in full-auto mode. The box claims a rate of 450 rounds per minute using the included 11.1-volt battery, so I wanted to see how close that claim is in real-world testing. If you’d like more information on specifications and features for the Umarex AER16, check out my Table Top Video for it here.
Starting with the velocity test, I fired several rounds through my chronograph and averaged the last five shots to get a reliable reading. The result was 444 fps, which is slightly higher than the claimed 430 fps, a nice surprise. Since the AER16 is an electric AEG and doesn’t use CO2, temperature has no effect on performance. Likewise, battery voltage doesn’t affect velocity as long as there’s enough power for the motor to fully pull back the spring. Only the trigger response and rate of fire change depending on the voltage.
Next, I moved on to accuracy testing. Using a full 55-round magazine, I fired 10 shots fairly quickly from a seated position at a target set 30 feet away, with the rifle resting on a sandbag. The result was an impressive 1.5-inch 10-shot grouping, landing just slightly high and to the right of the bullseye, easily corrected since the iron sights are fully adjustable. Switching over to full-auto, I dumped the remaining 35 or so rounds into the same target. The group opened up a bit, but not much, showing that the Umarex AER16 AEG Full Auto 4.5mm BB Carbine maintains solid accuracy in both semi and full-auto modes.
As for the rate of fire, the AER16 feels a bit slow even with the 11.1-volt battery, especially compared to some Airsoft AEGs using the same voltage. That said, the slower rate of fire actually makes it more manageable and a lot of fun to shoot, with excellent consistency thanks to the absence of CO2 cooldown. The overall build combines metal and polymer components, giving it a durable yet lightweight feel compared to something heavier like the Barra 400e, which has more metal construction.
If you’re looking for an AEG 4.5mm BB rifle that comes closest to a real AR in looks, feel, and handling, the Umarex AER16 is a top-tier choice.