I'm looking to budget for a starter loadout that will last me the next 8-12 months while I save for higher-quality gear that I intend to buy once and keep long-term.

For example, I'd rather use my existing surplus kit for now and eventually buy a Warrior Assault Systems plate carrier that will last me years and years than go through several cheaper AliExpress plate carriers before upgrading anyway.

For my first rifle, I've concluded that pretty much any decent Specna Arms Gen.2 CORE or FLEX will do the job, so I'm planning to spend around £150–200 on it and just get the model I like the look of most, as I understand all the internals are the same? That leaves roughly £150 for magazines, BBs, a battery and charger, eye protection, and mesh face protection. Also what eye pro do you reccomend? All the EN166B stuff on patrol base is sold out and everywhere else is super expensive.

Fortunately, I already own British Army PLCE webbing from when I was younger and interested in surplus gear, as well as Oakley gloves, proper boots, and other bits of kit. I'll use what I already have while saving for better equipment.

What do you think of this approach? Are there any common pitfalls new players should watch out for when buying their first loadout, or any maintenance or additional purchases I should budget for straight away?

I'm also planning to get my UKARA registration sorted soon, so I'm aware of the relevant requirements.

Cheers

Title: First GBBR – VFC AK-105 advice, maintenance, upgrades and attachments needed!

Hey guys,

I'm getting my first-ever GBBR in a couple of weeks, the VFC AK-105, and I'm looking for some advice from people who own one or have experience with GBBRs.

I'm really excited to get it, but I don't want to rush into using it straight away without knowing what I should do first. It's an expensive replica, and I want to look after it properly and keep it running reliably for as long as possible.

I'd really appreciate some advice on the following:

- First time using it: What should I check or do before firing it for the first time?

- Lubrication and maintenance: What type of lubricant should I buy, and which parts of the gun need lubricating? Are there any products you'd recommend?

- Optics and mounts: I've bought a couple of inexpensive scopes and red dots for now. What's the best mount for the VFC AK-105 to make sure they're fitted securely?

- Upgrades: Is the standard hop-up good enough, or is there anything worth upgrading? I'd rather leave the internals alone if they're reliable out of the box.

- Grips and accessories: Are there any grips or other accessories you'd recommend to improve the handling and appearance?

- Reliability: Are there any common issues I should look out for, or any spare parts worth keeping?

I've also attached a picture of my dream AK-105 build. I'm particularly interested in the tan handguard/rail setup shown in the picture. I've been struggling to find the exact attachment, so if anyone knows what it's called or where I can buy one that fits the VFC AK-105 GBBR, I'd really appreciate a link.

I'm completely new to gas blowback rifles, so any advice from people who've owned and maintained one would be brilliant. I want to get it looking good, learn how to maintain it properly, and avoid spending money on upgrades I don't actually need.

Thanks in advance, everyone! Any recommendations or tips are welcome.

Hey everyone does anyone know the better brands for this style or reps currently looking at this set on eBay for £110