King Arms TWS 9mm Carbine GBB SMG

King Arms
Code:
£229.99
  • Reinforced internal system
  • Uses GLOCK-style magazines
  • Gas blowback pistol calibre carbine

If the idea of gas blowback rifle action in airsoft has tempted you, but you’re not keen on spending a small fortune on spare magazines, the King Arms TWS 9mm Carbine GBB SMG is well worth a look. This affordable, lightweight platform feeds from Umarex / Elite Force GLOCK magazines, meaning you may already have compatible mags in your kit bag.

The rifle keeps its weight down thanks to a polymer handguard and lower receiver, while the upper receiver is constructed from aluminium alloy. This balance of materials provides excellent durability while comfortably handling the intense, immersive recoil the replica delivers with every shot.

Built around the proven Western Arms system, the TWS 9mm Carbine benefits from several durability-focused upgrades for long-term reliability. These include a reinforced steel firing pin, a high-speed upgraded bolt carrier, and steel-reinforced bolt stop components. If you’re looking to step into the world of gas blowback airsoft, this SMG makes an ideal introduction and remains a dependable platform for the long run.

Full description

Description

Airsoft gas systems can feel intimidating, especially when they come with a premium price tag. Thankfully, the King Arms TWS 9mm Carbine GBB SMG removes much of that barrier. This replica features a simple, easy-to-understand gas system and accepts readily available Umarex GLOCK gas magazines. Best of all, it avoids the hefty cost often associated with gas blowback platforms, making it a reliable and accessible first step into the world of GBB airsoft.

Starting at the tip of the outer barrel, we find a muzzle device styled after real-steel linear compensators, designed to reduce recoil on short-barrelled platforms. This compensator also acts as a sound amplifier, giving the 9mm Carbine an intimidating muzzle report, a real asset in CQB environments. It attaches via 14mm CCW male threading at the end of the outer barrel, meaning tracer units or suppressors are easily fitted if you prefer to keep things discreet or track your shots indoors.

The handguard is a quad 20mm Picatinny-railed design constructed from polymer, keeping overall weight low while better resisting the scratches and wear that metal rails inevitably develop when mounting accessories. The 9mm Carbine features 20mm Picatinny rails at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock positions, allowing you to mount any tactical accessories you need without compatibility concerns.

Out of the box, both variants are supplied with fully adjustable Troy-style flip-up iron sights. These can be used as a primary aiming solution or left folded down when running a scope or red dot. For those who live by the “spray and pray” philosophy, they can be removed entirely. The rotary HOP adjuster is located on the underside of the outer barrel and can be accessed by removing the M-LOK handguard or through the lower ports using a small tool.

The receiver follows the familiar M4/AR15 layout, with the obvious exception of a smaller magwell to accommodate the pistol-calibre design. The fire selector is positioned just above the slim GBBR pistol grip on the left-hand side and features a 90-degree throw between fire modes. This allows for fast, positive operation with a reduced chance of slipping into the wrong setting. As expected with a GBB platform, the charging handle must be racked before the rifle can be placed on safe.

The magazine release sits in the standard location but features a unique design to accommodate Glock-style magazines rather than traditional M4 mags. While this doesn’t affect handling, it adds a distinctive visual flair that sets the platform apart from typical AR-style replicas.

Behind the ejection port, you’ll find a mock brass deflector and mock forward assist, just like those found on real M4/AR15 rifles and real-world 9mm AR-style SMGs. While these components aren’t functional in airsoft, they are essential for achieving an authentic modern AR appearance. Notably, the forward assist is a separate, pressable component, avoiding the obvious moulded-in shortcuts seen on cheaper replicas.

On the left-hand side of the receiver sits the steel-reinforced bolt catch, which can be used to lock the bolt to the rear after pulling back the charging handle. This is ideal for maintenance, or simply enjoying that deeply satisfying moment when you slap the bolt catch and send it home with a solid, metal-on-metal CLUNK.

Moving rearwards, we arrive at the buffer tube, constructed from aluminium alloy to maintain the rifle’s lightweight yet durable character. It offers six positions of adjustment, allowing you to fine-tune your length of pull to suit your playstyle and kit setup.

The stock is a King Arms original design, known as the TWS Type 4 Adjustable Tactical Stock with Locking Lever. Moulded from heavy-duty polymer, it features a low-profile design that further reduces bulk on this compact platform. A comfortable, grippy butt pad, integrated QD sling point, and locking lever ensure a secure and practical setup on the field.

Internally, the TWS 9mm Carbine is based on the Western Arms GBBR system, the original GBBR design and one still widely regarded as among the most realistic available. The fire control components closely mirror those of a real AR, right down to the shape of the hammer itself. Speaking of which, the hammer is steel as standard, saving you the cost and effort of upgrading one of the system’s highest-wear components.

The bolt carrier is realistically sized and features a high-speed design, delivering excellent gas efficiency. One common weak point on many GBBRs is the bolt catch, which can wear over time and fail to function. King Arms addresses this by fitting a steel bolt catch straight out of the box. This platform is compatible with Umarex / Elite Force GLOCK magazines, as well as most other EU-series magazines.

If you’re looking for a compact CQB platform and want a break from the usual AEGs, the King Arms TWS 9mm Carbine GBB SMG is an excellent option. Its compact footprint and approachable price point make it outstanding value for players seeking a pistol-calibre carbine with something a little different. Simple, efficient, and undeniably fun, it’s a refreshing entry into the world of gas blowback airsoft.

Features

  • Lightweight design - Polymer handguard and lower receiver, alloy upper receiver
  • King Arms Type-4 Linear Flashhider - Polymer sound amplifier, makes the GBB POP
  • 14mm CCW Threading - Ready for alternate suppressors/tracer units
  • 7" Quad Picatinny 20mm handguard - Ready for attachments at all sides
  • 20mm Railed receiver - Ready for scope/sight setups
  • Troy styled King Arms folding battle sights - Reliable and adjustable
  • M4-based receiver - Controls in the expected positions
  • GLOCK/EU series magwell - Works with those pistols' magazines
  • Ergonomic finger ridged pistol grip - Slim GBB design, extremely comfortable
  • King Arms TWS Type 4 Adjustable Tactical Stock w/ Locking Lever - Durable and comfortable
  • QD sling point and loop slots on stock - Ready for sling setups
  • Aluminium alloy buffer tube - Lightweight and durable with 6 lengths of pull
  • Western Arms based system - Incredibly realistic with satisfying recoil
  • Upgraded and reinforced steel parts - Long-lasting durability for long-term use
  • High-speed bolt system - Very gas efficient

Package Includes

  • King Arms TWS 9mm Carbine GBB SMG
  • 30rnd GLOCK/EU-Series styled magazine

Specification

General

Weapon Construction External
Platform Type
Submachine Gun
Over 18 Only Icon
Over 18
Yes
Icon UKARA - United Kingdom Airsoft Retailer Association
Defence / UKARA Required
Yes, No,
Screwdriver Icon
Prebuilt
Yes
Package
Included Items
Magazine
Skill Level Icon
Skill Level
Regular Player
Patrol Base - Warning Icon
Warnings
Lubrication is required
This GBBR cannot be put into the SAFE mode without first cocking the rifle. Do not force the selector into safe whilst the weapon is not cocked.

Testing

FPS Icon
FPS, using 0.20g BBs
Approx.330fps ± 10%, using 0.20g BBs
Testing Notes
Tested using Smart Gas Airsoft Green Gas.

Weight and Dimension

Weight KG Icon
Weight (KG)
Approx.1.76KG
Weapon Length Collapsed
Length
65cm
Weapon Length Extended
Length (Extended)
73cm

Construction

Colour Wheel Greyscale
Primary Colour
Black,
Half-Tan
Half-Tan
,
Two Tone Icon
Pre Two-Tone
No
Construction Icon
Construction
Alloy upper receiver and buffer tube. Polymer handguard, lower receiver, pistol grip, stock, iron sights and flash hider. Steel bolt catch, castle nut, screws and pins.

Weapon Specific

Power Source Icon
Powered By
Green Gas
Blowback Icon
Blowback Type
Gas Blowback
Platform
Platform
Submachine Gun, AR-9,
Magazine Style Icon
Magazine Compatibility
Compatible with Umarex GLOCK magazines.
Fire Select Icon
Fire modes
PatrolBase | Fire Select Safe
Safe
Patrol Base | Fire Select - Semi Automatic
Semi Automatic
Patrol Base | Full Automatic
Full Automatic
Weapon Safety Features Icon
Safety Features
Trigger Lock
Shooter Configuration Icon
Shooter Configuration
Right Handed
Weapon Configuration Icon
Platform Configuration
Standard
Weapon Scale Icon
Platform Scale
1:1
Suggested BB Weight
Suggested BB Weight
0.25g

Hop-Up

Hop-Up Unit Adjuster Icon
HOP-Up Adjuster Type
Rotary
Hop-Up Unit Location Icon
HOP-Up Adjustment Location
On the bottom of the outer barrel, accessible through the handguard ports with a small tool.

Furniture

Weapon Furniture Icon
Furniture
  • Muzzle Sound Amplifier
  • Railed Handguard
  • Finger Ridged Pistol Grip
  • Ergonomic Pistol Grip
  • Sliding Stock
  • Flip-Up Ironsights
  • Threaded Outer Barrel
  • QD Sling Point
  • Extended 20mm Picatinny top rail
Rail System Icon
Rail System
20mm RIS / RAS, 20mm Railed Receiver,
Icon Stock Positions
Stock Type
Sliding, Multi-Position,
Weapon Length Extended
Stock Positions
6
Sight Type Icon
Sight Type
Aperture Iron Sight
Sling Plate Icon
Sling Options
Stock, QD, Loop,

Barrel

Outer Barrel Length (in)
6.5''
Icon Thread Type
Outer Barrel Thread Type
Male
Icon Thread Direction
Outer Barrel Thread Direction
CCW (Counter Clockwise)
Outer Barrel Thread Size
Outer Barrel Thread Size
14mm
Inner Barrel Diameter
Inner Barrel Diameter
6.05mm
Inner Barrel Length
Inner Barrel Length
170mm

Magazine Specific

Magazine Type
Magazine Type
Gas
Magazine BB Capacity
Magazine BB Capacity
Approx. 30 Rounds

Gas Gun Specific

Gas Can Icon
Gas Type
Green Gas
Gas Can Icon
Gas Recommendation
Green Gas

Size guide

Joule Charts

Special Instructions

These table can be used as a reference to see if the BB weight you are using will be over acceptable Joulage limits at some Airsoft Sites in the UK. To check if the weight can be used chrono your weapon using the BB you intend to use, and then compare it to the chart.

FPS, Power and Joule Limits can vary from site to site, so please get in touch with where you're going to play with in advance to avoid disappointment.

Suggested limits are based on Joulage Limit rules used Halo Mill: Proving Grounds, with a 350fps limit for Automatic Replicas, 400fps for Semi-Automatic Replicas, and 500fps for Bolt Action Replicas.

Tap the tabs below to open the relevant chart for your replica.

Suggested limits are based on Joulage Limit rules used Halo Mill: Proving Grounds, and is the equivalent of 350fps, using 0.20g BB resulting in an upper limit of 1.14j.

Velocity BB Weight (Grams)
FPS 0.20 0.25 0.28 0.30 0.32 0.36 0.40 0.43 0.45 0.50
250 0.58 0.73 0.81 0.87 0.93 1.05 1.16 1.25 1.31 1.45
260 0.63 0.79 0.88 0.94 1.00 1.13 1.26 1.35 1.41 1.57
270 0.68 0.85 0.95 1.02 1.08 1.22 1.35 1.46 1.52 1.69
280 0.73 0.91 1.02 1.09 1.17 1.31 1.46 1.57 1.64 1.82
290 0.78 0.98 1.09 1.17 1.25 1.41 1.56 1.68 1.76 1.95
300 0.84 1.05 1.17 1.25 1.34 1.51 1.67 1.80 1.88 2.09
310 0.89 1.12 1.25 1.34 1.43 1.61 1.79 1.92 2.01 2.23
320 0.95 1.19 1.33 1.43 1.52 1.71 1.90 2.05 2.14 2.38
325 0.98 1.23 1.37 1.47 1.57 1.77 1.96 2.11 2.21 2.45
328 1.00 1.25 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.80 2.00 2.15 2.25 2.50
330 1.01 1.26 1.42 1.52 1.62 1.82 2.02 2.18 2.28 2.53
335 1.04 1.30 1.46 1.56 1.67 1.88 2.09 2.24 2.35 2.61
340 1.07 1.34 1.50 1.61 1.72 1.93 2.15 2.31 2.42 2.68
345 1.11 1.38 1.55 1.66 1.77 1.99 2.21 2.38 2.49 2.76
350 1.14 1.42 1.59 1.71 1.82 2.05 2.28 2.45 2.56 2.85
355 1.17 1.46 1.64 1.76 1.87 2.11 2.34 2.52 2.63 2.93
360 1.20 1.51 1.69 1.81 1.93 2.17 2.41 2.59 2.71 3.01

Suggested limits are based on Joulage Limit rules used at Halo Mill: Proving Grounds, and is the equivalent of 400fps, using 0.20g BB resulting in an upper limit of 1.49j.

Velocity BB Weight (Grams)
FPS 0.20 0.25 0.28 0.30 0.32 0.36 0.40 0.43 0.45 0.50
250 0.58 0.73 0.81 0.87 0.93 1.05 1.16 1.25 1.31 1.45
260 0.63 0.79 0.88 0.94 1.00 1.13 1.26 1.35 1.41 1.57
270 0.68 0.85 0.95 1.02 1.08 1.22 1.35 1.46 1.52 1.69
280 0.73 0.91 1.02 1.09 1.17 1.31 1.46 1.57 1.64 1.82
290 0.78 0.98 1.09 1.17 1.25 1.41 1.56 1.68 1.76 1.95
300 0.84 1.05 1.17 1.25 1.34 1.51 1.67 1.80 1.88 2.09
310 0.89 1.12 1.25 1.34 1.43 1.61 1.79 1.92 2.01 2.23
320 0.95 1.19 1.33 1.43 1.52 1.71 1.90 2.05 2.14 2.38
330 1.01 1.26 1.42 1.52 1.62 1.82 2.02 2.18 2.28 2.53
340 1.07 1.34 1.50 1.61 1.72 1.93 2.15 2.31 2.42 2.68
350 1.14 1.42 1.59 1.71 1.82 2.05 2.28 2.45 2.56 2.85
360 1.20 1.51 1.69 1.81 1.93 2.17 2.41 2.59 2.71 3.01
370 1.27 1.59 1.78 1.91 2.03 2.29 2.54 2.73 2.86 3.18
380 1.34 1.68 1.88 2.01 2.15 2.41 2.68 2.88 3.02 3.35
390 1.41 1.77 1.98 2.12 2.26 2.54 2.83 3.04 3.18 3.53
400 1.49 1.86 2.08 2.23 2.38 2.68 2.97 3.20 3.34 3.72
410 1.56 1.95 2.19 2.34 2.50 2.81 3.12 3.36 3.51 3.90

Suggested limits are based on Joulage Limit rules used at Halo Mill: Proving Grounds, and is the equivalent of 500fps, using 0.20g BB resulting in an upper limit of 2.32j.

Velocity BB Weight (Grams)
FPS 0.20 0.25 0.28 0.30 0.32 0.36 0.40 0.43 0.45 0.50
250 0.58 0.73 0.81 0.87 0.93 1.05 1.16 1.25 1.31 1.45
260 0.63 0.79 0.88 0.94 1.00 1.13 1.26 1.35 1.41 1.57
270 0.68 0.85 0.95 1.02 1.08 1.22 1.35 1.46 1.52 1.69
280 0.73 0.91 1.02 1.09 1.17 1.31 1.46 1.57 1.64 1.82
290 0.78 0.98 1.09 1.17 1.25 1.41 1.56 1.68 1.76 1.95
300 0.84 1.05 1.17 1.25 1.34 1.51 1.67 1.80 1.88 2.09
310 0.89 1.12 1.25 1.34 1.43 1.61 1.79 1.92 2.01 2.23
320 0.95 1.19 1.33 1.43 1.52 1.71 1.90 2.05 2.14 2.38
330 1.01 1.26 1.42 1.52 1.62 1.82 2.02 2.18 2.28 2.53
340 1.07 1.34 1.50 1.61 1.72 1.93 2.15 2.31 2.42 2.68
350 1.14 1.42 1.59 1.71 1.82 2.05 2.28 2.45 2.56 2.85
360 1.20 1.51 1.69 1.81 1.93 2.17 2.41 2.59 2.71 3.01
370 1.27 1.59 1.78 1.91 2.03 2.29 2.54 2.73 2.86 3.18
380 1.34 1.68 1.88 2.01 2.15 2.41 2.68 2.88 3.02 3.35
390 1.41 1.77 1.98 2.12 2.26 2.54 2.83 3.04 3.18 3.53
400 1.49 1.86 2.08 2.23 2.38 2.68 2.97 3.20 3.34 3.72
410 1.56 1.95 2.19 2.34 2.50 2.81 3.12 3.36 3.51 3.90
420 1.64 2.05 2.29 2.46 2.62 2.95 3.28 3.52 3.69 4.10
430 1.72 2.15 2.40 2.58 2.75 3.09 3.44 3.69 3.86 4.29
440 1.80 2.25 2.52 2.70 2.88 3.24 3.60 3.87 4.05 4.50
450 1.88 2.35 2.63 2.82 3.01 3.39 3.76 4.04 4.23 4.70
460 1.97 2.46 2.75 2.95 3.15 3.54 3.93 4.23 4.42 4.91
470 2.05 2.57 2.87 3.08 3.28 3.69 4.10 4.41 4.62 5.13
480 2.14 2.68 3.00 3.21 3.42 3.85 4.28 4.60 4.82 5.35
490 2.23 2.79 3.12 3.35 3.57 4.02 4.46 4.80 5.02 5.58
500 2.32 2.90 3.25 3.48 3.72 4.18 4.65 4.99 5.23 5.81
510 2.42 3.02 3.38 3.62 3.87 4.35 4.83 5.20 5.44 6.04