ICS L86 LSW
The ICS L86A2 Light Support Weapon (LSW) is a meticulously crafted airsoft replica of the British Army's L86A2, designed to fulfill the support gunner role with authenticity and functionality. Manufactured by I Chih Shivan (ICS), this replica is part of their SA80 series, renowned for attention to detail and build quality.
The ICS L86A2 is constructed with a combination of metal and polymer components, closely mirroring its real-steel counterpart. The receiver and barrel assembly are primarily made of stamped steel, providing a robust and authentic feel, while the handguard, pistol grip, cheek rest, and butt pad are crafted from durable polymer. This bullpup configuration, with the magazine located behind the trigger, allows for a longer barrel length within a compact overall design. The replica measures approximately 900mm in length and weighs around 13 pounds (5.9 kg), offering a substantial presence without being overly cumbersome.
1. Performance: Range, Accuracy, Rate of Fire & Consistency
Range & Accuracy: The ICS L86A2 boasts a long inner barrel (590–610 mm) – one of the longest in any AEG. In stock form, accuracy is decent but not exceptional, largely due to the wide-bore 6.08 mm barrel. Users report effective accuracy out to about 100–150 feet (30–45 m), consistently hitting human-sized targets in short bursts. The long barrel does provide excellent potential range, rivaling even upgraded sniper rifles for suppressive fire. However, out-of-box, you may want to fine-tune the hop-up for best results (more on hop-up issues below).
FPS & Power Adjustability: A standout feature is the adjustable spring guide. ICS’s innovative three-position spring guide lets you switch between Low (~337 FPS avg), Medium (~353 FPS), and High (~371 FPS) settings without changing the spring. In practice, this means you can quickly tune the muzzle velocity for field limits or role: e.g., lower power for auto-support play or higher for semi-auto DMR/sniper use. On High, many users see ~380–400 FPS (with .20g BBs). This flexible power system is a huge advantage, giving the L86 LSW “two springs in one” and role versatility.
Consistency: The ICS L86 is generally consistent in FPS and feeding. The hop-up unit is anchored securely with a metal shroud, minimizing wobble and shot-to-shot variation. The split gearbox (inspired by ICS’s L85 design) also contributes to reliable air seal and easy maintenance. Some owners report no jams or misfeeds in extended use when using quality magazines.
Rate of Fire (RoF): With a stock 9.6V NiMH or 7.4V LiPo, RoF is typical for an AEG support weapon – not extremely high (this isn’t a “high RPS” gun out of the box). However, the slower RoF can be a plus for ammo conservation, especially since the L86 will chew through standard 300–450 round STANAG magazines quickly. If desired, RoF can be increased with a high-voltage LiPo and motor upgrades, but note that sustained full-auto fire is already one of the L86’s strengths. The gearbox is robust and designed to handle protracted bursts for suppression. Also worth noting: the trigger features an electric brake mechanism that mimics a two-stage trigger. This patented design stops motor spin quickly on semi-auto, protecting internals and giving a realistic “break” feel.
Bottom Line (Performance): The ICS L86 LSW delivers solid field performance with long effective range and good accuracy once tuned. It’s consistent and flexible – able to switch from full-auto support to quasi-DMR roles by adjusting the spring. While RoF is moderate stock, it suits the support weapon role (long bursts), and the consistency in feeding and FPS is high. Expect ~330–380 FPS out of the box depending on the spring setting, and effective accuracy out to 40+ meters with appropriate BB weight.
2. Build Quality: Materials, Durability & Construction
Materials: ICS built the L86A2 LSW to be extremely robust and close to mil-spec. The replica is mostly metal, using stamped steel for the upper and lower receiver, bipod, carry handle, barrel assembly, etc.. In fact, it’s easier to list the plastic parts than the metal ones: essentially only the grips, handguard, cheek rest, butt pad, and dust cover are polymer. The finish is a matte black, and there’s virtually no wobble in any parts – even the long bipod locks up solid with no rattling.
Durability: The ICS L86 can take a beating. Owners describe it as “exceptionally built” and able to handle rough use – drops, bumps against trees, falls, and rainy games – without issue. One user specifically noted no damage after years of abuse, aside from expected wear on the finish. The steel bipod is strong enough to support the rifle’s weight on any surface. The only caution is common sense: don’t deliberately drop it from high up; otherwise, it’s one of the toughest AEGs around.
Construction & Fit: The fit and finish are top-notch. In a “shake test” the L86 exhibits zero unwanted rattle or looseness. Both receivers mate tightly. Screws have thread-lock applied from the factory, and overall craftsmanship is excellent. Weight comes in around 11 lbs (5 kg) empty, and roughly 13 lbs (5.9 kg) with a SUSAT optic and loaded mag. So it’s heavy, but notably still lighter than most full-sized machine guns like an M249 (which can exceed 15 lbs with a box mag). The weight is due to the steel construction; ICS essentially mirrored the real L86’s all-metal design (the real L86 is also notoriously heavy).
Realism vs. Build Priorities: ICS prioritized reliability over absolute scale fidelity. As a result, a few minor proportions or color shades differ from a true L86A2 (e.g., the shade of the plastic furniture is slightly off). But functionally, the construction is very realistic – including features like the functional folding shoulder brace/trap, a rear vertical grip, adjustable bipod legs, and authentic style iron sights and 19 mm sight rail. The markings are also impressive: the receiver has stamped serial numbers and “L86 A2 5.56mm” markings just like a service rifle.
Bottom Line (Build Quality): Few airsoft guns match the tank-like build of the ICS L86. It’s heavy (all-steel), solid, and durable – built to last and “take almost any abuse”. The high quality construction is frequently praised. The trade-off is the weight and a couple minor scale inaccuracies, but overall build quality is excellent – 4.5/5 externally – making it feel like a proper light machine gun.
3. Realism & Historical Accuracy
The ICS L86A2 replicates the real steel L86A2 LSW, which was the squad automatic weapon variant of the British SA80 (L85 rifle family) used by UK forces from the 1980s through early 2000s. Key points on realism:
External Accuracy: Shape and features are very close to the real L86. It has the extended barrel and integral folding bipod of the LSW, the rear folding shoulder support, and the rear vertical grip unique to the L86. The carry handle with integrated iron sights and the 19 mm dovetail rail are correct for the SA80 family. Even the awkward safety above the trigger and two-position selector (semi/full only) are true to the real weapon’s design. ICS even included a metal guard around the mag release – a feature on the real L86A2 to prevent accidental mag drops.
Markings: As mentioned, authentic style markings are present: serial number and NATO stock numbers are stamped/etched on the receiver, adding to the realism.
Color & Finish: One minor gripe from reenactors: the color of the plastic furniture (grips and handguard) is slightly off compared to the real rifle – described as “either too bright, or too brown”. However, this is subtle and most people won’t notice unless comparing side-by-side.
1:1 Scale: The ICS L86 is very close to 1:1 scale, but some enthusiasts note that Ares/STAR’s version is a touch more dimensionally accurate. ICS may have made tiny adjustments internally that affect outer dimensions (to improve reliability). Again, unless you’re a hardcore L86 buff, this is hardly noticeable.
Function: The L86’s unique features are mostly functional on the replica. The bipod deploys and swivels ~180° like the real one (though ICS’s requires a two-hand operation to unlock each leg). The shoulder brace folds out. The charging handle and bolt cover work, allowing access to the hop-up (though the charging handle’s travel is shorter than a real bolt). The trigger pull being staged with an electric cut-off simulates the feel of the real trigger group. Even the take-down process mimics the real SA80: two captive push-pins (“never-lost bolts”) connect upper and lower, allowing quick field stripping, just like the service rifle.
Realism vs Practicality: One example: ICS opted for slightly enlarged magazines (their included hi-caps hold 470 rounds) to ensure reliable feeding in the bullpup magwell. This means standard M4 STANAG mags might fit a bit tightly, but many do work (users report KWA, Elite Force, and other STANAG mags feed fine). It’s a small compromise to maintain both realism and function.
Compared to the competition, Ares/STAR L86 replicas are often cited as the most visually accurate (true 1:1 scale and exact detail) but at the cost of more complicated internals. ICS strikes a balance – very realistic to look at and handle, but with slight tweaks for durability and ease of use.
Bottom Line (Realism): ICS’s L86A2 LSW is impressively realistic, with mostly correct features and markings. It looks and feels like the real LSW used by the British military, aside from minor cosmetic color differences. If absolute collector-grade external perfection is the goal, Ares might edge it out, but the ICS is close – and in gameplay, its functional realism (bipod, trigger, take-down) shines.
4. Internals & Upgrade Potential (Gearbox, Hop-Up, Barrel, Motor, etc.)
The ICS L86A2 uses a purpose-built gearbox unique to the ICS SA80 series, with some standard V2/V3 parts:
Gearbox Design: It’s a split-type gearbox (upper and lower split) for easier spring changes – similar in concept to ICS’s M4 split gearboxes, but newly designed for the bullpup layout. Removing two pins allows the entire gearbox to slide out of the body quickly. Maintenance is easier than many bullpups (which are often notoriously hard to work on). That said, it’s still a bullpup – meaning it’s tighter inside than an M4. One experienced user joked that “you need six hands” to reassemble the gearbox into the body, although he admitted it’s still “a walk in the park” compared to older G&G or Ares designs. Overall, techs find the ICS easier to work on than the Ares L85/86, which has many more screws and wires.
Gears & Mechanism: Uses standard Version 2/3 gear sets. The gears are metal and well-lubricated from factory. Bushings/bearings are solid (typically 7 or 8 mm metal bushings, although ICS’s exact spec isn’t listed, they are known for durable geartrains). Tappet plate is a unique part for this series, so if it breaks, you’ll need ICS-specific replacements. The piston is a standard full-tooth polycarbonate piston; cylinder is brass, cylinder head plastic – all pretty standard and easily upgradeable if desired. The spring guide is metal (with that tri-position feature for FPS adjustment).
Motor: ICS includes their Turbo 3000 short-type motor in the L86. This motor is decent, providing good torque for the stock M120 spring and a moderate ROF. It’s housed in a metal motor cage (part of the trigger assembly in the pistol grip). If seeking higher ROF or instant trigger response, you can swap to a neodymium motor, but note that the trigger contacts are proprietary due to the electric brake system.
Hop-Up & Barrel: The hop-up unit is unique to the L85/L86 platform. It’s a rotary or screw-type hop (accessible by pulling the charging handle). ICS interestingly gave it a Phillips head dial so you can adjust with a screwdriver if your fingers are too big. The inner barrel is ~610 mm (some measure ~590 mm, possibly counting only the inner barrel portion). Barrel upgrades: 610 mm barrels are rare, but owners have used 590 mm tightbores successfully (the barrel won’t go all the way to the flash hider, but that’s fine). Some even cut down longer barrels (650 mm) to size. The stock barrel is 6.08 mm bore, so going to a 6.03 or 6.05 tightbore can improve accuracy. The hop-up bucking and nub can be upgraded with any standard AEG bucking. Important: Many ICS L86 owners report the stock hop-up arm may be slightly too long, causing over-hop even at minimum setting. The fix is simple: file or trim ~1 mm off the hop arm or install a heavier bucking that requires more pressure. Once addressed (or if you get a “good” unit), hop-up holds settings well and gives great lift (use heavier BBs like 0.25–0.28 g for best range).
Upgrade Potential: The gun is largely TM-compatible internally:
Gears, piston, cylinder, etc., can be swapped for aftermarket parts if you want to beef it up.
The long barrel and solid hop make it a good DMR platform with a few mods (tightbore barrel, high-torque motor, MOSFET for semi-auto, etc.).
One user mentioned it’s even compatible with a PolarStar Fusion Engine (V3) or similar HPA engine in the future – implying that the gearbox dimensions align with a Version 3 for HPA drop-in.
The trigger mechanism is unique (especially with the electric brake), so if the trigger contacts or link break, you’ll need ICS parts. Notably, there’s a small plastic “trigger link” in the trigger mechanism that can snap if you pull too hard during a semi-auto lock-up. This $40 part has to be replaced from ICS if broken. A way to avoid that is installing a MOSFET or simply being mindful (if semi locks, switch to auto and fire to reset, rather than yanking the trigger).
Bottom Line (Internals): ICS’s L86A2 has solid, reliable internals out of the box with a few proprietary bits. It’s built for longevity rather than extreme performance – but can be upgraded like any V2/V3 hybrid gearbox. The adjustable spring guide is a star feature, and the split design + minimal wiring make it easier to tech on than other bullpups. Just be aware of the hop-up arm quirk (easy fix) and the need to be gentle on the trigger to avoid breaking the link (or add a MOSFET for protection). Upgrade potential is strong, whether you want to DMR it (tightbore, DMR spring) or increase ROF (motor, 11.1 V with re-shimming, etc.). Most users, however, find it excellent stock for its intended support role.
5. Ergonomics & Handling: Weight Distribution, Comfort & Use in Gameplay
The L86 is a bullpup light machine gun, so its ergonomics are unique – some love it, some hate it:
Weight Distribution: Being a bullpup, the receiver and gearbox weight are to the rear. Coupled with a long barrel, one might expect front-heaviness, but users report it is actually well-balanced. The included steel bipod does add weight up front, but it also doubles as a foregrip when folded. If removed, the gun loses weight but becomes a bit nose-light which can feel “off”. With the bipod attached, the center of balance is around the magwell, making shoulder transitions or braced firing quite comfortable. In prone or supported positions, the bipod shines – it carries the rifle nicely and allows a wide arc of fire without repositioning.
Comfort & Shouldering: The L86 has a fixed stock with a rubber buttpad and a folding shoulder brace. Some players find the stock’s drop angle a bit strange – one Reddit user complained the stock sits “too low” relative to the sights, causing them to fumble aligning their eye with the scope/sights. This is likely due to the real-steel design, which favors use of a scope (SUSAT) that sits higher. Using the iron sights or a low optic might require a cheek weld adjustment. On the plus side, there is a rubber cheek rest which makes cheek weld more comfortable (and protects from cold metal in winter). Several owners actually praise the comfort: one noted it was “surprisingly ergonomic and comfortable to hold and carry around”, and another said despite looking weird, it was “GREAT to carry” and not as heavy-feeling as it is on paper. The “deceivingly lightweight” comment likely refers to how the balance makes it feel lighter in the field than an all-front-heavy gun like an RPK.
Grips & Controls: The pistol grip is standard and comfortable, and the rear vertical grip (situated under the butt) is unique to the L86. Its purpose: when firing prone or from a rest, you use the rear grip to stabilize the rifle (much like using your off-hand on the top of an M60 receiver). It also doubles as a carry handle of sorts when the mag is out, letting you rest the gun across your legs between action. Some find the rear grip awkward for off-hand drills, but it’s mostly out of the way until needed. The fire selector (semi/full) is located at the rear left of the receiver. It’s a small switch that is not ambidextrous and can be unintentionally nudged if slung tight to your body. Users caution that bumping it into semi while firing full-auto can cause piston strain. The safety (separate lever above trigger) is intuitive to use with the index finger and thumb, akin to the real SA80 safety.
Handling in Gameplay: In the field, the L86 can be used in two modes:
As a support LMG: Deploy the bipod and lay down fire. The 450-round hi-cap mags (or aftermarket drum mags with minor mods) feed plenty of ammo for suppression. The long barrel and stable platform let you reach out and “keep heads down” effectively. It’s not a CQB weapon; its length (almost a meter long) and weight make slicing corners slow. In open field or woods, though, players say it truly excels at suppression, effectively pinning opponents while teammates move.
As a pseudo-DMR: Because it’s a bullpup, despite the long barrel, the overall length is actually a bit shorter than an M16. You can shoulder it and move with it like a big rifle. Some players use it as an accurate longer-range rifle, especially if they upgrade the barrel and hop. Wielding it off the bipod is very feasible; just remember it’s 13 lbs. A good two-point sling is strongly recommended for any sustained play on the move. With a sling and by bracing the rear grip, many have no problem carrying it through a day of play.
Ergonomic Downsides: Not everyone loves the L86 feel. Some common complaints:
Bullpup Trigger: Long trigger pull (common to bullpups, though ICS mitigated it with their design). It’s not as crisp as an M4 trigger, though the electric brake helps reduce over-pull.
Stock/Sight Alignment: as mentioned, getting a good sight picture may require an optic or practice due to the stock height. The real SA80 was designed for use with the SUSAT scope; using iron sights could feel a bit unnatural.
Weight for Smaller Players: If you’re not used to heavy guns, the L86 will tire you out. One thread discussing LMGs for smaller or female players actually suggested the ICS L86 because of its balance and bullpup design making it feel lighter. But if you compare it to modern light support weapons (like Krytac LMG or polymer M249s around 7–8 lbs), the L86 is definitely heavier. A sling and frequent use of cover/rests are key.
Bottom Line (Ergonomics): The ICS L86 is a big, heavy rifle, but well-balanced. In prone or supported roles, it’s very much in its element. Carrying it all day is doable especially with a sling, and many find it comfortable and even fun to run despite the weight. However, if you’re used to an M4 or AK, the bullpup layout and weight distribution will have a learning curve – some find the ergonomics “suck” until you adjust. It’s a love-it-or-hate-it thing; L86 fans adore it and make it work, others might prefer a more conventional support weapon if comfort is the top priority.
6. Battery Placement & Ease of Maintenance
Battery Compartment: The battery is housed in the handguard (front section of the rifle). The L86 has a clever design for battery access:
Flip up the top cover of the handguard by pulling a latch on the left side.
Swing open the lower right section of the handguard by releasing another lock. This gives you a wide opening to insert the battery. Changing the battery is very easy and quick – it can be done mid-game without tools. This is a big plus over some other support guns where battery changes are tedious. The space is moderately sized: it fits a mini-type or nunchuck NiMH (8.4 V or 9.6 V) or similar-sized LiPo. Users report fitting an 11.1 V 1450 mAh LiPo nunchuck in there, but ICS recommends sticking to 8.4–9.6 V NiMH or 7.4 V LiPo to avoid overspin without mods. In summary, battery space is decent (for a bullpup it’s actually great) – you can fit small brick or nunchuck packs easily.
Maintenance & Field Stripping: Maintenance is where the ICS L86 shines compared to its peers:
Field Stripping: As noted under internals, two captive pins hold the upper and lower together. Pushing them out allows the upper receiver (with barrel and hop) to separate from the lower (with gearbox). The entire gearbox can then be lifted out without undoing a bunch of screws. This is far easier than Ares or G&G L85 designs that require removing screws and dealing with long wires.
Quick Spring Adjust/Change: With the gearbox out (or even partially in), you can adjust the FPS via the spring guide’s pin settings in under 3 minutes. If you needed to fully change the spring, ICS’s split design makes it straightforward as well.
Motor & Hop Access: The motor can be accessed by removing the pistol grip base plate (common on most guns). The hop-up is accessed by pulling the charging handle back (it will lock open the dust cover); adjust with a screwdriver or by hand, then release the charging handle to close.
Cleaning: Running a cleaning rod through the barrel is easy once the receiver is split (or even with it assembled, since it’s a straight shot from the muzzle through the open hop-up).
Caveat: One user’s note – while it’s easier than other L85s, reassembling the gun after maintenance can be a bit fiddly (hence the “6 hands” joke). This is due to needing to align the gearbox, trigger link, and bolt stop lever just right when marrying the receivers. After a few times, though, you get the hang of it.
Known Maintenance Issues: The primary thing to be careful about is the trigger linkage and semi-lock. If the gun locks on semi (happens if the trigger is not released fully between shots or voltage is low), the recommended fix is to switch to auto and fire a burst. You should not keep pulling the semi trigger hard if nothing’s happening. Doing so can break that plastic link piece. It’s an easy habit to adopt. Installing an active braking MOSFET could also reduce chance of semi-lock.
The selector switch wear is another thing: some people found that repeatedly switching between auto and semi (and perhaps rough handling of it) can wear the detent tooth, making the selector loose over time. It’s wise to avoid fidgeting with the selector unnecessarily.
Battery Life: The L86 doesn’t have any unusual battery drain; it even has a built-in fuse to protect against shorts. With a 9.6 V 1600 mAh, you should get a normal day’s play of shooting. If using full-auto a lot in a support role, consider a higher capacity battery (2000 mAh nunchuck NiMH or a 2000 mAh LiPo stick, if it fits). As always, bring a spare battery to the field, but thanks to the quick-change design, swapping it is painless.
Bottom Line (Battery & Maintenance): The ICS L86A2 is user-friendly to maintain for such a complex gun. Battery changes are tool-less and fast – a big plus in the field. The gearbox design facilitates easy repairs and spring swaps. Just handle the trigger/selector mechanisms with care to avoid avoidable issues. It’s clear ICS designed this with the player in mind, especially compared to other bullpups, which are often nightmares to work on. Seasoned techs and casual tinkerers alike appreciate the ease of maintenance on the ICS L85/L86 series.
7. Value for Money & Price Point vs. Similar Support Weapons
The ICS L86A2 LSW is a premium airsoft replica, typically priced in the mid-to-high range for AEGs:
In the US, it’s often around $400–$450 USD (Evike lists it at ~$429).
In the UK, prices hover around £400–£450.
It usually comes with two hi-cap mags but no battery.
Compared to other support weapons:
Ares/STAR L86A2: The main alternative if you specifically want an L86. The Ares (formerly STAR) version can be more expensive (and at times harder to find, as it’s been on and off the market). Ares offers better external detail but had a reputation for iffy internals and complicated take-down. Many players and reviewers consider the ICS far better value given its reliability and ease of use. If Ares L86 is, say, $500, and ICS is $430, the ICS gives more bang for the buck unless you just want a wall-hanger.
LCT RPK (or other RPKs): An RPK (essentially an AK support weapon) is often a comparison. LCT’s RPK is around $350. It’s lighter by a bit, uses a traditional design, and has great externals too. In a Reddit thread, some leaned towards the RPK for easier handling, but acknowledged ICS likely has better internals. If budget is tight, an RPK (especially with coupon deals) could be ~$100 less than the L86. But then you sacrifice the bullpup compactness and quick spring change of the L86. It really comes down to if you want the unique L86 platform.
M249 Variants: There are many M249 SAW replicas (Classic Army, A&K, Cybergun “Featherweight” etc.). For example, the Cybergun Featherweight M249 is ~$300 and very light (polymer body). Those are good for those who want a traditional belt-fed SAW with box mags. The ICS L86 uses normal mags, so it’s kind of a hybrid — easier mag swaps but not the sustained 2000-round drums (though you can fit a drum with mods). Value: At $400+, the L86 is more expensive than entry-level support guns (like A&K M249 at ~$300) but cheaper than some high-end options (like G&P or Tokyo Marui NGRS LMGs). Considering it’s full steel and very durable, players feel the price is justified: one review said “completely fair at $429… a steal if you get it on sale around $340”.
ICS L85A2: If you’re simply looking for a bullpup and not specifically the LSW variant, the ICS L85A2 (rifle version) is another option, usually a bit cheaper. But you lose the bipod, longer barrel, and rear grip. Some folks choose L85 plus a MOSFET for similar money; others love the L86 for its uniqueness.
When considering value, remember you might invest a bit more in this gun over time for upgrades or fixes: e.g., replacing the hop-up rubber, possibly a tighter barrel, and taking care of the trigger link ($40 if it snaps). These aren’t mandatory costs, but worth budgeting for.
Resale and Longevity: ICS guns tend to hold value decently due to their reputation. Also, since they’re not as common as M4s or AKs, there’s often a niche demand for them secondhand.
Bottom Line (Value): The ICS L86A2 isn’t cheap, but you get what you pay for: a distinctive, high-quality support weapon that can fill multiple roles. It’s priced comparably to other full-metal LMG/DMR platforms. Community consensus is that ICS’s offering is worth the money for those wanting an L86 – offering better reliability and features than the pricier Ares version. If you just need a support gun and aren’t picky, you can save money with other models, but if you specifically appreciate the history and design of the L86, the ICS is a high-value choice.
8. Known Issues & Common Modifications
No airsoft gun is perfect. Here are the common issues reported with the ICS L86, along with typical solutions or mods:
Hop-Up Over-Hopping: As discussed, many ICS L85/L86 ship with the hop-up arm slightly too long, causing even “zero” hop to still overhop BBs. Symptoms: BBs may skyrocket upward even with hop turned fully down. Fix: Trim ~1–2 mm off the end of the hop arm (simple sanding or cutting), or replace the hop-up lever with an aftermarket one if available. Also, installing a stiffer hop bucking can help counteract excess hop. Once fixed, this is a non-issue and hop can be set normally. This isn’t on every unit, but it’s “the main problem” noted by ICS owners.
Trigger Link Breakage: The small plastic piece connecting the trigger to the gearbox (since it’s a bullpup, there’s a linkage) can break if overstressed. It typically happens if a user forcefully pulls the trigger during a semi-auto lock-up. Prevention: Don’t spam semi-auto rapidly; if you get a dead trigger on semi, switch to auto and fire to reset it. Some owners immediately install a MOSFET with active braking, which can eliminate semi lock-up and protect the trigger contacts – indirectly preserving that link. If it does break, you’ll need to source a replacement trigger set (around £30–£35 in the UK). It’s not super common, but common enough to warn new owners.
Selector Switch Wear: After heavy use, the fire selector’s detent may wear, causing the selector to not stay firmly in place. One user mentioned the tooth can wear down, leading to “more hassle” switching modes. Replacement selectors or DIY shimming of the selector plate can fix this if it arises. Also, due to the layout, the selector is easy to bump, so check your fire mode periodically in-game to ensure it didn’t accidentally move (to avoid that piston issue from sudden semi switch mid-burst).
Barrel Length and Upgrades: No major issues, but note the odd barrel length (610 mm). Common mod: install a 590 mm 6.03 tightbore. You lose 20 mm of inner barrel length, which has negligible effect, and you gain accuracy. Some go the extra mile and mod a 650 mm barrel to fit exactly. A new hop-up bucking (like a Maple Leaf) can drastically improve accuracy and consistency.
Bipod Stiffness: Deploying the bipod on the ICS requires two hands (you have to squeeze both legs together and pull a catch). It’s a bit fiddly and not as quick as some other designs. Some owners just leave it deployed if they know they’ll use it often, to avoid struggling with it in combat. The positive trade-off is that, unlike some Ares models, the ICS bipod locks solidly and won’t flop down on its own. No real fix needed, just practice the motion or leave it down.
Mag Compatibility: Those 470-rd hi-caps are slightly bigger externally. While many STANAG (M4) mags work, some very tight tolerance mags might not insert without modification. Known to work: ICS’s own, Elite Force, KWA polymer mags, among others. Known to need mod: drum/box mags – you might need to Dremel a bit to fit a M249 box mag adapter. People have done it, but it’s not out-of-the-box ready for box mags. Most don’t bother since hi-caps are easier to manage in bullpup magwell.
Miscellaneous: A user on an airsoft forum mentioned the gun “chewed through a nozzle o-ring” at some point – that suggests maybe an o-ring failure causing air leak, which is minor and can be fixed by replacing the o-ring or nozzle. They also mentioned breaking a trigger group (again that link or contacts). Neither is catastrophic or very frequent. Generally, the gearbox is tough – no widespread issues of gear stripping or piston failure in stock form, which is good given it’s a support weapon meant for sustained fire.
Common Upgrades (summary): Tightbore barrel, better hop-up rubber (for accuracy); MOSFET (to protect trigger and improve response); possibly a high-torque motor if running heavier springs; SUSAT optic or rail adapter for optics (for aesthetics and aiming). Externally, some like to paint or weather it for realism, or add a sling swivel up front.
9. User Feedback & Community Sentiment
The airsoft community generally holds the ICS L86A2 LSW in high regard, especially among those who fancy British kit or unique support weapons. Here’s a sense of the feedback:
Positive Sentiment: Many users rave about the build quality and uniqueness. It’s often described as a “beast” or “tank” of a gun that turns heads at the field. The enjoyment factor is high – people get it because they love the look or role, and they tend to be very happy using it. Several reviewers give it strong ratings (8/10 or higher). PopularAirsoft’s review was glowing, highlighting how it’s “highly recommended” for serious teams and an “easily skirmishable AEG”. The ability to fill multiple roles (LMG or DMR) is a big plus.
Comparisons: Those who have used both ICS and Ares versions often prefer the ICS for actual play use, citing lower maintenance and higher reliability. Ares/STAR gets points for realism, but ICS isn’t far off and is cheaper and stronger internally. Versus other LMGs like the RPK or M249, the L86 appeals to a niche – bullpup fans or those wanting something non-mainstream. One Reddit user said “I’ve been eyeballin’ the ICS L86 quite a bit” because he loves bullpups, showing the enthusiasm for the model.
Critiques: Not everyone is enamored. A few say it’s cumbersome or “ergonomics absolutely suck” for them. That tends to come from players not used to bullpups or expecting a run-and-gun lightweight. Another common note is “why carry 13 lbs when polymer LMGs exist.” So it’s not for the faint of heart or those who prize lightweight mobility. However, even in threads where someone asks “is this gun a stupid idea,” owners of the ICS L86 defend it, acknowledging its quirks but emphasizing it’s far superior to cheaper clones and is “an absolute monster” on the field.
Community Support: There’s a decent community knowledge base for the ICS L85/L86 series. People have documented fixes (hop arm trim, trigger issues). Spare parts like tappets and trigger sets are available if you search (specialist retailers or directly from ICS distributors). It’s not as common as an M4, but it’s also not obscure to the point no one can help. Airsoft forums (ASUK, Arnies) have threads dating back to its release in 2010-2011 and continuing with people sharing experiences. Generally, owners seem proud of it and only caution prospective buyers to be ready for the weight and the bullpup learning curve. It’s often described as a gun you either “love or hate – I’m firmly in the love it camp”.
Historical/Hobbyist Angle: Collectors who want a piece of the British military loadout often choose this for their impression kits, since real L86s are rare to see. With a SUSAT and proper camo, it looks fantastic and brings that Gulf War / 1990s UK forces vibe. They appreciate that ICS made this at all, given it’s a unique gun.
Conclusion / Recommendation: The ICS L86A2 LSW is a top-tier replica of a niche weapon. It scores high in performance for its intended role, durability, and cool factor. It has a few manageable quirks, but nothing majorly detracting once you address them. For airsoft players who want a support weapon that’s not an M249 and love the idea of a bullpup LMG/DMR, the L86 is easy to recommend. It provides value in versatility and ruggedness, and it’s backed by positive user experiences. Just remember, it’s a commitment – like adopting a large dog versus a small cat – but treat it well and it will serve you brilliantly on the field.