[PiMPMAN101]

Well, this is a 2 part thing. The STAR M249 series is about half the weight of the CA249 series. So, if you would not like to lug a big peice of steel around then get the STAR. The CA will be full-metal tho, and weight a ton. I belive the STAR has a plastic gearbox, and the CA has a metal one. It all depends on how you use it. If you treat your guns with care the STAR should be fine. If you abuse a bit, the CA should put up with it better than the STAR. Plus the CA can prob. take better upgrades without upgrading the plastic gearbox which is on the STAR model. The CA would prob be more realistic but it is more expensive. The STAR is cheaper, lighter and that can be a plus or minus in both ways. For basic airsoft use I would get the STAR, because it would be way lighter, and cheaper for me. I would only get the CA for something like Mil-sim, because of all the relistic weight and stuff. Thats only my opinion tho.