Year One:
When I first decided I wanted to get into airsoft, I asked some kid where to get the good stuff, so he recommended me to ASGI. I had $100 so I needed something cheap. The cheapest AEG was the CYMA AK, and the reviews were mostly good, so I purchased it. That rifle is now long gone, but is still running after two and a half years of no maitenence. CYMA is the only clone brand I will ever trust

After I bought my rifle, I decided I wanted a handgun so I went to a local military surplus store that also sells airsoft guns. The cheapest handgun on them was the Cybergun Taurus PT24/7 NBB model which served me well for about a year.
Year Two:
When I decided I wanted a higher-quality rifle to replace my AK, I turned to TM for my FAMAS. I sold my AK and a cheap-o springer shotgun for $40 to cover some costs for my new sidearm: the KWA M17. I decided I wanted something different, so I purchased a clone tri-shot, which is now a loaner/secondary.
Year Three:
At the end of a year of cosmetic upgrades and modifications for my trio of new weapons, I got the CYMA Galil SAR.
Year Four:
After I purchase a crapload of supplies for my Galil, I will likely get a Tanaka S&W .500 hand cannon of intimidation to make all the people run away from me after they make fun of my FAMAS. After all this comes a plethora of upgrades for my Glock Carbine.