Question 1

What is airsoft?

Accepted Answer

Airsoft is a team-focused sport where players compete using realistic-looking replica guns (also known as RIFs - Realistic Imitation Firearms). These Airsoft guns shoot small, lightweight, 6mm plastic pellets called ‘BBs’. Airsoft is played in a variety of different settings, from woodlands, urban areas, purpose-built, close-quarters, facilities, to even large-scale military simulation events known as MilSims.

Question 2

Does Airsoft Hurt?

Accepted Answer

Honestly, yes, 
but only a little.What you actually feel entirely depends on a few factors. Your distance from the gun, the power of the gun you’re being shot with, your clothing, and whether you’re wearing protective gear. A hit on bare skin would sting more than a hit through a jacket at longer range. The good news, however, is that with the proper clothing airsoft can be an extremely enjoyable activity. Even just wearing long sleeves, gloves, and a jacket or hoodie can go a long way!

Question 3

How old do you have to be to play airsoft?

Accepted Answer

Depending on where you are in the world, the age requirement may differ. It may also differ from site-to-site. The best way to check is to search for local Airsoft fields near you & check their rules. Most countries, however, welcome players from around 12-14 years old, however many require parental consent and/or supervision for younger players.

Question 4

What’s the best Airsoft gun?

Accepted Answer

There’s no, single, “best” Airsoft gun. It entirely depends on your budget, your playstyle, and the type of site you’re playing at. That said, below you can see a brief outline of some styles, and brands, of Airsoft guns that might suit you.

For most beginners - If you’re new to airsoft, we’d usually recommend an AEG - an Automatic Electric Gun. These are the standard type of Airsoft gun, and are typically the most widely used. These guns are battery-powered, consistent, and low-maintenance. There’re also AEGs available at every price point. Look for reputable brands such as Tokyo Marui, G&G, and ICS. Be sure to do your own research & check reviews before purchasing any Airsoft gun. You should also avoid ‘springer’ guns, or spring-action pistols & rifles. These tend to not be suitable for an Airsoft match, and are manufactured for shooting in a back-garden. They require you to pull back a slider, after every single shot. They are also typically well below the power required for an Airsoft match.

For woodland/outdoor play - A mid-length rifle platform, such as an M4 or AK, is generally the standard. These tend to be accurate at range, manageable when moving around, and easy to upgrade later. See above for the recommended brands to keep an eye out for. Be sure to check reviews, and do your own research before purchasing.

For indoor/close-quarters play - A shorter, compact AEG or a gas-powered pistol tend to suit these types of sites the best. An SMG (Sub Machine Gun) is also a good option, as they tend to have a high fire-rate and a shorter barrel, making it easier to maneuver through doorways & around corners.

For the long-range players - Spring bolt-action sniper rifles offer range and precision, however they require a great deal of patience, fine tuning, and often upgrades to truly out-perform a well-tuned AEG. 
We’d recommend that you don’t start off Airsoft with a sniper rifle, and get some field experience first, as it limits you quite heavily due to something known as MEG - Minimum Engagement Distance. 
Due to the power of these rifles, fields often have a minimum distance you must be away from an enemy to shoot them. Some fields even require you to have a side-arm or a pistol to play with a sniper rifle, to ensure you don’t try to shoot someone from too close. Plus, there’s nothing worse than watching other people have fun through the scope of your rifle!

Question 5

What’s the difference between airsoft and paintball?

Accepted Answer

Although both are team-focused supports, there’re some major differences. Airsoft uses small, plastic, 6mm pellets called ‘BBs’, whilst Paintball uses gelatin capsules filled with paint. When it comes to the gun, Airsoft guns are built to look realistic. Paintball guns, known as ‘Markers’, are purpose-built, meaning they’re built largely for the sport, and not immersion. Most paintball markers do not look like real firearms. The hit confirmation also works differently. In paintball, the ammo explodes on impact which leaves a paint mark on your clothes. This pain marks you clearly. With airsoft, there’s no visual evidence of a hit so the player calls their own hits; often by either raising your hand and shouting ‘HIT!’ or putting a red cloth, known as a dead-rag, on your head. Paintballs also generally hit a lot harder, and are more likely to bruise. Airsoft stings but the impact is far milder overall.

Question 6

Is Airsoft expensive?

Accepted Answer

Getting started with Airsoft doesn’t have to cost much. Most sites offer rental packages, which usually include the gun, eye protection, and BBs. This is the ideal way to try Airsoft before investing into anything of your own. Costs vary by country and site, but usually is a similar price to most other recreational activities. If you decide to purchase your own gear, a reliable beginner electric gun (also known as an AEG - Automatic Electric Gun) generally costs around $100-$200 (£100-160 | €100-200), plus the basic protective equipment on top. For note: please take care when purchasing protective equipment. Purchase protective goggles, or facemasks, from reputable businesses & check their safety rating. Overall, the hobby can scale as far as your interest takes it. Dedicated players invest in upgraded guns, tactical vests, and attachments for their guns, however an enjoyable experience is very much achievable on a modest budget.

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