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Photo: Petr Kadlec / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
01 // LEARN
#01
What is Airsoft?
Understanding this shooting discipline
Airsoft is a sport using replica firearms that shoot 6mm plastic BBs. Unlike paintball, hits are honor-based (players call their own hits). The sport appeals to those interested in military simulation, realistic gear, and tactical gameplay.
Milsim (military simulation) events emphasize realism, tactics, and immersion. Speedsoft prioritizes fast-paced gameplay similar to speedball. Casual skirmishes fall between these extremes. Many players enjoy collecting and customizing realistic replicas.
Types & Variations
Milsim (military simulation, multi-day events)
Speedsoft (fast-paced, tournament style)
CQB (close quarters battle, indoor)
Outdoor Skirmish (casual games)
Historical/Period (WWII, Vietnam reenactment)
02 // START
#02
Getting Started with Airsoft
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into airsoft doesn't require starting with top-tier gear. Focus on safety fundamentals, basic equipment, and finding welcoming places to learn. The community is generally helpful to newcomers who show up prepared with the right attitude.
Essential Equipment
What you need to get started
1Airsoft gun (AEG recommended for beginners)
2Battery and charger (for AEG)
3Full seal eye protection (ANSI Z87.1+ rated)
4Face protection (lower face mesh or full mask)
5BBs (quality 0.20g-0.28g)
6Extra magazines
7Appropriate clothing and boots
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
1Call your hits honestly (honor system)
2Full seal eye protection required at all times
3FPS limits vary by field (typically 350-400 fps)
4Minimum engagement distances for high-powered guns
5No blind firing
6Barrel cover or magazine out in safe zones
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
Start with an AEG from a reputable brand (G&G, CYMA, Specna Arms)
Good eye protection is not negotiable; buy quality
Heavier BBs (0.25g+) improve accuracy outdoors
Dress for the environment; you will be crawling and sliding
Honesty about hits matters; cheaters get banned
What Does Airsoft Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
Getting Started
$150-300
Basic equipment to begin
Competitive Setup
$500-1,500+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Per event/match:$20-40 entry, BBs vary
Ammo per session:$10-30 (5000 rounds)
Hidden costs to consider: A reliable AEG ($150-250), quality eye protection ($30-60), and face protection ($20-40) are the essentials.
Airsoft Gun Types
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| AEG (Electric) Battery-powered, reliable, consistent. Most popular choice. | Beginners and most players; best all-around option |
| Gas Blowback Realistic recoil and operation. Temperature sensitive. | Realism enthusiasts, training applications |
| Spring/Bolt Action Manual cock each shot. Snipers and shotguns. | Sniper roles, budget entry, backup guns |
03 // ASK
#03
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about airsoft
New to airsoft? These are the most common questions from shooters exploring this discipline. The shooting community is generally welcoming and happy to help newcomers.
Find answers to common questions about airsoft. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
Airsoft uses smaller 6mm plastic BBs and relies on honor (players call their own hits). Paintball uses larger paint-filled balls that leave visible marks. Airsoft guns are typically more realistic replicas.
Automatic Electric Gun. Battery-powered, uses a motor and gearbox to compress air. Most popular type due to reliability, cost, and ease of use.
Gas guns (GBB) offer realistic blowback and feel. AEGs are more consistent, especially in cold weather. Most beginners start with AEG, add gas guns later.
BBs sting, especially at close range or on bare skin. Less impact than paintball typically. Appropriate clothing provides adequate protection.
Most fields limit rifles to 350-400 FPS with 0.20g BBs. DMRs and snipers may be allowed higher with minimum engagement distances. Check your local field rules.
04 // FIND
#04
Upcoming Events
Find airsoft events near you
View details
JUL
14
OFT Defensive Pistol II - (Action Range)
Competition
Defensive
CANCELLED – OFT Practical Pistol Accuracy & Accountability – May 19 (Action Range) Sentinel Concepts (hosted by OFT) 2-Day Pistol – Jun 29 & 30 (Action Range) LFT/OFT Accelerated Carbine & Pistol – Oct 19 & 20 (Action Range) Chuck Pressburg (Hosted by OFT) No-Fail Pistol (2 Days) – Nov 9-10 (Action Range, tentative Indoor Range) Copyright © 2026 · Maynard Rod and Gun Club, Inc. · Website Design by
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Maynard Rod & Gun ClubMaynard Rod & Gun Club, Maynard, MA
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JUL
14
LEO Day
All active Law Enforcement Officers get free indoor range time every Tuesday!
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Timberline Firearms & Training: Shooting Range, Rentals, and ...Timberline Firearms & Training: Shooting Range, Rentals, and ..., Timberline-Fernwood, AZ
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JUL
14
5-Stand
Competition
5-Stand
5-Stand at About | Oxford Gun Club in Oxford, PA. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Tuesday, July 14, 2026• 16:00:00
Oxford Gun ClubOxford Gun Club, Oxford, PA
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JUL
14
Tuesday Night Irregular Rifles – Range 3 & Pavilion – 11:00-Dusk
Training
Night Shoot
Open to public. Sign-in at 4:30pm. NRA High Power Rifle competition in a low-pressure environment. Matches are shot weekly from late April through October, weather permitting. Scores are submitted to the NRA at the end of the season to obtain a national classification. See the attached league flyer for fees, equipment and procedures. Contact: Sam Evans at mailto: [email protected] 2026TNIRLLeague_Program
Tuesday, July 14, 2026• 11:00:00
The RangeThe Range, Bonfield, IL
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JUL
14
Delete Las Vegas IDPA Local
Competition
IDPA
Are you sure you want to delete Las Vegas IDPA Local July 14 2024? This cannot be undone.
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Las Vegas IDPALas Vegas IDPA, Las Vegas, NV
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JUL
14
Ames Summer League 2026
Competition
Ames Summer League 2026 Tue, Jul 14 | Ames Rifle & Pistol Club Open to all South Shore League Club members. Any riffle caliber, any sights allowed. Fired off hand fired at 200 yards, worst two count as sighters best 20 for record. contact Gene Carter for more details 781-626-2726. Fee $3.00. Match starts at 6pm RSVP Time & Location 10 more dates Jul 14, 2026, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Ames Rifle & Pistol Club, 110 Canton St, North Easton, MA 02356, USA Select Different Date About the event Open to a
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Ames Rifle & Pistol Shooting ClubAmes Rifle & Pistol Shooting Club, Easton, MA
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline