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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
JUN
17
Public Trap & Skeet Shooting
Shotgun Sports
Trap
Public Trap & Skeet Shooting Wednesday, June 17, 2026 4:45 PM 8:00 PM Google Calendar ICS View Event →
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Marion County Sportsmen ClubMarion County Sportsmen Club, Knoxville, IA
View details
JUN
17
FREE RENTAL DAY’S
We have over 150 rental firearms at Accurate Range, try as many as you like for FREE on these select days. Firearm rental is not permitted without holding a MI CPL, owning a firearm of your own (must be present), being accompanied by another customer, or being accompanied by an Accurate staff member. Range ammo required in range firearms. Full-Auto Rentals NOT INCLUDED
Wednesday, June 17, 2026• 00:00:00
Accurate RangeAccurate Range, Clarkston, MI
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JUN
17
!!MARK YOU CALENDARS!! 2021 CALIFORNIA STATE SHOOT -20, 2021 Hosted by LA CLAYS – CSCA
Social
Trap
A clay target shooting event at Caliclays. This may include wobble trap, helice, continental, or other clay target formats depending on the club's program. Shotgun (12, 20, or 28 gauge) Ammunition (target loads -- round count varies by format) Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Caliclays for the specific format, fees, and any pre-registration requirements.
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
CaliclaysCaliclays, Riverside, CA
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JUN
17
Airgun Wednesdays
Fun Airgun Only shooting session at the MPR- look for the big red flag on the pole that says “MPR”- that’s us! Open to public, airguns .30 cal and below. Benches available, targets and stands, 200 yard range. Good group of people. All types of airguns- springers, PCP’s, Pistols. Eye protection required, ear protection optional No bb, darts or airsoft please. $15 Guest $10 for Diablo members (did you know Diablo membership is only $25 a year?) $5 for those special few tha
Wednesday, June 17, 2026• 09:00:00
USI Multi Purpose RangeUSI Multi Purpose Range, Concord, CA
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JUN
17
Plinker Silhouette
Competition
Upper Range York
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Lander Valley Sportsmen's AssociationLander Valley Sportsmen's Association, Unknown, WY
View details
JUN
17
Big 50 Trap
Social
Trap
Trap is one of the three major clay target disciplines. Shooters stand at five stations arranged in a semicircle behind a single trap house and fire at targets launched away from them at varying angles. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Targets per round | 25 (5 per station) | | Gauge | 12 ga. most common; sub-gauge events exist | | Skill level | All levels welcome | Shotgun (12, 20, or 28 gauge) Ammunition (target loads, typically 7.5 or 8 shot) Eye and ear protection (required) Hat or visor recommended Contact Lincoln Trap and Skeet Club directly for current fees, start times, and any pre-registration requirements.
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Lincoln Trap and Skeet ClubLincoln Trap and Skeet Club, Lincoln, NE
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline