
01 // LEARN
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.
02 // START
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.
What you need to get started
Know these before your first shot
Advice from experienced shooters
Realistic budget expectations
$150-300
Basic equipment to begin
$500-1,500+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Hidden costs to consider: A reliable AEG ($150-250), quality eye protection ($30-60), and face protection ($20-40) are the essentials.
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
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
Find airsoft events near you
The trapshooting ranges are open to the public every Thursday year round. Our lighted range allows for trapshooting to continue from 2pm until no shooters waiting. If you are going to be after 4:30pm in the winter or after 6:00pm in the summer please call Kent Bushman at 815-631-4868 and let him know so he doesn’t close up before you arrive. Trapshooting fees are as follows: $4.50 per round of 25 clays $3.00 for 17 years of age and younger $80 for 20 round shooting cards for current members = $4.00 per round $85 for 20 round shooting cards for non members = $4.25 per round 12 & 20 gauge shells – available at going price
4HGreen - Shooting Sports at Johnson County Fairgrounds in Gardner, KS. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
A competitive pistol match featuring scored courses of fire. Depending on the format, this may include bullseye (precision), action pistol, or timed/rapid fire stages. Handgun (caliber and type per match rules) Ammunition (typically 50-150 rounds depending on format) Magazine pouches and holster (if action format) Eye and ear protection (required) Arrive early for sign-in and safety briefing If this is your first match, let the match director know -- most clubs pair new shooters with experienced mentors Focus on safety first, speed comes with experience Contact Cheshire County Shooting Sports Education Foundation (CCSSEF) for match format, round count, divisions, and entry fees.
A free educational course for Wabash County adults that provides in depth knowledge of the world of recycling and waste management. There will be four classes and a graduation ceremony. Classes will take place every Thursday in April from 4:30pm – 5:30 pm at WCSWMD's office or alternative location if necessary. Participants must attend all four classes to receive their certificate at the graduation ceremony. Our goal with this program is not only to educate our residents but to foste
Public Shooting. Beginners welcome! For Fees, please see the Trap Webpage here. https://scarfg.org/disciplines/trap/
ThinkWell Outdoors programs are nature hybrid schools that seek to connect children and their families back with nature, themselves, and each other through inquiry and play-based emergent education. It is an (almost) all-weather program that provides an opportunity for students to play, explore, and learn together in an outdoor environment. They will wonder and wander, get curiously creative, build connection through community, and deepen into respectful reciprocity with themselves, each other,
05 // LOCATE
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline