
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
Maryland CCW Renewal Conducted by a Multi-discipline Certified Law Enforcement Instructor In this class, you will be certified to renew your Maryland Wear and Carry permit. Course Duration: 8 hours Course Cost: $150 *No refunds you can always reschedule a class time for up to one year. Course Goal: The goal of this course is for you the citizen to gain the credit needed to renew your Concealed Carry permit in the State of Maryland. Course Prerequisites: Current Maryland Conceal and Carry Permit
All participants in the Returning Student Range Time must first take the Safety Class. Once you have taken the safety class and have a card confirming your participation, you can attend the Returning Student Rage Time or any other Special Programs offered by Annie Oakley. For returning students, the range goes “hot” at 6:15 p.m. The range will be hot for twenty-minute sessions with a five-minute break between each session until we are done at 7:45 p.m. When a ceasefire is called for the five-minute break, it is imperative that no one approaches the tables except for RSO’s. RSO’s will be assigned to watch tables during the breaks to make sure no one approaches the tables. When we call a ceasefire for the five-minute break, you will have the following options: If you’re staying for another round, your firearms can remain on the table but need to be unloaded and cleared, with the action open and facing up. You can also make changes to your target at this time – either moving the target board further in or further out or put up a new target. Do not approach the tables at any time for any reason during the five-minute break. If you remove your eye and ear protection during the break, please keep those with you or with your things behind the yellow safety line and don’t leave them on the table. If you plan on leaving, please clear and case your firearm before the break. This will assist us with clearing your table quickly for new arrivals. For new arrivals, once you’re checked in and assigned to a table, you are not to approach the tables until we call the range hot. Once we call the range hot, you can approach the table and uncase your firearm. Be sure you are wearing weather appropriate clothing, as well as clothing appropriate for the gun range. We recommend that you wear closed-toed shoes (flip flops are not recommended), and make sure the neckline on your top is high enough that hot shells won’t go down the front of your shirt (hot metal can burn you – especially when it gets caught in your clothing). You can bring your own firearms and ammunition, or you can continue using the firearms provided by the program. Once you’ve used up your punchcard that gives you a bag of ammunition for every “punch”, you can continue using the program’s firearms but must bring your own ammunition (.22LR).
Range closes to the public at 5:00pm High Desert Shooters group is made up of individuals residing in the tri-city area of Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Chino Valley, Arizona who enjoy indoor recreational shooting. Almost every Tuesday evening throughout the year various types of handgun matches are held, starting at 5:30 pm and usually lasting until 7:30 pm. Participants must have previous experience with shooting organized pistol matches. There are many scenarios to keep you coming back for
Delaware CCDW Delaware Concealed Carry of a Deadly Weapon Permit Conducted by a Multi-discipline Certified Law Enforcement Instructor *Must be a resident of Delaware to qualify for the Delaware CCDw. Course Duration: 8 hours Course Cost: $150 Course Goal: The goal of this course is for you the citizen to gain the credit needed to apply for a concealed carry permit from Delaware this course is also designed for those who wish to complete the first 8 hours of training towards your Maryland Wear an
Bar Flies & Fly Rod Building Class 2 Monday | Allison Park Sportsmen's Club at Allison Park Sports Mens Club in Glenshaw, PA. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Trout Stocking This months session of the Penns Woods West Bar Flies is a 2 parter. With Bar Flies Open Tie session from 6pm - 8pm and Fly Rod Building Class 2 from 8pm - 10pm Stephen Plut
05 // LOCATE
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline