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Photo: 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
APR
1
MMA class
Competition
MMA class at Fallout Shelter Ministries in Watertown, SD. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Fallout Shelter MinistriesFallout Shelter Ministries, Watertown, MN
View details
APR
1
2 Varmint Match Centerfire Rifle Match
Competition
USPSA
April 1 1 Sea Cadets Qualifications April 1 1 NRL 22 22 Rimfire Rifle April 1 8 USPSA Centerfire Handguns & PCC April 19 ICORE Centerfire Revolver April 2 5 Steel Challenge Centerfire/Rimfire & PCC
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Stillwater Firearms AssociationsStillwater Firearms Associations, Fallon, NV
View details
APR
1
JUNIOR SMALLBORE
Competition
NRL22
Youth
A rimfire (.22 LR) shooting event. Rimfire competitions are popular for their low cost, minimal recoil, and emphasis on pure marksmanship. Formats vary -- this may include NRL22, rimfire sporter, rimfire benchrest, or informal plinking. Low ammunition cost (pennies per round vs. dollars) Minimal recoil -- great for new shooters and juniors Builds fundamentals that transfer to centerfire shooting .22 LR rifle or pistol (per event format) Ammunition (typically 50-100 rounds) Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Cheshire County Shooting Sports Education Foundation (CCSSEF) for the specific format, round count, and entry fees.
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Cheshire County Shooting Sports Education Foundation (CCSSEF)Cheshire County Shooting Sports Education Foundation (CCSSEF), Keene, NH
View details
APR
1
Wednesday Night Archery Class Beginner & Intermediate 6pm-7pm
Competition
Night Shoot
Wednesday Night Archery Class Beginner & Intermediate 6pm-7pm: 4/1/26 - 5/6/26 Regular price
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Chicago ArcheryChicago Archery, Georgetown SquareWood Dale, IL
View details
APR
1
Lay Leader Training
Competition
SDSU Extension is seeking volunteers to become Better Choices, Better Health–SD Lay Leaders and help others live healthier lives. No prior healthcare or teaching experience required 📅 March 24, 25, 31 & April 1, 2026⏰ 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. CST📍 SDSU Extension Mitchell Regional Center, Mitchell, SD Lay-Leader-Training-Flyer-2026-… 💲 $250 for Sponsored Leaders🙌 Free for Volunteer Leaders Lay-Leader-Training-Flyer-2026-… Gain experience, impact others, and make a difference! 💙
Wednesday, April 1, 2026• 09:00:00
SDSU Extension Mitchell Regional CenterSDSU Extension Mitchell Regional Center, Mitchell, SD
View details
APR
1
Silhouette Bay 9 Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM
Competition
PRS
Metallic silhouette at Marysville Rifle Club tests your ability to ring steel targets downrange with precision rifle or handgun fire. You're shooting offhand at animal-shaped steel targets set at measured distances, so steady hold and trigger control matter more than power or speed. This is a competition format that rewards fundamentals. You'll knock down targets or miss cleanly—no ambiguity. April 1st start is 10:00 AM at the club in Arlington. Bring enough rounds to complete the match.
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Marysville Rifle Club: HomeMarysville Rifle Club: Home, Arlington, WA
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline