There’s a one word answer to this question, YES! But in truth, it doesn’t have to hurt that bad and it should never lead to an injury. Airsoft, when done right, is an activity that tens of thousands of people from all walks of life enjoy this sport on a weekly basis. The secret to finding joy in airsoft is to play it safe. Yes, you will feel the hits but between the adrenaline and excitement of the action, it won’t be a big deal. Just remember, “Call your hits!”

Facts About Airsoft

Airsoft guns and the 6mm plastic BBs used in airsoft are meant to be used in mock combat or team conflict situations. For this reason, airsoft guns sold in the US must have orange markings on the muzzle of the barrel. In California, airsoft guns must be sold with additional orange markings on the gun. In spite of this, airsoft guns need to be treated with a great deal of respect when using them outside of designated airsoft fields or facilities. 

If you are engaging in “backyard” airsoft play, it is a good idea to contact any neighbors to let them know that you will be using airsoft equipment during a specified period of time. In some areas you may not be able to engage in airsoft play within your neighborhood.

Airsoft BBs are quite a bit larger than regular airgun BBs. Regular airgun BBs are 4.5mm in diameter whereas airsoft BBs are 6mm or 33% larger. This larger size helps ensure the BB contacts a large surface area on its target.  This larger size also helps control the velocity of the BB as it flies. Additionally, a steel airgun BB weighs 0.35 grams. Entry level airsoft BBs typically weigh no more than 0.20 grams, or 70% less than steel 4.5mm BBs. These factors, the larger diameter, lighter weight, and lower velocity, play a key role in keeping injuries at bay. 

Proper Airsoft Safety Equipment

Proper safety gear is essential for airsoft play. Eye protection that seals against the face will keep any BBs away from the eyes is the minimum in adequate eye protection. Many players opt for a full face mask that will prevent any BB contact with other sensitive facial areas. 

Some sort of neck protection is also highly recommended. Neck gaiters that pull over the head, scarves, or shemagh (middle eastern neck scarf) offer great neck protection. Along this line, heavier, long sleeve shirts and gloves are also highly recommended. It goes without saying full length pants and footwear that will both protect your ankles and offer good traction in a variety of environments. 

Beginner Airsoft Gear

Like most other hobbies, airsoft will take as much money as you are willing to throw at it. This can be a point of regret if you or your child loses interest in the hobby right way. Using the information below, you can select airsoft guns that won’t break the bank and will comply with any power rules in play at local airsoft facilities. For Close Quarters Battle (CQB) airsoft play, the rule of thumb is the velocity of a .20 gram BB should not exceed 350 feet per second. Most airsoft pistols will adhere to this.  There is nothing wrong with starting out with just an airsoft pistol.  If you do want to help accessorize the pistol, an extra magazine would be a great investment to make, as no doubt you will need to reload the gun in a match. 

As you might already surmise, airsoft pistols can be harder to shoot with a great degree of accuracy, even at closer distances when engaged in airsoft play. Many players opt to obtain “PDW” or Personal Defense Weapons for CQB play.  These airsoft guns are characterized by having a stock or other stabilizing grips to help the shooter be more accurate. Most PDW CQB type airsoft guns will also shoot .20 gram BBs under 350 feet per second. 

For open field play, airsoft players are often able to choose airsoft rifles that shoot up to 400 feet per second. These airsoft guns, powered by rechargeable batteries, are called AEGs, short for Automatic Electric Gun.  Occasionally you will see a CO2 or Green Gas powered airsoft rifle. AEGs dominate this space as they can be very affordable and very useful for open field play. AEGs can also be very expensive and customizable.  Remember the statement about airsoft taking all the money you can give it?  Most people will agree that you will probably want to customize an airsoft rifle eventually, but it is best to first determine if (A) you like the sport enough to continue (B) see more of what is available on the market ( C ) discover what you prefer in an airsoft rifle. 

WIth that in mind, dive into our blog, our YouTube Channel and our website to learn more!