| Airsoft? |
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Airsoft is a recreational military like game and a collector's hobby in many aspects like paintball.
Many Airsoft guns produced today are highly detailed replicas of authentic firearms. However, an Airsoft gun employs the use of electric, spring, or gas power to shoot 6mm or 8mm plastic like bb's. Many of the electric and gas powered guns are automatic allowing the shooter to shot at high rates of fire.
Most Airsoft rifles available today have an effective range of up to 200 feet. The bb's used in Airsoft games usually weigh only 0.20 - 0.28 gram. Due to the fact of the bb’s small size and weight the Airsoft bb’s do not hurt nearly as much as paintballs. Unlike paintballs the Airsoft bb's do not leave a mark so calling yourself out of the game is on the honor system.
Similar to paintball, Airsoft players compete in mock combat but with much more attention to theatrics and role playing. Airsoft players focus on the fantasy aspect of the game as opposed to the purely competitive sport of paintball. Effectively, Airsoft players like to 'play army' in a safe and friendly environment.
On the other hand Airsoft is in no way 'militant' except for the looks of the guns and gear. Realistic looking guns and uniforms add to the gaming experience. Just as with video games or war movies, players enjoy the thrill of mock combat to challenging their teamwork and field craft skills. In addition, playing Airsoft is great way to exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and camaraderie with fellow players.
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| Gear Needed to Play |
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There are a few basic items needed to attend Airsoft games and events:
Airsoft Gun
Safety Gear
Uniform
Airsoft Gun:
You may use any type of Airsoft gun as long as it does not exceed the games velocity limit. Many games played today have limits on the velocity of the bb to insure fair play between teams.
Safety Gear:
Paintball-approved goggles with paintball mask are suggested for Airsoft games and events. This insures that the players face is fully protected during play and in some cases are required to play.
In other instances the player can use goggles, tactical glasses, military dust goggles, JT, Scott, paintball-approved goggles or other type of sealed eye protection that will not allow the bb to enter around the eye. Thermal lenses are a must or your goggles will fog up during play. Insure that you have the correct eye protection approved by the event coordinators that you are participating in.
Uniform:
In many instances the events require a set of military pattern pants and shirt. (aka BDU's or Battle Dress Uniform.)
Most games require certain patterns. Woodland is the most common but most players have more than one set of uniforms allowing them the ability to pick teams.
Boots are optional, but highly encouraged as it will help prevent you from spraining an ankle during the event. A pair of good boots is a wise investment for their longevity and comfort on the field.
Some events will allow civilian wear or in some instance what they call Contractor uniforms which are black shirts and khaki pants. Care should be taken to acquire the proper uniform for the event you are attending.
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