Airsoft Guns: An Introduction

Airsoft guns are considered replicas of real firearms but not all replicas are Airsoft guns. There are some replicas that don't have a firing mechanism while others, such as the Real Action Markers, may have a different mechanism and shoot non-Airsoft types of projectiles. This fact alone makes airsoft guns a great collector's item. Airsoft guns are classified according to their operating principle which can be either: spring, electric, or gas-powered.

Airsoft is a combat game similar to paintball in which participants eliminate opponents by hitting them with 6 mm (or occasionally 8 mm) plastic BBs launched from airsoft guns. An airsoft player is shooting from behind cover wearing goggles that fully seal the area around the eyes and a balaclava to protect the face. The sport of Airsoft started in Japan during the early 1980s. Airsoft has been popular in Asia for a long time, and there is now a growing interest in airsoft weapons and events in North America and Europe. Airsoft started appearing in North America and Europe during the middle of the 1990's. Airsoft is a very popular sport these days.

Airsoft game scenarios can vary widely according to mission type, number of teams, number of players per team, the objective of the game, victory conditions, and game durations. Airsoft games can be run by the players themselves using agreed upon rules. Airsoft guns are most commonly powered by one of three sources: gas, air, or mechanical boxes that use motors to pull back and release a spring piston. Airsoft guns are NOT toys and are not intended or designed for children. Airsoft guns are to be purchased and used by adults 18 years of age or older.
Airsoft guns are used all over the world for target shooting, firearms training instructors, class III-weapons enthusiasts, motion-picture studios, and most commonly, for tactical and military simulation war games. Airsoft guns are ideal for tactical training. Airsoft guns are remarkably accurate for smooth-bore guns.