What Is an Airsoft Gun?

Airsoft is a tactical sport where players use an airsoft gun to tag opponents with plastic pellets. Its concept resembles paintball, except airsoft typically uses full-scale replicas of real firearms that usually feature an orange safety tip to distinguish them from actual weapons. While airsoft guns are not authentic firearms, they can still cause injury when not used with the proper safety gear. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what airsoft guns are, why you would use an airsoft gun, and how to practice proper safety while wielding one.

What Is an Airsoft Gun Used For?

Airsoft guns are replica “toy” guns that fire small hard plastic pellets, or airsoft BBs, using some form of air or gas pressure or a spring. These pellets are contained in an airsoft magazine that resembles a magazine you’d load in a real gun. An airsoft gun is commonly used in competitive airsoft sports or for light target practice like plinking soda cans. They are even used in some military training applications to improve tactical skills in a safer manner. 

It is not recommended to use an airsoft gun for self-defense, as the pellets are designed only to sting the targets they hit. If you don’t own a firearm and are looking for self-defense products, check out our selection of less-lethal weapons to shop for more suitable protection.

Are Airsoft Guns Safe?

Airsoft guns are safe to use and are not designed to cause serious injury to others when proper safety precautions are followed. While labeled a toy, airsoft guns should still be treated as a weapon, meaning you should always follow the four rules of firearm safety when handling. While airsoft pellets won’t break skin when used properly, they can still cause serious damage to soft tissue like your eyes.

To ensure a safe airsoft experience, you should always wear eye protection around airsoft guns. While playing airsoft with others, DO NOT take off your safety glasses until you are in a certified safe zone or can confirm with all players that the round is over. I had a pellet miss my exposed eye by less than an inch because I took off my shooting glasses after a round was over, and an unaware player shot me, thinking the game was still active. Airsoft is only as safe as you and those around you; do not anticipate that everyone else will follow the proper safety rules.

Do Airsoft Guns Hurt?

Getting hit by an airsoft BB feels like a sharp, quick sting that fades away within seconds or a couple of minutes, depending on the distance, type of airsoft gun, and pellet size. A spring-loaded airsoft rifle and most electric and CO2 airsoft guns can fire much faster than a spring-loaded airsoft pistol, which would result in a sharper sting, but the pain should still fade away rather quickly. To mitigate pain, airsoft should be played with proper clothing and safety gear that covers exposed skin, including apparel like goggles, helmets, vests, tactical pants, gloves, and long-sleeve shirts.

What Is Better: Airsoft or Paintball?

It all comes down to personal preference, but I find airsoft to be a much more exciting sport than paintball. Airsoft takes place in a much larger field using realistic weapons, where tactics and strategy play a bigger role than mechanical skills. Paintball is much faster-paced, especially Speedball, which takes place in a small arena with inflatable obstacles. Paintball guns have a unique aiming element and require quick fingers to outshoot your opponent, while aiming with airsoft guns is similar to how you would aim with a real firearm. 

Paintball is more popular than airsoft, so it is usually easier to find events in your area. However, paintball guns and gear tend to cost much more than airsoft guns. Paintballs also hurt a lot more than airsoft BBs. I have been covered in welts from playing paintball but have never had lasting marks from airsoft. 

Are Airsoft Guns Legal?

In most states and jurisdictions, you can own and use an airsoft gun where permitted. Some jurisdictions, such as Arkansas and Chicago, have banned airsoft guns outright. Other areas may have specific guidelines you need to follow. Legislation constantly changes, so please check your local and state laws before purchasing. 

While these don’t apply to all states and cities, some other common rules and regulations regarding airsoft guns include:

• Airsoft guns must have an orange safety tip at least 6mm long to differentiate them from real firearms.
• Some states allow you to remove the tip, but you should never do so to ensure your airsoft gun is clearly identified as a replica.
• You must be 18 or older to purchase an airsoft gun.
• You cannot use or expose your airsoft gun in a public place.

Shop for Airsoft Guns & Accessories at OpticsPlanet

Looking to start your journey into the world of airsoft? Shop online with us today for great deals on airsoft guns and accessories, including spring-loaded rifles, gas blowback pistols, full-auto electric airsoft rifles, and accessories like airsoft BBs, replacement parts, and CO2 cartridges. Airsoft is an exciting activity that delivers a realistic tactical experience without the dangers real firearms present. However, it is important to practice firearm safety rules and wear the appropriate protective eyewear and safety equipment. Gear up at OpticsPlanet today to start your new airsoft adventures!