What is Airsoft: A Beginner’s Guide

Seen from outside, airsoft may look a bit weird, especially if you’re not the kind of guy or gal who likes mil-sim scenarios. However, you don’t have to be a war and guns aficionado to learn to appreciate this game and even enjoy it.

In fact, the activity has a lot to offer, and most people who try it once want to repeat the experience. So, if you’re looking for a new hobby that has nothing to do with crowded locations and loud music, let us tell you a bit about why you should try airsoft. 

Photo Credit

 

What Exactly is Airsoft?

Some join in for the cool guns, some just want to pretend-shoot someone else, while other people simply want to be part of a team. The truth is that only a few beginners grasp the complexity and coolness of this activity.

Airsoft is a military simulation game that allows players to use replicas of real-steel weapons that shoot 6mm BBs (plastic pellets) and can be played indoors and outdoors. There are a wide variety of game scenarios to explore and teams can always improve on existing scenarios or create new ones from scratch.

While it’s not officially recognized, airsoft is a sportive activity that can get quite intense. As such, players have the possibility to be physically active and develop their resistance to the effort (some games can last for hours on end).

In addition, because players use firearms replicas and real tactical gear, the experience is intense and as close to a real battlefield as possible.

 

The Coolness Factor

If you want to get into airsoft because you think it will make you look cool, you’re totally right!

For many people, shooting an airsoft gun is the closest they’ll ever get to a real weapon (unless you want to pick up hunting as a hobby). And this is why it’s gotten so popular! The guns are incredibly cool and anyone can find something to fit their desires.

You can choose between a wide range of airsoft pistols, rifles, sniper rifles. Even more, the accessories are amazing and quite affordable, with a vast array of selection, similar to that of Boberg-Arms. Lastly, players use tactical gear such as protective headgear, camouflage equipment, tactical boots and vests, tactical belts, and more. 

 

Quick Guide to Airsoft Weapons

The first experience is important in airsoft, and the main difference is made by the type of gun you use. However, no matter your choices, taking a shooting proficiency test to see where you stand is always a good idea. It will also narrow down your options when choosing a gun.

Most beginners know there are three main types of airsoft weapons: AEGs (powered by battery), gas-powered, and spring-powered. AEGs are quite fun and can shoot in semi and automatic modes, gas-powered designs are among the most powerful and get as close to reality as possible, and spring-powered designs are reliable and durable.

As a beginner, you should start with a basic spring-powered airsoft rifle that can be upgraded in terms of power (FPS) and accessories. This type of weapon lets you work on aim, reaction speed, and hand-eye coordination. It also prepares you for the next step, which is using AEGs.

Experienced players who want a very realistic experience will go for gas-powered airsoft rifles and pistols (especially if they have blowback action). But as a beginner, it’s best to go with less powerful designs. 

 

Overall, airsoft can be an incredibly fun activity that lets you enjoy physical exercise and lets you create new friendships. It’s also perfect for training various leadership and teamwork skills, which is why many corporations use it for team-building exercises. So, don’t be afraid to try it, even if you didn’t have a pleasant first experience!

markmunroe
Mark Munroe is the Creator and EIC of ADDICTED. He's ADDICTED to great travel, amazing food, better grooming & probably a whole lot more!
markmunroe
markmunroe