FAQs About Airsoft

If you are unfamiliar with the sport of airsoft, you may have questions about the game and its rules. Learn more about this popular and exciting sport in this introduction to airsoft that includes frequently asked questions and their answers.

Q: What is airsoft?

A: Airsoft is a military simulation game in which players participate in mock combat simulations using mock weapons and tactics. Guns used in this sport are modeled on real military weapons, but use a 6mm spherical projectile that is made of plastic. Airsoft refers to replica weapons that were made into air guns in Japans. The guns do not have the same power as traditional air guns, yet they are nearly exact replicas of military weapons. Although they are intended solely for recreation, airsoft guns are highly accurate shooters.

Q: What types of guns are used in airsoft?

A: There are three different types of airsoft weapons: spring powered, electric powered and gas powered. Spring powered weapons are single-shot guns that rely on the kinetic energy of a spring to drive a plastic projectile down the weapon's barrel. Gas powered guns include semi-automatic and fully automatic versions that utilize pressurized gas to shoot projectiles. Electric powered weapons depend on a bank of batteries to shoot projectiles by way of an electric motor that drives a piston and spring assembly. Electric weapons also include both semi-automatic and fully automatic models.

Q: How did airsoft guns originate?

A: Airsoft guns were originally designed by an American BB manufacturer as a new type of BB gun. The intent of the original application was purely recreational, without any hunting purpose. The gun is perfect for recreation in that it shoots only soft plastic projectiles that cause far less impact. While the guns are often exceptionally accurate, they are solely designed for fun and result in virtually no damage.