What Is Airsoft? The Beginners Guide To The Game Of Airsoft by Nerode Abraham

A lot of people out there are curious about a game that is sweeping the world of extreme sports. Its a game of chance and adventure. Its a game where you can be a spy or special agent. Heck, you can even be an army or navy commando. If its a taste for combat without the blood, then Airsoft is the extreme sport for you. But there are a lot of people out there who don't know what the game of airsoft is. Weel, if you've ever wondered what airsoft is, here's a brief look into one of the most poular games in the world.

Introduction to Airsoft

You lead a normal every day routine, but in your wildest dreams you are a member of a SWAT team, a green beret or a navy SEAL armed with all the necessary weaponry. Airsoft gives you the opportunity to role play these dreams by taking part in competitive combat with your friends and fellow team mates.

So if you go down to the woods today ...

What is Airsoft?

It all began in the early 1980s in Japan. At this time, the ownership of firearms was illegal but due to a significant interest, a company started manufacturing replica weapons which were spring powered and fired plastic pellets (known as BBs) propelled from the guns by compressed air. This outdoor sport quickly spread to neighboring countries and throughout the 1990s, the game appeared in Europe and North America. It is now a thriving modern combat sport attracting players from all walks of life.

The Game Itself

Some compare the airsoft game to paintballing but airsoft is a much more military style game creating a feeling of excitement, action and suspense. The aim is to eliminate your opponents by shooting at them using replica firearms and tactical accessories. There are different types of firearms for the individual roles played. Once you are hit (which at worst feels like a sharp nip), you should shout hit, and leave the combat area with your hand raised. As there is no residue mark left by the pellets, the game relies on honesty and should you be found to be cheating, you will eventually be escorted from the site.

The Equipment

In order to partake in the sport of airsoft you will need some standard items of equipment such as a gun and ammunition. Most airsoft guns are powered by compressed air, spring, gas, or electricity. The AEG (Air Electric Gun) being the most popular version comes with rechargeable batteries to power the air pump. The gun fires plastic pellets weighing from 0.12g to 0.43g. Depending on which site you use for your airsoft game, you may or may not be allowed to use grenades and smoke as additional tactical gear. The wearing of eye protection is mandatory and items such as hard lens goggles or glasses have set down standards and use of anything less just will not be tolerated. Although being hit on the body causes little or no discomfort, taking a hit in the eye or area can result in quite serious injury. It is also advisable to protect the mouth as teeth can easily be chipped by the pellets when hit in this area. When taking part in the game, you should wear army style camouflage clothing, head wear, gloves, and suitable footwear. You should also carry spare socks, a compass and a wrist watch. Although it cannot be used in the game-play, its a good idea to have a combat knife as part of your survival kit. These type of knives are useful as they have lots of different tools attached, all of which fold neatly away for safe carrying.

Digging a Little Deeper

You can check out where you can play airsoft in your area by using the local phone book or searching on the internet. You can also visit airsoft forums for the latest buzz and techniques in the airsoft community.
So ... if after learning just a little about the airsoft game, you are interested in living out your fantasy, go ahead, get started and enjoy!

Author Resource: Nerode Abraham is an airsoft enthusiast, and has done extensive research on the game of airsoft. You can find out more and purchase airsoft gear including Airsoft Pistols at Nerodes Website.

MOST READ ARTICLES