Airsoft

For the guns, see Airsoft gun.

Four airsoft players lay down fire on an objective that they plan to attack.

Airsoft is a hobby/sport/discipline, wherein replica firearms (pistols, assault and sniper rifles, etc.) that shoot 6mm plastic rounds, are used for personal collection, gaming (similar to Paintball), or professional training purposes (Military Simulations and Police training exercises). The difference between airsoft firearms and BB guns is that the former uses plastic bullets and have muzzle velocities that fire less than 1000 feet per second (FPS) on average, which is generally considered safe/non-lethal when used in a controlled environment. BB guns (ex: Red Ryder BB Gun) utilize metal ammunition and shoots at velocities over 1000 FPS, making it less suitable for gaming and training purposes.

Airsoft games vary greatly in style and composition depending on location, budget, and the quantity of participants but often range from short-term skirmishes and organized scenarios to military simulations and historical reenactments.

Combat situations on the battlefield often involve the use of common military tactics to achieve the objectives set in each game. Participants typically use varying types of non-lethal weaponry designed as replicas of real firearms, tactical gear, and accessories used by modern military and police organizations.

History

In the 1980s, Japan made it illegal to own a firearm, though there was a large interest in them. Because of this interest, manufacturers started to produce spring-powered guns that appear real. These guns fired several calibers of plastic or rubber BBs, but were eventually standardized into 6 mm and 8 mm sizes. The early spring powered weapons then morphed into gas and battery powered ones, using a variety of systems. The hobby then migrated to North America in the mid 1990s. This is due in large part to the addition of many new AEG (Automatic Electric Gun) manufacturers in Japan, China, Taiwan, as well as many others.

Airsoft has also been adopted for training purposes for both military and police units (more often police units). Systema produces guns specifically designed for this purpose and are a 1:1 scale, in every aspect, of their real steel counterparts.

Methods of play

MilSim

An airsoft/MILSIM player operating in a sniper role and wearing a ghillie suit as camouflage.

Airsoft players at a World War II re-enactment. The player is holding a SIG 552 styled rifle.

Private vehicles representing an armoured personnel carrier.

"MilSim", short for Military Simulation, generally combines airsoft play with some military live-action role-playing elements. This type of play may be considered "hard core" by many players because of the heightened amount of involvement required. Several goals or missions may be assigned to each team, along with a basic load-out (i.e., supply) of ammunition, rations, explosives, and radios.

A key element in MilSim games is the use of low-capacity magazines, replicating the actual magazine capacity of the authentic firearm the airsoft gun is replicating. Examples of these include the 30 round STANAG magazines of the M4, M16, Type 89, SCAR-L and several others.

Teams will remain in the field for the duration of play, only returning to a staging area or "safe zone" for medical emergencies and for other special circumstances. Military simulation games often last several days. For example, the large Berget annual event in Sweden lasts for six days with no breaks. In large scale MilSim operations, players often use vehicles such as painted vans and trucks. In some cases, such as Operation Irene (an annual MilSim held in the midwest U.S.), real APCs and tanks are used . Such large scale events can take place in MOUT (Military Operations in Urban Terrain) facilities.

True MilSim requires players to adhere to an agreed level of uniform authenticity and to play as part of a team.

Open Days

The more common form of Airsoft game is Open days or skirmishes. These days are considerably less strict on what the players can use and sides tend to be nominally identified by colored armbands or other markings, such as tags. Occasionally, teams may use specific uniforms on either side, but usually players dress in a variety of military or paramilitary clothing.

Skirmishes are often structured as multiple short to mid length games containing various different scenarios, including capture the flag style games, deathmatches or simplified CQB games and many others. Other skirmishes can run for the entirety of the game day, playing out like a much shorter MilSim Event, including full game plans with objectives, from anything as simple as capturing a certain location, to something as complex as collecting parts of a bomb from around the Skirmish Site, assembling them, and then planting the bomb in the enemy forces base.

Airsoft games are not limited to MilSim or "skirmish" modes. There is great versatility and flexibility in play styles.

Honor system

Airsoft play employs an honor system whereby the players rely on each others' honesty to admit to being hit, because unlike paintballs, airsoft pellets do not leave visible marks on clothing.

The effect of a marking bb on the honor system is an addition to the game but does not remove "honor" from the game as it still remains with the player to choose whether or not to call his or her hits. Instead, it simply allows for verification when the need arises. For instance, depending on the muzzle velocity of the gun and distance from the shooter, the targeted player may not feel the impact.

Players are discouraged from calling out hits on an opponent - instead players are expected to signal a marshal to judge how effectively they have hit their opponent. Simulated 'knife kills' can, at the venue's discretion, be recognized when a player touches or taps an unaware opponent. This prevents the player being forced to shoot him or her at point-blank range. Similarly, a 'courtesy kill' occurs when a player refrains from shooting an opponent at close range while enforcing that opponent's surrender, instead of risking injury. Players are usually prohibited from firing blindly when not able to see their target, especially around corners. In some instances, players don't call out hits they have sustained as a result of this "blind fire". Players are expected to avoid the shooting of an opponent who has already admitted to being hit. Harsh language and forceful physical contact between players is strongly discouraged and even penalized. Players are expected to resolve disputes politely and with proper decorum.

All airsoft players are expected to acknowledge being hit, even if they are in doubt, by shouting "I'm hit" loudly, and raising their hand or gun high and/or displaying a 'hit indicator' while walking back to the safe zone. Paintball style "speedball" games may include the aforementioned hit markers. A hit indicator can be either a bright-colored cloth during daytime or a blinker or mini-flashlight when in dim light or darkness.

Teams

There are many organized teams, of varying sizes, in various countries. Some prominent teams have 50 or more players, and are able to send delegations to regional or national events. In the Philippines, there are many amorphous groups of airsoft players loosely organized into "teams" of varying sizes. There have been attempts to create large nationwide organizations of airsofters but these have neither succeeded nor persisted in the past, although regional organizations have been able to sustain a significant membership.

Ballistics and speed

Further information: Airsoft pellets § Pellet ballistics, and Airsoft pellet ballistics

Airsoft player shooting from behind cover wearing goggles that fully seal the area around the eyes and a Balaclava to protect the face.

Kinetic energy is the energy that is transferred from the pellet to its target upon impact. One joule of energy will be transferred by a 0.20 g BB travelling at 100 metres per second (330 ft/s). A typical set of limits on guns might be 100 m/s (330 ft/s) for CQB, 125 m/s (410 ft/s) for outdoors, and 175 m/s (570 ft/s) for bolt action sniper rifles, all measured with a 0.20 g BB. The amount of kinetic energy depends on the weight of the BB and how fast the gun can propel it. Certain places play "no velocity limit" games.

In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the energy limit for Airsoft guns is usually one joule (100 m/s with a 0.20 g, 6 mm BB) regardless of the type of game play. See response from UKASGB. Some UK sites allow semi-automatic only weapons up to 400FPS, and Bolt Action Rifles up to 500FPS. Northern Ireland has a maximum velocity of 328FPS with 0.2gram bb irrespective of weapon.

Most Airsoft guns are capable of shooting from 50 m/s (160 ft/s) to 125 m/s (410 ft/s), though it is also possible to purchase upgraded internals for some Airsoft guns that will enable up to 180 m/s (590 ft/s) projectile velocities.

A hop-up unit, if present, puts backspin on the BB, generating lift and giving it a greater effective range. The range of any Airsoft gun depends on both the muzzle velocity and the amount of hop applied. Airsoft guns can have a range of 75 metres (246 ft) or more with the right combination of power, barrel, and ammunition as well as a good hop-up unit. A good hop-up unit can sometimes double the range.

Safety

Main article: Toy and sport gun safety

Eye and face protection

Players in the 'safe zone' between games.

The minimum safe level of gear required to participate in most games includes a pair of impact-rated goggles or shooting glasses to protect participants' eyes. Traditional prescription glasses and sunglasses, or goggles not designed specifically for use with airsoft or paintball guns may break or shatter upon being struck, causing damage to the eye.

Many airsoft groups and fields require that eye protection fully seals the area around the eyes, and also meets or exceeds ANSI's Z87.1-2003 goggle standard for eye protection, namely, the ability to absorb 3 joules of impact energy without damage. Some players instead opt for paintball goggles, which are held to a higher impact rating standard, ASTM's F1776.

The best overall protection is offered by paintball masks. These masks protect the face, teeth, and ears. Some airsoft masks are made with mesh screens, though there is debate that fragments from lower quality or bio-degradable BBs may pass through the mesh and enter the eye, although there have been no recorded incidents of such an occurrence. While masks offer superior protection, they can interfere with the use of scopes and in cheaper masks, condensation inside the goggles can reduce visibility. During very hot days the masks can also cause the player to overheat quicker due to the lack of air getting to the head.

Unprotected players or bystanders

At most airsoft sites, any player or observer is required to keep their face mask, goggles, or shooting glasses on at all times. All players must immediately stop shooting when a person without eye protection is encountered in the playing area. One common practice is for players to shout words such as "Cease-fire, Blind Man!" Any player hearing the words must stop and repeat the alarm, alerting the whole game. If a player is hit and is wearing their death rag so that they can go to the respawn point and spawn, he will often say "Dead man walking!". This indicates to the opposing team that the person is not a threat. Even removing a mask or goggles for a brief time to clean off fog or for any other reason is not advised. If you must do this, either go to a no-fire zone or call yourself out and clean them off after leaving the combat area.

Community safety precautions

Airsoft replica of a H&K G36C. Note that this replica is not in use on a field, and therefore has the magazine removed, the chamber cleared, and has a barrel bag placed over the muzzle.

Other rules such as a maximum BB velocity and engagement distance guidelines are used by different groups. Some organizations have created common safety rules and guidelines.

When not actively playing, some fields require "barrel bags," also known as barrel stoppers, which were first introduced in paintball. The magazine is usually removed as well, and the gun fired to clear the chamber. Most fields also require players to leave their guns set to the safety position when they are not shooting, a practice common when using real firearms. In certain countries, such as the Philippines, additional special rules have been adopted.

All "real steel" firearms, explosives, and bladed weapons are banned at any airsoft battlefield to prevent harmful accidents or confusion between real and simulated weapons. Players are expected to be discreet in transporting their gear and uniforms so as not to alarm the public or police. Pyrotechnic devices may be allowed, but are rarely employed, because of the added danger. When they are allowed there are usually legal limits on the effect of the device, e.g. amount of smoke, volume of sound or brightness of flash.

Legal issues

Main article: Legal issues in airsoft

Classic Army M15A4 Automatic Electric Gun.

Airsoft guns and playing airsoft is legal in most parts of the world. Some countries have specific restrictions such as maximum muzzle velocity and 'unrealistic' coloring to distinguish them from actual firearms. They are legal throughout the U.S, but restrictions exist in certain cities such as Camden, Newark, NJ, Chicago, IL, Detroit, MI, and Colorado Springs, CO. The states of New Jersey and Michigan, however, do not allow airsoft guns to be used and handled publicly, because of the resemblance to real firearms. Federal law categorizes airsoft guns as toys and for importation into the United States the muzzle must be painted safety orange.

In the United Kingdom, airsoft replicas are classified as realistic imitation firearms or RIFs. The sale, manufacture or importation of RIFs are restricted to activities that are exempted or have been granted a defense by the Home Office under the Violent Criminal Reduction Act. Airsoft has been granted a defense, and a skirmisher as defined under British law is allowed to purchase, manufacture or import airsoft replicas. Usually, the only accepted method of proving entitlement is to be a member of a site that holds public liability insurance. A scheme set up by UK retailers, called UKARA, recommends that an airsoft site only give membership to a player who has played at least three games over a period of no less than two months. It is also possible to purchase Airsoft replicas with a Reenactors license. The right to buy a RIF is still reserved to over 18's. Many retailers will only sell airsoft replicas to UKARA registered players. Other schemes have been set up to allow Airsoft players to comply with the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 such as the The Assosciation of British Airsoft (AOBA) Also, the use or possession of any kind of replica weapon, loaded or otherwise in a public place is an offense under UK law and can carry heavy penalties.

Some airsoft players inform local police where and when airsoft games will take place, so that misunderstandings can be avoided.

Due to a steady entry of lower-cost airsoft guns from abroad, the Philippine National Police issued in December 2007 its Circular 11 (Airsoft Implementing Rules and Regulations), regulating the ownership of airsoft guns by Filipino citizens. Only airsoft guns with a muzzle velocity of 550 feet (170 m) per second (ft/s) or less using 0.2-g BBs can be registered. The PNP AIRR also regulates the operation of airsoft playing fields, teams, and the standardized rules and codes of conduct among airsoft players.

Orange-tipped airsoft gun muzzles

American federal laws require minimum 6 mm (approx. 1/4") orange tips to be present on all "toy guns" (including airsoft replicas) transported within and imported into the United States.

However, these orange tips can be easily covered or painted over. One prominent case occurred in Longwood, Florida when a student threatened fellow classmates with an airsoft pistol and was subsequently shot and killed when he aimed it towards an officer. The orange tip mandated by US Federal law had been painted black. Airsoft players may paint over the orange tip on their guns because it makes them more discreet at a distance when they play. According to the New Times Broward-Palm Beach, However, despite the lack of federal penalties for consumers who remove the required orange tips, some states (such as California) have enacted state legislation that does impose criminal penalties for the removal of any required markings.

Airsoft guns

Main article: Airsoft gun

An example of a gas blowback airsoft pistol, in this case a replica of a SIG-Sauer P226

The guns used in airsoft are typically replicas of real firearms, except that they have a mechanism for pushing out projectiles 6 mm or 8 mm in diameter.

Airsoft guns are classified according to their operating principle which can be spring, electric, or gas-powered. An airsoft gun is selected according to the level of performance (battery life, range, rate of fire, accuracy, reliability, customization, magazine capacity, size, and weight) or realism the player requires. Early-generation airsoft guns were mostly "springers." Single action airsoft guns fire only a single bb before having to be manually re-cocked for the next shot. Second-generation airsoft guns had gas-powered mechanisms that required either an internal "Flon" (CFC) gas reservoir or an external high-pressure CO2 chamber. AEGs (Automatic Electric Guns) are now the most commonly used. AEGs have high-capacity rechargeable batteries used to operate gearboxes that displace air and propel the BBs. However, gas powered long guns are becoming increasingly popular, as the increased realism of these guns are now more accessible due to their increasing quality.

Most airsoft pistols which are gas-powered use environmentally safe "green gas". Green gas is propane gas with small amounts of perfume and silicon lubricant that produces a realistic blowback recoil effect when fired. Recently Airsoft manufacturers have begun producing propane adapters that screw directly onto camping grade propane tanks, allowing players to power their gas guns on pure propane, as a cheaper alternative to "green gas". Each pistol magazine contains a small storage gas cylinder with enough power to propel the 30+ BB projectiles also housed in the magazine. Thus a player can realistically load, fire, and unload an airsoft pistol in a similar manner as compared to a "real steel" semi-automatic pistol. A few early-production AEPs (Airsoft Electric Pistols) have been released but these suffer from weaker BB velocities because of the difficulty of fitting a small-enough motor in the housing of a pistol, although the range is sometimes greater than a gas pistol. AEP's often have a higher rate of fire than their gas counterparts.

Most early airsoft guns were completely made of ABS plastic except for some internal moving parts. Newer guns, especially those made in Taiwan and China, have metal internal and external parts. Japan has specific rules about producing airsoft replicas with metal parts. A typical airsoft gun is noticeably lighter than its "real steel" counterpart due to the use of aluminium, alloy, and plastic, though some have weights in them for a more realistic feel. Smoke caps are available for certain airsoft guns to add realism.

Gas hand gun magazines are usually 10-20 in a standard capacity magazine, however some are hi cap magazines which have a winder and can hold 50 rounds or more. In the case of AEG rifles magazines come in either real-capacity (equivalent to the capacity of its real steel counterpart), low-capacity (low caps: 30-80 BBs), mid-capacity (mid caps: 80-150 BBs), or high-capacity (high caps: 200-500+ BBs). These magazines are spring loaded; the high-cap magazines often have a ratchet wheel that can be wound up periodically to force BBs up from the holding chamber of the magazine to the feed chute, due to loose BBs in the reservoir they often make a rattling noise when running or walking. Some airsoft guns have an electric-powered box or drum magazines that hold thousands of BBs (up to 5000).

Grenades and launchers

Players can use grenades, grenade launchers, smoke grenades, mines, and replica claymores that use little or no explosives (pyrotechnics). Most of these "pyro" devices are powered by compressed gas. Like many aspects of airsoft, each item is designed as a playful analogy to the real thing, and often lacks the violence of such. Hand grenades are not as common as grenade launchers which launch a large shower of pellets, NERF or foam slug rounds using compressed gas. Some players purchase heavier support weapons such as replicas of the Heckler & Koch 69 40mm grenade launcher, or a replica of the Milkor MGL, which can hold up to 6 40mm gas powered pellet grenades (some grenades are able to fire over 300 pellets in a single shot), and shoot them in a semi-automatic mode. Some mines only produce a mushroom cloud when activated without actually firing any pellets. The airsoft claymore mine is more expensive (around $150) but popular. Anti-tank weapons exist, but they are not common due to their weight and greater expense. Another type of launcher that is often home made is the Works Cannon or the Dry Ice Cannon. These are often used shooting Nerf rockets as grenades the are also Thermobaric grenades .

Airsoft projectiles

Main article: Airsoft pellets

6mm plastic BBs (0.12 g). A sample of inexpensive BBs. Note visible seams.

Most airsoft guns fire spherical plastic pellets ranging from 0.12 to 0.88 grams in weight, though the most popular weights for AEGs are between .20 and .28 grams. Heavier rounds (.30-.48 grams) are typically used for long range and sniper use, as they are more stable in flight and less easily deflected by wind, so are more accurate. They usually come in packages of: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 and even as high as 30000.

To increase range most airsoft weapons are fitted with 'hop-up' systems which cause BBs to fly level, and straighter for a longer period. The hop-up effect is caused by back spin on the BB, which minimizes the drop experienced by the BB, and increases the flying distance, by increasing its lift according to the Bernoulli principle.

Pellets are typically 6 mm in diameter, though 8 mm varieties exist for specialty guns and there are RARE 10mm too. Pellet quality is important, as malformed ones can damage the Airsofts guns parts. Malformed, soiled, or low-grade pellets with seams can also be much more inaccurate - even a small deformity will throw the pellet off course.

Paintball pellets are also available for airsoft guns but are unpopular due to the incompatibility with hop up systems as well as the damage they can cause when a pellet bursts inside a gun. Paintball rounds allow hits to be objectively verified, these pellets leave a clear paint mark on the player showing that they have indeed been hit.

Most airsoft pellets are made of plastic but biodegradable airsoft pellets are also available. Commercial fields usually only allow biodegradable pellets to avoid the buildup of plastic pellets littered across their field, it also has less of an impact on the environment because regular pellets take too long to break down when biodegradable pellets only take from four months to two years depending on the conditions and brand.

Clothing

See also: Military camouflage

Most players, especially those participating in MilSims, wear military clothing consisting of various forms of camouflage. Some players will go as far as to use a ghillie suit, which breaks up the human outline by having sticks, leaves, and similar items in the fabric/netting, as well as its own camouflage leafing material all over it. Aside from the advantage of camouflage, some participants aim to faithfully replicate a specific combat unit such as the SAS, Spetsnaz, or police, particularly in games such as MilSim.

In some countries, such as the Philippines, airsofters are not legally able to wear official uniforms. In Sweden, for example, it is illegal to wear both rank insignia and Swedish flags on civilian uniforms at the same time. It has become popular among civilians and airsoft players to wear only the upper garment or the pants, but not both.

When not wearing full paintball-type face masks, many players wear neck armor such as a balaclava, scarves and Shemaghs, and military-style helmets. Players generally wear combat or hiking boots (not just ordinary athletic shoes) for safety in harsh terrain. They also wear padded gloves, elbow pads, knee pads (not to protect the body from pain of getting hit by pellets, but to prevent pain and injury from performing physical actions, such as crawling and kneeling) and protective vests for additional protection, realism, and for conventional reasons such as holding magazines of ammo.

In some cases, rules are adopted that allow only casual clothes in an effort to encourage realism because players will more actively avoid being hit.

Tactical Equipment

Players wear tactical clothing and accessories for the added realism and for the practical needs similar to that of a real soldier. The most common are holsters for side arms, load bearing vests, and modular rigs. Many players also use a hydration system. Equipment for real world soldiers is also often used in airsoft games, such as reflex sights, red-dot scopes, flashlights, picatinny rails, weaver rails, and mock silencers. Mock silencers are mainly used for barrel extension, as it is illegal in the U.S. for a mock silencer to have any sound suppressing capabilities.

Many Mil-Sim players choose to wear real equipment (not an airsoft replica) and in some cases, real ballistic protective armor - this can raise the price of the game considerably.

Companys and guns

There are many companys that produce gun. The most notable is Tokyo Marui or TM, their guns are plastic( because of japansese law) and fire at about 280fps(japanese law) But they come with the gun and a hicap magazine NOTE: THERE IS NO BATTERY IN MOST COMPANYS These guns have 100s of styles and range from $50-$600 but these guns are also the father of airsoft and all companys make thier gun TOKYO MARUI compatable, Classic Army has metal bodys and are around 250-700 dollars with out a battery. Echo 1 has some metal bodyies and makes almost all guns from Aks, Mp5s, SAWS, M4s, M14s, and 6 barrled Miniguns their guns range from 120(mp5) to 3,500 (minigun)These are the most popular but there are others such as CYMA, G&G, G&P, ICS, SYSTEMA, CELIUS, TOP, STAR/ARES, J&G and these: (Most companies have websites Tokyo marui only has one in Japanese) Airsoft Surgeon: Sells external and internal modifications for airsoft weapons

ACTION: Hong Kong Based company, manufacturer of many airsoft accessories including but not limited to complete gearboxes, optics, rail systems and a manufacturer of high end full metal guns, namely AK-47 variants.

ActionSportGames A/S Danish based company specialized in worldwide excklusive licensing agreements authorized by famous original firearms and accessories manufactures to replicate their firearms, components and accessories into realistic 1/1 scale replicas.

Classic Army: A Hong Kong company that is often seen to rival Tokyo Marui. Manufactures high-end AEGs featuring all metal bodies, which Tokyo Marui do not have. However, hardly any of their replicas have authentic markings. Moreover, they are now considered to be made of lower quality parts - oftentimes leading to unreliability.

Echo 1 USA: Echo 1 is a US-Based rebrander of airsoft guns. They maintain higher quality control standards than the direct manufacturer and replace defective parts before shipping.

Escort: Highly realistic gas blowback rifles such as their M4 and MP5 series, usually hard to find and available mostly in Asia.

G&G (Guay Guay Gunshop)]: Specializes in internal and external upgrades and accessories. G&G manufactures high end guns as well as a mid-range "sportline". G&G is also the first high-end AEG manufacturer that created a line of airsoft guns for the Canadian airsoft market. These AEGs have a transparent part of the receiver which contains the serial number on the real steel firearm, which the Canada Border Service Agency deems acceptable for importation. Allot of misinformation has risen buy certain retailers labeling these "Canadian Legal" making one think all other airsoft guns without the transparent receiver as "illegal" when this is in fact wrong. It only holds value for importation but to the end user it means nothing and is just the same as a full-black airsoft gun.

G&P: A Hong Kong-based company that specializes in aftermarket upgrades and external accessories, they also make a variety of high quality AR-15 series AEGs along with M14 variants, support weapons such as the M249 LMG, and others such as their Gas-blowback Dragunov Sniper Rifle. Their AR-15 Series is viewed as one of the highest quality series of AEG on the market in terms of external details, though their earlier generations had less than flattering internal rumors.

Hudson: Produces high-end, theater quality, gas-operated airsoft guns; mostly World War II replicas.

Inokatsu: High-end manufacturer known for Full Metal M60 Machine guns, AK-series guns and bran new GBBR line, which are known for their high quality.

ICS (I Chih Shivan): Manufactures a wide range of replicas, such as the British SA-80 and Swiss Sig552. In addition they have also come out with the split gearbox design for their M4 series in which the upper gearbox (which includes the cylinder and spring assembly) disconnects from the lower gearbox (which houses the gear assembly) for easier repair and upgrades.

Deep Fire: Known for their Titanium pistons for AEG rifles, grenade launcher (M72A2 LAW), and distraction devices.

King Arms: A Hong Kong based manufacturer, best known for their variety of optics, scopes, and after market parts. King Arms also manufactures high end AEGs, including the FN FAL, numerous AR-15 variants, the Galil, and the Sig556. All of their AEGs, except for the AR-15s, feature electric blow back functions.

KSC: Located in Japan; specializing in handguns. Their gas blowback pistols are of high reliability and accuracy, having gained themselves a reputation for 'practical' skirmishing sidearms. KSC manufactures an HK33 AEG line that features manual cocking in the event of a dead battery however is quite hard to find and usually is only available in Asia and upgrade parts for it are very uncommon. Their popular Glock gas pistol series has recently been discontinued because of legal troubles from Glock.

KWA: One of the OEM manufacturers for KSC's Gas Blowback pistols, KWA AEGs are widely regarded as some of the best "stock" AEG's available capable of 400 ft/s (120 m/s) out of the box. KWA manufactures M16, and M4 variants as well as a G36c. Their AEGs are becoming popular for their strong internals and Li-Poly ready capabilities. KWA is also known for their high end Gas-Blowback pistols which provide high quality and reliability, although they are not compatible with Tokyo Marui Gas-Blowback parts.

Mad Bull Airsoft: Makers of a variety of Airsoft grenades, grenade launchers, tight-bore barrels, triggers, mines, BB, Tracer BB, handguard rails and famous for licensed accessories. They are also elected to be the most innovative company in 2007 and 2008.

Marushin: Known for their 8 mm BB-firing guns as well as their extremely realistic M1 Garand.

Maruzen: One of the very first airsoft companies, Maruzen is well known for its APS series of sniper rifles. The APS-2 and APS-2 Type 96 are among the most popular and best-selling airsoft sniper rifles on the market.

Olympic Arms: Manufactures ICS replicas with trademarks.

SOCOMGEAR: Brother company of MadBull. Famous for its Li-Po Battery, rifle and pistol lines. SOCOMGEAR manufactures a fully licensed Barett M82. They have also released customized 1911 GBB pistols, including the MEU, Novak NEXT, and Wilson Combat CQB Elite, all fully licensed. Socom Gear is also known for their extremely high quality RIS systems, which mostly are copies of Daniel Defense Rail Systems. Although copies, they are fully licensed by Daniel Defense, which means quality is true factor.

STAR: Specializes in more expensive, highly realistic, easy-to-disassemble airsoft guns, but they discourage beginners because of their complex internals. Also the designer of the new polycarbonate gearbox, used in STAR's L85 series, which is claimed to be more durable and reliable than a full metal gearbox.

ARES: A Hong Kong based manufacturer, Ares was an earlier subcontractor of STAR. Presently though, it is an independent, fast growing manufacturer making high quality replicas. Much of their product line is similar to that of STAR, however, they have become popular since the release of the Cheytac M200 replica, as well as the first Tavor TAR-21 AEG.

Sheriff: Full Metal custom pistols using Western Arms-based components as well as Maruzen-based bolt action rifles. Manufacturer of the discontinued Highlander Magnum.

Sunproject: Known for their M203s and gas blowback M16s.

Supercell Development, Inc.: Creators of the spring-powered airsoft claymore.

Systema Engineering: Specializes in high-end professional training weapons (PTWs) that are very close to the real steel, nearly indistinguishable between real or fake, as well as internal and external upgrades that are known for their high quality and durability. Systema makes six different PTWs: The M4 Carbine, M4A1, the M4A1 CQB, the M16A2, the M16A3 and the MP5. Their PTWs use color-coded cylinders that can be swaped quickly for ft/s change. The red cylinder is the strongest, allowing the gun shoot around 500 ft/s (150 m/s), and the black cylinder, the weakest, shoots at around 270 ft/s (82 m/s). Systema is also known for their "drop in Gearboxes" which are direct replacment gearboxes for your AEG, ranging from $200-$500USD.

Top Tech: Works very close with G&G producing rifles that are fitted with a blowback system that is not operated by gas, but by electricity and are modified to have the bolt and piston attached together so they move when the gun is being fired. Not available in many places since they have recently started production. These models can be found among many Canadian retailers with the transparent receivers. Upon introduction to the market they were found to be less than stellar and operated on a proprietary mechbox system with little aftermarket support.

Tanaka Works: Specializes in high-powered gas gun revolvers and rifles. Known for having high end gas shotguns and revolvers.

Tanio Koba: Produces high-end gas-powered pistols that are made in Japan.

Tokyo Marui: Most commonly renowned as the very pinnacle of airsoft technology, reliability, and durability. Created the first automatic electric gun (AEG) - the FAMAS F1 - and was responsible for the invention of the 'Hop Up' System (which, by means of an adjustable rubber pad in the barrel, creates a spin on the fired BB, greatly increasing range). Marui has manufactured a wide variety of AEGs, smaller AEPs (Automatic Electric Pistols), along with gas and spring powered weapons. They have also been responsible for other great advancements in airsoft. Tokyo Marui is the largest airsoft manufacturer worldwide, and is seen as the Airsoft "standard" for which nearly all after market products are tailored.

RealSword: A Hong Kong-based company manufacturing replicas of Chinese assault rifles, their guns are highly realistic and very close to the real steel; however, their guns aren't the best for beginners because of their high cost and gearboxes that are not Tokyo Mauri compatible.

TOP: Specializes with manufacturing light and heavy machine gun airsoft replicas.

Western Arms: Largely specializing on the 1911 .45 and its derivatives as well as Beretta, S&W and SV. High-end pistols without customization. They have also released a M4A1 that is gas powered with a blowback function.

VFC/GB TECH (Vega Force Company): Highly realistic replicas. So far the guns this company manufactures are the M60 series, HK416 series, the AK series, BARs, Squad Automatic Weapons (SAWs), SCAR series, and a few sniper rifles including the Barret M82.

Gamma: Known for their clone of the Supercell-developed airsoft claymore mine.

Unicorn: Chinese maker, primary products the AK-74 series, full steel and wood AEGs and conversion kits.

CYMA: Earlier models include the CM027 MP5J and CM028 AK47. Their release for 2006 includes the CM031 which is externally a CA SLR-105 clone but internally similar to its version of the AK47 with a different hop up chamber and inner barrel. Until the CM027, CYMA were known for making inexpensive and relatively low durability airsoft guns. Their latest model is the CM0121 which is a full auto Desert Eagle AEP. In 2008 CYMA launched a new range of full metal and wood AEGs and have improved their overall quality, reliability and performance. Some Cyma models are nearly equal manufactures of high-end AEGs. Among the more notable releases of CYMA are the M14, M1A1 Thompson and series of AK rifles with steel bodies and wooden furniture. Oddly enough, CYMA does not produce any AR variant clones.

WELL/WELLFIRE: A low-end airsoft manufacturer. Its gearbox and motor proved to be surprisingly durable although guns suffer from air compression problems. They later released the R7 or M4A1 with full stock and R8(G3 SAS) which surprised many with its robustness and accuracy. WELL is the first company to release the TM clone of MP7(R-4) and Vz.61 Skorpion(R-2).

Double Eagle (DE): The company that revolutionized LPEGs with its famous M83. Double Eagle has been proven to make exact copies of Tokyo Marui's weapons. Their version of the AK47 and Spetsnaz were met with lukewarm enthusiasm as most other Chinese companies were able to produce better performing AEGs. Their M50 spring rifle was quite popular and easily "upgradeable" to 400 ft/s (120 m/s) by simply wrapping the inner barrel and hop up chamber area with teflon tape to seal air leaks. In early 2007, Double Eagle released a version of M4 S-System (the M88) and G&G-based UMP (the M89). Their latest release is a copy of Tokyo Marui "tri-barrel" Benelli M3 shotgun.

Both Elephant (BE): BE's early releases (the XM8, Steyr AUG, G36K and SL8) were available in two variants each, with plastic and metal gearbox. Later releases include MP7 PDW, Howa Type 89 rifle (copied from Tokyo Marui design) and gas-driven shotguns available in both 6 mm and 8 mm caliber BBs. In late 2008, some of Both Elephant's products were introduced under the brand name "Tercel".

Jing Gong (JG, also known as Golden Bow): Manufactures good quality, low to mid priced airsoft guns. They usually have ABS bodies, but some are now made with metal. They are the prime choice for players with less experience because they require low amounts of maintenance. In 2008, JG released new and improved AEGs, most of the new 2008 upgrade version shoot well over 350 ft/s (110 m/s) with improved internals. Current new models are a full metal SVD, full metal and wood AK47s and the HK416 in 3 variants. JG models are almost equal to high-end AEG. JG is best known for cloning Tokyo Marui guns like the M4A1 and BAR 10 (VSR 10).

A&K: AEGs of A&K came into the market with big hits such as the M4 S-System with metal RIS (rail interface system) and have become great winners in a market saturated with Armalites. The S-System was followed by other rifles from the M16 family: M16A4, M4, M933 and M4A1 CQB, and an M249 clone was released in mid August 2007. The A&K M249 clone is far cheaper than the original CA Version; It retails in the United States for $300–400USD and retains nearly all of the high quality and features offered by the CA version, including the PGC 8 mm-bearing gearbox capable of quick swap springs. Their new releases for 2008 includes the M16A4, SPR MOD 1, SPR MOD 0, SR25, SR-25K and the LR300, all of whom retails up to and over $200. A&K's place as one of the best Chinese airsoft companies was further cemented in late 2008, when first photos of its M60 and MK-43 replicas were published in airsoft media. Most professional airsofters say it is better looking, durable and more reliable than Galaxy and AGM.

Kart/New Star: This low-end/economy-priced company, commonly linked to A&K, has débuted with releasing an M14 copy soon after the Tokyo Marui model appeared. Other models include the M14 SOCOM rifle, M40 and Steyr AUG (although the last one was discontinued due to poor build).

AGM: Entered the market with its surprising accurate and powerful springer rifle, the MP001 a.k.a. VSR (since it is a visual replica of the TM VSR10). Their MP007 (MP40) was an instant hit as an alternative to other expensive and fault-prone rifles; featured a Version 3 all-metal gearbox and reinforced gears and piston. They have recently released several metal-bodied M4s, including the HK416. In addition, they have recently released a line of Gas Blow Back rifles

BOYI/D-Boys: They gained their fame when they manufactured their first AR-15 line(BIM4). Their latest line is branded as KALASH, manufacturing AK-74s and AKS-74Us. Many of their MPEGs consist of many metal parts, and metal bodies most MPEGs do not have. Also, the majority of their internals are metal. They also made a cheap but fair quality World War II rifle the KAR98K which features ejecting shells.

RealSword: Although having offices in Hong Kong, RealSword is a Chinese-based company. Their releases, Type 56 and Type 97 rifle replicas, are built to real-steel dimensions, with gearboxes specially designed to fit the shape and dimensions of real gun. Contrary to most other Chinese manufacturers, RealSword maintains an official website for their products, complete with information about new releases. Realsword is known for the best AK-47 type rifle on the airsoft market.

Galaxy: Known for their PDWs (MP5K, MP5 PDW and MP7A1), Galaxy produces good-quality compact AEGs at an affordable price.

JLS: producer of the airsoft SCAR, two full-metal HK33 variants(copied from relatively obscure KSC hybrid AEG/springer design) and the first FN F2000 replica. Also the biggest producer of the "cheap" EBB's (Electric Blow Back) pistols, which have a high failure rate but one of best sellers for their fun.

BELL: Released a G3SG1 replica, which was unsuccessful for its low velocity and quality. Also the first Chinese manufacturer to release a quite good quality gas pistol replicas: a full-metal Beretta M9 model based on the semi-only version of HFC's M190 pistol, a M10 shell-loaded revolver and a Colt M1911 replica based on Tokyo Marui design, with full trademarks and unique serial numbers (available both in plastic and full-metal version).

Meister: A new company from Hong Kong and just entered airsoft market in 2007/2008. Their famous model is Glock 17(third version, with illuminated front and rear sights). Meister Glock 17 is an exact clone to Tokyo Marui Glock 17 but comes with metal slide (Tokyo Marui Glock 17 comes with ABS slide). Many airsoft professionals say that its parts are 99% similar to Tokyo Marui. Its parts are even exchangeable to Tokyo Marui. Many airsoft players buy Meister Glock 17 just to take its spare parts (especially for its metal slide or magazine) for their Tokyo Marui Glock 17. Many users also say that Meister Glock 17 is very sturdy and reliable. It can fall down nine feet to the ground, slide for fifteen feet on a concrete, and although its body suffers a lot of scratches, it can still be used without any problem. It have a good and constant performance (up to 320 fps with 0.2 gram BB and green gas), even if it already has been used for two years of intensive use. Meister Glock 17 bears a complete and well-made Glock marking. Meister Glock 17 also comes with two variants, black and two tone (polished metal slide and black ABS lower frame).

BB King: Manufacturer of airsoft bb bullets in China Mainland .It is the major BB making companies in China and is famous for offering high quality BBs with better price compared with the same industry companies.search by "'bbkingball'" is ok.

AIM: Manufactures ICS AEGs without the metal bodies.

HFC(Ho Feng Corporation): Manufacturer of spring and gas-powered guns; made famous for their semi-automatic HFC M190 gas blowback model, a replica of the Beretta 92FS with the addition of an RIS system.

ICS (I Chih Shivan): Manufactures M4 Carbines, MP5s and an AK-74M replica. In addition they have also come out with the split gearbox design for their M4 series in which the upper gearbox (which includes the cylinder and spring assembly) disconnects from the lower gearbox (which houses the gear assembly) for easier repair and upgrades.

KWC(Kien Well Corporation): Known for its CO2-powered Mini UZI, M16 gas rifles and spring-powered guns retaining fully licensed trademarks.

KJW(Kuan Ju Works):Manufacturer of high-powered metal-constructed replicas. Their most popular model is the replica Beretta 92FS pistol.

Mad Bull Airsoft: MadBull is based in Taiwan and USA. Makers of a variety of Airsoft grenades, grenade launchers, tight-bore barrels, triggers, mines, BB, Tracer BB, handguard rails and famous for licensed accessories. They are also elected to be the most innovative company in 2007 and 2008.

Modify: Specializes in designing and manufacturing internal airsoft upgrade parts.

TECHPRO: Specializes in manufacturing innovative parts to give AEGs more power.

SRC (Star Rainbow Company): Manufactures M-Series, G36 series, and AK-47 replicas including full metal versions that shoot over 400 feet per second (120 m/s). Also the original manufacturer of the XM8 and manufacturer of the HK416 in 3 barrel lengths.

WE Taiwan(Wei-E Tech): Fast growing manufacturer due to new line of Gas Blowback assalut rifles such as: M4A1 and FN SCAR. Also known for their range of fullsize metal-bodied Colt M1911; Luger, Beretta and Hi-Capa pistols.

Echo 1: Airsoft company based in the US. Carry wide range of Airsoft toys. Their Minigun (Made in Japan) is currently the strongest fire power in the airsoft world.

GTI (Grudge Tactical Inc.): Located in Kansas and just starting out in the field of airsoft, designing and manufacturing entirely within the United States. Their first product launch is scheduled the first week of November 2008 with Blammo Kill-Marker. A first in airsoft, Blammos are a marker bb designed exclusively for airsoft and featuring a unique "coating" of pigment mixed with a system for dry lubrication. Beta testing ran from mid-April to August and showed the product to be quite promising in the field of airsoft. Future products include further expansion of the Blammo market with higher weights and biodegradables, an upgrade kit called Assembly H and a rumored gear box set for 2009 that will be a clean break from the current engineering designs on the market.

Mad Bull Airsoft: MadBull is based in Taiwan and USA (California). Makers of a variety of Airsoft grenades, grenade launchers, tight-bore barrels, triggers, mines, BB, Tracer BB, handguard rails and famous for licensed accessories. They are also elected to be the most innovative company in 2007 and 2008.

Crosman primarily an airgun manufacturer but, also has made a few airsoft guns which are known to be very low quality.

Unicorn Hobby Company(UHC): Offering very reliable, yet economical alternatives to higher-end companies including the MP5 SD3, the M1911A1, M92FS, as well as the Super 9.

KHC: Famous for their Maverick Bullpup and spring pistols.

Omega: Famous for their Beretta 93R.

Academy: South Korean company best known for their DPMS Kittycat, L85, and A-15 rifles.

AZR Machine & Tool Co.: Customized builders of airsoft accessories, replica wood rifle stocks for the M1 Garand, Thompson, Mauser 98k, FAL, and AKM. Also manufactures drop-in gearboxes for AEGs and conversion kits for Rifles. This company offers a wide range of customized services for their clients that wish to have their own designs to their replica rifles.

UTG(Under The Gun): UTG is a brand by Leapers, Inc. which manufactures scopes and red-dot sights. UTG has made many Airsoft Guns and are known for lower quality airsoft guns.

Aftermath: This airsoft company is located in Miami, Florida, in the United States. Rebrander of Chinese-produced replicas. They exclusivley sell powerful AEG guns and other airsoft gear. It claims to be the "Adult Airsoft Solution". Although such may be said, Aftermath is natoriuos for low quality guns that use high fps springs to compensate for their terrible quality.

Stunt Studios: A separate division of the Aftermath company, products are endorsed by famous stuntman Kyle Woods.

Where to Buy?/Play

There are many websites for airsoft the most notible are: EVIKE and AIRSOFT Gi most people google airsoft and thousands of websites appere WATCH OUT IF THERE ARNT IN THE WEBSITE ISNT IN THE USA CUSTOME WILL SEIZE YOUR PRODUCTS!!!!! On the EVIKE website there are a list of airsoft fields go to their forums and click on fields or go to shopping and search for feilds.

See also

• Air gun
• Airsoft guns
• Airsoft pellets
• BB gun
• Classic airsoft
• Japan Arms Collection
• Lasertag
• Legal issues in airsoft
• List of airsoft manufacturers
• Paintball