Airsoft is an exciting recreational sport that simulates military and law enforcement scenarios using replica firearms that shoot plastic BBs. Like any activity involving replica weapons and simulated combat, airsoft relies on players to follow certain unspoken rules of etiquette and sportsmanship.
Understanding the proper etiquette will ensure everyone has fun and stays safe. This article covers the key dos and don’ts every airsoft player should know.
Be Respectful and Courteous
One of the most important airsoft etiquette rules is to be respectful and courteous to other players. Avoid trash-talking, taunting, aggressive language, and insults. Airsoft is meant to be fun, not hostile. If you disagree with another player, politely address it after the game is over. On the field, stay focused on enjoying yourself.
Call Your Hits and Be Honest
A critical aspect of airsoft etiquette is calling your hits when you get shot. This means raising your hand and yelling “Hit!” to indicate you’ve been eliminated from the current round. Even if a BB hits your gear or glancingly hits you, call yourself out. Don’t try to cheat hits. This ruins the game for everyone else. Be honest and call yourself out every time.
Avoid Overshooting and Bonus Balling
It’s poor form to shoot an opponent repeatedly after they’ve called themselves out or been eliminated. This is called overshooting and it’s unnecessary. Likewise, intentionally shooting someone from close range when they can’t defend themselves is called bonus balling and should be avoided. Once your opponent is out, hold your fire.
Follow FPS Limits
Most airsoft fields require that guns fire under a certain feet per second (FPS) limit, usually 350 to 400 FPS. This keeps the plastic BBs from causing injury. Make sure your airsoft guns are properly choreographed and stay within the FPS limits. Using hotter guns can lead to serious harm and get you banned from fields.
Wear Protective Eyewear
Airsoft BBs can cause serious eye injuries, so wearing full-seal protective eyewear or goggles is an absolute must, you could opt for a full or half mask. Never play airsoft without properly certified eye protection. Encourage new players to invest in quality eye pro. This ensures everyone avoids unnecessary injuries.
Communicate with Opponents
Communication during airsoft games helps avoid confusion and accidents. If you get the drop on an opponent, politely tell them to surrender or call themselves out before opening fire from close range. Give opponents a chance to react before engaging. Clear communication keeps gameplay smooth and enjoyable for everyone.
Know When to Take a Break
Airsoft can be physically demanding depending on the game type. During lengthy games, take breaks when needed to stay hydrated and rested. Be mindful of your physical limits, especially in hot weather. If you need to, take yourself out of the game temporarily to cool off and rehydrate. Pausing to take care of yourself helps you play safely.
Don’t Modify Safety Mechanisms
Never tamper with or disable the orange tip or other safety mechanisms on airsoft guns. These indicators help identify your gun as a replica and not a real firearm. Altering them makes your airsoft gun look like a deadly weapon and can frighten the public. Keep your guns appearing as replicas.
Chronograph Your Guns Regularly
Frequently chronograph your airsoft guns with a BB velocity tester. Over time the FPS can creep above field limits, so routinely check FPS before playing. This ensures any increase in velocity is caught so you can correct it by adjusting the power down. Regular chronographing is good etiquette.
Dispose of CO2 Cartridges Properly
Many airsoft guns are powered by small CO2 cartridges that provide the pressure to fire the plastic BBs. Once these cartridges are fully expended, make sure to properly dispose of them. Never litter empty CO2 cartridges on the airsoft field. Instead, make it a habit to carry a spare bag specifically for collecting used cartridges.
Once home, they can be recycled or disposed of safely. Improper CO2 cartridge disposal harms the environment and makes the airsoft area less safe with obstacles and litter. By disposing of spent cartridges responsibly, you help maintain a cleaner, nicer field for everyone to enjoy.
Be Patient with New Players
Some of the best moments in airsoft come from introducing new players to the sport. If you notice people struggling with guns or rules, politely help them out. We were all new airsofters once, so help new players learn proper techniques and etiquette. Growing the sport begins with experienced players guiding beginners.
Following proper airsoft etiquette ensures fair, fun games where everyone can enjoy themselves. Avoid overshooting, follow FPS limits, and be honest when hit. Communication and courtesy are key. Equip new players with guidance and your airsoft community will thrive.
Remember, the goal is exciting but friendly competition and gameplay. Keep that spirit alive by following the unspoken rules of etiquette.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this overview has prepared you for airsoft’s code of conduct. Learn these dos and don’ts, play fair, and avoid unnecessary harm. If we all follow proper airsoft etiquette, it leads to better games and new friendships. That’s what this sport is all about. Now get out there and start playing by the rules!
In summary, airsoft is more fun for everyone when players are courteous, call their hits, obey safety rules, and help new players. Being respectful and following etiquette guidelines enables exciting gameplay in a friendly competitive environment.
Keep these unspoken rules of airsoft in mind and you’ll have fair, safe games and build lasting memories.
