Airsoft is a thrilling and fast-paced sport that requires skill, strategy, and the right equipment. If you’re new to the game, you may be wondering what gear you need to get started. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the essential equipment you’ll need to gear up for airsoft. From guns to safety gear to accessories, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Choosing An Airsoft Gun
An airsoft gun is the most important piece of equipment for playing airsoft. It is essential to choose a gun that suits your playing style and budget. There are three main types of airsoft guns: spring-powered, electric-powered, and gas-powered.
Spring-powered airsoft guns are the most basic type of gun and require manual cocking before each shot. These guns are often the cheapest option, making them a popular choice for beginners.
- UKARMS M4A1 Carbine Assault Rifle ($25)
- CYMA CM352M Tactical Spring Shotgun ($30)
- BBTac BT-703 Spring Pistol ($10)
- Double Eagle M305P Spring Sniper Rifle ($55)
- Umarex H&K MP7 A1 Spring Airsoft Gun ($35)
Electric-powered airsoft guns, also known as AEGs, use a rechargeable battery to power the gun’s motor. These guns are more expensive than spring-powered guns but offer better performance and faster firing rates.
- Lancer Tactical Gen 2 M4 AEG Rifle ($170)
- G&G CM16 Raider 2.0 AEG Rifle ($200)
- Valken ASL Series AEG Rifle ($190)
- Krytac Trident MKII SPR AEG Rifle ($345)
- Classic Army EC-1 AEG Rifle ($210)
Gas-powered airsoft guns use compressed gas, such as propane or green gas, to propel the BBs. These guns offer the most realistic shooting experience but are often the most expensive and require regular maintenance.
- Elite Force H8R Gen 2 CO2 Revolver ($70)
- Tokyo Marui Hi-Capa 5.1 GBB Pistol ($185)
- KWA LM4 PTR Gas Blowback Rifle ($360)
- WE Tech M9A1 GBB Pistol ($125)
- Umarex Glock 17 Gen 5 GBB Pistol ($170)
Airsoft Eye Protection
In Airsoft, protection is a necessity, especially for the face. Eye protection is essential when playing airsoft, as the high-speed projectiles used in the game can cause serious eye injuries.
It’s important to choose eye protection that meets safety standards set by organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
Look for eye protection that is specifically designed for airsoft use and is made of impact-resistant materials.
Additionally, ensure that the eye protection fits well and is comfortable to wear, as uncomfortable or ill-fitting eye protection can cause distractions and interfere with your ability to play the game.
Here are some options for you depending on your budget;
- Pyramex I-Force Sporty Dual Pane Anti-Fog Goggles ($20)
- Smith Optics Elite Outside the Wire Goggles ($55)
- Revision Military Desert Locust Goggles ($80)
- Valken Sierra Airsoft Goggles ($20)
- JT Elite Prime Goggles ($25)
Airsoft Face Protection
Airsoft is an exciting and adrenaline-fueled game that requires players to engage in tactical battles using high-speed projectiles. However, the nature of the game also poses significant safety risks, particularly to the face, teeth, and nose.
Airsoft BBs can cause serious injuries to these areas, which is why face protection is just as essential as eye protection when playing airsoft.
There are several types of face protection available for airsoft players, including full-face masks and lower-face masks, both of which can provide effective protection against BB impacts while allowing for unrestricted vision and breathing.
Choosing the right type of face protection is crucial for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the game.
Below are some examples:
- OneTigris 6″ Foldable Half Face Mesh Mask ($15)
- Valken Tactical Annex MI-7 Full Face Mask ($38)
- Dye i5 Paintball Mask ($190)
- Empire EVS Thermal Paintball Mask ($150)
- Tactical Crusader Pro Mask ($35)
Choosing Airsoft BBs
When it comes to playing airsoft, selecting the right ammunition is just as important as choosing the right gun and gear.
Airsoft BBs, or spherical plastic pellets used as projectiles, come in various sizes, usually 6mm, weights, and materials, and can significantly affect the accuracy, range, and overall performance of your airsoft gun.
The right BBs can help you achieve better accuracy, higher velocity, and more consistent shot groupings, while the wrong BBs can lead to jamming, misfiring, and damage to your gun.
Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right type of airsoft BBs for your gun, taking into account factors such as size, weight, material, and brand reputation.
By doing so, you can ensure that you have the best possible shooting experience and maximize your chances of success on the airsoft battlefield.
If you are playing in low light or darkness, you will need to use tracer BBs along with a tracer unit.
Here are some of the best BBs for your money;
- Elite Force Premium Biodegradable BBs, .20 gram ($13 for 5,000 rounds)
- GoldenBall ProSlick BBs, .25 gram ($15 for 4,000 rounds)
- G&G Armament Perfect BBs, .28 gram ($22 for 3,000 rounds)
- Airsoft Elite Premium High Precision BBs, .30 gram ($25 for 2,500 rounds)
- H&K Elite Force Bio BBs, .32 gram ($30 for 2,000 rounds)
Airsoft Tactical Gear
Airsoft tactical gear is an essential component of any airsoft player’s equipment setup. Tactical gear refers to a range of specialized clothing, accessories, and equipment designed to enhance an airsoft player’s performance, safety, and overall experience.
Tactical gear includes items such as vests, holsters, pouches, belts, gloves, knee pads, and helmets, which are specifically designed to help you carry your airsoft equipment and accessories comfortably and efficiently.
For example, an airsoft vest can provide a convenient and secure way to carry spare magazines, grenades, and other accessories, while also offering additional protection to your torso.
Holsters are designed to securely hold your airsoft gun, allowing for quick and easy access during gameplay.
Pouches can hold items such as spare batteries, BBs, and hydration packs, which are necessary for extended airsoft sessions.
- Condor Outdoor Modular Chest Set ($50)
- VISM Tactical Vest ($30)
- UTG Tactical Pistol Belt ($20)
- Blackhawk SERPA CQC Holster ($35)
- Condor Triple M4 Mag Pouch ($12)
Airsoft Gloves
Airsoft gloves are an important piece of protective gear that can protect your hands from injuries and improve your grip on your airsoft gun. They can also provide extra padding and insulation, making them a great choice for players who play in colder weather.
When selecting airsoft gloves, look for ones that are comfortable, durable, and provide adequate protection for your hands.
Here are five of the best airsoft gloves on the market, along with their prices:
- Mechanix Wear M-Pact Gloves – These gloves feature reinforced palms and fingers for added durability, as well as padding to protect your hands from impacts. They cost around $25 to $40.
- PIG Full Dexterity Tactical (FDT) Delta Utility Gloves – These gloves are lightweight and breathable, with a form-fitting design that allows for maximum dexterity. They cost around $30 to $40.
- Valken Tactical V-TAC Full Finger Plastic Back Airsoft Gloves – These gloves feature a plastic shell on the back of the hand for added protection, as well as foam padding and a neoprene cuff for a comfortable fit. They cost around $25 to $30.
- Outdoor Research Ironsight Gloves – These gloves are designed specifically for shooting sports, with a leather palm for added grip and a touchscreen-compatible index finger for easy phone use. They cost around $50 to $70.
- Hatch Specialist All-Weather Shooting Glove – These gloves are made with a breathable fabric that is also windproof and water-resistant, making them a great choice for players who play in all types of weather. They cost around $30 to $50.
Airsoft Gun Bags and Cases
Airsoft gun bags and cases come in a variety of sizes and styles, ranging from soft padded bags to hard-shell cases. Soft gun bags are made of durable materials and usually have thick padding to protect the gun during transportation.
Some soft bags have multiple compartments to hold additional gear such as magazines, ammunition, and protective equipment.
Hard-shell cases, on the other hand, provide maximum protection for the gun as they are constructed from tough materials such as plastic or metal. These cases have foam inserts that conform to the shape of the gun to keep it in place and prevent any movement during transport.
They often have additional features such as lockable latches to keep your gun secure, and some even have wheels for ease of transportation.
Ultimately, whether you choose a soft or hard case, investing in an airsoft gun bag or case is crucial to keep your gun in good condition and to prevent any damage during transport.
- NcSTAR Tactical Rifle Bag ($30)
- Plano Protector Series Double Gun Case ($50)
- UTG Homeland Security Covert Gun Case ($35)
- Blackhawk Sportster Tactical Rifle Case ($35)
- VISM Double Carbine Case ($70)
Something important to note: When you are transporting an airsoft gun, it must be in a case of some kind. I have written an article on traveling with your airsoft gun.
Airsoft Communication Devices
Airsoft communication devices are designed to provide players with clear and reliable communication while playing. Radios are the most common form of communication used in airsoft and come in different types, including handheld radios, headset radios, and chest-mounted radios.
Handheld radios are the most versatile as they can be clipped to a belt or vest and have a range of up to several kilometers, depending on the terrain.
Headset radios, on the other hand, provide hands-free communication and are more convenient during fast-paced games. Chest-mounted radios are also an option for players who prefer a larger screen and interface.
Headsets are typically designed to fit comfortably over the ears and provide clear audio while minimizing ambient noise. Some headsets also feature noise-canceling technology that blocks out external noise and enhances communication clarity.
In addition, some headsets have built-in microphones, allowing players to communicate with their teammates without having to hold a separate microphone.
Airsoft communications devices are optional pieces of equipment. They can enhance airsoft gameplay and be extremely helpful when playing as part of a team. However, only buy them if you feel you need them.
- Baofeng UV-5R Dual Band Two-Way Radio ($25)
- Motorola T600 H2O Talkabout Radio ($80)
- Code Red Tango Jr. Tactical Earpiece ($30)
- Walkie-Talkie Earpiece with Mic ($15)
- Peltor Sport Tactical 100 Electronic Hearing Protector ($50)
Grenades and Launchers
Airsoft grenades and launchers come in various types and designs, from spring-powered to gas-powered models. The most common type of airsoft grenade is the BB grenade, which simulates an explosion by scattering BBs in a wide area.
These grenades typically have a small reservoir where BBs are loaded, and they can be manually or mechanically triggered to release the BBs in a 360-degree pattern. Some BB grenades are also designed to release smoke or flashbang effects, adding more realism to the game.
Airsoft launchers, on the other hand, are designed to shoot grenades or shells that simulate real explosions. These launchers can be mounted on rifles or used as standalone weapons, and they can shoot a variety of projectiles such as foam balls or paint-filled shells.
Launchers are typically powered by gas or CO2, and they come in various sizes and shapes to suit different play styles.
While grenades and launchers are not essential to airsoft gameplay, they add a layer of excitement and realism to the game.
It’s important to note that some airsoft fields may have specific rules or limitations on the use of grenades and launchers, so it’s always best to check with the field’s regulations before using them.
- Airsoft Innovations XL Burst Banger Grenade ($40)
- Classic Army M203 40mm Grenade Launcher ($120)
- APS Shark Striker 40mm Grenade Launcher ($110)
- TMC TRMR E1 Airsoft Pyrotechnic Grenade ($40)
- G&P M203 Grenade Launcher with Shell ($140)
Airsoft Clothing: What Should I Wear?
Airsoft is a physically demanding sport that involves running, jumping, crawling, and other movements that can put your body under stress.
Wearing the right clothing can help you perform at your best while protecting you from impacts and environmental factors such as heat, cold, and rain. Here are some tips on what to wear for airsoft:
- Comfortable Clothing: Comfort is key when it comes to airsoft clothing. You should wear clothing that allows for a full range of motion and is breathable to keep you cool and dry during gameplay. Look for clothing made with lightweight, moisture-wicking materials such as polyester or nylon.
- Protective Clothing: Protecting your body from impacts is important when playing airsoft. You should wear long-sleeved shirts and pants made with durable materials such as ripstop fabric. You can also consider wearing knee and elbow pads to protect your joints from impacts and scrapes.
- Footwear: Wearing the right footwear is important for preventing injuries and allowing you to move quickly and efficiently. Look for footwear with good traction that can handle rough terrains, such as hiking boots or running shoes with a good grip.
- Head Protection: Wearing a helmet or other head protection can help protect your head from impacts and falls. You can also consider wearing a hat or beanie to keep your head warm in colder weather.
When it comes to airsoft clothing, there are many different brands and styles to choose from, with varying price points. Some popular brands include 5.11 Tactical, Condor, and Rothco.
Prices for airsoft clothing can vary depending on the brand, material, and features. Tactical pants typically cost between $50 and $100, while combat shirts can cost between $30 and $60. Vests can range from $50 to $150, while jackets can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more.
Conclusion
Buying airsoft equipment can be a daunting task for beginners, but by investing in the essential pieces of gear, you can have a safe and enjoyable time on the field. Remember to consider your budget, field or event regulations, and safety when selecting your equipment. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to take on any airsoft challenge that comes your way.
