WHAT IS AIRSOFT?
Airsoft is a rapidly growing team sport and training aid in the US. It is a sport similar to paintball where replica firearms that shoot plastic BB’s are used for fun, military, and training purposes. Life size non-lethal replica weapons that fire 6mm plastic BB’s at low velocities are used. Airsoft guns can be spring powered, battery powered/electric, or gas powered. It is a game based on a honorable hit taking system. An opponent hits you with the BB, and you must shout when you are hit. This can sometimes be for a medic to tap you back into the game, or more often for you to raise your hand and return to your re-spawn point. There are skirmishing type games which are short time wise, but fast paced objective type games. Each game last anywhere from ten to twenty minutes.
Some airsoft fields use a Close Quarters Battle (CQB) which is defined as a type of game in which units engage the other team with weapons at very short range, potentially to the point of hand-to-hand combat or swords or knives. In the typical CQB scenario, both teams try a very fast takeover. CQB is defined as a short-duration, high-intensity conflict, characterized by confrontation at close range. These types of fields will be setup with mazes, houses, and hallways close to simulate a real CQB situation.
It’s easy to quickly dismiss airsoft as violent or dangerous, but that isn’t true. Airsoft teaches players planning, strategy, skill, patience, and a reliance on your teammates like no other sport out there. Additionally, the safety equipment required for airsoft makes it very safe, and airsoft BB hits are less painful than paintball. Most games are played around a scenario or objective that needs to be met. Careful planning is necessary amongst team members to capture a flag or objective without being shot or captured. All the while avoiding airsoft traps, ambushes, snipers, etc. Strategy and teamwork are of utmost importance as you work to move your team forward, or to set up someone from an opposing team. Airsoft will teach that you are a valued member of a team. This type of camaraderie builds self-esteem and confidence. Another benefit of is the development of true athleticism and physical endurance. It’s a great way to get physical exercise as opposed to running on a treadmill in the gym. Airsoft will work muscles you never knew you had. Airsoft will get you into shape quickly! This side of the airsoft skirmish appeals to players of all ages!