In this post, we’re going to take a bit of a closer look at some questions that we’ve heard time and time again in some circles.

Not usually from airsoft enthusiasts, but in some circles nonetheless.

So, if you have friends that have ever pitched you these questions, just point them in the direction of this blog. We’re happy to fill the role of an airsoft store near you that can play a bit of Q&A.

What’s the point of airsoft guns?
First up - the exalted coronated king of basic questions.

“What’s the point of airsoft guns?”

Or, more specifically

“Why would you spend so much on an airsoft gun when it costs as much as a real gun?”

It’s true, some airsoft guns are just as expensive as the real thing. Actually, some airsoft guns are more expensive than real guns.

But this is what it all comes down to - airsoft is a sport.

Real guns are used for everything from competitive shooting to hunting to self-defense. They fire lethal ordnance. Airsoft guns do not.

Airsoft, by contrast, is a sport. In it, opposing teams try to gain tactical advantages over one another. They don’t want to harm or kill each other. They want to challenge themselves, learn new skills and have a good time.

That’s the point. Airsoft guns are not intended to take the place of real guns, and real guns are not substitutes for airsoft guns.

How much do airsoft guns cost?
Now let’s take a look at another common question - how much do airsoft guns cost?

There’s no way to offer a succinct answer to this question because there is so much variety in quality, performance, and style. It’s like asking how much a real gun costs - they’re all different, too.

An 870 Express might run you 350 dollars, whereas a Browning Citori will cost you closer to 2,500.

Or maybe it’s like asking how much a car costs. What car? What year? What features? A 1995 “Craigslist Cruiser” might cost 600 dollars. A new Cadillac could be a 50,000 dollar investment.

Similarly, airsoft guns run a range of prices, so here’s how we break it down for interested parties.

-Below $100
There are some cheap airsoft guns around this price range, particularly some lower-end spring-powered airsoft guns. However, anything at this price point you’ll generally want to avoid, especially for the purposes of competitive play.

-Around $150
At around this price point, this is where you start getting into decent entry level AEGs and other beginner airsoft guns. Many high-quality gas blowback airsoft pistols, such as Elite Force Glock replicas, start around this price point as well. Just a little bit above this price point is the G&G CM16 Raider which is another excellent AEG for beginners.

-$200-$300
Between 200 and 300 dollars are some of the airsoft rifles that offer the best value for the money. In this price range, you can find really good quality without having to pay too much for it.

Besides, the rifles in this price range are typically highly modular, so if there’s some aspect of performance you’d like to adjust, you can upgrade the parts or add on some useful airsoft attachments.

-Above $300
Anything above $300 is likely a premium airsoft rifle that’s going to operate just fine right out of the box. Many classic army replicas, and AEGs from Lancer Tactical, KWA, and Rocket Labs fall into this price range.

They’re typically made with high-quality components, like rotary hop-ups, advanced trigger assemblies, tight bore barrels, and upgradeable gearboxes with all-metal internals. Many of them are also highly modular and highly upgradeable.

Does airsoft hurt?

Another basic question - but a very common one - “Does airsoft hurt?”

Honestly, not really. But let’s be more specific here.

It depends on range, the speed and weight of the projectile, and what you’re wearing.

A GBB pistol slinging light BBs at less than 300 FPS is going to feel like a minor sting, especially if you’re not that close. A high-powered spring sniper rifle that hops heavy BBs at nearly 400 FPS is going to sting a bit, especially if you’re close to the airsoft gun and not wearing the right protective clothing.

However, airsoft players are required to wear protective gear while they’re playing and many wear additional heavy clothing, vests, and plate carriers that all but soften the impact from these little BBs.

If you’re wearing adequate clothing and protective gear, you’ll sometimes hardly notice if you’ve even been hit.

What else do I need to play?

Now let’s answer one more simple question, that this airsoft store near you is happy to field.

What airsoft gear do you need to play?
Well, you’re going to need an airsoft gun, ammo, something to carry spare ammo, (probably some spare mags), a speed loader, and, depending on whether you have a gas or an electric gun, spare gas or batteries.

You’ll also need protective eyewear, and while you may not be required to have any other protective gear, gloves and a tactical vest (which will help you carry all of the rest of your essentials) are well worth the investment.

Other than that, what you need to bring with you will be dictated by the terms of the event. Remember that some events have very strict requirements for what players must wear or can or cannot bring.

For more information, feel free to check out our guide on MilSim Essentials or to contact us directly.

Not in Our Neighborhood? Shop Online!
If you’re not in our actual neighborhood (Buffalo Grove, Illinois), then maybe we’re not really an airsoft store near you.

But, our online shop is an airsoft store near you 24/7.

Check out our online shop for the airsoft guns, airsoft attachments, tactical gear, and accessories you need, when you need them.

We’re proud to offer low prices (plus a price match guarantee) and low flat rate shipping on all orders.

Get in touch with us at 800-581-6620 if you have any questions.