We’re going to be talking about how to prepare for an airsoft milsim event as a beginner.

2025 Events:

https://mirtactical.com/events_strikeball_airsoft_milsim/

Our goal is to create educational airsoft content to help players of all levels get the most out of their experience. While this post is aimed at beginners, even experienced players might find some useful advice here.

Big airsoft events are a huge draw for players around the world. They come in many different shapes and sizes — from smaller, objective-based games lasting a few hours, to large multi-day operations like Mir Tactical or  Milsim West. As a beginner, it can feel daunting to know how to prepare, or even if you’re ready to attend one. So today, we’ll go over the best ways to get ready for your first event and highlight key do’s and don’ts to help you make the most of it.

Over the past few years, I’ve had the good fortune to talk with players all over the world about their milsim experiences. I’ve also attended events myself and organized dozens of milsim-style objective-based scenarios. I’ve seen firsthand how beginners can struggle — and succeed — which inspired me to make this video.

First off, not all milsim events are the same. In fact, many are polar opposites despite both calling themselves “milsim.” There’s no single definition of what makes a “real” milsim. For example, American events like Phoenix Rising or Sky Shield are very different from Border War in Europe, which is again very different from Milsim West. Some events have strict uniform and replica requirements, while others are more relaxed. Some issue ammo and limit how much you can carry, while others let you carry whatever fits in your magazines.

Because of this, there isn’t one standard approach that works everywhere. Which brings us to the first and most important point: always read the event organizer’s rules and documentation.

https://mirtactical.com/airsoft-milsim-tier-1-sop-rules/

Some organizers have general rule sets that apply to all their events, covering things like uniforms, gameplay, and camouflage requirements. They may also issue operation orders (opords) outlining objectives, props, or how teams are organized. Others put everything into one big event document. Either way, it’s critical that you read and understand this information.

At every event I’ve attended — as both player and organizer — I’ve seen people show up completely unprepared, not knowing how the game works. This is 100% avoidable. Organizers usually make rules available well in advance so players can study them.

Milsims often include special rules that affect every part of the game: how you call hits, how medics work, how to interact with props like locks or IEDs, how to destroy objectives or vehicles, and much more. At the very least, you should know what’s expected of you individually. I’ve seen players show up with replicas they wanted to use in a certain role, only to be told they didn’t meet requirements. Others didn’t know they needed a bandage or IFAK to be revived by a medic, leaving them stuck until someone else could help. Don’t assume your regular kit is fine — double check it matches event rules.

That leads us to the second point: tailor your gear to the specific event.

Milsim requirements vary. At Milsim West, players are expected to sustain themselves for 36+ hours with food, water, and warm layers. At Mir Tactical, you usually return to base (FOB) to resupply every few hours and aren’t on the field overnight. Most events provide packing lists in their documentation, so use those.

Packing List : 

mirtactical.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-bring-to-milsim-game-checklist/

Think about how much gear to bring. Many beginners bring far too much — multiple replicas, camping stoves, full meals — when the event doesn’t require it. I’ve been guilty of this myself. Ideally, you want to finish the event with almost no food and water left, meaning you carried just the right amount.

There are essentials you must bring: your replica, batteries, eye protection, etc. For those items, remember the saying: “Two is one, and one is none.” If you only bring one of something critical and it fails, you’re done. Consider backups — spare eye pro, extra batteries, or simple repair tools. But don’t overload your kit either, since every ounce adds weight and wears you down.

On the other side, don’t under-pack either. I’ve seen players run out of food or water, becoming a burden to their squad, or even dropping out of the event. Balance is key.

That leads us to the third point: talk to experienced players.

Whenever possible, connect with people who’ve attended the same event before. Ask about the field, the terrain, the leadership structure, and what gear they found useful or unnecessary. When we prepared for Sky Shield 2024, we spent a lot of time asking veterans about the AO, rules, and terrain so we could be as prepared — and lightweight — as possible.

Also, be realistic about your physical limits. Have you ever played airsoft for multiple hours straight? Gone on long marches in full kit? Pulled overnight watch rotations? For many civilians, a milsim is the first time we push ourselves like this. So pace yourself, stay hydrated, eat properly, and rest when needed.

Finally, the last piece of advice: never try something new at a milsim event.

Don’t bring a new chest rig, helmet, ration, or pack you’ve never tested. You don’t want to discover that your pack causes shoulder pain, your face mask blocks your sight, or your food gives you stomach issues. Test your gear beforehand. Wear your full kit at a regular airsoft game or even at home — practice reloading, going prone, dropping your pack, using your radio. If it feels hard at home, it’ll be harder under pressure in the field.

I recently did this myself and realized some of my pouches were in the wrong place. On paper the setup looked fine, but in practice it didn’t work. I’m glad I figured that out at home instead of at the event.

The focus of your first milsim should be on having the best possible experience. Struggling with preventable gear or preparation issues will only drag you down. So read the rules, pack smart, seek advice, and know your gear inside and out.

Hopefully, you found this video helpful. If you did, leave a comment and share it with other airsofters who might benefit.