Airsoft FAQs

MiR Tactical Answers Your Most Common Airsoft, MilSim, & Strikeball Questions

What is Airsoft?

Airsoft is a recreational activity that involves replica firearms shooting plastic BBs. It is commonly used for gaming, collection, or professional training (military simulations, police training exercises).

What is Strikeball?

Strikeball is a regulated version of airsoft that follows insured field guidelines and structured event scenarios for safety and realism. It was introduced in the U.S. by MiR Tactical Inc. in 2011 to provide a legal and safe alternative to airsoft. It is also used by military and law enforcement agencies for training.

What is the difference between Strikeball & Airsoft?

Strikeball operates under strict regulations, insured fields, and organized scenarios, ensuring a structured experience. Airsoft is often played in more casual or unregulated settings.

What is MilSim?

MilSim (Military Simulation) is a type of airsoft event that replicates real military scenarios. These events can range from historic battle reenactments to immersive multi-day combat simulations.

Equipment & Gameplay

What is a Strikeball Replica Firearm (SRF)?

A Strikeball Replica Firearm (SRF) is a look-alike of a real firearm designed for airsoft or Strikeball games. It fires 6mm or 8mm plastic BBs using battery, gas, or spring power.

What do airsoft guns shoot?

Airsoft guns shoot small plastic BBs (usually 6mm in diameter). High-quality BBs are polished and seamless for better accuracy.

What airsoft gun hurts the most?

The pain level depends on the gun’s power, the BB weight, and the distance of impact. Spring-powered sniper rifles and upgraded AEGs with high FPS tend to hurt the most, especially at close range.

Does airsoft hurt?

If you're wearing proper protective gear, airsoft doesn’t hurt much. However, getting hit on exposed skin at close range can sting. Always wear protective eyewear, gloves, and layered clothing.

How does an AEG work?

An Automatic Electric Gun (AEG) works by using a battery-powered motor to pull back a piston, compress air, and fire a BB forward. This cycle happens rapidly for semi-auto or full-auto firing.

How does an airsoft tracer work?

Tracer BBs glow when exposed to UV light. A tracer unit, which attaches to the gun's barrel, flashes UV light onto these BBs as they are fired, making them visible in the dark.

How does an airsoft grenade work?

Airsoft grenades are filled with compressed gas. When the pin is pulled and the grenade makes contact with a surface, it rapidly releases gas to disperse BBs. Some grenades use a timed detonation system.

Can airsoft break glass?

It depends on the power of the gun, the BB weight, and the type of glass. Powerful airsoft guns shooting heavy BBs can crack or break thin glass at close range.

Rules & Safety

What tactical gear do you need to play airsoft?

At minimum, players need:

Protective eyewear (goggles or a full facemask)
Supportive footwear
Comfortable, durable clothing
An airsoft gun and sidearm
Spare magazines and ammo
Batteries or gas
A tactical vest for organization
Kill rags for eliminations

Is airsoft more painful than paintball?

Usually not. Airsoft BBs are smaller and lighter than paintballs, causing less pain. However, close-range shots can sting.

Can airsoft guns kill squirrels or rats?

Unlikely, but don’t try it. Airsoft guns are not designed for pest control. At best, they will only injure small animals.

What is the max FPS in airsoft?

Most airsoft guns shoot between 200-400 FPS. Some upgraded sniper rifles can exceed 500 FPS, but many fields enforce FPS limits for safety.

What is the youngest age to own an airsoft gun?

While airsoft guns are not classified as firearms under federal law, most states require you to be 18+ to purchase one. However, minors can use airsoft guns with parental consent.

Can you take the orange tip off an airsoft gun?

Federal law requires airsoft guns to have an orange tip when manufactured or imported. Some states allow removal, but others prohibit it. Always check local laws before removing the tip.

Can you use knives in an airsoft event?

Some airsoft events allow knife kills using rubber or plastic replica knives, but never stab or throw them. Always follow event rules.

Can I shoot airsoft guns in my backyard?

If you own the property and there are no local restrictions, it’s probably legal. However, some cities and states ban backyard airsoft shooting, so check local laws.

Performance & Cost

How far can airsoft guns shoot?

Most airsoft guns have an effective range of 100-200 feet. Sniper rifles with heavy BBs and upgraded internals can reach 300+ feet.

Is airsoft expensive?

Airsoft can be affordable or expensive depending on your setup. Entry-level guns start at under $200, while high-end custom builds can cost $500+.

What is better: an airsoft gun or a real gun?

They serve completely different purposes. Airsoft guns are for recreational gaming, training, and MilSim, while real guns are lethal weapons used for self-defense or hunting.

Which airsoft brand is the best?

There is no single “best” brand, but some top manufacturers include:

Tokyo Marui
Elite Force
G&G Armament
KWA Airsoft
Lancer Tactical
Classic Army

Where to Play & Buy

Where can I play airsoft?

MilSim events, Strikeball arenas, and airsoft fields are the best places. Check local event organizers or visit an airsoft store near you for recommendations.

What is the difference between airsoft events and MilSim?

Airsoft events are casual or competitive games with general airsoft rules.
MilSim (Military Simulation) events focus on realism, often mimicking real-life combat with historical accuracy, extended playtimes, and immersive objectives.

Where can I learn more about upcoming airsoft events?

We host a variety of airsoft and MilSim events throughout the year. Check our events page for the latest schedule.