Got airsoft questions? Our airsoft store near you has the answers. These are some of the more common ones. See if these answer any of your questions and if not, give us a call at 800-581-6620.

Does Airsoft Hurt?

If you’re not wearing any protective clothing and take a shot from an airsoft gun point blank, then sure, it hurts.

However, most players wear heavy, padded jackets and pants, armored gloves, and full facemasks that protect them from the sting of airsoft BBs.

Moreover, airsoft fields require you to wear protective eyewear (either a full facemask or airsoft goggles) before playing, since airsoft BBs can injure a player’s eyes.

That said, if you’re wearing all of the protective equipment mentioned here, then no, airsoft doesn’t really hurt.

What Is the Point of Airsoft Guns?

We often hear, “even that cheap airsoft gun is so expensive, why don’t you just buy a real gun?”

The answer to that is so straightforward we can’t even believe we have to post this answer: because real guns are lethal weapons and airsoft is a sport.

People play airsoft to make friends, challenge their critical thinking and strategic planning, learn survival skills, and most importantly, have a good time.

Airsoft guns are not designed to kill or injure. They are designed as equipment to pursue a sport through MilSim and airsoft events.

Can Anyone Buy Airsoft Guns?

Federal law does not define airsoft guns as firearms, so no federal certification or licensing is required to purchase airsoft guns.

However, the legality of purchase, possession, carry, and transport varies on a state by state, and even on a municipal basis. Some states and cities have levied restrictions on age of purchase of airsoft guns.

For more detailed information on some of the current laws and regulations regarding airsoft guns, please see our blog post titled, “Airsoft Legality in Your State.”

If you have any questions, consult your own legal counsel. Nothing in this post is intended to serve as legal advice.

Can You Remove the Orange Tip?

Again, United States federal law does not classify airsoft guns as firearms. That said, federal law does regulate the manufacture and import of airsoft guns.

For instance, federal law does require that airsoft guns manufactured in or imported into the United States feature a barrel with at least a quarter-inch permanent blaze orange marking on the end to signify that it is not a real firearm.

Some states, however, do not have laws preventing the alteration or removal of these blaze orange tips. Other states have expressly stated through laws that it is illegal to do so.

Understandably, some airsoft players feel that it takes away from the realism of a MilSim or airsoft event to leave the orange place.

Nonetheless, by removing the orange tip on an airsoft gun, you may be violating state or local laws. Never do so without contacting a legal advisor.

However, even if you determine that it is not illegal for you to remove the orange tip from your airsoft gun, common prudence may dictate that you leave it in place anyway. Dangerous situations can occur when someone (either another citizen or a law enforcement officer) mistakes a replica weapon for a real firearm.

Again, always consult a lawyer on questions regarding the orange tips of airsoft guns.

Is There a Minimum Age for Airsoft?

In the United States, there is no minimum age to play airsoft. This may vary at the state level but many states also concur that there is no minimum age. However, always be sure to check any applicable legal regulations about transferring an airsoft gun to a minor prior to participation in an event to ensure you are in full compliance with the law.

Also, be aware that even if there are no legal requirements for minimum age in your jurisdiction, the airsoft event organizer might have its own. For instance, some airsoft events, though they do not specific a minimum age of participation, do require minors to wear full face masks instead of goggles. If you have questions, contact the organizer of the event.

What Is the Difference Between Airsoft Events and MilSim

The basic difference is that airsoft MilSim events are airsoft events but not all airsoft events are MilSim events.

MilSim stands for military simulation and is intended to closely replicate real-life combat. Oftentimes, MilSim events are intended to reproduce the conditions of historic battles. They can be several days long, take place outdoors in the elements, and may require you to carry very specific gear.

Airsoft events also attempt to replicate combat encounters and have their own requirements for what gear you can and cannot carry, but are not necessarily intended to be as grueling as dedicated MilSim events.

Alright, Where Can I Learn More About Airsoft Events?

We host a variety of airsoft events throughout the year. If you’re looking for a schedule of upcoming events, please see the page at the previous link.

We still have some upcoming events through the end of 2022 and we periodically update our events page so be on the lookout for 2023 events.

What Do I Need to Play in an Airsoft Event?

What you need to participate in an airsoft event will vary according to the requirements of the organizer, but you should always have the following:

• Protective eyewear
• Supportive footwear
• Comfortable clothing, including protective gloves
• An airsoft gun and sidearm
• A case for your airsoft guns
• Spare magazines, airsoft ammo, canisters, and a speedloader
• Spare batteries and gas
• A tactical vest to organize your gear
• Kill rags
• And anything else necessary or required for the specific event

In addition, be aware that some events require you to wear specific camo patterns or protective gear, and sometimes there are rules regarding what sorts of airsoft guns you are allowing to use. Check the event registration or rules forms for more information.

Looking for an Airsoft Store Near You? Here’s What We Offer

If you’re looking for an airsoft store near you, we’re your ticket. Conveniently located in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, we’re a stone’s throw from most airsoft players in the Chicago metropolitan area. We sell a wide range of cheap airsoft guns, including spring powered airsoft guns and gas blowback pistols, in addition to higher end AEGs.

In addition to our collection of cheap airsoft guns and beginner models like the G&G Raider and ARP9, we also carry a wide range of airsoft ammo, batteries, magazines, and tactical gear; everything you’ll need for competition.

Our store also offers tune-ups and upgrades. For more information pay us a visit or get in touch with us at 800-581-6620.