For those of you that really love airsoft competition, it won’t be long before you come across MilSim (if you haven’t already).

Let’s get into it: what is it, why you should try it, and what you need to bring after you sign up for the event.

What Is MilSim?
MilSim stands for Military Simulation and is a type of airsoft event designed to closely simulate a real-life armed conflict. Some take on the form of war games. Some MilSim matches are utilized by law enforcement officers and military and paramilitary personnel for the purposes of immersive training.

Others MilSim events are intended to simulate or reenact battles that have occurred in the past. Oftentimes, MilSim events prescribe strict rules for the types of uniforms, airsoft guns, and other gear and equipment you and your team are allowed to carry.

Should You Try It?
Not all airsoft events are MilSim matches, and Military Simulation may not be for everyone. However, if you decide to enroll in a MilSim event, these are some of the potential benefits:

●Challenging your critical thinking and strategic planning abilities: Since military simulation events will pit you against opposing teams and offer you a wide variety of tactical, strategic, positional challenges, engaging in war games like these can help you hone your critical thinking and strategic planning and communication skills.

●Expanding your fieldcraft and bushcraft skills: Some events will have you outside for days at a time, challenging your survival instincts and abilities. Shelter-making, firecraft, bushcraft, and camp-food preparation may all be involved in some military simulations.

●Becoming familiar with new tactical gear: Engaging in military simulations will introduce you to new tactical equipment, giving you an “excuse” to try out new gear - especially if required by the event.

●Meeting like-minded players and making new friends: Obviously, you’re going to be competing with other people that have the same interests as you!

●Getting in touch with history: For those that take part in reenactment military simulations, they’re a great way to learn more about historical military engagements and pitched battles. You can learn more about historical dispositions, encampments, techniques, and even historical equipment.

How Long Are MilSim Matches?
Many MilSim matches are about a day long, but some last for several days. During a MilSim match, it’s conceivable that you and your team will be exposed to unforgiving elements and adverse conditions for days at a time.

However, it varies according to the organizer and the specifics of the event details. Consult the event administrators of the event in question for more information.

What You Should Bring
Exactly what you should bring depends on the requirements of the specific event, so be sure to check the rules and regulations and consult an administrator or coordinator beforehand if you are unsure of anything.

However, event specifics aside, here’s a checklist of what you should bring:

●A backup airsoft gun and sidearm: Some events will enable you to rent, but it’s always best to be prepared with your own equipment and bring a backup.

●A speedloader and spare mags (if allowed): Loading mags is a hassle; save time with spares and a speedloader.

●Biodegradable BBs (probably required by the match administrator anyway): Bring along at least 20,000 rounds of airsoft ammo (or more, if you feel the need).

●Personal protective gear (protective eyewear at minimum, or whatever else required by the match): Bring protective eyewear, heavy gloves, pants, and a jacket.

●Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes: Always bring along waterproof clothing (at least a layer) as well as weather-appropriate clothing, for the heat or the cold. Bring some changes as well.

●Comfortable, tactical boots: You’ll be on your feet for hours if not days. Waterproof boots are recommended.

●A tactical vest (if allowed): You’ll need somewhere to store all of your gear.

●Camping equipment: A tent, a sleeping bag, a pillow, a sleeping pad, lanterns, and other camping equipment are essential. You’ll probably also want to carry a knife, a multitool, and perhaps a hatchet if you can spare the weight.

●Firestarting equipment and cooking essentials: If you’ll be outside for days, bring along cooking supplies and mess equipment, as well as multiple redundant methods for fire-starting.

●Binoculars: Great for glassing and reconnaissance.

●A tactical flashlight: Never be caught with the lights out; also useful for CQB if you don’t have a rifle light.

●A canteen (and plenty of water): As much as you can reasonably bring. Bring for yourself and your teammates. Some prefer Gatorade.

●Spare clothes: You don’t want to spend several days in wet or sweaty clothes if you can afford to change.

●Personal hygiene products: Pack as though you were actually going camping. Bring a toothbrush, floss, soap, whatever else you feel you need (if allowed for the match).

●Tools to service your airsoft gun: You may need to unexpectedly service your airsoft gun in the field. Be prepared with the proper tools.

●A first aid kit: No one expects to get hurt in an airsoft match, because this is a simulation, after all - but you can’t beat the wise habit of being prepared, and accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere. Don’t let it ruin a match.

●Communications equipment, if allowed: Walkie-talkies and radios are vital for team communication.

●Food and spare cash: Bring enough food to last you through the event, and some spare cash because you may be able to pick up some essentials at the last minute at the venue.

●Anything else required for the event: Most MilSim events are heavily prescribed with rules and regulations. Make sure you have the proper equipment and uniforms well beforehand.

Contact the MilSim Event Coordinator Beforehand
If you have any questions about the specifics of an event, be certain to get in touch with the event coordinator so you can be sure of what you have to bring, what you can’t bring, and what you should bring. It will vary according to the event.

Then visit us at MiR Tactical to be better prepared with all of the airsoft accessories, equipment, and MilSim essentials you need to yeet your opps on the field!