Airsoft is the name giving to a type of simulated combat similar to paintball. Using compressed air (air guns) gunsthat fire ball bearings, players on opposing sides battle it out in war scenarios, generally out in the countryside. Said to have its origins in Asia, most likely in Japan, it gained popularity due to the strict gun control laws imposed after the second world war. Due to its Asian origins much of the advanced Airsoft equipment comes from the Far East. Airsoft has been rising in popularity over the years and has spread across much of Europe and America.
Airsoft Game Types
There are a few different types of Airsoft game: Military Simulation and Close Quarter Skirmishes,
Close quarters battle (CQB or Skirmishing), is the most widely used style of Airsoft combat. Typically taking place in warehouse, abandonded building or in woodlands or farmland/farmyard. Specific Airsoft equipment, such as high capacity magazines and other non military equipment is commonly used along with combat fatigues or military uniform. Weapons used vary in type such as sniper rifles as well as Airsoft assault rifles and vary in cost from start up level to high end.
Military Simulation involves role-playing military re-enactments and can last several days. Each team has several tasks to carry out or a missions to achieve, including supplying team members with rations and ammo and other equipment necessary for the continuance of the mission. Two way communication can be used to maintain co-ordination of position and manpower. Throughout the mission, which can last several days, players remain in play(even overnight) but a safe zone is always set up with medical equipment on standby should it be required.
Safety Equipment
The main thing about Airsoft is the freedom involved. Safety equipment is minimal with the only mandatory safety equipment being eye protection, such as impact protection goggles or shooting glasses, and face protection such as a balaclava although emphasis on the former due to potential blindness.
