Airsoft Safety - The most important part of the sport
73- Article By: www.OnTargetAirsoft.com
Airsoft Electric Guns...Tested, Chronographed, guaranteed!
Is Airsoft Safe, Yes or No?
Airsoft has enjoyed a huge increase in popularity recently. Along with the rise, Airsoft has also gotten a lot of press as to whether the guns are safe or not. So are they? The answer is Yes and No; here's why.
Before we go any further it is important to understand that Airsoft guns are not toys. They are highly detailed firearm simulations that fire plastic 6mm BBs at muzzle velocities of 100-400FPS. Like paintball guns, they are designed for use under controlled, private environments, and should be treated like a real fiream. Used correctly, airsoft is a fun way participate in paintball-like competitions and/or to enhance military simulations/training. Use of airsoft guns also develops the proper handling and respect for firearms. Parents should ensure that children under 18 should be supervised by an adult when using airsoft guns.
From a lethal stand-point Airsoft Gnus are safe. The plastic Airsoft Ammo that it shoots is too slow and light to penetrate the skin, and cause damage to internal organs. So, your not going to kill anyone using an airsoft gun.That said, don't get to relaxed around airsoft guns because that what cannot kill you can still injure you.
A flying plastic 6mm BB, moving at airsoft velocities can break bare skin and worse damage the eyes and/or cause blindness. That is the number one danger from airsoft guns. Because of this it is important that everyone uses eye protection when shooting airsoft guns. Even when shooting at targets, a chance ricochet can cause eye injury. Read this letter from a local Atlanta Doctor to get the idea into your head.
Eye and face protection ranges from ballistic rated safety goggles to full face masks. Whatever your choice, the eye protection used should wrap around the side of the eyes to protect from side-shots. Loose or baggy clothing that covers all exposed skin should be worn, to protect from the BBs impact. Bare skin or tight clothing can result in welts or broken skin when struck by an airsoft BB. Keep in mind that based on overall Emergency Room Visits there are more dangerous outdoor sports.
Another Airsoft safety concern for airsoft is preception of the gun as real firearms. If brandished in public places it may be mistaken by citizens or law enforcement as the real thing. In an age of mall and school shootings every perceived threat is taken seriously. Public use of Airsoft guns could result in your arrest or worse deadly force used against you. Use the same common sense you would use with a real firearm or you'll find out the hard way how serious the repercussions can be (Airsoft gun news). Restrict your use to your private property or clubs designated for Airsoft or paintball use.
A few other smart tips and guidelines for safe airsoft play....
Never remove or paint over the orange tip on your airsoft gun. Not only is it a federal offense to do so, it shows others that the gun is not real. It's there for your safety and the safety of others. Also, never shoot anyone without their permission. You could wind up in jail for assault. Finally, never shoot pets or animals. They didn't do anything to you so why harm them with an airsoft shot.
We suggest you read more on Firearm safety before picking up an airsoft gun. you can find additional literature here (NRA). These are the basic rules to follow for safe Airsoft/firearm use:
BASIC FIREARM HANDLING RULES
- Treat Every Gun as if it is loaded
- Always point guns in a safe direction
- Know your Target and Beyond
- Do not shoot at anything you do not intend to kill or destroy
- Never use a firearm if you have been drinking or using drugs.
With responsible handling, safety equipment and use location airsoft can be a very safe and fun sport!
PrintShare it! — Rate it: up down flag this hub
Share your Airsoft Safety tips with us
900FPS! That doesn't sound like an airsoft gun...more like a pellet gun or getting close to a .22 cal muzzle speeds. I'd be careful shooting anyone or thing with those muzzle velocities. I'd spring for some high-end ballistic goggles like the Wiley-X brands.
SEE! I told you AIRHARD would catch on.
does anyone know where I can get an ak for under 50 dollars
I too play airsoft and made a horrible mistake, a BB bounced into my eye and i turned around and shot 2 welts on his leg. This was not the real mistake it was none of us 3 guys were wearing eye protection
Me and my friend airsoft alot and i always wear a paintball mask. Some of the masks made for airsofting arent relieable because the wire mesh and plastic can break. If a paintball wont break it, air airsoft bb wont.
MY FRIEND SHOT ME WITH A AIRSOFT GUN FROM 5 FEET AWAY. AIRSOFTS CAN'T BREAK SKIN RIGHT?
Yes they can. It depends on: Muzzle velocity, how close to the target, and protective gear. Bare skin from 5 feet with a 350FPS gun may result in some blood. You should always wear the proper protective geer and eye protection with conducting airsoft skrimishes. Be sure to wear long sleeved garments and vests when possible.
i have been shot from two feet with my 300 fps airsoft by my dad because he didnt know what it was and it left a small mark but that was it
My son was accidentally shot in the eye with an airsoft rifle (350 fps). He now has 2 permanent tears to his iris, glaucoma, cataract and an epiretinal membrane.
Thanks for posting, sorry aobut your sons injury. This reinforces the importance of eye protection!!!
All of the neighbor boys on the block have Airsoft weapons and play war. 50% of the boys don't wear eye protection. I'm affraid for my boys safety because they can't go out in there own yard play because these boys are firing every where. Why do I have to put safety glasses on my boys just so they can go outside. I see the way these boys treat these guns like toys not like a weapon. They repeatly fire at each other in close ranch when they think the weapon is empty. The parents are nowhere to be found. This is dangerous!
"Backyard" Airsoft gives the sport a bad rap. I totally agree with your concern. Airsoft is really made for use on sanctioned playfeilds or large/secluded areas of private land (like a farm, or woods). They should never be used in a high-density neighboorhood area. Firearms rules for your city or county apply to airsoft guns too (i.e. rules for discharging a firearm). I recommend finding the parents and talking to them or inviting to the police out to talk with them.
How can i get my parants to allow me to play they dont like the idea of shooting bbs at each othe since my dadis such an old timer saying "Why would you want to shoot each other, and saying arent BBS dangerous" my freinds have a place to play and i dont want to be left behind saying i dont have a gun so hoe can i convince them.
Before I recommend anything just remember that your parents have the final say in decisions concerning what you can and cannot participate in, until you hit the ripe old age of 18. Respect their decision no matter how much it may suck....life is going to be full of great and bad decisions, get used to it now. Suck it up and go on living. That said, to have any chance of success....
Let your parents know you are serious about wanting to play airsoft, and you're serious about safety. First, ask your dad (or mom) to take a local hunters/Firearms safety course with you. This will reinforce your commitment to safety and you'll learn a lot about safe firearm handling. you can find local classes at www.NRA.org
Next, ask your dad/mom to take you to a sanctioned airsoft feild or arena and play. They'll see how safe it is when the proper safety equipment is used. your parents can also talk to the managment about airsoft gun selection and consideration. Finally, discuss the areas you and your friends are going play airsoft. Make sure you emphasize all the safety procedures your going to put into play (face/eye protection, no close shots, no head shots, gun safety procedures). Then ask your parents to consider your request. Remember, to respect their decision, it is final. If they say no, take it like a man. No whining, arguing, or crying. A calm, professional reaction may cause them to change their minds down the road. fighting their decision will only make things worse.
also, it wouldn't hurt to have all your teammates take the gun safety course too. Sometimes it's the other guy you have to worry about.
Good Luck!
Both Classic Army and Jing Gong are great guns. If your mainly playing CQB/Indoors I would go with the lower FPS Classic Army. Glad to hear you are making Eye protection a priority. All Airsoft Guns, regardless of FPS can damage the eyes....even on a ricochet.
wearing T-shirts does come with the hazard of broken skin and nasty welts (300 or 350 FPS)...but it won't kill you. Overheating and dehydration are worse. Although, some of the camo clothing out today is very comfortable, when used with moisture wick undergarments (like underarmor) they make operations in hot weather easier (JUST STAY HYDRATED!)
I have glasses, does this mean I cant play airsoft?
John, Of course you can play. You'll just have to find a mask that fits over your glasses. I wear glasses and do not have any problems. I like the metal mesh masks as they don't fog up.
i really want to play airsoft and Im very serious about playing and safety. however my mom is somewhat a little over protective. I try to explain to her that its safe and she says "ill thing abou it" or "we'll see" and the closest iv gotten to a straight answer is "until i hear your argument its a no" i think it would be really fun and if she says yes im not sure where i could play due to the fact i live in a small town and in the subarbs so that = no backyard airsoft, no closed of arena or area. however there is a paintball place around im not sure if they would let me get a group of friends ogether and play airsoft. i suspect no due to the fact its a paintball place. but i still REALLY want to play. and also if you could suggest a good airsoft gun to me from either wal mart k mart target or just a decent gun in general where as theres a flea market that would be great. I really appreciate it sincerely,
WishIcouldPlay
im try im to convince my parent s to let me get an air soft gun but my dad is ok but my mom thats another story what are some things i could do to take her to the dark side ?
thx :)
Before I recommend anything just remember that your parents have the final say in decisions concerning what you can and cannot participate in, until you hit the ripe old age of 18. Respect their decision no matter how much it may suck....life is going to be full of great and bad decisions, get used to it now. Suck it up and go on living. That said, to have any chance of success.... Let your parents know you are serious about wanting to play airsoft, and you're serious about safety. First, ask your dad (or mom) to take a local hunters/Firearms safety course with you. This will reinforce your commitment to safety and you'll learn a lot about safe firearm handling. you can find local classes at www.NRA.org Next, ask your dad/mom to take you to a sanctioned airsoft feild or arena and play. They'll see how safe it is when the proper safety equipment is used. your parents can also talk to the managment about airsoft gun selection and consideration. Finally, discuss the areas you and your friends are going play airsoft. Make sure you emphasize all the safety procedures your going to put into play (face/eye protection, no close shots, no head shots, gun safety procedures). Then ask your parents to consider your request. Remember, to respect their decision, it is final. If they say no, take it like a man. No whining, arguing, or crying. A calm, professional reaction may cause them to change their minds down the road. fighting their decision will only make things worse. also, it wouldn't hurt to have all your teammates take the gun safety course too. Sometimes it's the other guy you have to worry about. Good Luck!
i am serious about playin airsoft too but my dad is over protective ??
I think we have beat the parents topic do death. see previous posts, that's all I've got.
My 9 year old just got two chipped teeth from older kids shooting airsoft. They are permanent teeth not baby teeth. He peeked out the window and caught a pellet. This game seems pretty stupid to be doing around people's houses.
Sad Dad,
Totally agree with you. Airsoft is not made for backyard play. likewise, most people don't paintball or shoot real firearms in their backyards. Backyard airsoft is unsafe and it gives the sport a bad rap. Airsoft play should always be limited to sanctioned playfeilds or large tracts of private land. Safety gear should always be used. A mask that covers the mouth and ears is the best bet.
Thank you for your comment!
is an StG44 airsoft gun good
T4ey2,
yes it is a great gun. If you can get one, they are in short supply. We won't have them until October.
My son did shoot someone with his airsoft rifle. He was charged with assault. I am a firemen/paramedic in this same town and the police/legal system did what they could to keep the case in house so to speak. His friends still play backyard airsoft games and he wants to join in. I say no not ever again but he likes the sport. What advice do you have for him? Should he take a couple of gun safety classes or be banned for life for such an egregious mistake? Oh BTW he shot an unarmed girl and boy that were not part of the backyard game in any way. I would like for him to be able to play but I also realize I cannot be with him 24 hours a day to watch everything he does. He has to be able to show some amount of responsibility as well. What advice do you have?
ajr95,
We do not condone or recommend backyard airsoft for the reasons you mention above. Airsoft guns in neighboorhoods always result in a neighbor thinking their is a youth uprising, resulting in police involvement. Find a local airsoft/paintball field or friends with a large tract of private land.
If you treat airsoft guns like real guns and apply a little common sense you can avoid any problems.
how much fps is like just right? for an aeg and a friendly match
is it ok if i get a bag of sand, and shoot at that in my back yard. will i get in trouble??
Wondering,
I would tell all my neighbors that can see your backyard what you plan on doing and what airsoft is. You don't want them to see you out there with a realistic firearm, with no idea that that it's airsoft. They'll think you are forming a militia and call the cops on you.
hi um im wondering if 755 fps is a bit too much but im not playing matches but im shooting targets
I accidentally shot my neighbour with an airsoft like 10 fps (weak) then I'm nervous when she scream, that doesn't even hurt and at a very far range
Do not shoot at people unless they agree to play airsoft with you. Common Sense.
What scope do you think I should get for a UTG MK-96?
My newest goggles are made for fire fighters. The ESS goggle is totally fog and scratch proof and will take a shotgun blast at 35 yards. they are inexpensive. I paid $32.00 at Optics planet. If you wear a helmet they are perfect fit for the MICH and IBH style helmets. They also have velcro on the strap that will attach the strap to the back of your helmet, So they are always in the proper position.
Considering the fact that you must be 18 years old to buy an Aisoft gun legally, leads me to believe that parents are not getting involved with their children's activities. My son is 4 years old I have in fact bought him a JG MP5, but he knows where he can shoot it, he knows never to shoot it with out me being present, he knows not to point at people, and he knows to wear his goggles when shooting. Now he is 4 years old. I have taught him these safety guidelines to the strictest of standards, of course at the age of 3 he was helping me chop onions when I prepared meals. Not to mention his 2 year old sister helped him also. She grabbed it and started capping off bb's full auto and he said no that's mine!!!! And grabbed the muzzle. So now he learned that those bb's hurt, a lot. So parents need to get involved . Every kid under the age of 18 had or has a parent with a credit card that ordered the gun for them. Airsoft is fun and can be played safely. It is not a game for improperly trained or reckless people. I can tell you right now my guns shoot at least 430 FPS, but I won't take a shot within 4 meters. That is why I carry a pistol for close shots. Parents ultimately need to take issue with what they are buying their kids. To play devils advocate there is no such thing as a friendly game. If you play Airsoft you will get shot, multiple times. so always wear your safety gear. Even when target shooting you must have some type of eye protection. Never shoot at hard surfaces. Use some tripled heavy card board to use as targets. Always make sure nothing is behind your target like a house, people, animals, anything that you would not to shoot. Rule number 2 for gun safety. Think before you act.
I'm buying a airsoft gun [300 fps] will this break skin and is this recommended for small wooded areas?
to OIRVETERAN
thanks to your help about parents and telling me how serious airsoft is in dangers, i was able to persuade my dad to get me a Tokyo Marui M92f Military Model.
THANK YOU!
JustinTHEMAN
Will, not unless you are dead bang. Although another factor is the hop up setting which puts back spin on the bb. It will sting and hurt. Depending on the back spin and where you are hit and how close you are. It could, But most likely not. I would say you would have welting in the area hit by the bb.
guys i want to make it so most of the bbs wont hurt, anywhere on my bodie what can i were so the bbs will only sting a little and not break skin?
Channy says:
2 years ago
it helps to know the safety.. i too play airsoft... and safety comes first.. by the way.. what are some good quality googles?? that can withstand a force of 900fps... better safe than sorry