In the world of airsoft fields there are a few different types of airsoft fields. Open area, Close quarters indoor, and MOUT (Military Operations in Urban Terrain) are some of the most popular. Obstacle courses and wooded fields are also classic types of airsoft fields. Once you choose the type of play format, you need to do a little research to find out which airsoft field is best for you and your team. Most veteran airsoft enthusiasts will tell you there is a big difference in airsoft fields, most notably when it comes to the people that own and operate them. If you have a team that wants to play or you are interested in joining other teams, there are a few things you should remember when it comes to airsoft fields and how they are run.

For one thing, airsoft is a fast and furious game where emotions and tension can run high. However, as an airsoft gamer, you are a customer on the field and should be treated as such. It is up to you to obey the rules of the airsoft field especially when it comes to safety equipment and good sportsmanlike conduct, but there should be no reason for abusive language or behavior on the part of the referees or others who are in charge. You should absolutely cooperate with them if they send you out or call you on any rule violations, but as long as you are doing your part; they should be doing theirs as well.

Also, good airsoft fields should have knowledgeable staff that can answers questions about Airsoft guns, airsoft ammo, accessories, and rules of the game. Just like golf courses have their pro shops with experts on hand, the high-quality airsoft fields should be owned and operated by airsoft enthusiasts who are still in touch with the current lingo and equipment. Having a well-stocked airsoft repair shop is a plus too!

Be aware that many airsoft fields limit the overall muzzle velocity of your airsoft gun to reduce painful welts and potential injury. For open airsoft field play 350FPS is a common velocity limit. Sometimes airsoft fields allow higher FPS ratings on sniper rifles, but there is usually a minimum shot distance (20 feet or more) rule for snipers. No one likes to be shot with a .28 gram BB moving 400+FPS from 5 feet away. For indoor play allowable FPS is 300 FPS or less in most cases. This is because these airsoft fields involve closer distances of 5 to 20 feet. Much too close for anything over 300FPS. To enforce these limits, most airsoft fields require you to fire your gun through a chronograph before you are allowed to play. A Chronograph measures BB Muzzle Velocity.

In the area of airsoft BBs, many airsoft fields require the use of biodegradable BBs, due to environmental concerns. These BBs are usually a bit more expensive. The advantage is they break down with exposure to moisture and the elements, reducing the accumulation of plastic BBs on the airsoft field. Make sure you call ahead to find out if the airsoft field requires Bio BBs. Many that do sell them at a decent price.

The final thing to consider about an airsoft field is their price schedule; both of the game play and the equipment rental and sales. Airsoft field owners need to make money, which is the goal of any business. Everything about the shop, the game, and all the accessories should be competitively priced if they want to earn your business. If a particular airsoft gun interests you, call the airsoft field ahead of time for a price quote. Research that item's pricing on the web to determine if you’re getting a fair deal. Make sure to verify if they test and chronograph their airsoft guns, and if they offer any sort of "out of the box" guarantee. Most mid range airsoft guns like Jing Gong, Dboys, and Well come with a 2-3 day "out of the box" working guarantee. Many of the higher end guns like SRC, ICS, and Classic Army should come with a 30-day warranty. Be wary of any airsoft retailer that does not offer these basic competitive advantages. Likewise, compare their hourly field rates with the rate of other airsoft fields.

Finding airsoft fields near you should not be too difficult. You can look online and simply type "airsoft fields" into your web search engine. Including your state in the search query will help narrow the results (example Airsoft field Wisconsin). Keep in mind many airsoft fields started out as other things - golf courses, driving ranges, shooting ranges, and so on, and developed over time as the sport of airsoft got more and more popular. You might find that they even operate as separate sporting fields and are rented out for airsoft during certain times. In any event, try to get to know the owners and other players and you'll be able to determine if it is one of the best airsoft fields for you. If you still want to know more, ask on the various airsoft forums. The airsoft forums usually have a category for airsoft fields.

For more information on airsoft check us out at OnTarget Airsoft