What Is An Airsoft Gun?

Posted by | Posted on 1:00 AM

By Anthony Carter

If you're reading this then you have thought it yourself, just what is it? Airsoft guns are becoming increasingly popular in North America but many still don't know exactly what they are.

In simple terms, an airsoft gun is an exact copy of the real thing. The exception is that they fire plastic pellets, not bullets and use compressed gas. CO2 cartridges are the most commonly used form of compressed gas, but some gun models operate using electrical motors or springs. 6mm plastic pellets travel through this toy with a muzzle velocity of somewhere between 30 to 250 meters per second.

Don't let these recreational toys fool you though, in cases where heavy projectiles are used they can and will penetrate the skin causing severe damage. If plastic pellets are used as recommended though, airsoft guns are relatively safe for play. The are recommended for ages 16 and up, but in some select areas you must be 18 to participate in any type of tournament. This is for safety reasons of course and children under 16 should never attempt to use one.

Airsoft guns have an interesting history to go along with them that starts in Japan around the 1970's. You see, during that time it was illegal to have a firearm, but because people were still interested in them these replicas were invented. These earliest version were powered by springs themselves and fired rubber pellets. The standard 6mm to 8mm size we see today came later. They did evolve quickly in to gas powered guns however.

In the 1990's this fun toy wandered over to North America and changed how we viewed recreational fun forever. Once North American's added their knowledge to the mix we ended up with what we know these gun replicas as today.

As with any great product, cheap knock offs eventually began to pop up forcing the United States to place restrictions on the sale and import. Today all airsoft guns must have a regulation orange tip in order to be allowed in to the country for sale.

Because some of these models are so accurate to their real life counter parts, intellectual property laws have became a problem from some of the manufacturing companies. Most of these companies are Japanese based and the United States restricts imports of certain models they feel are too life like for use here.

Just reading the description of airsoft guns makes it sound so fun, which it is. It is a great outdoor recreational activity that many enjoy. It has quite the following and tournaments take place on a regular bases in almost every state. If you are looking for a little excitement without to much risk and danger then this sport would be one that you might want to look in to. Entire families sometimes get involved and it's a great way to spend family time together.

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