Tuesday, June 2, 2009

What Equipment do I need to get started in Airsoft?

airsoft starter equipmentIf you are just starting out in airsoft, you may be wondering what equipment you should purchase to ensure that you are prepared. Many airsoft players get started by purchasing the essentials and then building out their airsoft collections by adding multiple types of guns, accessories and gear over time. If you are playing for the first time, you may want to borrow airsoft guns and gear if possible to make sure the sport is for you. If you love playing airsoft and are ready to invest in your own airsoft guns and gear, congratulations! Airsoft is an exciting, adrenaline charged sport that promotes camaraderie and gives players a taste of combat in a safe environment.

While many players slowly build up a collection of airsoft guns and equipment, others take the full plunge and purchase every gun and accessory that seems appealing from the start. The latter approach certainly will not hurt if money is no concern, but this is not the case for many airsoft players who are just getting started. If you are on a limited budget, you may want to invest in these essentials up front, and later purchase items such as extra guns, scopes, and tactical vests that you may want down the line:

Safety Goggles: Eye protection is absolutely required for any airsoft skirmish, so purchasing a quality pair of safety goggles that fits you well should be a worthwhile investment. Just any safety goggles, such as those used for power tool operation or skiing, will not do. Shopping for goggles on reputable airsoft websites will help ensure that the safety goggles you purchase are suitable for protecting you from injury by airsoft fire. Before you buy, be sure to find out if the field you will be playing most often has requirements on the type of eye protection that must be worn.

Airsoft Gun: An airsoft gun is a necessary purchase when you are investing in airsoft equipment of your own. The right airsoft gun to buy depends on your budget and personal preferences. Hopefully you have some friends or fellow airsoft players who will let you try out their guns to get a feel for your preferences. Researching different types and models online can be helpful, but nothing beats trying one out! If testing out a few guns is not an option, talking to fellow airsofters about what brands and models they like and why will give you some excellent insight into the factors that are important in choosing the right airsoft gun.

BBs: Obviously you will need ammunition before you enter a skirmish, but be sure that you get the right kind of BBs for your gun. BBs are available in different sizes, and using the right type is essential to the longevity of your gun. For more information about choosing the right BBs for your gun, check out What kind of BBs are right for my airsoft gun?

Camouflage clothing/BDUs: Okay, so a set of BDUs is not a necessity to be able to play airsoft, but is worth mentioning since most players will be dressed in camouflage for the game. Wearing camouflage will help during a skirmish because it can help you avoid being spotted by opponents. Many players also like the fact that wearing realistic military attire contributes to the realism of the game.

Getting some field experience in a few skirmishes and interacting with other players will undoubtedly expose you to new guns and equipment, so you may want to start out by purchasing the essentials to get a feel for what else you would like to add to your airsoft collection. When you are deciding what to buy, do not underestimate the power of talking with experienced airsoft enthusiasts, who will more than likely be thrilled to discuss the different aspects of airsoft equipment with you!

About the Author: Mike Zhang is the VP of Operations of Airsoft Megastore, an Airsoft retailer offering electric and gas powered Airsoft guns. Please visit Airsoft Megastore to shop for airsoft AEGs, airsoft sniper rifles or the right airsoft gas gun for players of any experience level.

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