Many paintball fans are switching over to airsoft guns. People that play in these recreation war games are looking for the most realistic experience that they can have. They often will wear authentic uniforms or uniforms that are actually issued to them by the Armed Forces. Having paintballs stain the uniforms is unacceptable. Airsoft guns offer a more realistic feel to the game.
You will not need a license to own or operate these guns. However, you do need to be aware if there is a minimum age requirement in your country. There not be an age requirement to operate an airsoft gun, but there will probably be an age restriction when purchasing one.
Some countries will require you to paint the barrel of the gun orange. Painting the barrel orange will let anyone know that the gun is not real. Even if the barrel is painted orange, you still should not display your airsoft guns in public, without a case. And you should always lock your guns up when storing them at home if you have children or children visit your home.
Although this is not a realistic gun, you will want to treat the gun like it is the real thing. You never point the gun at someone not in play. Never fire your gun closer then the recommended distance to another person. You will clean this gun the same way that would clean a real gun. Remember to only use silicone based products for cleaning and never petroleum based cleaning products.
Unplug the battery when you are not using the gun. This will cause less drainage on the battery and will prevent the gun from accidently discharging. There are barrel bags and barrel condoms that are to be used when you are out on the playing field when your gun is not in use.
For those that have never played, you need to know that the games are played on an honor system. Because there are not any telltale signs of being hit, players have to shout out when they feel the projectile hit them. Cheating is a serious offense because most of the players know that cheating can ruin an entire game. If there is a dispute, there are referees in regulated game play that can offer an unbiased opinion.
Electric, gas, spring and hybrid airsoft guns are the flavors that you can select from. If you are in a store, you can ask a knowledgeable salesperson to help you pick out which types of gun is right for you. Most beginners start with a spring loaded gun and work their way up to a more complicated and powerful arsenal. If you can try dry firing the gun to see if you like it and do not go on appearance alone when choosing your weapon.
You could get the fancy M4 assault rifle that looks real and ejects shell casings, just like the real thing. But if you cannot operate it properly, you will only end up looking foolish. Only purchase the airsoft gun that you can handle. And always respect and handle the gun like you would a real gun.