What Is Airsoft?

Almost everyone remembers running around as a kid, pretending to be a soldier, holding a stick and shouting: “Bang! Bang! You’re hit!”
Over time, sticks turned into toy guns, then BB guns from toy stores—and eventually, airsoft was born.

Airsoft is a tactical sport and hobby that originated in Japan as an alternative to paintball from the United States. Early airsoft guns were realistic, 1:1 scale replicas designed mainly for display. As technology developed, these replicas evolved into functional airsoft guns capable of shooting plastic BBs.

To increase range and accuracy, the hop-up system was invented—today an essential feature of every modern airsoft gun.

Airsoft Games and Gameplay

Airsoft is all about team-based tactical games using airsoft guns. Similar to paintball, airsoft games usually involve two or more teams competing against each other with specific objectives, such as elimination, capture points, or mission-based scenarios.

Although airsoft guns shoot 6 mm or 8 mm plastic BBs at velocities around 100 m/s, serious injuries are very rare when safety rules are followed. Protective gear and fair play are key elements of the sport.

Airsoft games take place in various environments, including:

• Forests and woodland areas

• Abandoned buildings and ruins

• Old farmsteads

• Former military or industrial areas

(All locations are used legally with permission from owners or authorities.)

Airsoft is not just about running and shooting everything that moves. Tactics, communication, teamwork, and strategy often matter more than raw numbers. Experienced players can outmaneuver larger teams using flanking, deception, and coordination.

Fair Play and Sportsmanship in Airsoft

One of the core principles of airsoft is fair play. When a player is hit by a BB, they acknowledge the hit, raise their hand, and leave the battlefield. Even if the hit is only heard and not felt, players usually accept it honestly.

This strong emphasis on honesty makes airsoft a unique community-driven sport. Most airsoft players value respect, safety, and good sportsmanship, which is why airsoft events are known for their friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Airsoft Guns Explained

Under Czech law, airsoft guns are classified as Category D gas weapons, meaning ownership is permitted for individuals 18 years or older.

There is a wide range of airsoft guns available from many manufacturers, with prices ranging from affordable beginner models to high-end, limited-edition collector replicas.

Materials and Construction

• ABS plastic airsoft guns – lightweight and affordable, ideal for beginners

• Metal airsoft guns – more realistic weight, higher durability

• Steel and real wood airsoft guns – maximum realism and premium feel

Types of Airsoft Guns

Airsoft guns are generally divided into three main types:

• Spring (manual) airsoft guns – cocked before each shot

• Gas airsoft guns – powered by green gas or CO₂

• Electric airsoft guns (AEG) – powered by a battery and electric motor

AEG airsoft guns are the most popular choice due to their reliability, ease of use, and ability to fire in semi and full-auto modes. They offer excellent performance for both beginners and advanced players.

Many airsoft guns can also be upgraded with internal parts to improve accuracy, range, and overall performance.

Why Choose Airsoft?

Airsoft is more than just a shooting game—it’s a sport, hobby, and community that combines action, strategy, teamwork, and realism. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, airsoft offers endless opportunities for fun, competition, and personal challenge.