AIRSOFT GUN SAFETY

Airsoft is enjoying a recent increase in popularity. However, airsoft has also gotten a lot of  negative press as to its safety. Well are Airsoft Guns Safe? Yes and No; here's the scoop.

First, it is very important to understand that Airsoft guns are not toys (Parents, did you get that?). They are highly detailed simulations of firearms that fire small plastic BBs at speeds of 100-400 Feet per Second (Called FPS). They are designed for use under controlled, private environments, and should be treated like a real fiream. They are not intended for kids to run up and down the street shooting at everything (Parents, again did you get that?) Used correctly, airsoft is a fun way participate in paintball like competitions or to enhance military simulations/training.  Use of airsoft guns also develops proper firarm handling and safety habits. Parents should ensure that children under 18 are always supervised when using airsoft guns.

From a "threat of death" stand-point, Airsoft guns are safe. The plastic Ammo that an airsoft gun shoots is to slow and light to penetrate the skin and damage internal organs. Your not going to kill anyone using an airsoft gun. But that what cannot kill you can still injure you.

That said, don't get to relaxed around airsoft guns. A Flying plastic BB, moving at airsoft velocities can break bare skin and worse damage the eyes.  Eye injuries is the worst danger from airsoft guns.  Because of this it is important that everyone use eye protection when shooting airsoft guns. Even when shooting at targets, a chance ricochet can cause eye injury. If you do a google search of Airsoft Eye injuries you'll find enough material, including letters from doctors, to convince you that use of eye protection is not a option when handling or firing an airsoft gun.

Eye and face protection ranges from ballistic rated safety goggles to full face masks. Full face masks tend to be the best as they protect your eyes, nose and mouth.  Whatever your choice, the eye protection should provide wrap-around the side of the eyes protection. Additionally, loose or baggy clothing that covers all exposed skin should be worn, to protect from the BBs impact. Bare skin or tight clothing can result in welts or broken skin when struck by an airsoft BB, especially at ranges under 50 feet.

Another safety concern for airsoft, is preception of the guns as real firearms. If brandished in public places they may be mistaken by citizens or law enforcement as the real thing (Parents another important point to note).  In an age of mall and school shootings every perceived threat is taken seriously.  Public use of Airsoft guns could result in your arrest or worse deadly force used against you. Two teens in Wisconsin recently found out the hard way.  Just walking down the street with an airsoft shotgun, it resulted in an armed police response at their homes.  The end result, embarasement, threat of armed force against them, and $300 fines. Restrict your airsoft use to private property or clubs designated for Airsoft or paintball use.

Never remove or paint over the orange tip. Not only is it a federal offense to do so, it shows others that the gun is not real.  It's there for your safety and the safety of others.  eBay does not allow members to sell or purchase airsoft guns that do not have the orange tip attached. Be wary of any vendor that advertises them without the orange tip. Buying, transporting, or using an airsoft gun without an orange tip can land you in jail for a long time. Also, never shoot anyone without their permission.  You could wind up in jail for assault. Finally, never shoot pets or animals.  They didn't do anything to you so why harm them with an airsoft shot.

We suggest you read more on Firearm safety before picking up an airsoft gun. you can find additional literature at NRA.org. With responsible handling, safety gear and private airsoft areas these guns can be a very safe sport and fun too!