Safety is paramount in airsoft. While the sport is generally safe when proper precautions are taken, airsoft guns can cause injury if safety rules aren't followed. Understanding and adhering to safety guidelines protects you and others.
Essential Safety Equipment
Eye Protection (MANDATORY)
Eye protection is the single most important piece of safety equipment. BBs traveling at high velocity can cause permanent eye damage or blindness.
- Use ANSI Z87.1+ rated or MIL-PRF-32432 ballistic rated eye protection
- Full-seal goggles or masks are required - shooting glasses are NOT sufficient
- Never remove eye protection while in the playing area
- Inspect eye protection regularly for cracks or damage
- Replace damaged eye protection immediately
Face Protection (RECOMMENDED)
While not always mandatory, face protection prevents painful impacts to teeth, lips, and other facial areas.
- Lower face masks protect teeth and jaw
- Full face masks combine eye and face protection
- Mesh masks offer breathability but can be less comfortable
- Neoprene masks provide comfort and flexibility
Additional Protection
- Gloves protect hands from BB impacts and abrasions
- Neck protection prevents painful hits to vulnerable areas
- Long sleeves and pants reduce welts and bruises
- Knee and elbow pads protect during dynamic movement
General Safety Rules
- Barrel Covers: Use barrel covers or safety flags when not actively playing
- Safe Zones: Never fire weapons in designated safe zones
- Magazine Out: Remove magazines and clear chambers in safe zones
- Trigger Discipline: Keep finger off trigger until ready to shoot
- Muzzle Awareness: Never point your gun at anyone outside of gameplay
- Chrono Testing: Have your gun chronographed to ensure it meets field limits
- Minimum Engagement Distance (MED): Respect MEDs for high-powered weapons
- Call Your Hits: Immediately signal when hit and move to a safe area
Field-Specific Safety
- Always attend safety briefings before playing
- Follow all field-specific rules and regulations
- Respect velocity limits (typically 350-400 FPS for AEGs, 400-550 FPS for snipers)
- Understand and follow engagement distance rules
- Know emergency procedures and location of first aid
Transportation Safety
- Transport airsoft guns in cases or bags, never openly displayed
- Remove magazines and clear all BBs before transport
- Some jurisdictions require orange tips on airsoft guns
- Never brandish airsoft guns in public - they can be mistaken for real firearms
Age Restrictions
Most fields require players to be at least 12-18 years old, with minors requiring parental consent and supervision. Always check your local field's age requirements.