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Airsoft
Fishing
Air Gun
Airsoft, at its core, is a team-based sport where players participate in mock combat scenarios using replica firearms that shoot plastic pellets. These replicas are often incredibly alike their real-steel counterparts, offering an immersive experience that appeals to a broad audience. No matter whether you're a casual hobbyist looking to bring Call of Duty to life, or a serious tactical training enthusiasts looking for a way to put your skills to the test, airsoft has a place for you! The game is not just about shooting; it involves tactics, teamwork, and a healthy dose of physical exercise, making it an excellent all -around activity.
How do I get started with airsoft?
For beginners, stepping into the world of airsoft can be both exciting and a bit daunting. The market is flooded with a myriad of equipment and gear, making it challenging to know where to start. This is where the importance of choosing the right kit comes into play. A well-selected airsoft starter kit can make the difference between a frustrating first experience and a thrilling introduction to a lifelong hobby.
In this article, we will guide you through three selections of starter kits, detailing how each piece of equipment can be used for gameday on the airsoft field. From understanding the basics of the game to pro-tips and tricks, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking to join the sport yourself or searching for the perfect holiday gift for a loved one, our comprehensive guide will ensure you make an informed decision. So, gear up, and let's delve into the exciting world of airsoft, where fun, strategy, and adventure await!
Airsoft Kit 1: "Ready For Anything."
The perfect all-around kit with a vast selection of accessories to ensure you're prepared for any situation on the battlefield.
We'll begin this starter pack selection with a kit that, at first glance, might seem a little intimidating due to just how many accessories it includes. Don't worry! Not everything on this list is mandatory for you to enjoy your next game-day on the airsoft field. The core idea behind this kit is to cover every base for what a modern military inspired airsoft kit might include, as well as provide attachment options that allow for success at just about any airsoft field. I'll separate the items that I deem mandatory from the ones that are optional by putting an asterisk on the more situational accessories. Let's get into what this vast kit includes!
Setting up the perfect starter airsoft gun!
The 6mmProShop Full Metal AR-15 M4 Airsoft AEG w/ M-LOK Handguard (Color: Black / 7" RIS)
For it's reliability, modularity, and low cost, I highly recommend the 6mmProShop Full Metal AR-15 M4 Airsoft AEG w/ M-LOK Handguard (Color: Black / 7" RIS). This wonderful full-metal M4 comes in a variety of color and length options, allowing you to select the one that best aligns with your specific tastes. Additionally, it features a quick-change spring system, allowing you to easily tune the velocity of this rifle to perform within any field's velocity regulations with relative ease. Its versatility is second to none!
In order to get this gun shooting BBs, you're going to need the following:
Battery:Matrix High Performance 11.1V Stick Type Airsoft LiPo Battery (Model: 1250mAh - 20C / Small Tamiya)
Fits snugly inside the rifle's buffer tube. Will last around 1500-2000 shots on a full charge. Consider buying 2 for an extended game day!
Charger:Avengers L3+ Compact 1-3 Cell LiPo / Li-Ion Smart Balance Charger
This smart charger will stop charging and signal when the battery is full.
High Quality BBs:EMG International Match Grade Biodegradable 6mm Airsoft BBs - 5000 Rounds (Weight: .23g)
BBs lighter than 0.20g can damage your airsoft gun! Use these ones for best results!
Attachments are not strictly a necessity for airsoft guns, but can easily sharpen up your game in the right hands. A red dot optic can quicken your aim speed, a mounted flashlight can make your BBs visible in darker environments, and a foregrip can decrease fatigue and hasten weapon manipulation speed. Additionally, investing in mid-capacity magazines can increase the reliability of your rifle consistently shooting BBs with each trigger pull. Here are some of my top attachment recommendations for this rifle!
Spare Magazines: 6mmProShop 140rd Mid-Cap Magazine for M4 Airsoft AEG Rifles (Color: Black / Single Magazine)
More magazines = More ammo = More shoot = More fun!
Red Dot Sight*: Firefield Impulse 1x22 Compact Red Dot Sight
It's much easier to land shots consistently and quickly with a well tuned red dot optic.
Foregrip*: Strike Industries Angled Vertical Grip with Cable Management (Color: Black / Long)
An extra point of leverage for rifle manipulation. Comfy!
Suppressor*: EMG Guardian Mock Suppressor Unit (Color: Black / Mid)
Purely an aesthetic piece, but can look really cool!
Flashlight**: Element NEO Pro Tactical LED Weapon Light (Model: 640B / Black)
A key component in dim light, but deadweight in the sun. Allows you to track the trajectory of your BBs in the dark, reveal your enemies, and disorient them with a high power beam!
Rifle Sling*: Matrix 2-Point Bungee Sling w/ QD Buckles (Color: Black)
You won't always have your barrel pointed down range. Use this sling to comfortably rest your rifle when out of combat!
Protective Gear and Equipment
Safety is #1 on the airsoft field. First and foremost, face protection is paramount. Your eyeballs and teeth aren't cheap to replace, making investing in a good quality mask essential to protecting yourself on the airsoft field. Chest protection is a popular means of reducing pain from shots to the body, though isn't a requirement to play at most airsoft fields. Here are my top picks for protecting yourself within the aesthetic this kit is going for!
Eye Protection: Guard-Dogs Evader II FogStopper Full Seal Goggles (Color: Matte Black / Clear)
Cheaper goggles tend to easily fog up due to moisture buildup. These anti-fog goggles work with glasses and fit most faces comfortably.
Lower Face Mask: Matrix Carbon Striker Mesh Mask w/ Integrated Mesh Ear Protection (Color: Black)
This lower face mask is padded on the cheeks to make it easier to aim down your rifle's sights.
Helmet*: 6mmProShop Advanced Base Jump Type Tactical Airsoft Bump Helmet (Color: Black / Large - Extra Large)
Protect your brain! Operator Style!
Gloves: Ironclad Exo Tactical Impact Glove (Color: Black / Large)
Getting shot in the hands sucks. These gloves have rubber padding on the back to protect your fingers.
Plate Carrier*: Phantom Gear "Wraith" T3 Plate Carrier (Color: Coyote Brown / Medium / Vest Only)
This plate carrier protects the chest and fits wonderfully on a wide variety of sizes!
Magazine Pouches*: Phantom Gear Triple M4/M16 Open Top Magazine "Morale" Pouch (Color: Coyote Brown)
Mounts snugly to the front of the plate carrier.
Sidearm and Belt Setup
To complete a full kit, you're going to want a handgun/belt setup! In close quarters, a compact pistol can prove to be more effective than a full size rifle. Certain fields even require that only pistols be used to eliminate targets within 15 ft. Having a trusty rusty handgun at your side bolsters your battle confidence by keeping you insured with a secondary source of firepower at the ready.
Pistol*: G&G GTP9 Gas Blowback Airsoft Pistol (Color: Black)
This excellent starter pistol comes ready with a speed-loader and hard plastic case! Impressive performance for the price.
Spare Pistol Magazines*: G&G Armament 23rd Magazine for GTP9 / SMC-9 Series Airsoft GBB Guns (Color: Black)
These gas powered magazines need time to warm back up after repeated use! Take the load off the one included with your pistol by taking another into battle!
Green Gas:Aim Top / Airsoft Arms Power Large 1100 Green Gas (Quantity: 1 Can)
One can is typically good for around 50-70 fills of your magazine.
Battle Belt*: Matrix Core Tactical Three Piece MOLLE Belt (Color: Coyote Brown)
One layer keeps your pants up, the other layer firmly holds whatever you attach to it! The third layer? We don't talk about the third layer...
Holster*: CYTAC Mega-Fit Gen 2 Hard Shell Active Retention Universal Pistol Holster (Color: Black / Paddle)
Keeps your handgun handy at your side, allowing it to be hastily drawn at a moments notice.
Pistol Magazine Pouches*: Phantom Gear Single Pistol Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Loop Front (Color: Coyote Brown)
Securely keep another pistol mag at the ready on your belt!
Dump Pouch*: Phantom Gear "Morale" Modular Tactical Dump Pouch (Color: Black)
This handy all-purpose pouch is perfect for quickly depositing expended magazines/equipment. Faster than reinserting a used magazine in a pouch, and cleaner than just dropping stuff on the ground!
Airsoft Kit 2: "Bare Necessity Brawler."
The perfect minimalist kit that pulls the greatest value out of its options. Straight to the point, and incredibly effective.
Whew, that last list might've been a little overwhelming! Thankfully, this next one certainly won't be. While having the proper equipment can grant you an advantage when utilized correctly, it can be a tad bit much to implement all at once. Most situations won't call for a full operator's loadout, and, realistically, not all of us will have the budget for one either. In fact, maybe all that extra kit might just slow down a more brute-force straightforward playstyle. If you want to dominate the airsoft battlefield with a setup that inches every bit of value out of each and every item it brings to the fight, this kit might just be for you!
The CYMA Sport AK105 Airsoft AEG Rifle w/ Steel Folding Stock (Package: Gun Only)
CYMA is one of the oldest brands in the airsoft industry, with nearly three decades worth of reputation building as one of the most robust and reliable brands you can get an AK from. While just about any CYMA AK will do the job as a starter rifle, I highly recommend this one for it's low cost, middle-sized frame, and FPS that comes tuned to under 400 FPS (Feet Per Second) out of the box for field legality. Treat it well, and this CYMA AK could easily carry you through your entire airsoft career!
Battery: Matrix 7.4v 1000mAh 20C Airsoft Buffer Tube LiPo Battery Pack (Configuration: Small Tamiya)
This slim battery fits snugly under the rifle's dust cover.
Charger: Avengers L3+ Compact 1-3 Cell LiPo / Li-Ion Smart Balance Charger
This smart charger will stop charging and signal when the battery is full.
Magazine: E&L Airsoft 120rd Mid-Cap Magazine for AK-74 Series Airsoft AEG Rifles (Color: Black Plum)
Comes in variety of colors depending on your preferences.
BBs: EMG International Match Grade Biodegradable 6mm Airsoft BBs - 5000 Rounds (Weight: .28g)
These 0.28 BBs are a tad heavier than average, allowing you to inch a bit more range and accuracy out of them.
Mask: HK Army HSTL Full Face Mask with Thermal Goggle Lens (Model: Evike Special Edition / Clear Lens)
Full coverage and full comfort! This mask is a little slimmer on the sides to aid in aiming down sights.
Glove: Matrix Half Finger Tactical Gloves (Color: OD Green / MD-LG)
Keeps the fingertips free for ease of interaction and doubles up on the rubber armor to deaden hand shots.
Chest Rig: Condor Seven Pocket Tactical Chest Rig (Color: OD Green)
This one-and-done chest rig is all you need for carrying equipment into battle. Plenty of space for spare magazines and large general purpose pouches for accessories.
Sling: Matrix Retro Two-Point Sling for AK Series Airsoft Rifles
Keep your rifle at rest with this authentic, vintage looking AK sling.
Airsoft Kit 3: "Speed Is Key."
The perfect kit for pure airsoft efficiency. Uses every bit of technology available to maximize eliminations in fast, close quarters engagements.
The raw thrill of deftly weaving through buildings and piling up eliminations with a quality rifle that shoots as beautifully as it feels is a visceral joy unlike no other. If you're trying to maximize your adrenaline on the airsoft battlefield by leading the charge into combat, you're going to need a kit that adequately supports your domination of that role. This kits selections have a greater focus on close-quarters prowess, though at the cost of some realism. Immerse yourself in the joy of high-speed gameplay as you wield a rifle that inspires fear to all who find themselves on its receiving end.
The G&G CM16 ARP9 2.0 CQB Carbine Airsoft AEG Rifle (Color: Black)
The ARP9 2.0 is a no-brainer pick for those looking for a primary with top tier close range performance right out of the box. Utilizing G&G's E.T.U. (Electronic Trigger Unit) system, the ARP9 has an incredibly fast trigger response that allows for lightning quick semi-automatic follow up shots. Being able to send more BBs at your target in a shorter amount of time can make the difference between life and death on the airsoft field. Not to mention, G&G's always been a fore-leading brand when it comes to out of the box range and accuracy, giving you the luxury of impeccable shot to shot consistency. This lightweight compact BB blaster is the airsoft equivalent of driving a well tuned sports car, consistently pushing out the performance and speed you need with a stylish lightweight frame to ride alongside.
Battery: Intellect iPower 11.1v 1000mah 20c Airsoft Buffer Tube LiPo Battery Pack (Configuration: Deans)
Compact power. Easily fits inside the stock.
Charger: Avengers L3+ Compact 1-3 Cell LiPo / Li-Ion Smart Balance Charger
This smart charger will stop charging and signal when the battery is full.
Spare Magazines: EMG 120+ Round Mid-Cap Magazine for EMG PWS Classic Army G&G ARP-9 PCC X9 Airsoft AEG (Package: Pack of 3)
It's hard to keep racking up eliminations if you're out of BBs on the field...
Tracer Unit: AceTech Brighter C Compact Rechargeable Tracer Unit
Attach this to the end of your barrel to make your BBs glow in the dark! Friggin Laserbeams!!!
Tracer BBs: EMG Precision Biodegradable Green Tracer BBs (Weight: .25g)
Specialized BBs coated in glow-in-the-dark-stuff that illuminate when shot through a tracer unit.
Mask: Dye Precision Axis Goggle (Color: Black Fade Bronze)
If you're serious about getting into airsoft, buying a good quality mask is key. This one is not only incredibly comfortable, but incredibly fog-proof as well.
Belt: Condor Slim Battle Belt (Color: Black / Small)
Carry your equipment on the hip for fast accessibility!
Magazine Pouches: Condor Tactical Triple MP5 / SMG Magazine Pouch (Color: Black)
These pouches can either be open top or close top depending on your preference.
Dump Pouch: Phantom Gear "Morale" Modular Tactical Dump Pouch (Color: Black)
This handy all-purpose pouch is perfect for quickly depositing expended magazines/equipment. Faster than reinserting a used magazine in a pouch, and cleaner than just dropping stuff on the ground!
Kneepads: Avengers Low Profile Knee Pads (Color: Black)
Securing quick kills might involve some slipping and sliding. Protect your knees with these!
Beanie: Oakley Fine Knit Beanie (Color: Blackout)
Experts wear it with their mask for a reason! Protect the rest of your head by combining this with the Dye mask.
As you begin on your airsoft journey, remember that the right starter kit is your gateway to a world brimming with excitement and camaraderie. We've walked you through the nuances of three top selections, giving you insights into how each piece of equipment enhances your game day experience. Armed with this knowledge, you're now well-equipped to make a choice that aligns with your needs, be it for personal use or as a thoughtful gift. Airsoft is more than just a sport; it's an adventure, a community, and a test of strategy and skill. With the perfect kit in hand, you're all set to dive into the action. Here's to thrilling experiences and new friendships on the airsoft field! Welcome to the community, and most importantly, have fun!