Where did it come from?

Airsoft originated in Japan in the early 1980′s as the Japanese answer to the American craze of paintball. Airsoft has advanced over the years in both technologies and as a sport, granting higher performance and more realistic cycling guns. This allows for greater realism and in turn the game was able to develop into the true immersive combat sport we know and love today.

How do Airsoft guns work?

Most airsoft guns fire 6mm plastic pellets (or bbs) at relatively low speeds which are fast enough to feel, but slow enough not to cause serious injury. They can fire the BBs up to around 90 meters (depending on gun type & setup), but are a lot less painful than a paintball. Many weapons have both semi and full auto capability and often replicate real weapons in look, feel and sometimes weight. Airsoft guns look so much like the real thing they are legally classed as realistic imitation firearms (RIF's) by the government.

Who can play Airsoft?

Airsoft skirmishing is great fun! No matter what age (from 11 at our site), gender, or level of physical fitness you have, everyone can enjoy it. Like paintball, airsoft is primarily a team sport and players quickly learn that in order to win the game they must work together.

Is it like paintball or other combat sports?

Some scenarios may seem familiar to those who have played paintball. However, the addition of real military tactics and fully automatic/longer-range weapons, add a new dimension to what you may have experienced before. Airsoft has many advantages over other combat sports.

Realism: Sites will appeal to everyone who enjoys action movies or playing combat-based computer games. The range of weapons available in airsoft is staggering and you can get nearly everything you can think of.

Cost: The average cost is usually a lot cheaper than paintball. This is mainly because the ammo is a lot cheaper at roughly £12 for 3,300 airsoft bb's. When you hire equipment with us, you get around 3,000 rounds as part of your package. It’s down to the individual how much they use but usually 3,000 is plenty for one.

How do you know when you are ‘hit’?

Unlike paintball where players are marked when hit, airsoft uses an honour system whereby you call yourself out when hit. Usually hit players indicate they have been hit by shouting “hit” and raising an arm. Respawn points are usually pretty close which means you are never out of the game for more than a few minutes right up until the game ends, so no one sits out for the rest of the game when hit. Airsoft players are therefore very honest and friendly. We have marshals that monitor the games and will promptly address any concerns players may have. Sportsmanship is the key!

Is it safe?

Your health & safety are extremely important to us and our site is fully insured. Our team provides a full safety brief at the start of the day and in-game marshals ensure safe operation throughout, all players must abide by the site rules and respect the marshal’s decision. Airsoft equipment like most things in life is perfectly safe provided you adhere to the rules and respect it and other players.

Now we’ve got your attention why not check out our site Southdown airsoft and book yourself a game?