Guide to soft air guns
FIND THE RIGHT SOFTAIR GUN
INEXPENSIVE SOFTAIR GUNS FOR BEGINNERS
SOFTAIR GUNS FOR COLLECTORS AND PLAYERS
AGE, JOULE AND LEGAL SITUATION ACC. WAFFG
TECHNOLOGY, DRIVE TYPES AND DEFINITION OF TERMS
ABOUT AIRSOFT IN GENERAL
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?
Soft air guns for young and old
Who doesn't know it? - The fascination of having your own pistol or rifle. Even as a child, games such as cops and robbers or shooting vests in the garden when the weather was nice were the greatest. They also looked forward to carnival, because now they could show off their weapons to their friends and conquer the world together in disguise. In 2004, "airsoft" spilled over from Japan to Germany thanks to the new gun laws. What was born out of necessity in the weapons industry in Japan quickly developed into a niche sport in this country, which found more and more followers over time. Different interests, such as collecting, tinkering and playing, are combined in airsoft.
The perfect softair with Gunpoint.de
Over time, softair models have become more diverse and modern. Different drive types were created and further developed. The gun industry also recognized the potential of airsoft and struggled to gain a good position in the softair world by awarding licenses. Different joule limits divide the weapons into free weapons and toys. The variety here justifies taking a look at the big world of airsoft.
Finding the right soft air weapon
At Gunpoint.de we have a very wide range of softair guns and matching accessories for all common softair variants. From inexpensive softair pistols for beginners, to highly professional softair rifles, sniper rifles, heavy revolvers or grenade launchers, there is something for every player and collector. In addition to the actual softair weapons, our store also offers airsoft equipment, magazines, complete sets and other softair accessories.
The spread of airsoft is constantly bringing new manufacturers and models onto the scene. Large events in Germany and the surrounding countries with several 1,000 players also show the growing enthusiasm.
Inexpensive soft air guns for beginners
Newcomers who are just starting out with airsoft do not immediately need high-end models and expensive equipment. Good eye protection and good ammunition are important. Here you can put together the essentials in our online store at a reasonable price and be prepared for the start. You usually start with a simple spring-loaded pistol. The quality of these is now far better than some people remember from the pea guns at the fair. Here, too, there is a wide selection of different models. From "Heckler & Koch" to "Sig Sauer" replicas, there is something for everyone.
We would like to recommend the models from the category "Softair weapons from 14 spring pressure". The production is technically simple, robust and easy to use. Weapons with an energy of less than 0.5 joules, with appropriate protection, can be used indoors without any problems. Licensed models are also available for collectors in our store.
Soft air guns for collectors and players
Once you are hooked on the hobby of airsoft, it usually soon becomes clear whether you are more interested in the technology, the licensed metal models or the game itself. While collectors focus on the drive technology of the individual models, players are more interested in the reliability and durability of their weapons. Those who want it to be extremely realistic usually tend towards so-called GBB models. Here the weapon is operated with Co2 or softair gas. Realism is usually provided by a recoil that is created by a repeating slide or bolt. In most cases, these models can also be disassembled and reassembled like their real-life counterparts. The materials used here are usually full metal and particularly durable, which further enhances the "reality" factor. Players, on the other hand, prefer electric models because, unlike the Blow Black guns, they are not susceptible to temperatures and can be played outdoors in any weather.
Inexpensive entry-level models are available from G&G Armament, Heckler & Koch and Walther, for example. Top brands such as GHK, KWA, Kriss or Krytac show what is possible with great attention to detail using technology and dimensions that are almost as accurate as the real models.
Age, joules and legal situation
If we take a look at the current version of the Weapons Act, three important things apply to us. Firstly, any weapon that looks like a weapon is a so-called prima facie weapon and may not be carried in public. It is particularly important for young people and beginners to know that these very authentic replicas cannot be distinguished from real weapons by passers-by or the police. Secondly, an airsoft weapon with a muzzle energy of more than 0.5 joules is only legal for use from the age of 18, requires an F stamp (for "free weapon") and must not have a fully automatic firing mode. This is already deactivated by the manufacturer or importer on imported models from abroad. Reconstruction is not permitted and is therefore punishable by law. Thirdly, softairs with a muzzle energy of less than 0.5 joules can be freely purchased without age restrictions. Here, dealers set a voluntary age limit of 14 years. Conversely, soft air weapons under 0.5 joules may also use a functioning fully automatic mode. To be sure that you are buying a soft air weapon that complies with current legislation, you should refrain from importing it yourself from abroad. In addition, the German Weapons Act (WaffG) stipulates that soft air weapons in Germany may have a maximum of 7.5 joules.
Technology and drive types
The sport of soft air sports uses a lot of technical terms, both for parts of a weapon and for the different propulsion techniques. Here we name the different methods by which such a weapon can be operated.
- with gas or Co2: can be recognized by the terms GBB and NBB: GasBlowBack and NonBlowBack. The difference here is that the weapon has a recoil, which is usually produced by a repeating slide or a functional bolt. Due to the type of drive, this weapon is always classified as 18 years or older in Germany.
- Spring-loaded: Here the gun is cocked by hand by the player, whereby a piston is pulled back and locks. When the shot is released, a spring drives the piston into a cylinder, which builds up pressure that drives the soft air BB through the barrel. This technology can be found both in soft air weapons below 0.5 joules and above.
Electric drive: Often recognizable by the terms AEP, S-AEG and AEG.
AEP: Automatic - Electric - Pistol
S-AEG: Semi - Automatic - Electric - Gun
AEG: Automatic - Electric - Gun
This technology can also be found in models with less than and more than 0.5 joules. The same principle applies here as with spring-loaded guns, but here the piston is not cocked by hand, but by a motor and a gearbox located inside the gun. A NiMh or Li-Po battery, which can be charged externally or by cable, is installed in electric soft air guns for operation.
Mostly 6 mm BBs are fired, which differ in weight. These soft air bullets are the most common caliber and are made of plastic. For outdoor games, there are also so-called BIO bullets in our online store, which can be weathered.
About airsoft in general
In public, people often turn up their noses at the subject of weapons without ever having dealt with the subject in depth. Here are a few interesting facts about our sport. Airsoft is a sport that appeals to a very broad age spectrum. There are now also many clubs that are often only supported by their members and are not funded by the local authorities. The number of playing fields in Germany is slowly but steadily increasing. Here too, the operators are often players or friends of the sport who develop and maintain the pitch on their own initiative. Large events such as the Dark Emergency are professionally organized, last several days and have several thousand visitors or players. The sport of airsoft distances itself from things that glorify war. For example, no insignia may be worn on many fields and it is generally forbidden to imitate an injury when hit. Due to the fact that a small softair bullet is often difficult to see or feel at a greater distance, fairness is a priority here and the "hit" player indicates this by raising their arm and saying "hit". The types of game are very varied and range from speedsoft and CQB to softair games lasting several hours on airsoft fields.
Do you have any questions or suggestions?
If you have any further questions about airsoft, weapons, technology, models or the legal situation, we would be delighted if you would simply get in touch with us. You can reach us either by telephone on our hotline or via our support center.
FAQ
Softair: All about the exciting leisure activity
Softair is a tactical game with replicas of firearms. The weapons shoot small plastic pellets that can cause pain when hit, but are not lethal. Softair is a popular leisure activity for people of all ages and offers an exciting opportunity to experience action and team spirit.
What is softair?
Softair is an abbreviation for "soft air". It is a tactical game in which participants compete against each other with replicas of firearms. The weapons shoot small plastic pellets that can cause pain when hit, but are not lethal.
Softair is legal in Germany. However, there are some legal regulations that must be observed. For example, soft air weapons may only be purchased with an F-stamp if they have more than 0.5 joules of energy. This stamp certifies that the weapon is approved for recreational use.
Softair weapons
Softair weapons are available in various designs, including pistols, rifles, machine guns and sniper rifles. The weapons are available in different calibers, the most common caliber being 6mm.
Softair ammunition
Softair ammunition consists of small plastic balls. The pellets are available in different colors and weights, which make it easier to find hits and must match the air soft system used.
With very few exceptions, the caliber is 6 mm.
Softair games
There are different types of softair games. The most popular games include
Team Deathmatch: two teams try to take each other out.
Capture the Flag: Two teams try to capture the flag of the opposing team.
Sabotage: One team tries to destroy a target of the opposing team.
Softair safety
When playing softair, it is important to observe the safety rules. These include:
Wearing goggles: goggles protect the eyes from being hit.
Wearing clothing that protects the skin from being hit: Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt are recommended.
Avoiding shots to the head: Head shots can be fatal.
Softair stores
There are numerous softair stores in Germany where softair weapons, ammunition and accessories can be purchased.
Air soft world
The softair world is a large community of softair players. In the softair world there are numerous forums, websites and blogs that deal with softair.
FAQ
What is the difference between softair and airsoft?
Softair and airsoft are two terms that are often used interchangeably. However, the term softair is the original term used in Japan. Airsoft is an English term derived from "air soft".
Is softair dangerous?
Softair weapons can cause pain when hit. In rare cases, they can also cause injury. However, it is important to follow the safety rules to minimize the risk of injury.
Where can you play softair?
There are numerous softair playgrounds in Germany. These playgrounds often have different playing fields and obstacles.
How much does a soft air weapon cost?
The cost of soft air varies. The cost of a soft air weapon starts at around 50 euros. The cost of ammunition and accessories also varies. The price depends on the quality, manufacturer and system.
Licenses also play a role, as these also have to be purchased by the manufacturers and are of course added to the products.
Conclusion
Softair is an exciting leisure activity that offers action and team spirit. It is important to observe the safety rules in order to minimize the risk of injury.
Game, protection, rules and background information
Softair: The world of replica firearms
Softair is a popular hobby for people of all ages. This sport uses replicas of firearms that are shot at with plastic bullets. Softair is practiced both recreationally and competitively.
The history of soft air
The beginnings of soft air go back to the 1970s. Back then, a new type of toy was developed in Japan that was shot at with plastic balls. These toys quickly became popular and soon spread to other countries.
The first softair competitions began in the 1980s. These competitions were initially held in Japan, but soon spread to other countries.
The equipment for softair
Special equipment is required for soft air. This includes a softair gun, safety goggles and a safety helmet. Softair weapons are available in different versions, including pistols, rifles and machine guns.
The rules of soft air
Certain rules apply to soft air games to ensure the safety of players. These rules can vary depending on the location and type of game, but there are some basic rules that generally apply everywhere.
General rules
Protective equipment is mandatory. This includes safety goggles, a safety helmet and other protective clothing if necessary.
It is forbidden to shoot at players who are not involved in the game.
It is forbidden to shoot at players who are in a safe area.
It is forbidden to shoot at players displaying a white flag or any other sign of surrender.
It is forbidden to shoot at players who surrender with their hands above their heads.
Game-specific rules
There are also some game-specific rules that must be observed. These rules may, for example, relate to the number of hits allowed, the type of weapons allowed or the permitted playing fields.
Examples of game-specific rules:
In a game with only one life, a player is out of the game after one hit.
In a game with multiple lives, a player loses one life point after a hit.
In a game with certain weapons, only these weapons are allowed.
When playing on a specific pitch, only certain areas may be entered.
Newcomers should inform themselves about the rules before their first game. This can be done with the game operator or in a softair forum.
Safety
Compliance with the rules is important to ensure the safety of players. Soft air guns can cause injuries if used improperly. It is therefore important to follow the manufacturer's safety instructions and wear protective equipment.
Here are a few tips for more safety:
Only use soft air guns with an energy of less than 0.5 joules.
Only use soft air ammunition that is suitable for your weapon.
Always wear your protective equipment correctly.
Be careful when shooting.
Avoid shooting at players who are in a safe area.
If you follow these tips, you can play soft air safely and have a lot of fun.
The different types of softair
Softair is operated in different ways. The most common type is field play. In field play, two or more teams play against each other on a demarcated area.
Another type of softair is CQB (Close Quarter Battle). CQB is played in confined spaces.
Softair in Germany
Softair is also a popular hobby in Germany and is gaining more and more followers. The sport is practiced both recreationally and competitively. There are numerous softair clubs and associations in Germany that organize and promote the sport.
Legal basis
In Germany, soft air weapons are subject to the Weapons Act (WaffG). According to the Weapons Act, soft air weapons with a bullet energy of less than 0.5 joules are freely available and may be purchased by persons aged 14 and over. Soft air weapons with a projectile energy of more than 0.5 joules require a permit and may only be purchased and possessed by persons aged 18 and over who are in possession of a gun ownership card.
Playing fields
There are numerous softair playing fields in Germany that can be used for the sport. The playing fields are usually demarcated areas where various scenarios can be recreated. The playing fields are run by softair clubs and associations or offered by private operators.
Softair clubs and associations
There are numerous softair clubs and associations in Germany that organize and promote the sport. The clubs offer training sessions, tournaments and events, for example. The associations are committed to the interests of the sport and represent the interests of the softair scene vis-à-vis the public and politicians.
Softair equipment
Special equipment is required to take part in a softair game. This includes a softair weapon, safety goggles, a safety helmet, protective clothing, gloves and boots. The equipment may vary depending on the type of game and personal preferences.
Softair ammunition
Special plastic pellets, also known as BBs, are used for soft air weapons. The BBs have a diameter of 6 mm and a mass of 0.20 to 0.25 grams. The size and mass of the BBs determine the energy of the weapon.
Softair scenarios
Softair games are played in various scenarios. The most popular scenarios include
Fieldplay: In fieldplay, two or more teams play against each other in a demarcated area.
CQB (Close Quarter Battle): In CQB, the game is played in confined spaces.
MilSim (Military Simulation): In MilSim, realistic military scenarios are recreated.
Softair tournaments
Softair tournaments are held regularly in Germany, in which players from various clubs can take part. The tournaments are held in various disciplines, for example Fieldplay, CQB and MilSim.
Softair events
In addition to tournaments, there are also numerous softair events, such as camps, practice sessions and training camps. These events offer the opportunity to meet new players, exchange experiences and learn new skills.
Softair stores
There are numerous softair stores in Germany where equipment, weapons and ammunition can be purchased. The stores also offer advice and service for all aspects of softair sports.
Softair community
The softair community in Germany is very active and lively. There are numerous online forums and social media groups where players can exchange ideas and find information about the sport. The community also organizes regular meetings and events where players can come together to play, barbecue and celebrate.
The top manufacturers of soft air guns
There are numerous manufacturers of soft air guns. The best-known manufacturers include:
Tokyo Marui (Japan)
G&G Armament (Taiwan)
KJW (Taiwan)
Umarex (Germany)
ICS (Taiwan)
ASG (Sweden)
CYMA (China)
Cybergun (France)
WE-Tech (China)
The future of softair
Softair is a hobby that has developed steadily in recent years. It can be assumed that softair will remain a popular hobby in the future.