There is a wide variety of topics to be discussed in airsoft. New players search the internet for all sorts of information they can use to help them in their new found hobby.

Here is a list of 20  things you need to know in airsoft.

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from the veterans

But do try to do your own research as well. The technical answers you seek could be lying in a forum somewhere.

2. We are not soldiers

We only imitate and pretend to be during game days. We will never compare to the likes of them. Do treat every real soldier you meet with respect. After all, it is them that we are imitating.

3. Be physically prepared

When the BBs start flying and the adrenaline kicks in, you will find yourself hyperventilating, especially with your mask and gear on. Know your body’s constraints and don’t be embarrassed to ask for help if needed.

4. You are using an airsoft gun

As much as you want to hit your target as far away as possible, you are still only firing plastic pellets with regulated limits. Get it into your head that you will never reach the range of a real firearm. Upgrading your gun will most of the time not be the answer to your frustrations of not hitting far targets.

5. FPS limits are there…

But you don’t have to reach them right on the dot. There is no problem with fielding a 380 fps  gun at a 450 fps limit gamesite.

6. Killing tangos is not the only objective

Killing people in airsoft is fun, but don’t let that be the basis of your enjoyment. If you try going to a MilSim event, your firefights are much less than regular game day events. There will be days that you won’t kill (hit) anyone. Don’t let it frustrate you. Find enjoyment in other airsoft things rather than that.

7. Snipers do not just sit around all day

They do much more than I initially thought they would have to do.

8. Try before you buy

Do try to borrow from friends at the gamesite before making a purchase. Many times I have bought something that ended up very inconvenient for my play style. (E.g. Knee pads. They turned out to be a hassle when crawling)

9. Read up on the basic rules and regulations

Most airsoft sites apply the same rules, but tweak them to suit their specific styles.

10. It’s your gun so learn it

Know about placing the battery on an AEG, putting gas in your pistol or GBB mag, when to rack the bolt/ push the paddle for GBB’s, fixing your hop, etc. It’s taxing to have somebody else do it for you every single game day.

11. The same goes for sights and optics

Learn how to zero your gun. You can have somebody teach you how to do it, but at the end of the day, you should learn how to do it yourself.

12. Do not go on a shopping spree on airsoft gear

Research what look you want and what stuff you will be needing. Read reviews first before buying.

13. Do not go overboard

There is no need for name calling your teammates if they are not performing. No matter how serious you are at the hobby, at the end of the day, it’s just a game. We will ALWAYS live to fight another day, unlike real soldiers who may not.

14. Be responsible for your actions in the field

If the guy is up-close and you have a sniper rifle which fires at 500 fps, Is it safe to shoot him? Does he have a vest? Does he have face protection? There are rules and regulations for this, but at the end of the day, it’s the shooter’s call on what he or she will be doing. Just take responsibility for whatever consequences might occur.

15. Do your best to follow the chain of command

They are there to guide you. They were chosen for a specific reason. Should you disagree with the current plan of action, do voice out your concern respectfully. In our varying personalities, there will always be disagreements. Handle them with a respectful manner.

16. Your opponents are not REAL enemies

They are just like you–out to enjoy the day. Treat them with respect even if they did something wrong. There will never be justification for rudeness. There are proper channels in reporting such incidents.

17. To home teams and/ or new gamesite hosts, do listen to your players

You may have great ideas that you and your team enjoy, but not of the majority. Learn to adjust to their needs so that everyone has a good time. You are not God of the grounds. You are merely the tool that brings together these people to have a great time.

18. As players, do listen to your marshals/ hosts for the day

They have planned the day for your enjoyment. Do your best to follow their objectives and do respectfully voice out comments and suggestions if you think you have an idea to make the games better.

19. Always follow the proper gun safety procedure in the safe zone

Many times I have seen magazines inside their units and not on safe mode. I have had friends who were hit in the safe zone by new players and even veterans. Do apologize should this happen to you.

20. Airsoft should always be fun

Never forget why you play airsoft in the first place: Because it is fun. For far too long, countless players fall into a dark path of seriousness for the hobby that they lose the fun factor. Whether you belong to a team that goes on MilSims or just an every weekend escape, we started playing because it is fun. There’s nothing wrong with becoming serious in airsoft as long as you don’t lose sight of it being fun.

Feel free to add to the list or comment.