For beginners

Eye protection is mandatory at all times on the field — use ANSI Z87.1 or EN 166 rated goggles or a mask (eye injuries are permanent). For CQB scenarios, face and tooth protection is also recommended. Your replica is always on safe when not in use. Point the muzzle in a safe direction (ground), finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. In the safe zone, all replicas are on safe, magazines removed and the chamber cleared. Never shoot at people outside the game, animals, property, or anyone without eye protection. Respect minimum engagement distances — for higher-powered replicas typically 5–10 m, per the organizer's rules.

For your first game you need: • Protective goggles or full-seal mask. • Comfortable clothing you don't mind getting dirty — long pants, sleeves, sturdy ankle-high boots. • Gloves to protect hands and fingers. • A hat or cap. • A replica with magazine and battery/gas — most organizers offer rentals if you don't have one. • Quality BBs (biodegradable 0.25 g is a solid all-round starting choice; heavier for snipers and DMRs, ask experienced players). • Water bottle and snacks for longer events. Later you can add: a chest rig or plate carrier for spare mags, knee pads, comms (radio), upgraded hop-up rubber and inner barrel.

Airsoft runs on the honor system. When you're hit — including gear or your replica — call out "HIT!" loudly and raise your hand or replica above your head. No excuses: if you're not sure, count yourself as hit. Don't shoot at downed players and avoid overkill — one acknowledged hit is enough. Respect the marshals' decisions, help newer players, and clean up after the game (BBs, bottles, packaging).

Read the organizer's briefing carefully before the event: mission objectives, field boundaries, safe zones, medic/bleed-out rules, grenade/pyrotechnic rules and vehicle rules. Rules vary between organizers — always read the rules of the specific event you're playing! Replica power in Slovenia is measured in Joules (J). Typical limits: assault (AEG) up to 1.5 J, DMR up to 2.3 J, LMG up to 1.9 J (min. engagement distance 20 m), sniper up to 3.3 J (min. engagement distance 30 m). When you're hit you must carry a killrag (a high-visibility/reflective vest or band) and put it on immediately so everyone sees you're out. If your replica is hit and you carry a secondary, you may continue with it; if you don't, you count as hit and go into bleed out. Always check the organizer's rules — they can differ.

After each game: • Empty the magazine and replica, release spring tension if possible. • Wipe the replica down. • Clean the inner barrel with a rod and patch — no oil inside the barrel (it attracts dirt and affects flight). • Store batteries at storage charge (LiPo 3.7–3.8 V/cell) in a dry place. • Occasionally drop silicone oil through the gas fill valve on gas replicas. An annual service by an experienced tech (gearbox clean, regrease, seal check) is recommended.

Airsoft legislation differs in every country — always check the rules and laws of your own country before playing. General guidelines that apply almost everywhere: • Replica power is usually measured in Joules (J), not FPS. Typical event limits: assault (AEG) up to 1.5 J, DMR up to 2.3 J, LMG up to 1.9 J (min. engagement distance 20 m), sniper up to 3.3 J (min. engagement distance 30 m) — exact limits are always set by the organizer. • Transport replicas in a closed case/bag, never exposed in public. • Shooting outside official fields and in populated areas is generally prohibited. • Minors usually need parental consent and supervision by an adult. In Slovenia, for example, airsoft replicas fall under the Weapons Act; in Croatia, BiH, Serbia, Hungary, Austria, etc. different regulations apply. When in doubt, ask a local club — they will also help with your first purchase.