Are airsoft guns safe?

Many people are concerned that the realism of airsoft guns makes them dangerous. Parents need to be aware that giving an airsoft gun to irresponsible children can put their child in danger. A question that we often receive here at Overt Airsoft is: "Are airsoft guns dangerous?" Just like any other firearm the real answer is no, but if misused they can be.

Airsoft guns shoot plastic bb's at moderately high speeds. Many AEG airsoft guns are fully automatic. The speed at which airsoft bb's come out of airsoft guns is much slower than the speed that bb's are shot out of a traditional bb gun. This speed allows people to shoot at each other with airsoft guns safely, under certain conditions.

Protective safety goggles are a must. Never shoot an airsoft gun at someone not wearing proper eye protection! The biggest danger of injury you can receive from airsoft guns is getting shot in the eye. Wearing safety goggles are considered by most to be sufficient eye protection, however some players will use a paintball face masks to ensure eye safety and add ear protection. You can see our line of airsoft eye protection here. Other than eye protection airsoft protective gear is more your preference. The average player is able to tolerate a direct hit to the skin from an airsoft gun, but it can still break the skin if the variables are all right. Most players would not recommend wearing anything other than a long sleeve shirt and jeans as much thicker clothing and you would not feel the hit.

Eye protection is not the only way to protect your self. The majority of injuries while playing airsoft come from the terrain. Rocks, trees, old metal or wire, sinkholes, or other natural hazards in the playing field. Before you begin playing clear out any potential safety hazards possible. Otherwise just make sure you are always aware of your surroundings. Walk the field if you are not familiar with it before your game, this will help not only with safety but strategy as well!

Those are just a few rules to keep your airsoft experience safe and enjoyable. Airsoft is not a dangerous sport as long as everyone playing understands safety. For any questions airsoft related feel free to email us at support@overtairsoft.com and we will do our best to assist you in a timely manner.

Check out our post Paintball and Airsoft Safety Tips for more valuable safety information and remember OvertAirsoft.com for all your airsoft needs!