As airsoft’s popularity grows, we’re seeing more people join the ranks of UK airsoft enthusiasts, with plenty of newbies taking aim. However, with so many airsoft weapons and gear available, it can be tricky to know where to start.
Airsoft starter kits and beginners’ guides can be invaluable when you’re new to the sport and first getting your bearings. Here are our top tips for beginner airsoft players – you’ll be pros in no time!
1. Understand Airsoft Rules
Before you step into your first skirmish with guns blazing, you will need to have a good idea of the general site rules and airsoft rules for the particular game mode being played. This will include understanding basic safety instructions, how to use your gun, the site’s layout and its safe zones and your role in the team.
If you’re ever unsure about any rules while playing, airsoft sites will have plenty of experienced marshalls who can provide their own tips and advice.
2. Invest in Protective Airsoft Equipment
Wearing protective equipment is essential for all airsofters, not just beginners. We recommend keeping all your protective gear on (especially eyewear) at all times, even in respawn areas. Even here, you could be victim of rogue BBs that could do damage to your face or exposed skin.
You should also think carefully about the kind of eye protection you get. There are some areas where you’ll be able to scrimp and save in airsoft, but this is not one of them. A good pair of airsoft goggles or glasses will ensure your eyes are never put at risk, allowing you to play worry-free.
In airsoft, there’ll be a lot of running around, along with stealthy movements where you’ll need to manoeuvre with ease. A good pair of comfortable, sturdy boots with ankle support are often the better choice than trainers, especially if you’re planning on playing more often.
3. Wear the Right Boots
The right footwear can also contribute to the overall look of your airsoft loadout.
4. Learn How to Hold Your Gun Properly
Once you’re kitted out correctly, it’s time to turn your attention to your airsoft gun. Whether you’re still borrowing a rifle from your local airsoft site or have invested in your own starter gun, learning the right stance and how to hold it properly is key.
For stability, you should stand with your knees bent with one foot slightly in front of the other. Your shoulders should line up with your knees to keep you steady but mobile. When it comes to holding your gun, aim to keep your elbows in and pointed down; this is usually the most efficient and comfortable position. And don’t let your trigger finger rest on the trigger too idly, as this can lead to accidental fire!
It may also be a good idea to practise moving around with your airsoft gun, getting a feel for holding it while crouching, going prone or on the move – after all, you won’t be stationary during an indoor or outdoor skirmish.
5. Use the Right BBs & Never Reuse Them
The quality of your ammunition can have a significant impact on the quality of your shooting, as the characteristics of BBs can affect gun range and accuracy. Therefore, you should never reuse BBs, even if you're tempted to make the absolute most out of them.
Used BBs can be fractured or dirty (as you’ve likely picked them off the ground). Any imperfections in the BB can create unstable shots, while any dirt will likely end up in your airsoft gun’s inner barrel, preventing it from making the best, most accurate shot.
6. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Airsoft is a very three-dimensional game – something that may sound obvious but is often taken for granted by new players.
Having good situational awareness and knowing your surroundings is key with this game and can really level up your combat skills. Looking around and checking your angles frequently will decrease the likelihood of being seen and shot and increase your chances of spotting enemies. This will become second nature as you start playing more.
7. Use Cover Cleverly
Be smart when using cover – again, this is something that will come with practice. Make sure your cover is large enough to actually keep you protected. It’s common for beginner players to over-rely on a piece cover that is too small or only big enough for one team member.
While you’re still getting your bearings with the game, it can be a good idea to strike the right balance with cover. Don’t push too aggressively and leave yourself exposed but don’t get stuck in cover and waste a game out of action.
8. Communicate With Your Team
Everyone in your team has a role to play, and this role is most successfully fulfilled when communication is good. Using radios or simply shouting and strategising beforehand will make it much easier for everyone to work together towards a common goal.
Letting teammates know where opponents are or giving backup if they are in a tough spot can be the difference between winning and losing. Note that sometimes this can give away your position, but the reward typically outweighs the risk.
Also keep tabs on your teammates so that you’re not shooting off ahead and leaving them behind, or vice versa. Play the style of your team and make sure you know where they are, as you never know when you’ll need some covering fire!
9. Practise Off-Handed Shooting
The majority of players are right-handed, so it can throw off opposing teams when they encounter left-handed shots. Practising left and right-handed weapon fire can make you a more versatile player and help strengthen your dominant side even more.
Shooting from both sides can also allow you to make shots your opponents don’t expect, firing from various angles where they are protected as well.
The Best Airsoft Guns for Beginners
Most skirmish sites will have airsoft rifles and pistols available for hire, so even before you buy your own first gun, you can get a feel for shooting them in games.
These days, there are plenty of affordable airsoft options offering great quality and enticingly cheap prices. A first gun costing £100-150 can offer a brilliant experience as it won’t break the bank too much but still gives you plenty of room to upgrade it as your skills develop and your preferences become clearer.
One of the most popular entry-level airsoft rifles is the G&G Combat Machine CM16 Raider. These are incredibly reliable and lightweight, making them ideal for beginners.
Coming in at just £149.99, this is a great value-for-money option. If you’re still making up your mind about airsoft and are seeking something even cheaper, take a look at our cheap BB guns for even more affordable models.
For more guidance on choosing the perfect first gun, please read our guide.
Getting Better at Airsoft
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s a matter of practice. Having a good level of fitness and being open to learning new skills to improve at airsoft are key if you want to achieve victory again and again.
As you improve, you’ll need a gun that can keep up with you. Our diverse range of airsoft rifles and pistols here at Surplus Store offers a variety of guns, providing something for every shooter’s requirements. Browse now to see what’s currently in stock!