The Basics: What is Airsoft?

History: 
 
Airsoft was invented in Japan in the late 1970’s.  There was a generation or era in Japan during which a lot of interest was generated in guns and gun related paraphernalia.  However it was also during this time that the Japanese government created the “No-one shall possess a fire-arm or fire-arms or a sword or swords” law.  Whether the interest created the law or the law created the interest is unknown.

Not to be outdone by American entrepreneurs Japanese manufacturers saw an opportunity and they decided to create replica guns to sell.  Originally these guns varied immensely and there was no standard of ammunition or firing method, however as time has gone on standards were created and technology increased.  After progressing from rubber BB’s to standard 6mm or 8mm plastic BB’s and then having the capability to use batteries and small gas canisters, instead of their giant gas canister counterparts, to power the guns the sport started to take off.

Popularity:
 

Airsoft was introduced into North America in the 1990’s and has since exploded.  Some have speculated that it is the fastest growing sport in the world.  Even though it rapidly became well known once reaching North America it has crossed international borders and has become especially popular in Europe.

While popular for all of the reasons paintball became prevalent airsoft provides a multitude of other positives as well as fewer negatives.  With no paint to clean up airsoft games can be conducted nearly anywhere and with realistic weapons, magazines, and armor military simulation (mil-sim) games can be played.

Safety: 
 

The realistic weapon “positive” that airsoft brings to the table is perhaps its biggest downside as well.  Recent news stories have portrayed the sport as dangerous and a common activity of delinquents because of the difficulty civilians have in telling the difference between airsoft guns and real guns.  It is an extremely important concern considering a single law could put a stop to the rapid growth and new hobby that airsoft has become.

Although airsoft does have a few hurdles to cross it’s swift escalation into the “spotlight” will be a driving force into cementing it into a popular hobby for a larger demographic.

Pictures: 
Top: Bag of 6mm .25g BB's
Middle: Mini Electric Automatic Airsoft Gun
Bottom: JT Paintball Elite Headshield (What I use when I airsoft)