Airsoft Guns – A Unique History

by Anthony Carter

by Anthony Carter

Airsoft guns are very popular for recreational use and becoming even more popular today as the market evolves for these detailed replicas of the real thing. Just what exactly is an airsoft gun though?

In simple terms, an airsoft gun is an exact copy of the real thing. The exception is that they fire plastic pellets, not bullets and use compressed gas. CO2 cartridges are the most commonly used form of compressed gas, but some gun models operate using electrical motors or springs. 6mm plastic pellets travel through this toy with a muzzle velocity of somewhere between 30 to 250 meters per second.

You shouldn't let the talk of plastic pellets fool you though, copper and other metal pellets have been known to be used in these guns and these will cause damage to the skin. If the proper supplies are used however, airsoft guns can be a pretty safe method of entertainment. The recommended age for use is 16 and up so children younger then this should never use them especially not unsupervised. Some states even require you to be at least 18 before being able to enter a tournament.

Airsoft guns have an interesting history to go along with them that starts in Japan around the 1970's. You see, during that time it was illegal to have a firearm, but because people were still interested in them these replicas were invented. These earliest version were powered by springs themselves and fired rubber pellets. The standard 6mm to 8mm size we see today came later. They did evolve quickly in to gas powered guns however.

In the 1990's this fun toy wandered over to North America and changed how we viewed recreational fun forever. Once North American's added their knowledge to the mix we ended up with what we know these gun replicas as today.

Because cheap versions of these guns were being manufactured the United States had to toughen up on the import. Today, in order for an airsoft gun to be imported in to the country or sold here legally they must have a bright orange tip. This is for safety reasons since they look so much like real weapons.

Because some of these models are so accurate to their real life counter parts, intellectual property laws have became a problem from some of the manufacturing companies. Most of these companies are Japanese based and the United States restricts imports of certain models they feel are too life like for use here.

Just reading the description of airsoft guns makes it sound so fun, which it is. It is a great outdoor recreational activity that many enjoy. It has quite the following and tournaments take place on a regular bases in almost every state. If you are looking for a little excitement without to much risk and danger then this sport would be one that you might want to look in to. Entire families sometimes get involved and it's a great way to spend family time together.

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