by Austin Hale

Created on: June 24, 2009

The 70's. Those years represent so many different things, but one of the less common references is to the emergence of airsoft. In the 1970's firearm laws in Japan were becoming more stringent and for a younger population interested in guns this was a bad thing. Originally these youths started modifying C02 pellet guns and using plastic BB's to have wars, but then a company called Tokyo Marui decided to capitalize on this market segment by building electric rifles and airsoft was born.

Airsoft is very similar to the popular sport of paintball, but is different because of the type of guns used. Airsoft guns shoot small plastic BB's which leave small welts on the player if shot. This eliminates all of the mess left behind when playing paintball. However the difference in guns is not only subject to ammunition but also appearance. Airsoft guns are replicas of real life weapons and so cause some concern.

The greatest concern that most parents have because of the quick rise in popularity in airsoft is the realism of the weapons. Many airsoft guns are indistinguishable from their real counterparts if the small orange tip were removed. In fact there have been a few cases of policemen shooting persons playing airsoft games because of the realism of the weapons.

In order to combat this problem many companies are starting to offer rifles in clear plastic. This coupled with the publicity airsoft has been receiving should help to qualm fears about police officers not being able to recognize that the weapons are fake.

Another fear that has been manifested by the general public has been the promotion of violence. Airsoft closely mimics real life fighting situations because of the realism of the weapons as well as possessing similar projectile patterns as real weapons. There are airsoft snipers, fully automatic machine guns, and even airsoft grenades.

Opposing views however argue that just like military training airsoft can provide a wholesome team environment, discipline, and also helps to improve physical fitness. This is especially true when playing military simulation (commonly referred to as milsim) games.

Milsim games are simulations of military types of activities with each opposing team being equipped with airsoft rifles. Some airsoft teams will even go as far as having helicopters and custom made tanks to really make the battle interesting.

However you view airsoft is entirely up to you, but it is here to stay. It's growing fast and it appeals to those who crave a team environment and a lot of fun.

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