12 Rules for Playing Airsoft with Good Sportsmanship

Suspense and excitement fill the field when a group of kids gather to play airsoft. Logic and strategy, teamwork, exercise, tactical skills and fun are all part of the game. Airsoft is a great hobby for older kids, if they are ready to play safely and responsibly. Keep reading for 12 important rules for playing Airsoft so they can have the most fun!

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Maturity Matters

If your child wants to play Airsoft, it is your (parent’s) responsibility to make sure that he is mature enough to handle the game. Putting guns (even pretend guns) in the hands of kids should be done with diligence and respect for the weapon, the other players, and the property where play takes place.

When my sons first wanted to play airsoft, my husband said no. My boys had taken hunter’s safety and had a lot of experience with firearms. He still didn’t feel comfortable with Airsoft or the game when they first asked to play. It is always okay to say no.

My boys continued to research guns and the game. They respectfully made their case again before the holiday season, and were surprised with long, black polished airsoft guns and BBs on Christmas morning.

Why did my husband change his mind? He felt that he had reviewed safety and precautions with the boys, and they understood that this was a privilege that could and would be taken away if they could not follow our family rules, and also use common sense when we did not have a rule established.

If you are on the fence about your son playing Airsoft, check out Part 1 of my Airsoft series: Should I Let My Kids Play Airsoft Guns?

If the answer is yes, don’t forget to have these important conversations and teach them the rules for playing Airsoft.

#1 Don’t forget Safety Gear

If your kid won’t wear his safety gear, don’t let him play. If you are hosting others at your house, consider getting some extra gear to have on hand for visitors. You do not want to be liable for an injury that could have been easily avoided.

For more information about Airsoft Gear, read Airsoft Gear for Beginners.

Umarex HK Heckler & Koch HK416 AEG 6mm BB Rifle Airsoft Gun, Black

#2 Treat Airsoft Guns as Real Firearms

Your children should always assume that an airsoft gun is loaded and treat it with the same respect and safety precautions as a real firearm.

Never point an airsoft gun at anyone unless you are actively engaged in a game and have taken proper safety measures. They should never be used inside a home, because the BBs can ricochet.

#3 Unload and Put On Safety

When you are not actively participating in a game, your airsoft gun should be unloaded, and the safety should be engaged.

#4 Store Your Gun Safely

Store your airsoft guns and equipment in a safe and secure manner when not in use.

Especially if there are ever young children in your home, these precautions should always be taken. A toddler or young guest could accidentally hurt themselves, someone else, or cause damage to your home if an airsoft gun was discharged inside your home.

My children store their guns under their beds inside their gear bags or on the top shelves of their closets. My younger boys (ages 9 & 11) are not supposed to get them out to show guests without my permission.

#5 Stay Organized

Like all hobby gear, it is important to keep Airsoft gear organized. Guns, safety gear, BBs, batteries, and other airsoft accessories, should be kept in one place. Having a designated place to store all Airsoft gear, and parents and kids will both be happier.

#6 Play Airsoft by the Rules

Follow the rules of the host or airsoft field of the event you attend. Know the boundaries so you don’t wander onto neighboring property.

There are often rules of play such as engagement distances and minimum engagement rules. Follow these diligently and be aware of your gun’s power. You never want to try to hurt someone with your airsoft gun. Never fire at close range, use a “bang bang” if necessary.

#7 Go Out if You Are Hit

If you are hit by a BB, call yourself “out” loudly and clearly, and display a safety kill rag. Do not engage in any further actions or fire your weapon once you are “dead.” Airsoft games can get out of hand if no one follows the rules of the game. Act honorably and go out if you are hit.

#8 Avoid Blind Firing

Never shoot your airsoft gun without having a clear line of sight at your target. Avoid sticking your gun around corners or obstacles without exposing yourself.

#9 Use Safe Zones

Respect designated safe zones where no firing is allowed. This is where players gear up, load their guns, and conduct other non-combat activities.

#10 Be Mindful of Others Property

Do not climb on or damage props, buildings, or structures on the field. Clean up after yourself. Treat other people’s property with respect if you would like to be invited again. Use biodegradable BBs, because no one wants millions of pieces of plastic on their property forever.

Be aware if your host has animals. Never shoot at an animal when playing Airsoft.

#11 Be a Responsible Player

Treat all players, whether they are on your team or the opposing team, with respect and courtesy. If there is unfair play happening, be a leader and stop it or sit out the game. If players do not play by the rules, they should be excused from the game.

# 12 Safety is a Collective Responsibility

Remember that safety is a collective responsibility. Players, parents, and game organizers all play a role in maintaining a safe airsoft environment. Always prioritize safety and sportsmanship when participating in airsoft games.

Lessons Learned

Over the past four years of my kids being involved in this hobby, including hosting airsoft events at our home, we have learned a lot. I think it is very important to go over safety rules for playing airsoft and expectations with your children so that they will be prepared to play responsibly and not get in trouble with friends or hosts.

It is never a good idea for anyone to jump into a hobby or situation without training, and Airsoft is a great preparation for other situations that will come up in their lives, like driving or interviewing for a job. Parents, get used to having good (and sometimes hard) conversations with your kids so that you know who they are and what character skills they need to further develop.

Airsoft is a great way to teach kids lessons in responsibility and self-control. It is fun and exciting. I hope that your children enjoy it as much as my sons do!

If you enjoyed this article, please check out Part 1: Should I Let My Kids Play Airsoft Guns? and Part 2: Airsoft Gear for Beginners: What Parents Need to Know.

I love hearing from other families who share our hobbies! Please leave a comment below if you are an Airsoft Enthusiast!