Have you always wanted to own an airsoft gun? Confused about airsoft gun laws in your state? Not sure if you can carry one with you? Confused about whether and how authorities classify airsoft guns differently from paintball guns, for example?
These are all questions beginners, and sometimes, veterans have about airsoft. In this blog post, we'll go over everything you need to know before you purchase an airsoft gun in the United States. Continue reading and learn about the intricacies of the laws regarding airsoft guns, interstate differences, and how you can enjoy your airsoft gun completely legally!
Airsoft Gun Laws: Are They Legal?
What are airsoft guns? What are their uses? Why are they popular? Understanding these questions helps us understand the laws and regulations surrounding them.
Airsoft guns are pneumatic copies of real weapons, usually made on a 1:1 scale. Although they have no value in real combat, in terms of appearance, they are deceptively similar to their firearm substitute. All reproduced details make it easy to get them confused with the genuine article.
Airsoft replica guns come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and these include pistols, shotguns, and airsoft rifles. However, it is important to stress that they are only similar to actual firearms in terms of aesthetics. For one, airsoft guns have completely different ammunition, relying on small and lightweight plastic BBs, instead of cartridges used in real guns, which are made of metals and include propellants such as gunpowder. Furthermore, airsoft guns shoot plastic pellets using a spring, gas, or electric drive (see: airsoft electric guns and airsoft gas guns), and though some real firearms use springs as well, their operating mechanism is completely different.
So, Does This Mean Airsoft Guns Are Legal?
In the United States, owning and using airsoft guns is legal in a majority of states, though this doesn't mean there are no restrictions. States have instituted a variety of restrictions on how airsoft guns are purchased, handled, and carried:
- Restrictions on the purchase of airsoft guns: Most states place restrictions on the purchase and trade of airsoft guns. In most states, for example, someone under 18 can't purchase an airsoft gun. This includes Colorado, Columbia, Georgia, and many more. In other states, there are loosely defined firearm laws also apply, which means the selling and trading of airsoft guns require a license.
- Restrictions on the handling of airsoft guns: The rule of thumb here is wherever there are restrictions on the sale of an airsoft gun to an individual, the law also restricts them from handling it. For example, most states have also made it illegal for minors to handle airsoft guns, though there are some exceptions. Some states allow teenagers to handle and play with airsoft guns if they have written consent from their parents.
- Restrictions on the carrying of airsoft guns: As we mentioned above, airsoft guns, especially high-quality ones like those offered by Taiwangun, are extremely realistic and are virtually a one-to-one copy of real guns visually. This is why many states that have laws against open-carrying have also made open-carrying airsoft guns illegal. Even if open carrying is legal in your area, you have to remember that these products are deceptively similar to firearms, can frighten people, and make them feel threatened. Therefore, BB pellet replicas should not be casually exposed in public places. When moving around the city, it is advised to hide them in such a way that outsiders cannot see them. You can do it by putting the airsoft gun in a cover, backpack, or bag.
- Restrictions on the use of airsoft guns: Though rare, some states put restrictions on how airsoft guns are used because they're treated as a subset of firearms. One such restriction is some states banning the use of airsoft guns in hunting. Though they are not used in hunting nor do they make for good hunting firearms, these restrictions are still worth mentioning!
Does Playing Airsoft Carry a Risk?
The basic question people often ask themselves is "Can I use/shoot an airsoft gun?" And the answer is deceptively simple: Of course, you can! In most states, owning and shooting airsoft guns is perfectly legal.
However, this comes with significant caveats depending on the state. There are generally some rules you need to follow:
- Make sure you are using guns away from people, preferably in specially designated areas. Airsoft guns might be largely safe, but they are also noisy and look realistic, and you don't want to cause panic among passers-by by shooting the gun in crowded areas. This isn't only against decorum and good manners, but it might also land you in hot water with the police.
- Remember, despite airsoft weapons being replicas, they can still be dangerous. Accidental or intentional shooting at people not participating in an airsoft game is not only dangerous but carries the risk of injury, especially if the BBs hit them in sensitive areas like the eyes. Furthermore, it might constitute assault or battery and carry a prison sentence of up to 5 years, depending on the state. This is why you should make sure you always have your airsoft gun unloaded when you're not actively participating in matches.
How to Make Sure You're Complying with Laws and Regulations
Some parts of this article might give the impression that laws and regulations surrounding airsoft guns are extremely strict in the United States, but this isn't true. In most states, using, selling, and handling an airsoft gun is perfectly legal.
Though, it is, nevertheless, important you make sure you stay on the safe side and take all the precautions necessary to stay on the good side of the law. In this section, we'll go over a couple of tips that will help you do exactly that.
- Check Local Laws: Sadly, there are just too many variations in laws and regulations surrounding replica firearms in the United States, and this isn't only true on an interstate level. Some cities and districts have specific airsoft laws even when the state as a whole has relatively lax laws. This is why checking local laws is unavoidable. Either by visiting the local authorities' official website or giving them a call, you can easily find out everything you need to know about their regulations. It is simple and it doesn't take much time.
- Contact Local Airsoft Clubs: In most US States, there are a large number of local airsoft clubs that serve the local community. These clubs not only organize airsoft matches, but they also help beginners get into the game, buy a proper airsoft gun, make sure they are adequately equipped, and much more. They are an excellent resource for beginners looking to get into airsoft. Give them a call, and ask about the local airsoft scene, the airsoft guns commonly used, and ways you can participate in airsoft matches. They'll likely be able to point you in the right direction on all fronts.
- Choose the Right Airsoft Gun: Choosing the right airsoft gun is very important - not only does it dictate your performance and accuracy on the battlefield, but it impacts your safety and ability to play matches as well. Though neither state nor federal law directly regulates airsoft guns' speed and power, most airsoft clubs do. Usually, guns above a certain FPS aren't allowed because they're deemed dangerous. If you want to participate in your local scene, it is important you know this information before you purchase an airsoft gun.
- Play Airsoft Safely: Though airsoft guns aren't "dangerous weapons", as we mentioned above, direct hits from airsoft rifles could cause injuries, especially if they hit sensitive areas of the body. This is why most players wear tactical gear before participating in airsoft matches. By ensuring you and your fellow players take the necessary safety precautions and wear the required gear (vest, goggles, boots, etc.), you minimize the risk of injuries and avoid any potential legal trouble.
By following these relatively simple and common sense steps, you can purchase an airsoft gun right away and enjoy participating in matches.
CONCLUSION
In most states, there is very little you can do with an airsoft gun that's deemed illegal. You just have to make sure you do your due diligence, and you should be fine. When using an airsoft gun, be careful and follow safety rules. This not only ensures you stay above board but also makes airsoft matches more exciting and fun. Nobody enjoys injuries during intense skirmishes on the battlefield!
If you're excited to start your airsoft journey and purchase your very first airsoft gun, make sure you check out the assortment offered by our online store here at Taiwangun! Not only do we offer beginner-friendly, high-quality airsoft guns, but we also offer an excellent selection of accessories, tactical gear, and safety equipment: everything you need to start participating in airsoft matches!
Airsoft Gun Laws FAQ
In Which States Is Airsoft Illegal?
Laws and regulations concerning airsoft differ a lot from state to state, and though it is very rare for a state to outright ban airsoft, some do exist. These states include Illinois, Oklahoma, and Delaware, which all have effectively banned airsoft guns.
In some other states, though BB guns aren't banned state-wide, there are still cities and localities that have banned them. The premier examples here are New York City and San Fransico - though an airsoft gun is legal in California and New York, these cities have opted to ban airsoft guns. This is why it is important to always check local laws and regulations before you purchase an air gun!
Is Shooting Someone with an Airsoft Gun Assault?
Though the definition of assault varies quite a bit by state, under most jurisdictions in the United States, intentionally shooting someone with an airsoft gun outside the context of an airsoft match is considered assault and a felony. It is also considered assault under federal law, and the person will be persecuted under it if he crosses state lines or shoots someone with an airsoft gun on Federal property.
When using airsoft guns, it is important you follow proper safety precautions and only use the guns during actual airsoft matches.