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Airsoft is a game in which participants eliminate opponents by hitting each other with spherical, non metallic, pellets launched via replica firearms called Airsoft guns.

Gameplay varies in style and composition but often range from short-term skirmishes, organized scenarios, C.Q.B., field, military simulations (MilSim), or historical reenactments. Combat situations on the battlefield often involve the use of common military tactics to achieve objectives set in each game. Participants typically emulate the tactical equipment and accessories used by modern military and police organizations.

For those who are new to Airsoft, these guns shoot 6mm round pellets commonly known as “BBs.” They travel at speeds much lower than real bullets and although a bit painful when hit by one of these pellets, they cannot kill someone nor cause heavy-bleeding injuries unlike real guns. Even though Airsoft is considered a toy gun, safety precautions should still be taken into account when playing with these replicas.

As mentioned most Airsoft guns are the exact copies of the actual guns. Some manufacturers even use real mold of the originals in order to create the look, feel and even weight of their real-steel counterpart. Automatic Electric Guns can only cause welts. It is still painful however when the BB pellets hit the skin, since they travel at high speeds. That is why during "skirmishes," protective gears must be worn to avoid serious injuries, especially around the eyes. Also, thick protective outfits are also recommended to be worn. There are special camouflages similar to those used by cadets that can be worn. Sweatshirts and thick pants can also protect the skin from being directly hit.

Airsoft guns can be categorized into 3 types. They are:

1. Automatic Electric Guns (AEG)
2. Gas-Powered
3. Spring-Powered

The Automatic Electric Guns (AEG) are among the most popular, although they are usually among the most expensive gun out of the three. These come in at an average of about $300. AEGs are battery operated. They operate with electric motors that run three gears inside the gun. These gears, in turn, compress and release a piston creating a blast of air that propels the BB pellets out of the gun barrel. The system allows the gun to function efficiently with its fully-automatic features resulting in a realistic Rate-of-Fire. It can reach anywhere from 600 to 900 Rounds-per-Minute replicating the capabilities of the real-steel gun. For those who are advanced in the field, these are the guns of choice because even though pricey, they are worth it.

The next most popular gun is the gas-powered ones. They are usually pistols and are less expensive than the AEGs. There are several types of gas-powered guns. The most popular one is the Gas-Blowback, also know as GBBs. They operate using  gas to propel the BBs out of the barrel. The same gas is used to cycle back the slide, creating a recoil by cycling the slide back and forth. The gas is usually stored in the magazine Similar to AEGs, the Gas-Blowbacks allow realistic semi-automatic firing. The gun allows the ease of magazine reload making it very appealing to its users. CO2 guns also fall into the gas category, but are usually not recommended for a pay to play field as it shoots too fast and will likely not be aloud in play.

And finally the spring-powered Airsoft gun. Spring-cocking guns are true to their name in that you cock the spring first, and then fire. Cock spring, fire, cock, fire, cock, fire, etc. These guns are usually magazine fed and are single shot only because of the need to cock the weapon after every shot. This system is very cost-effective, and the guns are surprisingly sturdy. Every Airsofter, in his lifetime, has owned at least one spring-powered gun, either a pistol or a rifle. Due to it's relatively cheap price-range, this is usually the gun of choice for the person just starting to play Airsoft. A spring-powered handgun can be purchased for as little as $20. These guns are not recommended for play on an organized team or on any pay to play field.