 |
Confused about UKARA and the British Airsoft Club (BAC)? This short guide explains how each system works, the key differences, and how to decide which is right for you — or whether you should sign up for both. |  |
What is UKARA
UKARA is a retailer-operated verification system used to prove you have a legal defence under UK law to purchase a realistic imitation firearm (RIF). The most common legal defence is being a regular, insured skirmisher — usually demonstrated by attending qualifying games on registered sites. Participating sites register players with UKARA and many retailers check the UKARA database before selling RIFs.
What is the BAC (British Airsoft Club)
The British Airsoft Club is a membership organisation that provides player verification, insurance options, and a national directory of registered sites. Like UKARA, BAC offers a verification method to show you meet the requirements to buy a RIF, but it also functions as a player-focused club offering additional services and community support.
Similarities
- Both provide a way to demonstrate the legal defence required to buy a RIF.
- Both require regular attendance at insured airsoft games to qualify.
- Both are accepted by a number of retailers and sites (although acceptance varies).
- Neither changes the law — they are proof systems, not legal licences.
Key Differences
| Feature | UKARA | BAC |
|---|---|---|
| Who runs it? | Retailer-driven database. | Independent membership organisation. |
| Primary purpose | Streamlined retailer verification to enable RIF sales. | Player verification plus insurance, site support and community services. |
| Site onboarding | Approved / qualifying sites only. | Generally more flexible and quicker onboarding for new sites. |
| Extra benefits | Primarily verification for purchases. | Insurance options, membership features, site support and resources. |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose UKARA if:
- Your regular site already uses UKARA and most retailers you use recognise it.
- You want a straightforward, well-established verification path for buying RIFs.
Choose BAC if:
- You want a player-centred membership with insurance and support for new sites.
- Your local site isn’t UKARA-registered or prefers BAC’s system.
- You want additional community benefits and easier onboarding for venues.
Pro tip: Many players hold both a UKARA number and BAC membership to maximise flexibility when buying from different retailers or playing at different venues.
Neither system is inherently better for everyone — they simply serve slightly different needs. UKARA is the longstanding retailer-side verification standard, while BAC offers a broader player-focused service. Choose the one that best matches where you play and where you shop, or sign up for both to keep your options open.