In the UK, airsoft remains a popular sport and recreational activity, with players taking part in intense skirmishes, tactical operations, and competitive gameplay. However, to ensure safety and fairness in the game, specific rules are in place regarding the performance of airsoft guns, particularly their muzzle velocity, measured in Feet Per Second (FPS). Understanding these limits is crucial for anyone involved in the sport, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player.
Airsoft FPS Limits in the UK |
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| The FPS limit refers to the maximum velocity at which a BB (ball bearing) leaves the barrel of the airsoft gun. In the UK, airsoft guns are legally classified as either RIFs (Realistic Imitation Firearms) or IFs (Imitation Firearms). These limits are in place to balance realism with safety, as higher velocities can result in more severe injuries during gameplay. | |||
Site-Specific Limits
Most airsoft sites across the UK adhere to FPS limits that ensure player safety, though these limits can vary slightly from one venue to another. Generally, the following FPS standards are enforced:
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Indoor sites (CQB - Close Quarters Battle): Airsoft guns are usually limited to between 328 - 350 FPS or sometimes lower. This limit is crucial due to the close-range nature of CQB environments, where high-velocity shots can be dangerously impactful in tight spaces.
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Outdoor sites: Outdoor fields typically allow higher FPS limits, usually around 350 FPS for rifles. For DMRs (Designated Marksman Rifles), the FPS limit is often set at 400 - 400 FPS, and sniper rifles can go as high as 500 FPS, though some sites may require specific equipment like bolt-action rifles or designated sniper rifles for these high fps guns.
UK Law on Airsoft Guns
Under UK law, airsoft guns are legally considered as IFs (Imitation Firearms), but only as long as they comply with strict FPS limits. If a gun exceeds the maximum FPS threshold, it may be classified as a firearm, subject to serious legal restrictions.
To avoid this, airsoft guns typically follow these restrictions:
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Over 328 FPS but under 500 FPS: Guns in this range are allowed for use, but only under controlled conditions (e.g., in outdoor scenarios or where the gun is designed for sniping).
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500 FPS or above: Airsoft guns that exceed 500 FPS are prohibited for use in recreational play, as they may cause serious harm. Players using such guns in a regulated environment would likely need special permission and adhere to specific rules.
Engagement Distances
In addition to FPS limits, engagement distances are also a consideration. Airsoft sites often enforce minimum engagement distances (MED) depending on the FPS of the weapon. For example:
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Below 350 FPS: The MED may be between 0 - 10 meters.
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Above 350 FPS (DMRs or snipers): The MED could rise to 20 meters or more, ensuring that players are not at risk of being hit at dangerously close range.
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Chronograph Testing |
To maintain these limits, airsoft sites conduct regular chronograph testing, where players' guns are tested for their FPS using a chronograph (a device that measures the speed of the BB). This is typically done before entering the game field, and players may be asked to reshoot or adjust their guns if they exceed the FPS limits.
Adhering to airsoft gun FPS limits is not just about following the law but ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned player, understanding and respecting these limits will help foster a fair and injury-free environment. Always check with your local airsoft site for specific rules and regulations, as these can vary, but the FPS limits outlined above represent the standard in the UK, but can vary from site to site.
With safety always being a priority, airsoft continues to be an exciting, adrenaline-filled sport, and staying within these FPS boundaries ensures that everyone can enjoy the game without unnecessary risk.