What are the Laws?

Airsoft is a popular hobby in the UK, but it’s important for players — new and experienced alike — to understand the legal framework surrounding the sport. UK law regulates the ownership and purchase of realistic imitation firearms (RIFs), and failure to comply can lead to serious consequences.

This guide explains the laws, what counts as a legal defence, and how schemes like UKARA and the British Airsoft Club (BAC) help players stay compliant.

Realistic Imitation Firearms and the Law

The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (VCRA) governs the sale, import, and possession of realistic imitation firearms in the UK. A realistic imitation firearm is any airsoft gun that looks like a real gun and meets certain criteria for colour, size, and material.

Key points of the law include:

  • You must be 18 or older to purchase a realistic imitation firearm.

  • Selling or buying a RIF without a valid legal defence is an offence.

  • Transporting airsoft guns in public must be done responsibly — always in a bag or case and never openly displayed.

  
   

Two-Tone Guns: An Alternative

For those not yet able to legally buy a realistic gun, “two-tone” airsoft guns are available. These guns are painted in bright, unrealistic colours (blue, orange, green) and are legal for anyone over 18 to buy. Two-tone guns are often used for beginners, casual skirmishes, or loaners.

  


Legal Defences to Buy Realistic Guns

UK law allows certain “defences” for buying realistic imitation firearms. The most common defence is being an active airsoft player. To qualify, you must regularly participate in insured airsoft games at recognised sites.

Two main verification systems are used by UK retailers to confirm this:

UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association)

  • UKARA is a retailer-run database.

  • Players must attend qualifying games at registered sites (typically three times over two months).

  • Once registered, you can buy realistic airsoft guns from participating retailers.

  • UKARA is widely recognised across the UK airsoft community and is the most common verification system for legal purchases.

  

BAC (British Airsoft Club)

  • BAC is an independent membership organisation.

  • Offers the same legal defence for buying realistic guns as UKARA.

  • Provides player verification, insurance options, and a directory of registered sites.

  • BAC is particularly useful for new or smaller sites, or for players who prefer a community-focused alternative to a retailer-led scheme.

Both UKARA and BAC give you a valid legal defence to purchase realistic airsoft guns and ensure you are following the law while enjoying the sport. Some players even maintain membership with both systems for maximum flexibility.

 

  

Other Important Legal Notes

  • Under-18s: It is illegal for anyone under 18 to purchase an imitation firearm, whether realistic or two-tone.

  • Transport: Airsoft guns should always be carried in a bag or case and never displayed publicly.

  • Modifications: Altering a two-tone gun to make it realistic is illegal under the VCRA. Always check before modifying.

 

Understanding UK airsoft law is essential to enjoy the sport safely and legally. Using recognised systems like UKARA or BAC gives players a legal defence to buy realistic guns while supporting safe, responsible gameplay.

Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, following these laws ensures your airsoft experience remains fun, legal, and worry-free.