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Airsoft on MOD Sites – What You Need to Know
Playing airsoft on MOD land offers a unique and highly immersive experience. These sites often include former military bases, training grounds, and bunkers, providing realistic environments for MilSim (Military Simulation) and large-scale events. However, because these locations are linked to the Ministry of Defence, strict rules and permissions apply.
Why MOD Sites Are Special
- Authentic Military Terrain: Expect real barracks, trenches, bunkers, and vehicle compounds.
- Large-Scale Gameplay: Perfect for MilSim and weekend events with hundreds of players.
- Immersive Scenarios: Many games replicate military operations, convoy escorts, and objective-based missions.
Rules for Playing on MOD Sites
- Permission Required: MOD land is not public property. Airsoft games can only occur on sites leased or approved for civilian use.
- Insurance & Safety: Organizers must have full public liability insurance and comply with MOD safety standards.
- Valid Defence: Players must meet UK legal requirements for owning and using airsoft guns (e.g., UKARA membership for RIFs).
- Transport & Storage: Airsoft guns must be transported securely and never displayed in public areas near MOD land.
- Power Limits: UK legal limits apply (1.3J for full-auto, 2.5J for semi-auto/sniper rifles).
Popular MOD Airsoft Sites in the UK
1. Anzio Camp – Staffordshire
Run by First & Only Airsoft, Anzio Camp is a former military training facility featuring barracks, woodland, and urban zones. It’s famous for large-scale MilSim events and weekend skirmishes.
2. The Vault & Precinct 13 – First & Only Airsoft
While not MOD land, First & Only also operates CQB sites and military-style venues across the UK, including The Vault (Bury) and Precinct 13 (Walsall). Their MOD-style scenarios make them popular for tactical gameplay.
3. UCAP Airsoft – Greenops (West Sussex)
Located on a former military site, UCAP Greenops offers a mix of woodland and urban combat zones, ideal for realistic missions.
4. Gunman Airsoft – RAF Tuddenham
A disused RAF base in Suffolk, perfect for immersive MilSim events. Gunman Airsoft specializes in story-driven games and military-style objectives.
Legal Considerations
- Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA) applies: You need a valid defence (UKARA or similar) to own realistic airsoft guns.
- No Public Play: Airsoft is only legal on insured, approved sites—not on active MOD land or public areas.
- Safety First: MOD sites often have strict FPS checks and mandatory safety briefings.