Whether you're a seasoned airsoft veteran or just stepping onto the field for the first time, understanding the language of airsoft is crucial. From the types of guns to tactical lingo, airsoft players have developed their own vocabulary to help navigate the sport more effectively. If you're looking to level up your game, here’s a rundown of common airsoft terms and jargon you should know!
1. AEG (Automatic Electric Gun)
An AEG is one of the most common types of airsoft guns. Powered by a rechargeable battery, AEGs use electric motors to compress a spring and shoot BBs. These guns offer semi-automatic and fully automatic firing modes, making them a popular choice for both beginners and advanced players.
2. GBB (Gas Blowback)
GBBs are airsoft guns that operate using gas (such as Green Gas or CO2) to propel BBs. Unlike AEGs, GBBs simulate the action of a real firearm by having a moving slide or bolt during each shot. This gives the shooter a more realistic experience, with recoil and a more tactile feel.
3. FPS (Feet Per Second)
FPS measures the speed at which a BB is fired from an airsoft gun. The higher the FPS, the more powerful the shot. Different airsoft fields and competitions often have FPS limits, typically ranging from 350 to 500 FPS, to ensure safety. It’s essential to know your gun's FPS before playing, as shooting too high can result in injury or disqualification.
4. BB
BBs are the projectiles used in airsoft guns. They're usually made of plastic and come in various weights, typically ranging from 0.12g to 0.40g. Lighter BBs travel faster but are less accurate over long distances, while heavier BBs provide more accuracy and stability but have a slower speed.
5. Mag (Magazine)
The mag (short for magazine) is the part of the airsoft gun that holds the BBs and feeds them into the gun’s firing mechanism. Mags come in various sizes and types: mid-cap (holds a moderate number of BBs), high-cap (holds a large number of BBs but needs to be wound to feed), and low-cap (holds a small number of BBs, often resembling real-life mags in terms of capacity).
6. Hop-Up
The hop-up is a device inside airsoft guns that puts backspin on the BB as it exits the barrel. This spin helps the BB travel further and more accurately by counteracting gravity and air resistance. Adjusting the hop-up is a key part of fine-tuning your accuracy, especially over longer distances.
7. CQB (Close Quarters Battle)
CQB refers to airsoft games or scenarios that take place in tight, confined spaces, such as buildings, rooms, or narrow hallways. CQB requires quick reflexes, tight shooting, and stealthy movement, as engagements typically happen at very close range.
8. MilSim (Military Simulation)
MilSim is a style of airsoft that focuses on simulating real military tactics, complete with missions, objectives, and often complex scenarios. Players often use military-style gear, communications, and teamwork. MilSim games can last for hours or even days, mimicking real-world combat situations.
9. PB (Player Bait)
Player bait refers to the strategic use of a teammate or piece of equipment to distract or mislead the opposing team. It’s often used in larger MilSim games to throw the enemy off track while a team maneuvers in another direction.
10. BB Trap
A BB trap is a designated area, often found behind or near a shooting range, where BBs are safely captured after being shot. They prevent BBs from becoming lost or causing damage. Some fields use a “BB trap” for the same reason: to safely contain the BBs after a skirmish.
11. Full Auto vs. Semi-Auto
This refers to the firing modes on an airsoft gun. In semi-auto mode, the gun fires one shot per pull of the trigger. In full-auto mode, the gun continuously fires as long as the trigger is held down. The choice of firing mode can impact your strategy and rate of fire.
12. “Dead” or “Out”
In airsoft, when a player is hit by a BB, they’re considered "dead" or "out" and must leave the field or go to a designated respawn point. The term "dead" is part of the honor system, as airsoft is generally played without referees directly overseeing every game. Players are expected to call themselves out if they are hit.
13. Respawn
The respawn is the designated area where players return after being eliminated from the game. Respawns can be timed (e.g., 30 seconds or 1 minute) or unlimited, depending on the rules of the game.
14. Kitting Up / Loadout
"Kit" or "loadout" refers to the equipment, gear, and accessories a player wears and carries into battle. This includes everything from your airsoft gun to your tactical vest, magazines, face protection, and even water. Your loadout can be tailored to different playstyles, whether you prefer a lightweight kit for speed or a more tactical setup for heavy fire support.
15. Cover Fire
Cover fire is the act of shooting to provide suppression and prevent the enemy from advancing. Players use cover fire to give their teammates the chance to move, reload, or regroup without taking fire.
16. TTK (Time to Kill)
TTK refers to how quickly an enemy player can be eliminated, measured from when you first see them to when you hit them with a shot. Lower TTK is often associated with higher FPS, fast firing rates, or sniper rifles, where players are eliminated quickly.
17. DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle)
A DMR is an airsoft rifle designed for long-range accuracy, typically firing semi-automatically. It bridges the gap between regular assault rifles and sniper rifles, providing precision shooting at medium to long distances without the need for a sniper’s setup.
18. Blindfire
Blindfiring is when a player shoots their weapon without looking down the sights or through the optics, typically around corners or behind cover. While it may seem like a clever tactic, many airsoft fields prohibit blindfiring due to safety concerns, as it can lead to inaccurate shots and dangerous situations.
19. BB Bunker
A BB bunker refers to any structure or area where BBs are stored or collected during a game. This can be used for reloading, as a place to store extra BBs, or even as a safe zone where players can reload and re-gear during the game.
20. Field Limit
Field limit refers to the maximum FPS allowed at a specific airsoft field. This limit is put in place to ensure safety. Guns with higher FPS (usually over 400) may be restricted to certain areas or require additional safety gear.
As you dive deeper into airsoft, you'll come across even more specialized terms and concepts. Understanding the lingo not only helps improve your communication with teammates but also enhances your overall experience on the field. Keep these terms in mind as you play, and soon enough, you’ll be speaking the language of airsoft like a pro!