Saturday, December 27, 2008

Consider the cost of Airsoft

By Alexander Malroy

Airsoft guns have its roots embedded in Japan, its country of origin. A gun enthusiast out of firm restriction by the government invented it, and the rest was history. The game spread like wildfire among the neighboring nations of Southeast Asia, as tournaments and coop games were being held simultaneously in each country. As of today, the popularity and the followers of airsoft guns extended in the United States and Europe. However, other European countries such as the Netherlands ban the game in their shore; Dutch enthusiasts find a way of traveling to neighboring countries only to enjoy the game.

There are typically three types if airsoft games; skirmishing, also known as close quarters battle, is the most common. There are also military simulations and historical re-enactments. These games usually require a referee, or Marshall, of some type as it is generally difficult to tell when a player has been hit.

Safety is the first and foremost concern of every organizer of the game. Protective clothes and gear as well as necessary eyewear should be strictly provided and adhered to. Airsoft guns if fired at point blank and at close range may cause nasty welts in an open skin, this may not be fatal, but if it hits the eye, this may cause blindness. Airsoft guns operate in electric motor, battery, gas or a manual cocking ring.

Airsoft is generally cheaper for a beginning player than paintball. Airsoft pistols and other guns are the most expensive part of the game. The lowest range of guns typically costs $15-$90 USD, while the most expensive airsoft guns sell for between $200-$500 USD. This can get much more expensive in military simulation and historical re-enactment games, where the focus on realism can raise costs considerably. Some custom-made airsoft guns can cost $2,000 USD while gas-powered guns with realistic blowback can range from $150 to $500 USD.

Simulating the real thing is one of the major come on of the game; the more realistic it is the more exciting the game becomes. Thus, the close resemblance of the airsoft guns to the real military guns is the most sought after aspiration of every player. Assault rifles are the most popular type of weapon a player would ever want. These types of guns usually have high capacity in terms of battery life, and are easy to use.

The realistic blow back effect of other gun models using propane gas mounted directly onto the propane tanks make it popular too. Manufacturers oftentimes create minor tweaks depending on the need of the player. Grenades and grenade launchers are also being simulated in the game using compressed gas that creates minor explosion when thrown. This and more adds up to the excitement of being in a realistic scenario of a battle.

You also have the constant maintenance of your guns and the correct protective gear to keep you safe from injuries. Wearing the protective gear protects everyone and ensures a continual game without interruptions.

Like every sport there are costs, both small and large, but it is worth it as this game is fun. Get started today; form a team and see for yourself how much enjoyment and exercise you can get out of this great sport. - 16650

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