AIRSOFT LAW
What You Need To Know
This document provides an overview of the legal requirements and regulations concerning the sale, ownership, and use of airsoft guns in the United Kingdom. It is intended to assist both companies and individuals in understanding their legal obligations.

Ownership and Laws for Individuals
Individuals must be at least 18 years old to purchase an Airsoft Replica Imitation Firearm (RIF) or BB gun.
1. It is illegal to carry an airsoft gun in public without a valid reason, as it can cause public alarm and lead to severe legal consequences.
2. Airsoft guns should be used in designated areas, such as registered airsoft sites or privately owned property with the owners permeation and knowledge
3. Participation in skirmishes at insured and registered airsoft sites is considered a valid reason for owning a RIF.
4. Automatic weapons: Must not exceed 1.3 joules, approximately 370 FPS with a 0.20g BB in the UK. Single-shot weapons: For example sniper rifles or single shot pistols. Must not exceed 2.5 joules, approximately 520 FPS with a 0.20g BB.
5. Use a gun case or gun-style bag to transport airsoft guns to and from skirmish or airsoft sites. Storing your airsoft guns in a secure and safe place when not in use, ideally ammo and batteries separated from the airsoft gun.
Conclusion
Adhering to UK airsoft law is crucial for individuals to ensure safe and legal participation in the sport. Individuals should be aware of all ownership, usage and transportation laws. Keeping individuals safe and the sport fun within the law, your own research is crucial to understanding your role within ownership and participating in the sport
Modifications to Airsoft Guns
Any changes or modifications to your Airsoft RIF or BB guns MUST comply with legal limits and law
Any mechanical or visual changes to an airsoft RIF or BB gun must comply with the law, including internal or external upgrades and modifications.
Changing a two-tone airsoft or BB gun to black is not recommended if you ever intend to sell or no longer own the Imitation Firearm (IF). Altering the colour to black or a more militaristic shade could unintentionally make it a Replica Imitation Firearm (RIF), which may lead to legal issues if you do not have a valid reason for possessing an RIF. It is important to thoroughly understand the regulations surrounding RIF ownership and ensure compliance to avoid potential penalties.


Company Laws and Resposnibilities
1. Definition and Classification
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Realistic Imitation Firearms (RIFs): Airsoft guns that closely resemble real firearms are classified as RIFs.
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Imitation Firearms (IFs): Airsoft guns that are distinguishable from real firearms (e.g., bright colors) are classified as IFs.
2. Sale and Manufacture
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Age Restriction: It is illegal to sell an airsoft gun to anyone under the age of 18.
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Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA) 2006:
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It is illegal to manufacture, sell, or import RIFs unless the purchaser is a member of a specified airsoft club or can provide a valid defense.
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Valid defenses include:
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Membership in a UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association) registered airsoft site.
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Participation in airsoft skirmishes (minimum three times over a period of no less than two months).
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3. Registration and Compliance
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UKARA Registration: Retailers should ensure customers purchasing RIFs are registered with UKARA or possess valid defenses.
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Record Keeping: Maintain records of sales, including proof of the buyer’s eligibility to purchase RIFs.
4. Marketing and Advertising
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Misleading Information: Do not advertise airsoft guns in a manner that suggests they are real firearms.
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Age Verification: Implement stringent age verification processes for online sales to ensure compliance with legal requirements and prevent sales to minors.
By adhering to these guidelines, we ensure the responsible sale and distribution of airsoft guns, promoting safety and compliance with legal standards.
New to Airsoft or Airsoft Law?
Helpful and Useful Knowledge
What is Airsoft?
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Airsoft is a competitive team sport where participants eliminate opponents by hitting them with spherical plastic pellets launched from replica firearms called airsoft guns.
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Airsoft Guns: These are replica firearms that shoot plastic pellets using compressed gas, spring-driven pistons, or electric motors. They come in various styles, mimicking real firearms.
Types of Airsoft Guns
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Spring-Powered: Manual cocking for each shot; great for beginners.
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Gas-Powered: Use gas canisters for semi-automatic or automatic firing; offer realistic feel and performance.
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Electric-Powered (AEGs): Use batteries to power an electric motor, allowing for fully automatic firing; popular in competitive play.
Airsoft Safety Rules
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Wear Protective Gear: Always wear eye protection and consider face masks, gloves, and other protective clothing.
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Treat Every Gun as Real: Always handle airsoft guns with care, assuming they are loaded.
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Use Guns in Designated Areas: Only use airsoft guns in designated fields and arenas.
Airsoft Law Basics
Definition and Classification
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Realistic Imitation Firearms (RIFs): These closely resemble real firearms and are used primarily in airsoft games.
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Imitation Firearms (IFs): These are easily distinguishable from real firearms by features such as bright colors.
Legal Requirements
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Age Restriction: It is illegal to sell an airsoft gun to anyone under the age of 18.
Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA) 2006:
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RIF Restrictions: Manufacturing, selling, or importing RIFs is illegal unless the buyer can prove membership in a specified airsoft club or provide another valid defense.
Valid Defenses:
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UKARA Membership: Being registered with the United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association.
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Skirmish Participation: Engaging in airsoft games at least three times over two months.
Conclusion
Airsoft is a fun and exciting sport that requires adherence to specific safety and legal standards to ensure it is enjoyed responsibly. By understanding these basic rules and laws, new players can enjoy airsoft safely and legally.
