One – “Plinking” - Many simply plink with them, shooting cans, sticky targets and random (hopefully safe and appropriate targets) in their back yard and such. This is often the very first use of Airsoft by new owners.
Two – “Target Shooting/Competition” - Many Airsoft enthusiasts step into a more formal type of shooting rather than just plinking. They set up ranges, courses of fire or simply more formal targets. Competition and formal target shooting range from a few guys shooting for bragging rights in a back yard, to organized high end leagues with very expensive rigs to everything in between. Think of this like folks that play darts, some just play at home, some meet in a bar, some play in small local leagues and tournaments and some are professionals and among the best in the world. Airsoft target shooting is evolving slowing into this same type of format. This sport is huge in areas like Japan and Korea where ownership of firearms is all but in possible.
Three – “Airsoft Combat Gamers” – Many people eventually decide to “play airsoft” in a game very similar to paint ball competitions. Yet Airsoft gamers are generally more “militant” in look and feel. In these games shooters actually shoot each other in an adult form of the game we called, “guns” or “cops and robbers” as kids. Organized leagues have “rules of engagement”, require safety gear and limit the top velocity of various classes or weapons. Some leagues and groups are very informal in their authenticity and others are very realistic. Combat gaming is probably the most popular form of organized Airsoft sport today.
Four – “Airsoft Training for Combat, LEOs, etc” – Due to the highly accurate form, fit and function of Airsoft weapons many law enforcement and military groups are using them for more formalized training exercises. The biggest difference in these groups and gamers is that this training is formalized and designed to be used in real world scenarios. Airsoft has become a huge asset for SWAT teams and specialized military units. The guns have realistic rates of fire and give acute real time results in close quarters combat training exercises.
Are Airsoft Guns safe? Airsoft guns are perfectly safe if used properly. Safe use of airsoft guns requires using at least eye protection. Full face protection is recommended.