'Airsoft' is primarily a recreational activity where toy replica firearms
shooting plastic rounds are used for personal collection, gaming (similar to
Paintball), or professional training purposes (Military Simulations, a.k.a.
MilSim, and Police training exercises). A primary difference between airsoft
firearms and BB guns is that airsoft uses 6mm or 8mm plastic pellets and have
muzzle velocities of typically less than 180 metres per second (600 feet),
which is generally considered safe when used in a controlled environment,
whereas a BB gun utilizes metal ammunition and shoots at higher velocities (120-
365+ MPS) (400–1200 feet), making them unsuitable for gaming and training
purposes. Another distinguishing factor between BB guns and airsoft guns is that
the latter generally uses hop-up (back-spin on the BB) to increase their
effective range, since the lower muzzle velocity of these guns shortens their
shooting distance. Airsoft games vary greatly in style and composition depending on location,
budget, and the quantity of participants but often range from short-term
skirmishes and organized scenarios to military simulations and historical
reenactments. Combat situations on the battlefield mainly involve the use of
common military tactics to achieve the objectives set in each game. Participants
typically use varying types of airsoft weaponry along with either real or
replica military gear and uniforms.
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