How Old Do You Have to Be To Buy an Airsoft Gun?

Overview: Age Limits for Purchasing Airsoft Guns

Whether purchased for recreation, amateur target shooting, or even collections, airsoft guns are popular toys and hobby items worldwide. But while these guns contain no live ammunition, the laws and regulations for using, buying, and carrying them look very similar to those placed on their harsher counterparts- the real guns. As such, age limits are placed for individuals purchasing them, ranging from country-specific legalities, to customs and manufacturer requirements.

Regulation and Age Limits

It is common in the world of airsoft that it is illegal to buy or purchase an airsoft gun if you are under 18. This age limit sticks to most airsoft guns, whether you seek a replica of a real-life firearm, or a more casual eye-catcher with no replica intent. Where legal repercussions are involved, most countries have an age limit of 18, and carrying and using an airsoft gun also slightly higher than that.

Small exceptions occur where the age limit for using an airsoft gun is lower, dipping to 16 in certain cases. This may be with partial supervision, as is the case in the UK, where children above 16 years must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.

Age Regulations by Country

• United States: Federal law sets the age for purchasing airsoft guns to 18 years and above. Some states may have higher or lower age requirements.
• South Korea: It is illegal to buy, possess, or import airsoft guns for anybody below the age of 19 years.
• Greece: The purchase age restriction for airsoft guns is 18 years and above.
• Germany: Young adult wargamers aged 16-20 can buy, possess, and use airsoft guns with the prior consent of their parent/legal guardian.

Limitations on Sale

In addition to legal age restrictions, the sale of airsoft guns is also intermingled with regulatory laws. This includes purchasing permissions based on country, as well as limitations on the power/velocity of the airsoft gun in certain regions.

Velocity Limitations

The velocity of the projectile fired by an airsoft gun is also regulated depending on the region and country. In the USA, the default set velocity is 350 feet per second (FPS) on most guns. In Europe, the default velocity on airsoft guns is lower, ranging from 150-350 FPS, depending on the country.

Foreign Gun Imports

In some countries such as the UK, airsoft guns are tightly regulated by law. Airsoft guns made in China, Japan, Taiwan, and Malaysia are prohibited from being imported, and only airsoft guns made in Europe are allowed to be sold or used.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the many airsoft guns on the market come with age restrictions and regional regulations that vary from country to country. Those below a certain age are not permitted to buy, possess or use these guns, and the guns themselves may come with specific regional limitations on their power velocity. Familiarize yourself with the regulations before purchasing an airsoft gun.