Airsoft Guns | Non-Lethal Weapons of Self Defense

Do Airsoft Guns Work Well for Self Defense?

By: Survival Insight Team

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Although generally used for recreational purposes, airsoft guns could, in theory, be used as a weapon of self defense. But would it be effective?
Airsoft guns look and feel like real guns, yet do not come with the reputation for fatality that is so often associated with firearms.
However, before you rush off to buy an airsoft gun for self defense, there is one big question that must be asked; will an airsoft gun really keep you protected in a situation of potential danger?
Below, we discuss airsoft guns as a method of self-protection.

What are Airsoft Guns?

Airsoft guns tend to have the look and feel of real guns, although instead of firing bullets, they fire non-lethal ammunition. The ammunition is in the form of small (and mostly plastic) pellets that are shot out by compressed and expanding gas, a spring, or battery power, depending on which type of airsoft gun you purchase.

When fired, the pellet from an airsoft gun will reach up to 100 to 200 feet, but this depends on the quality of the gun that you have.
At close range, an airsoft gun will not do much harm to anyone, except cause some minor pain, and maybe pierce the skin. Should someone be shot in the eyes or ears, long term damage is possible. It is important to note that firing an airsoft gun at point blank range is potentially lethal.

Advanatages of Airsoft Guns

An airsoft gun can be fired from a much further distance than stun guns or pepper spray.
They can have the look and feel of a real gun.
You can find very cheap airsoft guns (but far less effective), for as little as $10.
Small airsoft pistols are easy to hide and store.
Safer to keep around the house than other weapons.

Disadvantages of Airsoft Guns

There are some serious disadvantages to consider before you buy an airsoft gun for self defense:

Shooting an attacker with an airsoft gun may not do much to deter them.
If you are visibly holding an airsoft gun that looks like a real gun, an attacker with an actual firearm may be prompted into shooting you.
Cheap airsoft guns tend to break quickly.

How to Shoot an Airsoft Gun Airsoft guns should be used like real guns, which also means storing them safely out of reach for children, and using the safety switch when not in use. The procedure to shoot an airsoft gun is fairly simple:
1. Remove the magazine on the gun by pushing the button on the handle. 2. Fill the magazine with pellets. 3. Reinsert the magazine and pull the cock back until it clicks. (The cock should be on the top). 4. Aim at your target and turn off the safety switch. 5. Pull the trigger. Of course, the more you practice shooting, the better you and your aim will get.

Where to Buy Airsoft Guns and Restrictions

It is very easy to buy an airsoft gun. You can find them online within a matter of seconds. Simply by searching “airsoft guns," you will find plenty of online retail stores selling them. Should you want to make your airsoft gun purchase in person, you can do so at most sport shops, or other retail stores like WalMart.
Take the following restrictions into account:

You must be 18 years old or older to buy airsoft guns.
There are some areas in the US where airsoft guns are outlawed. These areas are Chicago, parts of Michigan, New York City, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.
In California, it is a crime to show a look-a-like gun in public.
Before you purchase an airsoft gun, check the local legalities of ownership with the dealer you are purchasing from, or better yet, ask your local law enforcement.

Recommendations

Avoid buying a spring powered airsoft gun. They may be cheap, but they are also cheap in quality and even considered to be a toy by some.
Gas powered airsoft guns will offer better accuracy and a longer range. Electric powered versions are also a decent option.
If you want an airsoft gun that looks and feels like a real gun, look for a replica. These will generally be gas or electric powered, and will look very realistic.
To practice shooting, you should purchase and use safety goggles.
If you buy an electric powered gun, make sure to buy extra batteries.

Alternative Non-Lethal Weapons for Self Defense

By now, you should have a better understanding of airsoft guns and how they relate to self defense. If you are not convinced that an airsoft gun would be a good choice for you, check out some of the other non-lethal weapons of self-protection by reading the following articles:

Overview: Non-Lethal Weapons for Self Protection
Self-Defense Techniques
Protect Yourself With Stun Guns
Protect Yourself With Pepper Spray
Burglar-Proof and Protect Your House
Everyday Items that Can be Used as Weapons

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