Airsoft and Paintball Guns

When you first get into airsoft, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing your weapon. It’s more than just picking a cool-looking replica — the type of airsoft gun you carry affects your playstyle, maintenance routine, upgrade path, and even your performance on the field. With a huge range of choices available, it can be a bit overwhelming to understand what’s out there. This guide breaks down the major types of airsoft weapons so you can find the one that suits you best.

Airsoft Guns

Airsoft guns are replica firearms designed for recreational use in airsoft sports, where players engage in simulated combat using 6mm plastic BBs. Originating in Japan during the 1970s, airsoft guns were developed as a legal alternative to real firearms for hobbyists and collectors. They quickly gained popularity for tactical training and team-based gameplay. Airsoft guns are available in electric (AEG), gas-powered, spring-powered, and HPA variants, each offering different levels of performance, realism, and maintenance.

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These guns are widely used in military simulation (milsim), close-quarters battles (CQB), and outdoor skirmishes. Airsoft guns prioritize realism in appearance and function, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts who value accurate replicas, tactical gear, and immersive gameplay. Whether used for sport, training, or collection, airsoft guns offer a dynamic, skill-based experience rooted in teamwork and strategy.

Paintball Guns

Paintball guns, commonly referred to as paintball markers, are air-powered devices used to shoot paint-filled capsules (paintballs) in competitive paintball games. Developed in the early 1980s in the United States, paintball guns were originally created for marking trees and livestock before evolving into a recreational sport. These markers operate using CO₂ or compressed air (HPA) and are available in mechanical, electronic, and pump-action formats.

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Paintball guns are designed for speed, range, and accuracy, allowing players to eliminate opponents by marking them with brightly colored paint. Paintball is known for its fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled gameplay, and paintball guns are engineered to withstand rough use, high rates of fire, and rapid reloading. From casual play to professional tournaments, paintball guns are a central component of a sport focused on agility, tactics, and teamwork.

Airsoft and Paintball Guns – What You Need to Know

Airsoft and paintball guns serve similar purposes in recreational combat sports but are designed for very different experiences. Airsoft guns replicate real firearms in look, feel, and operation, firing small plastic BBs for precise, low-impact engagements. Paintball guns, by contrast, prioritize visibility and impact using larger, paint-filled projectiles for fast-paced, high-adrenaline games. Both airsoft and paintball guns are powered by spring, gas, or compressed air systems, but airsoft typically focuses on realism and tactical simulation, while paintball emphasizes sport-like competition and marker performance.

Choosing between airsoft and paintball guns depends on your style of play, safety gear preference, and desired level of realism. Both offer unique thrills, with a wide range of gear, upgrade options, and communities around each. Whether you’re buying your first marker or upgrading your AEG, understanding the differences between airsoft and paintball guns helps you choose the right gear for your next game.

Are airsoft guns legal in Australia?

Airsoft guns are currently restricted in most Australian states due to their classification as imitation firearms. However, laws vary by region, and there is growing discussion around regulation reform. Always check with your local state authority before importing or purchasing airsoft gear.

What’s the difference between an AEG and a gas airsoft gun?

AEGs (Automatic Electric Guns) use a rechargeable battery to drive internal gears and fire BBs, making them reliable and easy to maintain. Gas airsoft guns, powered by green gas or CO₂, offer more realistic recoil and operation but require more maintenance and perform differently in cold weather.

Can airsoft guns hurt you?

While airsoft guns are non-lethal, they can cause injury if used improperly or without eye protection. A BB traveling at high speed can damage skin or eyes. Always wear proper protective gear and follow field safety rules to avoid injury.

Do paintball guns require a license in Australia?

In most Australian states, paintball guns (markers) are classified as firearms and require a paintball permit or firearms license. However, laws differ by state, so it's essential to verify local regulations and licensing requirements before purchasing or playing.

What kind of paintballs do paintball guns use?

Paintball guns use gelatin-based spherical capsules filled with water-soluble dye. The most common size is .68 caliber, though .50 caliber paintballs are also used in low-impact markers. Always use high-quality, field-approved paintballs to prevent jams and marker damage.

How far can a paintball gun shoot?

The effective range of most paintball guns is around 80–100 feet (25–30 meters), though some tuned or upgraded markers can shoot farther. Accuracy and velocity are limited for safety reasons, typically capped at 280–300 feet per second (FPS) on most fields.