Our airsoft gear checklist for beginners focuses on making sure you have the minimum equipment required to safely and confidently step onto the field. This guide covers what you need, why it matters, and how each piece fits into your first setup.
Airsoft Gear Checklist for Beginners: Required Gear
Every player needs a basic set of equipment to participate in airsoft games at a field:
- Airsoft gun
- Battery and charger (for AEGs)
- 6mm BBs
- Eye and face protection
- At least one working magazine
- Gun bag or case
Airsoft Gun (Start Here)
Most beginners start with an AEG (Automatic Electric Gun). This means the gun is powered by a rechargeable battery rather than gas. AEGs are commonly used because they are straightforward to operate and suitable for both indoor and outdoor fields.
M4-style rifles are a common starting point because magazines and accessories are widely available. You can browse options in the airsoft guns category.
If you are deciding between models, see how to choose your first airsoft gun for a breakdown of what matters for a first purchase.
It is also worth reviewing common airsoft beginner mistakes to avoid common setup issues.
Battery and Charger
If you are using an AEG, the battery and charger are required for the gun to function.
- 7.4V LiPo: common starting point for many beginner setups
- 11.1V LiPo: used when the gun includes a MOSFET or ETU designed for higher voltage
Always match the battery to the specifications of the gun. Using an incompatible battery can damage internal components or reduce performance.
Only use a charger designed for your battery type and review the airsoft battery safety guide before charging or storing batteries.
Airsoft BBs
BB quality affects how your gun feeds and shoots. Consistent, properly manufactured BBs help reduce jams and improve accuracy.
Browse available options in the airsoft BBs category.
- 0.20g: commonly used for indoor play and for velocity testing (chrono) at the field
- 0.25g: a standard starting weight for most players
- BIO BBs: required at many outdoor fields
Some fields require biodegradable BBs, and some require BBs to be purchased on-site. Check field rules in advance so you arrive with the correct ammo.
Eye and Face Protection
Eye protection is required at all airsoft fields. Use full-seal goggles that meet the field’s safety standards.
Lower face protection is strongly recommended to protect your teeth and face from close-range impacts, and some fields require it. Many beginners choose a full-coverage mask that combines eye, face, and ear protection in one setup. Others use goggles with a separate lower face mask. Check your field’s rules before you go.
Magazines
Most airsoft guns include one magazine, but that is rarely enough for a full game.
There are two common types:
- Hi-cap magazines: hold more BBs and use a winding wheel
- Mid-cap magazines: hold fewer BBs but feed more consistently and do not rattle
Extra magazines let you stay in play longer without stopping to reload.
- Minimum: 1 magazine
- Recommended: 2–4 magazines
Transport
Always transport your airsoft gun in a bag or case and keep it out of sight while travelling.
If an airsoft gun is visible in public, it can easily be mistaken for a real firearm. This can lead to police being called and a potentially dangerous situation. Do not carry or display your airsoft gun openly outside of a controlled environment such as a field or private property.
A basic zippered gun bag or hard case is sufficient. Keep it closed and stored in your trunk or out of view during transport.
Additional Gear
Additional gear can improve comfort and convenience during games, but is not required to begin playing.
- Chest rigs or plate carriers for carrying magazines and other accessories
- Slings for easier handling
- Optics to make aiming easier and faster
- Tracer units for low-light play
- Sidearms for secondary use
These items are typically added over time as you refine your setup and better understand your playing style.
Simple Beginner Loadout
This airsoft gear checklist for beginners gives you a simple starting point for your first loadout.
- ☐ AEG rifle
- ☐ Compatible battery (7.4V or 11.1V as specified)
- ☐ LiPo charger
- ☐ 0.20g or 0.25g BBs
- ☐ Eye and face protection
- ☐ 2–4 magazines
- ☐ Gun bag or case
Before You Buy
Use this airsoft gear checklist for beginners to confirm your setup before heading to the field.
- ☐ Does the gun match the field you plan to play?
- ☐ Is the battery compatible with the gun?
- ☐ Does the charger match the battery type?
- ☐ Are you using the correct BB weight?
- ☐ Does your eye protection meet field requirements?
- ☐ Do you have enough magazines for a full game?
- ☐ Do you have a case or bag to transport your gear?
Airsoft Gear Checklist for Beginners FAQ
What do I need to play airsoft for the first time?
You need an airsoft gun, BBs, and approved eye protection. If using an AEG, you also need a battery and charger. Most fields also offer rental equipment, which is a good option if you are trying airsoft for the first time.
Do airsoft guns come with a battery and charger?
Some beginner airsoft guns include a basic battery and charger, but many do not. Always check what is included before buying so you are not missing required items on game day.
What weight BBs should beginners use?
Most beginners start with 0.20g or 0.25g BBs. 0.20g is commonly used for indoor play and for velocity testing at the field (FPS/chrono), while 0.25g offers more consistent performance for general use.
What is included in an airsoft starter kit?
A typical starter kit includes an AEG rifle, battery, charger, and sometimes a magazine and BBs. Contents vary, so confirm exactly what is included before purchasing.
Do I need biodegradable BBs for airsoft?
Many outdoor fields require biodegradable BBs. Some fields also require you to purchase BBs on-site. Check the rules of the field you plan to play at before buying.
What is an AEG airsoft gun?
An AEG (Automatic Electric Gun) is powered by a rechargeable battery. It is the most common type for beginners because it is easy to use and works in most environments.
Is face protection required for airsoft?
Eye protection is required at all fields. Lower face protection is strongly recommended to protect teeth and lower facial areas, especially during close-range play. Ear protection is also recommended.
Is it legal to carry an airsoft gun in Canada?
Airsoft guns should not be carried openly in public. They can be mistaken for real firearms, which may lead to police involvement. Always transport them in a case or bag and keep them out of sight.
How many magazines do I need for airsoft?
Most players use more than one magazine. A common starting point is two to four magazines so you can stay in play longer without reloading constantly.
Do I need a vest or tactical gear to play airsoft?
No. You can play with just the required gear. Tactical gear like chest rigs or plate carriers can make carrying magazines easier, but they are not required to start.