Getting Started....

[Airsoft Addiction Pgh]

Hey Everyone~

I have alot of kids in that 15 to 17 age range contacting me on the myspace page about how to get started in airsoft. Gear for younger players, how to start your own team and get playing. I gave them my suggestions as a fairly new player now I'm looking for any other info to pass onto them that I may have missed.

Any imput will be a bonus!
THANKS
~Karma

[MIRV]

Finding out where to play: I know a lot of kids start out with el-cheapo springer pistols in their back yard, but if you want to start playing in more organized skirmishes, you need to find out where the other more experienced airsofters play. The best way to find out is to go on your local airsoft forum. They are usually specific to a state or a region. Google the name of your state and "airsoft" and you are likely to find results. There are also general and international forums where you can find out about playing fields and players in your locality. I recently joined an international forum called socialskirmish.net, and I found a lot of players from OH and NY on there. Another big international forum is airsoftsociety.com.

A lot of local games happen by word of mouth. Look for open games where you can just show up and introduce yourself. Use some social skills; get to know the other players.

Some advice: Ask questions and you will find people who are happy to talk to you and show you the ropes. Act like you know everything, and you are less likely to make friends or impress anyone. Just my experience.

Find out what the rules are beforehand if you can: what are the fps limits? Get chrono'd beforehand, if possible. Are there uniform restrictions? In any game, there are many variables. What counts as an out? Respawn vs. no-respawn; medic rules, &etc.

Get geared up appropriately. Protective eyeware, ballistic goggles or paintball mask. A good pair of boots. BDUs or TRUs in the appropriate camo pattern. Gloves - highly recommended for close quarters games. Red or yellow bandana for a dead rag. You might also want to think about a vest or chest rig, mag pouches, hydration, and so on. BBs - don't forget your BBs. Duct tape - comes in handy for emergency repairs. A backup weapon (in case your primary one gets broke. I see it happen all the time).

Uniforms, a note of caution: It's tempting to buy a cheap uniform just to get started, but be warned - the cheap uniforms fall apart easily. Tru-Spec is a good brand.

My personal pick for a starter AEG - CA Sportline M15A4 Carbine, retails for $150. I recommend this because it's a good quality and performance for the price, its easy to handle, easy to access the battery and change mags, and so on.

[Nathan]

Geez, I came in to post up some wisdom but MIRV pretty much said it all.

[MIRV]

Nathan said:

Geez, I came in to post up some wisdom but MIRV pretty much said it all.

Oh come on, I'm sure you've got some more wisdom to share. I was only speaking from the perspective of being a noob myself.