General FPS Limits
The typical limits are:
- Assault rifles: 400 feet per second (fps).
- Semi-automatic sniper rifles: 500 fps and 15 m engagement distance, mandatory secondary up to 400 fps.
- Most indoor North American fields allow 350 FPS maximum.
- Outdoor limits typically 450 to 550 FPS but most have minimum engagement distances for safety.
Detailed Rules & Safety
- Site FPS limit for full auto firing weapons is 350 FPS.
- Velocity not to exceed 500fps, or 2.31 joules max, with a 100′ minimum engagement distance.
- Airsoft BBs used as ammunition to safely tag players in games.
- Due to US law, every airsoft gun comes with an orange tip to differentiate from real firearms.
- Range plays a big factor: with 0.25g BBs, rifles and snipers can reach 400 – 500 FPS, resulting in approximately 1.80J – 2.9J of energy.
- Pistols considered backup, restricted to 350 FPS.
- Snipers semi or bolt action only, may be 500 FPS maximum.
- FPS Limits strictly enforced, all guns chronographed.
- In U.S, safer limits are under 400 FPS (outdoor) and under 350 FPS (indoors).
- High-end guns with an effective range of 300 feet.
- Heavier BBs drop slower than lighter ones.
Buying & Importing Restrictions
- Under 18 cannot buy airsoft guns. Must retain buyer documentation for 5 years.
- Still strong restrictions on importing accessories like sights, magazines – require permit and taxes.
- Long-range combat guns minimum 250 to 300 FPS but up to 500 FPS is reasonable.
- Higher FPS gun likely costs more, so judge if the need for the highest FPS is necessary or if an average FPS is good enough.
FAQ Section
Is 500 fps good for airsoft?
500 FPS is considered high for airsoft guns and is typically the limit for sniper rifles. However, due to safety concerns, many fields restrict the use to lower FPS, particularly for close-range combat. It is essential to research and abide by the FPS limits set by game organizers.
What is the highest FPS allowed in airsoft?
The highest FPS typically allowed in airsoft is 500 FPS for sniper rifles, with strict safety measures like minimum engagement distances. Some snipers may have stronger springs, allowing up to 700 FPS; however, these are not permissible on most fields due to safety restrictions. It’s crucial to follow the FPS limits for safe gameplay.