OFFICIAL RULES 2026
CURRENT AIRSOFT RULES WITH 2026 REGULATIONS
AIRSOFT RULES INDEX
REQUIREMENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN AIRSOFT GAMES
PERSONAL SAFETY MEASURES
MANDATORY DOCUMENTATION
SPEED (POWER) LIMITS AND MINIMUM SAFETY DISTANCES
4.1. Speed limits and minimum safety distances for markers using 6 mm BBs
CODE OF CONDUCT
5.1. Code of Conduct outside the playing field
5.2. Code of Conduct on the playing field
5.3. Fair Play and Sportsmanship
5.4. Game Interruptions
RESTRICTIONS
PLAYING FIELDS
7.1. Requirements for Playing Fields
7.2. Delimitation of Playing Fields
7.3. Safety Measures and Risk Prevention on Playing Fields
REQUIREMENTS FOR AIRSOFT GAME ORGANIZERS
INTRODUCTION TO AIRSOFT
Airsoft is a game of strategy and simulation. It is a recreational and competitive sport activity. To play Airsoft games, players use sporting replica weapons that shoot BBs with a force of less than 3 Joules. Airsoft BBs are made from biodegradable and compostable materials, based on starch derived from cereals or non-food-grade starch.
Playing Airsoft games does not involve any political, religious, exclusive, or illegal affiliation.
Honesty and respect among players are the first and most important rules to ensure the game proceeds smoothly and everyone can enjoy it.
Due to its nature as a war simulation game, Airsoft can easily create a mistaken perception in society and among authorities, who may consider the activity violent or dangerous. It is the responsibility of Airsoft players, through their behavior and ability to self-regulate the activity, to correct this misperception.
DEFINITIONS AND TERMINOLOGY
In this game regulation, technical names and abbreviations related to Airsoft gameplay and the equipment used are employed.
To make them understandable to people unfamiliar with this leisure activity, the following definitions are included:
FPS: (Feet per Second) Measurement of speed; one foot per second equals 0.3048 meters per second.
M/S: Meters per second. Measurement of speed.
HOP UP: Airsoft markers shoot spherical BBs using air propelled through a smoothbore barrel with an internal diameter slightly larger than the BB. Naturally, the BB tends to fall to the ground shortly after being fired. To increase accuracy and range, markers are equipped with a system called Hop Up, which consists of a rubber protrusion that touches the BB as it moves through the barrel, giving it a spin that makes it rise instead of falling. This system can be adjusted to allow the BB to travel in a straighter line for longer distances. The range of an Airsoft marker is typically between 15 and 60 meters, depending on the exit velocity.
AEG: (Automatic Electric Gun) Refers to electric-powered replica guns, operated by a piston compressed by a spring and driven by a gear system powered by an electric motor and battery. These fire small biodegradable plastic BBs.
4th CATEGORY WEAPON: An Airsoft gun/marker/replica can be an imitation of a real firearm but cannot be converted into a real weapon. Airsoft markers fire 6 mm diameter BBs, which must be biodegradable and compostable, made from starch derived from cereals or non-food-grade starch. According to firearm regulations, the output power of an Airsoft marker is always below 3 Joules. Airsoft markers, depending on the type of weapon they replicate, may include: Pistol, Shotgun, Submachine Gun, Rifle, Support Machine Gun, DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle), or Bolt-Action Sniper Rifle.
CQB: (Close Quarters Battle) Refers to Airsoft games played indoors or in villages where player distances are shorter, requiring increased safety measures. Assault roles dominate in this specialty, aiming to achieve objectives as quickly as possible.
LIBANESA: Shooting from behind cover without being able to see the target. This practice is prohibited in all Airsoft games.
AUTOMATIC: Refers to markers that can fire multiple BBs while the trigger is held down.
SEMIAUTOMATIC: Refers to Airsoft markers that fire one BB per trigger pull without manually cocking or loading any mechanism.
TEAM: Refers to each group or collection of groups competing in an Airsoft game.
CALLING: Refers to notifying other players when you have been hit by a BB.
MILSIM: (Military Simulation) Refers to Airsoft games with a scripted scenario centered on simulating a military operation, often involving special roles and equipment.
SPRING: Spring-powered weapons that require manual pre-cocking before each shot.
GAS: Gas-powered markers that are refilled via an external gas canister.
CO2: CO2-powered replicas that use a disposable CO2 cartridge as a propellant for BBs.
BB: (Ball Bearing) Term originating in 1886 with the invention of the first guns firing 4.57 mm metal balls using air compression or a spring-piston system. This term has been adopted for Airsoft projectiles, which must now be biodegradable and compostable, typically made from bioplastics derived from sugar or starch mixed with inert minerals. Avoid calling them “PVC BBs.”
Tokyo Marui: The first and main Japanese Airsoft manufacturer, renowned for the high quality of its guns and ammunition. Highly recommended for new players.
1. REQUIREMENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN AIRSOFT GAMES
Airsoft players must meet the following requirements to participate in games organized under these Regulations. Failure to comply with any of these requirements will result in the immediate expulsion of the offender from the ongoing games:
– Be of legal age.
– Fully comply with the Regulations.
2. PERSONAL SAFETY MEASURES
To practice Airsoft safely, the following personal safety measures are mandatory:
It is mandatory to wear protective goggles that meet one of the following two protection standards:
– European Standard EPI-89/686/CEE (EN166): Within this specification, goggles must be type A or B (marked EN166-A or EN166-B on the lens and frame) (see Annex V).
– American Standard ANSI Z87.1: Within this specification, goggles must be type Z87+ (marked Z87+) (see Annex V). Eyewear with temple arms that are not secured by an elastic strap around the back of the head, or mesh goggles, are NOT suitable for Airsoft games.
In addition to meeting these standards, goggles must prevent BBs from reaching the eyes from any angle.
Goggles must fit securely and not move, even if the player runs, makes sudden movements, or they are repeatedly impacted.
Special attention should be paid when exchanging lenses, following the manufacturer’s instructions. After lens replacement, it must be verified that the lens is securely attached to the frame to prevent accidents.
Goggles must be worn at all times, except in designated safety areas.
Players should avoid carrying items that could be dangerous if they fall (shovels, knives, etc.) (see Point 6).
At the organization’s discretion, Personal Safety Measures may be expanded, requiring the use of masks, protective helmets, or thick clothing in CQB-type Airsoft games (see Annex II), but they may never be reduced.
Participation in Airsoft games is prohibited for individuals showing signs of intoxication, apparent mental disorder, or under the obvious influence of narcotic substances.
3. MANDATORY DOCUMENTATION
National Identity Document or equivalent.
(National Airsofter Registration).
4. SPEED (POWER) LIMITS AND MINIMUM SAFETY DISTANCES
For Airsoft gameplay, markers prepared to use biodegradable BBs intended for Airsoft—6 mm or 8 mm—are permitted. Any type of BB not manufactured from non-polluting biodegradable materials is prohibited.
4.1 Exit velocity table in FPS and MPS and power calculation with 6 mm BBs at 0.20 grams
| Weapon / Replica / Marker | FPS (Feet per second / Pies por segundo) | M/S (Meters per second / Metros por segundo) | Minimum shooting distance | Joules of power / energy at barrel exit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pistol | 330 | 100.58 | 5 meters | 1.01 J |
| Shotgun | 350 | 106.68 | 5 meters | 1.14 J |
| Submachine gun | 350 | 106.68 | 5 meters | 1.14 J |
| Rifle | 350 | 106.68 | 5 meters | 1.14 J |
| Support machine gun | 400 | 121.92 | 15 meters | 1.49 J |
| DMR / Designated marksman (semi‑auto) | 450 | 137.16 | 20 meters | 1.88 J |
| Sniper / Bolt‑action sniper | 550 | 167.64 | 30 meters | 2.81 J |
(Airsoft FPS Table)
Players using heavier BBs may be subject to power control due to the Joule Creep effect.
Example: Snipers are allowed up to 2.81 Joules of power.
All markers will pass the chronograph test to measure their exit velocity before Airsoft games begin, using 6 mm BBs of 0.20 grams and with the Hop‑Up set to minimum.
For markers that can shoot over 350 fps (Support machine guns and Semi or Bolt‑action Snipers), it is recommended to carry a secondary marker (Pistol, Shotgun, Submachine gun, or Rifle) that allows play at shorter distances, which may never be less than 5 meters.
Semi‑automatic sniper markers may not be used in automatic mode.
5. CODE OF CONDUCT
To ensure smooth gameplay and good conduct among players, as well as with society and authorities, the following Basic Code of Conduct must be followed:
5.1. Code of Conduct Outside the Playing Field:
Avoid wearing full camouflage clothing, tactical vests, holsters, bandoliers, or any other items that may cause confusion or intimidate people unfamiliar with the activity.
Displaying markers outside the playing field, including inside vehicles on public roads or parked, is prohibited.
Carry the documentation listed in Point 3 of these Regulations.
5.1.1. Transporting Markers to the Playing Field:
Markers must be transported in their original box or in an appropriate case clearly marked as an Airsoft marker (see Annex III).
Inside the box or case, the marker must:
Have the safety engaged.
Have a red tip on the barrel.
Have the battery disconnected.
Not have a loaded magazine, which should be transported separately and empty.
It is recommended to carry a sample of BBs in a separate bag.
If transported by car, markers must be carried in the trunk, complying with the above points.
The transport route must be from home to the playing field and back. Deviations are only allowed for technical services or similar.
Guitar cases or similar are not suitable for transporting markers, as it could imply concealment.
5.1.2. Interactions with Authorities:
If asked by an authority to show identification or the contents of a case or trunk containing markers, identify yourself as an Airsoft player (federated if applicable), provide your ID, federation card, and weapons registration card. If in transit, also present the event invitation letter.
Inform the officer of the contents before opening a case or trunk, explain that you are going to or returning from an Airsoft game, then show the contents.
If markers are confiscated, request a copy of the intervention report detailing your information, the items taken, date, time, location, and reason, and find out where to recover them or present required documents. Always remain respectful and polite.
5.2. Code of Conduct on the Playing Field:
Respect safety zones, field boundaries, schedules, and specific rules set by organizers.
Respect power limits and safety distances listed in Point 4.
Be honest and respect the opposing team. If hit, raise your hand, shout “HIT” or “VALE,” and indicate your status with a red cloth on the chest, head, or barrel tip, or follow organizer instructions.
If eliminated, remain silent and avoid revealing the player who eliminated you unless specific game rules indicate otherwise.
Many factors affect a BB’s trajectory; disputes should be handled through team representatives and game organizers.
While eliminated or waiting to rejoin, avoid loud talking and handling markers to prevent confusion for active players.
Avoid firing markers at distances below the minimum safety distance (5 meters or less).
Avoid headshots whenever possible.
Do not shoot “libanesa” style—firing from behind cover without seeing the target. Always aim before firing. This rule is waived in CQB games, where safety distance is reduced and protection measures are increased.
Do not disturb animals on the field.
Do not aim at or shoot non-players.
Respect the field—no littering or damaging property.
Open flames, stoves, or similar devices are prohibited during fire-risk periods. When there is no fire risk, use must be authorized by the field owner with municipal notification.
If non-players enter the field without proper eye protection (Point 2), stop the game immediately and inform players and organizers.
Airsoft may only be played on fields meeting the requirements in Point 7.
5.3. Fair Play and Sportsmanship:
Players must:
Respect teammates, opponents, referees, organizers, and others involved.
Comply with decisions from referees or organizers.
Avoid inciting, participating in, or encouraging violence or arguments.
Fully comply with all points in these Regulations.
5.4. Game Interruptions:
Airsoft games must be stopped immediately if:
Non-players enter the field. Inform them about the game and the need for eye protection.
Police or authorities enter the field. Stop immediately, sling markers on the back, and remain in place. A representative will inform the authorities and address their requests.
An emergency or danger arises that threatens the safety of participants.
6. RESTRICTIONS
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To prevent accidents that could endanger participants in Airsoft games or misunderstandings that could harm the image of the hobby, the following restrictions are imposed:
Racist or exclusionary symbols, as well as antisocial or violent behavior, are strictly prohibited.
Carrying flags, emblems, or any symbols prohibited by current legislation is not allowed.
Wearing emblems or insignia representing ranks or units used by the Armed Forces or State Security Forces is prohibited, even with official authorization. It is necessary to distinguish between Airsoft games and military or police training.
Carrying any non-simulated weapons is prohibited, whether for gameplay or decoration. Access is denied to players carrying knives, blank-firing or signaling pistols, airguns that shoot pellets or BBs, pyrotechnics, etc. Multi-tools are allowed only if concealed, safely stored, and used in designated safety areas.
The use of devices posing fire hazards or risk to player safety (smoke grenades, firecrackers, etc.) is strictly prohibited. Pyrotechnics may only be used in specific cases with authorization and supervision from competent authorities.
Laser pointers of class 3 or higher (prohibited for non-professional use due to danger) are strictly prohibited. If a laser pointer is used, it must meet one of the following classes:
Class 1: Safe under all reasonably foreseeable conditions of use.
Class 2: Emits visible radiation between 400 nm and 700 nm; eye protection is generally achieved by blinking or looking away, but continuous direct exposure should be avoided. Avoid pointing Class 2 lasers at anyone’s eyes.
Semi-automatic sniper markers that exceed 350 fps may not be used in automatic mode.
7. AIRSOFT PLAYING FIELDS
7.1. Requirements for Playing Fields:
Obtain permission from the property owner to hold Airsoft games.
Notify municipal authorities about the event.
Inform neighboring properties about the event.
Obtain a specific Civil Liability Insurance for conducting the Airsoft game.
Have a safety zone that is inaccessible during gameplay, running along the perimeter of the field, ensuring that BBs cannot leave the property and players do not get too close to the boundary or be visible from outside.
Have an interior safety zone for players to change and prepare markers, and a testing area for chronograph checks, adjustments, and repairs.
7.2. Delimitation of Playing Fields:
Fields must include the following designated zones:
Playing Zone:
The area where Airsoft games take place, including the eliminated players’ zone. Proper eye protection must be worn at all times in this area.Testing Zone:
The area where chronograph tests, Hop-Up adjustments, battery checks, and sight adjustments are performed. Proper eye protection must be worn at all times.Safety Zone:
Any area where players can remove eye protection safely. Markers may not be used in this area. Parking, changing areas, camping zones, rest areas, and organization personnel zones are all considered safety zones depending on the game type and duration.
The safety zone must be far enough from the playing zone, or have sufficient measures, to prevent BBs from entering it. Repairs or disassembly of markers must only be performed in this zone.
Access points and field boundaries must be clearly marked.
7.3. Safety Measures and Risk Prevention on Playing Fields:
All terrain or buildings must be inspected by the organizers to identify and mark any hazards that could endanger players, restricting access to these areas.
Every playing field must have an emergency and evacuation plan.
8. REQUIREMENTS FOR AIRSOFT GAME ORGANIZERS
Organizers must comply with the following requirements:
They must have the necessary means to ensure compliance with Points 2 and 4 of these Regulations, specifically:
A chronograph to measure the velocity of markers used in the game.
Spare protective goggles to resolve issues caused by breakage or inadequate protection of participants.
If the organization requires personal safety measures beyond those in Point 2 (such as masks, helmets, etc.), spare units of these protective elements must also be available.
They must have at least one first aid kit and means to contact emergency services in case a participant needs evacuation.
Notification of the Airsoft games must be provided to local authorities in writing or in the manner indicated by the authorities.
The use of barrel reducers to lower BB velocity is prohibited, as they are only effective in semi-automatic markers and lose effectiveness in automatic markers.
Airsoft games must be conducted on a field that complies with Point 7 of these Regulations.
The activity must be covered by Civil Liability Insurance.
If the games are organized by a private individual or a for-profit company, they must comply with the requirements established by the competent administration regarding the organization of risk sports or adventure sports.
Airsoft Rules Expansion
This regulation presents the basic rules of gameplay to provide a solid foundation for any Airsoft match.
There are also specialist game modes. For all of them, personal safety measures remain mandatory, and it is recommended to increase them, especially for CQB games, and never reduce them. Emphasis is placed on using protective goggles that comply with the previously explained certifications or approvals.
This regulation is complemented by annexes and other types and modes of Airsoft matches. Here we provide a brief introductory description, which is expanded upon in other articles available on this website.
CQB: Close Quarter Battle.
These are matches in which participating teams face each other in an urban environment.
In this type of gameplay, the minimum safety shooting distance is reduced to zero, so it is highly recommended to increase protection with full-face or partial masks that cover the face, especially the teeth, lips, and ears. Players are advised to wear thicker clothing and sturdy gloves.
In this practice, Airsoft weapons are adapted for indoor spaces, such as small rooms, hallways, staircases, and other confined areas. Pistols are used much more frequently than in rural or forested matches, while short rifles and submachine guns are ideal for agile, coordinated tactical team play.
It is common to find special equipment such as grenade launchers and various types of gas, CO₂, or pyrotechnic grenades, including blank cartridges. Players must check with the organizers whether the use of each type of grenade is permitted.
MilSim: Military Simulation
These are tactical military simulation matches designed to emulate real combat situations as faithfully as possible.
In this type of Airsoft game, where the scenarios aim to recreate military unit tactics in conflict situations, a higher physical fitness level is usually required for the more common matches.
This game mode often involves long-duration scenarios, with events lasting up to 24 hours continuously, and sometimes even several days. In such matches, it is important to structure the combat unit properly, ensuring the right proportion of roles: riflemen, snipers, designated marksmen, all selected appropriately.
Participation in MilSim events requires both high-quality technical equipment, sometimes used by real military units, and a certain level of physical endurance.
Careful pre-event planning is essential. Teams should coordinate who brings which equipment. In night games, players may use night vision or thermal optics, requiring special attention to safety due to the increased difficulty of operating in low-light conditions.
Reenactment
Current
These are teams that choose to play by emulating a real and existing operational security or military unit. They adapt their gameplay to the tactics used by the actual professionals.
This game mode aims to honor the chosen unit, using or replicating their equipment, real weapons, and operational techniques.
Historical
These are events where participants recreate significant historical military conflicts. Players equip themselves as the real military units did during the corresponding era.
Matches can be scenario-based with a storyline, or purely recreational reenactments that replicate a specific historical event using rifles and realistic weapon replicas as props.
A notable aspect of historical Airsoft is the acquisition of authentic collectible equipment by reenactors. This type of historical Airsoft is subject to the laws of each country.
Regulations Used by SPA
These regulations have been adapted for the specific characteristics of ODYSA events. They are based on the rules of various federations operating nationally and internationally.
No rules have been minimized; some have been strengthened to ensure player safety, while rules that are not applicable have been filtered or removed.
All equipment and players must strictly comply with these rules to participate in an ODYSA Airsoft event.