Like all potentially dangerous devices airsoft guns are
mandated by federal law in the United States. Though generally considered safe,
(airsoft pellets are softer and travel at slower speeds than BB guns) airgun
use still faces regulations imposed by the government. Airsoft gun laws vary
based on country-use or possession is considered illegal in countries such as
South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. Canada’s airsoft gun law
prohibits the importation of any “replica” guns. The United States
has more complex airsoft gun laws, which vary based on state, and focus
primarily on importation, distinction from a real firearm, and possession.
Federal airsoft gun laws are more lenient in regards to importation than our
neighbor’s to the north. The only law in terms of importation in the United
States requires that all airsoft guns transported within or imported into the
country have barrels with a minimum 6mm wide blaze orange tip. Local airsoft
gun laws will vary based on whether or not the orange tip can be removed. A
primary concern with airsoft guns is their uncanny resemblance to real
firearms. This particular airsoft gun law has been implemented to avoid such
confusion.
To further elaborate on airsoft gun laws as they pertain to similarity with
real firearms, criminal convictions can be placed on an individual if he
attempts a crime with an airsoft gun. Depending on the look of the gun and the
intent, an individual may find himself in troubled waters if a crime was
committed using a replica. For instance, if a man robs a bank using an airsoft
gun he will be convicted as if it were a real firearm. Possession of airsoft
guns can get the attention of local law enforcement, regardless if airsoft gun
laws allow concealment or carrying privileges.
Airsoft gun laws as they pertain to individual use and possession in the United
States vary from state to state. The federal law states that an individual must
be at least 18 years of age to purchase an airsoft gun. That being said,
airsoft guns are not considered to be firearms, so use is legal for all ages. The
distinction between use and purchase is necessary to understand.
Airsoft gun law greatly varies based on
city and state. Some of the specific provisions found in the United States
include:
brightly coated plastics or colors. Brandishing airsoft guns, or any unlawful
motions are considered illegal.
airsoft gun law
airsoft gun laws
under San Francisco airsoft gun laws
contain an orange tip on the barrel.
discharge outside city limits.
the age of 14 to use. In Minneapolis, it is illegal to carry an airsoft gun
unless the replica is brightly colored or has an orange tip. It is also illegal
to fire an airsoft gun within city limits. Any airsoft gun with a laser
attachment is considered unlawful to carry. Transporting airsoft guns must be
done in a concealed and unloaded manner.
