It's the first question every curious newcomer asks: "Does getting hit with an airsoft gun hurt?" The fear of pain can be a major barrier for people wanting to try the sport. This guide will give you an honest breakdown of what to expect, what influences the pain, and how to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Yes, there is a brief moment of pain. The vast majority of hits feel like a sharp sting or a snap from a rubber band. The sensation is temporary and usually fades completely within a minute. It's more surprising than it is genuinely painful for most people.
The "hardness" of a hit is determined by the kinetic energy of the 6mm plastic BB, which is a factor of its speed (FPS - Feet Per Second) and its weight. Most airsoft fields have strict limits on FPS to ensure safety. For example, a common limit for rifles at an outdoor field is 400 FPS, while indoor fields might limit them to 350 FPS.
Not all hits are created equal. The level of pain depends on several factors:
Most seasoned players will tell you that after the first few games, you barely notice the hits. The adrenaline and excitement of the game often completely overshadow the brief sting of an impact. The fun of the sport far outweighs the minor discomfort.
A simple pain scale:
- 1/10: A long-distance hit over clothing. You might not even be sure you were hit.
- 4/10: A medium-range hit on an exposed arm. A definite sting, like a rubber band snap.
- 7/10: A close-range hit on bare skin or a sensitive spot. This is the one that makes you yelp, but the pain fades fast.
A 300 FPS gun is on the lower end of the power spectrum, very common for indoor play where engagement distances are short. A hit from this will definitely sting on bare skin at close range but is generally considered very manageable and is unlikely to cause significant pain or injury when wearing proper clothing.
It is very rare for a standard airsoft BB to penetrate the skin, especially at a regulated field. It would require a combination of very high FPS (well above field safety limits) and a point-blank shot to a very soft area of skin. In normal play, the worst you can expect is a small red welt or, rarely, a tiny blood blister from a close-range hit.
To summarize, the feeling is a quick, sharp sting. It's a distinct sensation but one that is central to the "honor system" of the game—it's how you know you're out!
The key to a comfortable day of airsoft is proper gear: