I definitely count myself lucky. I get to buy my favourite Airsoft guns, set up and use a variety of tactical gear, and shoot my friends for hours on end. There's a reason why we say that we "play" Airsoft. Because it's an incredibly fun game.

However, is it ever anything more? This week on my usual trip to Hero's I had a conversation with the staff about this polarising and controversial topic. Does Airsoft gaming have any elements that are transferable to real steel shooting?

First things first, the equipment. It goes without saying that visually, the equipment is almost identical. Companies like Umarex and Tokyo Marui regularly produce Airsoft guns that are almost perfect replicas of their real steel counterparts. However it's true that they act very differently when fired.

The most realistic of Airsoft guns employ a gas blowback system and all metal construction that imitate realistic slide movements and create decent recoil However things like jamming, and bullet pass through very rarely go through an Airsofter's mind. But things like Hop up, propellant, and battery charge, aren't so applicable to real steel.

So what about tactics and game play? Obviously getting hit by a BB and getting hit by a bullet are very, I repeat very, different. But things like using cover, flanking a target and suppression fire are surprisingly similar. It also seems like the chaotic and fast-paced nature of Airsoft play imparts a higher degree of spatial and peripheral awareness that is impossible to replicate on the range. However IPSEC practice almost unquestionably produces more accuracy when shooting.

So, the verdict? Is Airsoft only a game? Or is it some form of training? It would appear that depending on the attitude one takes, it can be both. Which is probably why companies like Magpul make accessories like fore grips and weapon lights that can fit on both types of guns. Lucky us

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