Shizbazki

Unfortunately English isn't mancrafts native language, but I must say they do an amazing job, and I highly recommend them

This thread is under construction. Probably worth reading, but it's not comprehensive.

Welcome to the High Pressure Air (HPA) FAQ. Here we'll be covering the basics of what HPA is, what it's advantages are, how to find out if HPA is for you and how to shop for HPA products. If you're wondering about getting into HPA for airsoft then please read the entire FAQ before asking questions - this will save yourself and other forum members a lot of time and effort. At the bottom of this post you will see when the FAQ was last updated.

What is 'High Pressure Air' (HPA)?

Introduction
In a nutshell, HPA works through the controlled release of compressed air. In an AEG you can expect a gearbox to actuate a piston which in turn compresses air that's released down the barrel to project your BB. In a green gas, duster or CO2 airsoft gun this gas is stored in a compressed state within a vessel and expelled down the barrel to project your BB. In a spring airsoft gun the potential is stored in a spring that actuates a piston, compresses the air inside the cylinder that's in turn pushed down the barrel to project your BB.

In HPA the concepts are very much the same: Like green gas, duster or CO2 the gas is stored pre-compressed and many pneumatic HPA engines function very similarly to gas blow back rifles - indeed, in many cases HPA can be used to power a lot of existing GBB and GBBRs (more on that later).

Table of contents
1. Power sources
2. Your HPA 'rig'
3. 'Kits'/'Engines', 'Guns' and 'HPA Tapped'


 
1. Power sources
To understand what HPA is, you must first know how 99% of guns in airsoft are powered so that you know what HPA is not:

Electric
AEGs (Automatic Electric Gun)
AEPs (Automatic Electric Pistols)
Green gas, duster and CO2
GBB or GBBPs (Gas Blow Back pistols)
GBBRs (Gas Blow Back rifles)
NBB (Non Blow Back)
Spring

HPA
Electric solenoid engine
Pneumatic engine

 
2. Your HPA 'rig'
As we've already covered, HPA is compressed air that's released in a controlled fashion to propel your BB. Think of it as the power source for your gun, but not what's inside the gun itself. It's akin to a battery (like an AEG) or a magazine full of green/duster gas (GBBP/GBBR). A typical HPA rig (i.e. all the functional exterior parts that a user needs to combine for their HPA powered gun to work) is comprised of three separate parts: The 'bottle', the 'regulator' and the 'line'. Not all HPA setups work with identical rigs, but this will become apparent later. For now, here's a nice picture of a typical HPA rig:



Bottle
This is where the air is store in a highly compressed state. There are two different types of bottles that you can buy, rated for two different pressures: 3000 psi (pounds per square inch) (206 bar) and 4500 psi (310 bar). 3000 psi bottles tend to be made from aluminium whilst 4500 psi bottles are almost always made from carbon fibre. Generally the shape of a bottle gives away its pressure rating as the more rounded corners of the 4500 psi bottles have a distinctive silhouette versus the more square edges of a 3000 psi bottle. Airsoft HPA bottles are identical to paintball HPA bottles.

Every tank also has a 'bottle regulator' that comes with the bottle and steps down the output of the bottle so that the actual regulator can deal with the incoming flow. This generates some complex issues that will be revealed later on as some bottles output at what is called 'Super Low Pressure' (SLP) (approximately 300 psi) whilst the rest tend to output from 450 psi to 950 psi. Different regulators work with different input pressures, so not all are happy with receiving the lower pressures from SLP bottle regulators.

Bottle size is measured in ci (cubic inches). Bottles range from 13ci to 100ci, though most bottles sit around the 40ci to 70ci mark. Obviously a bottle at 4500 psi will go for longer than a 3000 psi bottle of the same size/internal volume.

The bottle regulator also has three key features: The first is that it has an interface with what is called the ASA on the regulator or line (if you're using a 3000 psi rated line) - these threads on the top of the regulator also have one of two seals at the top to ensure a proper air-tight system. The second feature is refilling: A standard paintball fill nipple is present on most regulators and can interact with the machines in paintball and dive shops as well as with 'fill stations' (more on fill stations later). The third and final feature of most good bottle regulators is burst disks: Burst disks are a key safety feature that allow the tank to do an emergency, controlled venting of air if it's overfilled or there's a failure in the bottle regulator causing too high a pressure to be sent to the rest of the HPA system.
HP burst disk: A higher rated burst disk that blows if the tank is overfilled. 3000 psi and 4500 psi tanks tend to use 5000 psi and 7500 psi HP burst disks respectively. LP burst disk: A lower rated burst disk that blows if the tank is outputting a pressure higher than it should be that would otherwise damage your gun or regulator. In both cases the burst disks aims to safely vent the air rather than the tank or entire hpa rig just continuing to fill with air that it's not built to handle and exploding.

Click the spoiler to see some pictures of bottles and bottle regulators



Regulator
The regulator has two main functions: To further step down the pressure of the air to a usable psi and to do so in a way that means - during intense use - the gun doesn't get 'starved' for air. This latter point is sometimes called 'refresh'. Regulators with a higher refresh rate are more desirable as they can power air-hungry guns that would be otherwise starved by lower refresh rates.

The regulator also acts as a hub for the line. Some regulators only have one possible output, whilst others have many. Some have the capacity for QDs (quick disconnects) which allow the user to rapidly disconnect the line for freedom of movement or modularity without compromising the pressure inside the regulator. Almost all HPA rigs have one or two QDs (usually one at each end of the line).

Most regulators are easily adjustable between a range of outputs. This varies depending on the make of the regulator, but most airsoft regulators are designed to work between 30 psi to 160 psi.

Click the spoiler to see some pictures of regulators



Line
The line is an air hose that connects the gun to the regulator. These come in many different forms, but most are between 24" (50cm) to 46" (116cm) long and have varying inner diameters between 3mm to 6mm. Most airsoft lines are rated for use up to 200 psi though some can handle up to 3000 psi. This is because some guns use an internal regulator and so the air hasn't been de-pressurised. More on this later.

Some lines are coiled, some are braided and others are just normal looking rubber tubing.

The most typical airsoft line will be 36" (91cm) long, have an inner diameter of 6mm, can withstand up to 200 psi and will be braided.

Click the spoiler to see some pictures of lines




3. 'Kits'/'Engines', 'Guns' and 'HPA Tapped'
Now that you know how HPA is 'powered', you must understand what this means on the gun side. How do we turn that air into propulsion for the BB? The following table of brands/products is more of a glossary to help you understand what people are talking about when they refer to the various HPA setups and we'll go into each one next. Note that 'Kits' and 'Engines' tend to be interchangeable vocabulary in most settings:

Kits/Engines
Electric solenoid
Wolverine (Inferno, Hydra, Bolt etc.)
Polarstar (F1, F2, Fusion etc.)
ProTech (Mk1, Mk2 etc.)
Fully pneumatic
Daytona Gun
Escort
Sun Project
'Guns'
Tippmann
'HPA Tapped'
Due to the nature of this category, there are no specific brands/products related to it but we'll come to that

You may remember in section 1. seeing 'electric solenoid' and 'fully pneumatic'. These are generally both referred to as 'conversion kits', 'engines' or simply 'kits' as both are drop-in replacements that require a 'donor gun' (i.e. an existing AEG or GBBR that one strips out and replaces the internals of) whereas 'guns' I'm here using to encompass the Tippmann M4 as - at the time of writing - it's the only HPA-specific gun that requires no additional modification to run on HPA. It has some rather specific quirks as well so I've given it its own section.

Hi
 
Yeah their website isnt looked after and as you say hasn't been updated since Jan 2015, their Facebook page is where it's at. They play every 2 and 4th Sunday of every month (though they are not playing on 27-04-16 as its Easter Sunday).
 
Its a family run business between Ray and his wife Jean who regularly keeps plays updated on the Facebook group and it has a loyal player base.
 
Entrance can be a bit tricky as its not sign posted, just get on Ongar Road and follow the signs for the Secret Nuclear Bunker, here's a Google link for Street view so you know what the entrance looks like as of Nov 2014.
 
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.6719948,0.2647513,3a,75y,184.11h,83.45t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1smYEeuQvUGBAqE1vSGxKZBw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en
 
Its one of the very few Airsoft sites that you want need a 4x4 to get to as the road leading to it is all decently paved and tarmac'd, lots of good parking though if your a bit late it might be a bit of a walk but not much, safe zone is pretty much all sheltered bar one table (which nobody ever uses) with plenty of tables, shelves, hooks to hang your stuff from and seating. Toilets are a bit of a miss, its a porta cabin with essentially a toilet seat on a bucket, there is sometimes an on site tech, Jean and Ray sell a variety of chocolates, drinks, run the charging station and deal with UKARA forms, other family and friends are marshals (and pretty good ones).
 
If you need supplies and stuff AirsoftZone: http://airsoftzone.co.uk/ has an on site shop often staffed by 2 people, they accept cash and card, best of all is the on site cook who makes awesome burgers, pulled pork buns etc.
 
They are pretty good on safety and every gun is chrono'd at the start of the day using their own mags pre loaded with .2g BBs to ensure no one cheat the chrono, they also tourny lock any P* systems.
 
I like the site becuase it was the first one i played at, also because i find the staff very approachable and welcoming

Ill refer you to this:
 
http://www.airsoft-forums.co.uk/index.php/topic/30493-word-of-warning/?hl=+absolute%20+airsoft

Open Space game areas in and around London
Dragons Lair Airsoft - Ongar
https://www.facebook.com/groups/129808267105240/
 
AWA Herts - Hertfordshire
https://www.facebook.com/AwaHerts/?fref=ts
 
Billericy Airsoft - Billericy
https://www.facebook.com/Skirmish-Airsoft-Billericay-65355044979/?fref=ts
 
The Sandpit - Kent
http://ucap.co.uk/ucap-airsoft-venues/ucap-sandpit-venue/
 
Red1 One Airsoft CQB:
https://www.facebook.com/Airsoft.CQB.The.School/?fref=ts
 
Tactical Warfare - Croydon
http://www.tacticalwarfare.co.uk/
 
To name a few as you say you live in London which is a pretty big ass place lol.
 
My home site is Dragons Lair as thats where my UKARA is registered to
 
Alternatively you can check out: http://www.airsoftmap.net/
For a map of all the sites.

Hi LewisAirsofter
 
Let start with some basic facts:
Your 15
You have someone in your family over 18 (your dad) who may be interested in Airsoft as well (great stuff)
You want a black gun, cool no problem really
You want to use it at Skirmish sites, ok
Also I am a police officer
 
So basically you want to get into airsoft at the age of 15 years old and you want a black gun.
 
Firstly i would recommend that you and your dad go to a proper Airsoft site and rent the guns first time, see if you really like it and if its something you would like to do in the long run especially if your gonna drop a ton of cash into the sport, (trust me its always one more gun and accessory).
 
Ok so you have played and loved every second of it, so does your dad and you guys want to do it again, yay!
 
You have two options now, buy gun NOW! or buy gun LATER.
 
Buy gun NOW! (not recommended)
Ok so you cant wait, you want to get your hands on the very best Airsoft gun your budget can stretch to, well your dad will be stuck to buying two tone guns.
 
So he gets you a two one BB gun, depending on what model or type of gun you have a few options ranging from totally legal to questionable/grey area/are of "What if's"
You can:
Tape method: Buy black duck tape or fabric camo tape and tape up the parts that are two tone, this is totally legal as the tape is considered a temporary colour and so does not count.
Stripping the paint or spray painting over the two tone: I would not recommend this as it will make you gun look tacky and could be considered contrary to the VCRA, if you are set on doing this i would recommend you strip rather than paint over, i cant tell you how to strip the paint but there are previously mentioned ways.
Upgrade: Depending on the model,style and what's been painted as two tone you could probably replace those parts, i had a friend who had a two tone AEG with a bright green stock, pistol grip and non RIS handguard. The stock and pistol grip were replaced with cheap after market parts to make them black again, the front handguard was totally replaced from a non RIS handguard to a picatinny rail system, essentially his AEG was made totally not two tone.
 
Buy gun LATER! (recommended)
Your dad now has to play 2 further games (remember you have already played one above) over a period of more than 2 months, so don't bunch it all in there quick, play a few games spread over a 3 months period, ideally at the same site to ensure continuity.
 
So your dad gets a UKARA number and is now entitled to buy black guns, he and you go to a airsoft store be it in person or online, select a gun for you, he hands over the cash, UKARA is checked, and is fine, you walk out of the shop and he turns and says "here you go son, your gift", you will reply "thanks dad" and leave it at that. As soon as you give any service or money to him for the gun, he not you, will break the VCRA law as he has technically given you the gun for monetary gain.
 
Rather than pay your dad (which you shouldn't do) why not ask him to gift it to you now as a late/early birthday present so that he does not have to remember getting something for you later.
 
You can now attend any site now with your black, freely gifted gun and exchange plastic pleasantries with other airsofters.
 
Points to note:
You mention "I've been playing down at the woods near by with a mate for 2-3 months but we want to get into skirmishes and milsim", by this do you mean a public place or a registered Airsoft site? Because if this is a public place where any member of the public can waltz on into then be very careful, even if you say its somewhere that no one is ever likely to come across then think about it, i said any member of public, what are you? a Member of public so if your there then it's somewhere the public can go and you have therefore technically committed an offence of being in possession of an imitation firearm in a public place. If its at an Airsoft site then please carry on playing
 
As other have pointed out, never show your Airsoft gun in public, somethings are best left hidden from an already scared and jumpy public post Paris, Ivory Coast terrorist attacks etc keep the guns in bags or cases going from home to airsoft and back again. The general UK public cant tell the difference between a real gun and obvious toy gun let alone the very realistic Airsoft guns we play with, even police officers will have a hard time telling real guns from airsoft ones, i have even seen a registered airsoft players entire armoury seized by police because half my colleagues cant tell the difference between airsoft guns and real ones even after i asked why they spent the last 3 hours seizing, bagging and tagging every gun, magazine etc when i pointed out that he was legally allowed to own Airsoft guns, her reply was "but they are guns", I sighed and left.
 
As for gun you should get, someone mentioned the G&G Combat Machine range, very good and reliable guns they are and you should start on the M4 platform as it has a myriad of options to upgrade and accessories. Dont forget essentials like EYE PROTECTION, combat vests, clothing, gloves, hats, boots, extra mags and batteries.

Hi LewisAirsofter
 
Let start with some basic facts:
Your 15
You have someone in your family over 18 (your dad) who may be interested in Airsoft as well (great stuff)
You want a black gun, cool no problem really
You want to use it at Skirmish sites, ok
Also I am a police officer
 
So basically you want to get into airsoft at the age of 15 years old and you want a black gun.
 
Firstly i would recommend that you and your dad go to a proper Airsoft site and rent the guns first time, see if you really like it and if its something you would like to do in the long run especially if your gonna drop a ton of cash into the sport, (trust me its always one more gun and accessory).
 
Ok so you have played and loved every second of it, so does your dad and you guys want to do it again, yay!
 
You have two options now, buy gun NOW! or buy gun LATER.
 
Buy gun NOW! (not recommended)
Ok so you cant wait, you want to get your hands on the very best Airsoft gun your budget can stretch to, well your dad will be stuck to buying two tone guns.
 
So he gets you a two one BB gun, depending on what model or type of gun you have a few options ranging from totally legal to questionable/grey area/are of "What if's"
You can:
Tape method: Buy black duck tape or fabric camo tape and tape up the parts that are two tone, this is totally legal as the tape is considered a temporary colour and so does not count.
Stripping the paint or spray painting over the two tone: I would not recommend this as it will make you gun look tacky and could be considered contrary to the VCRA, if you are set on doing this i would recommend you strip rather than paint over, i cant tell you how to strip the paint but there are previously mentioned ways.
Upgrade: Depending on the model,style and what's been painted as two tone you could probably replace those parts, i had a friend who had a two tone AEG with a bright green stock, pistol grip and non RIS handguard. The stock and pistol grip were replaced with cheap after market parts to make them black again, the front handguard was totally replaced from a non RIS handguard to a picatinny rail system, essentially his AEG was made totally not two tone.
 
Buy gun LATER! (recommended)
Your dad now has to play 2 further games (remember you have already played one above) over a period of more than 2 months, so don't bunch it all in there quick, play a few games spread over a 3 months period, ideally at the same site to ensure continuity.
 
So your dad gets a UKARA number and is now entitled to buy black guns, he and you go to a airsoft store be it in person or online, select a gun for you, he hands over the cash, UKARA is checked, and is fine, you walk out of the shop and he turns and says "here you go son, your gift", you will reply "thanks dad" and leave it at that. As soon as you give any service or money to him for the gun, he not you, will break the VCRA law as he has technically given you the gun for monetary gain.
 
Rather than pay your dad (which you shouldn't do) why not ask him to gift it to you now as a late/early birthday present so that he does not have to remember getting something for you later.
 
You can now attend any site now with your black, freely gifted gun and exchange plastic pleasantries with other airsofters.
 
Points to note:
You mention "I've been playing down at the woods near by with a mate for 2-3 months but we want to get into skirmishes and milsim", by this do you mean a public place or a registered Airsoft site? Because if this is a public place where any member of the public can waltz on into then be very careful, even if you say its somewhere that no one is ever likely to come across then think about it, i said any member of public, what are you? a Member of public so if your there then it's somewhere the public can go and you have therefore technically committed an offence of being in possession of an imitation firearm in a public place. If its at an Airsoft site then please carry on playing
 
As other have pointed out, never show your Airsoft gun in public, somethings are best left hidden from an already scared and jumpy public post Paris, Ivory Coast terrorist attacks etc keep the guns in bags or cases going from home to airsoft and back again. The general UK public cant tell the difference between a real gun and obvious toy gun let alone the very realistic Airsoft guns we play with, even police officers will have a hard time telling real guns from airsoft ones, i have even seen a registered airsoft players entire armoury seized by police because half my colleagues cant tell the difference between airsoft guns and real ones even after i asked why they spent the last 3 hours seizing, bagging and tagging every gun, magazine etc when i pointed out that he was legally allowed to own Airsoft guns, her reply was "but they are guns", I sighed and left.
 
As for gun you should get, someone mentioned the G&G Combat Machine range, very good and reliable guns they are and you should start on the M4 platform as it has a myriad of options to upgrade and accessories. Dont forget essentials like EYE PROTECTION, combat vests, clothing, gloves, hats, boots, extra mags and batteries.

Hi LewisAirsofter
 
Let start with some basic facts:
Your 15
You have someone in your family over 18 (your dad) who may be interested in Airsoft as well (great stuff)
You want a black gun, cool no problem really
You want to use it at Skirmish sites, ok
Also I am a police officer
 
So basically you want to get into airsoft at the age of 15 years old and you want a black gun.
 
Firstly i would recommend that you and your dad go to a proper Airsoft site and rent the guns first time, see if you really like it and if its something you would like to do in the long run especially if your gonna drop a ton of cash into the sport, (trust me its always one more gun and accessory).
 
Ok so you have played and loved every second of it, so does your dad and you guys want to do it again, yay!
 
You have two options now, buy gun NOW! or buy gun LATER.
 
Buy gun NOW! (not recommended)
Ok so you cant wait, you want to get your hands on the very best Airsoft gun your budget can stretch to, well your dad will be stuck to buying two tone guns.
 
So he gets you a two one BB gun, depending on what model or type of gun you have a few options ranging from totally legal to questionable/grey area/are of "What if's"
You can:
Tape method: Buy black duck tape or fabric camo tape and tape up the parts that are two tone, this is totally legal as the tape is considered a temporary colour and so does not count.
Stripping the paint or spray painting over the two tone: I would not recommend this as it will make you gun look tacky and could be considered contrary to the VCRA, if you are set on doing this i would recommend you strip rather than paint over, i cant tell you how to strip the paint but there are previously mentioned ways.
Upgrade: Depending on the model,style and what's been painted as two tone you could probably replace those parts, i had a friend who had a two tone AEG with a bright green stock, pistol grip and non RIS handguard. The stock and pistol grip were replaced with cheap after market parts to make them black again, the front handguard was totally replaced from a non RIS handguard to a picatinny rail system, essentially his AEG was made totally not two tone.
 
Buy gun LATER! (recommended)
Your dad now has to play 2 further games (remember you have already played one above) over a period of more than 2 months, so don't bunch it all in there quick, play a few games spread over a 3 months period, ideally at the same site to ensure continuity.
 
So your dad gets a UKARA number and is now entitled to buy black guns, he and you go to a airsoft store be it in person or online, select a gun for you, he hands over the cash, UKARA is checked, and is fine, you walk out of the shop and he turns and says "here you go son, your gift", you will reply "thanks dad" and leave it at that. As soon as you give any service or money to him for the gun, he not you, will break the VCRA law as he has technically given you the gun for monetary gain.
 
Rather than pay your dad (which you shouldn't do) why not ask him to gift it to you now as a late/early birthday present so that he does not have to remember getting something for you later.
 
You can now attend any site now with your black, freely gifted gun and exchange plastic pleasantries with other airsofters.
 
Points to note:
You mention "I've been playing down at the woods near by with a mate for 2-3 months but we want to get into skirmishes and milsim", by this do you mean a public place or a registered Airsoft site? Because if this is a public place where any member of the public can waltz on into then be very careful, even if you say its somewhere that no one is ever likely to come across then think about it, i said any member of public, what are you? a Member of public so if your there then it's somewhere the public can go and you have therefore technically committed an offence of being in possession of an imitation firearm in a public place. If its at an Airsoft site then please carry on playing
 
As other have pointed out, never show your Airsoft gun in public, somethings are best left hidden from an already scared and jumpy public post Paris, Ivory Coast terrorist attacks etc keep the guns in bags or cases going from home to airsoft and back again. The general UK public cant tell the difference between a real gun and obvious toy gun let alone the very realistic Airsoft guns we play with, even police officers will have a hard time telling real guns from airsoft ones, i have even seen a registered airsoft players entire armoury seized by police because half my colleagues cant tell the difference between airsoft guns and real ones even after i asked why they spent the last 3 hours seizing, bagging and tagging every gun, magazine etc when i pointed out that he was legally allowed to own Airsoft guns, her reply was "but they are guns", I sighed and left.
 
As for gun you should get, someone mentioned the G&G Combat Machine range, very good and reliable guns they are and you should start on the M4 platform as it has a myriad of options to upgrade and accessories. Dont forget essentials like EYE PROTECTION, combat vests, clothing, gloves, hats, boots, extra mags and batteries.

A Plague is a Plague regardless what the disease is, its only due to the English Plague of 1665 that in the English language it is now associated with Yersina Pestis AKA the Bubonic Plague.
 
Its still around in the wild and there are thousands of reports of it popping up here and there as its not locked down like say Smallpox is.

A Plague is a Plague regardless what the disease is, its only due to the English Plague of 1665 that in the English language it is now associated with Yersina Pestis AKA the Bubonic Plague.
 
Its still around in the wild and there are thousands of reports of it popping up here and there as its not locked down like say Smallpox is.

They're really not.
 
It's still a good rule of thumb to avoid them like the plague.

Yes but that table lamp he's got strapped to his glock will never fit in that!

I know you want realismbut may i ask why?
 
Anyways TM is by far and away the best, stay clear of WE as they are very very dissapointing, i had a WE M9, replaced it with a TM M9 which way out performs it in terms of range, reliability, holding gas, amount of gas used etc.
 
My TM M9 can range M4 AEGs quite easily even though the FPS is so much lower but its al about the hop.
 
If i was to recommend to you another brand you could opt for KSC/KWA, i have a lovely full metal KSC M93R which works a dream but is rare as hell, if i didnt get the TM M9 i would have opted for the KSC/KWA M9 as its full metal and much better build than WE.
 
KSC/KWA M9 on sale from UK Airsoft supplier: http://www.milspecsolutions.co.uk/gas-blowback-pistols/kwa-ksc-pistols/KWA_KSC_M9.html

I thought I would leave a post here about my first ever Airsoft game, I do hope that it's ok here in general. I figured it is general but if you consider it not being, I apologise. I'd also like to thank everyone who replied to my thread about preparing for your first day at an airsoft game (http://www.airsoft-forums.co.uk/index.php/topic/30124-first-game-prep-what-to-take/)
 
As my girlfriend was at work on Saturday and my friends didn't exactly show much enthusiasm with giving this a go. I went at it alone. Which to be honest, was pretty nerve wracking. I didn't know what to expect.
 
Girlfriend: "Aren't you nervous about going there on your own tomorrow?
Me: "Nah, it's just a laugh and to get outside, blow off some steam and get some excercise."
 
Yeah, I was nervous. So, I'd like to thank Fumps for sending me a pm here and meeting me on site to ease my transition and give me a little refuge should I need it.
 
Once I was there we got organised into our teams, and I was still feeling a little shy. Our first game was like a death match kind of affair with zombies thrown in, if I recall correctly. The second game was something new that they haven't tried before, which ended in a little confusion. I had problems with my rifle, and the marshalls swapped it out for a different one without any trouble at all.
 
I got lost in the woodland, fell over, stumbled around, ran out of ammo, and yes...got shot at. A lot.
 
By the time afternoon arrived, I was settled. High on adrenaline and talking with many new faces. I felt like I found a role within our team. I basically gave support fire and played medic. Which I think helped keep our team on track for our objectives. Instead of them having to run back to regen/respawn, I specifically made an effort to locate those who were shouting for a medic on our team. In turn keeping up our advance. It was a buzz. I kind of enjoyed this particular role. Even though I wasn't particularly concerned whether we win or lose. It's just so much fun!
 
Top 3 Dumbass Moments:
 
3. Getting lost on the way back to my regen/respawn point
2. Charging into a built up area "all rambo" and wound up getting full autoed by 2/3 opponents
1. Advancing under the cover fire of a team mate, and moving into said line of fire and getting shot in the back.
 

It was great to hear from the folks and the marshalls that I played well all in all. It was a very positive experience. One of the best days I've had and met some cracking people. So, I guess what I am saying is that, if you are new and you're going it alone. Just do it! You'll have a blast and meet some fine folks.
 
My legs are still aching like hell 3 days later, but I can't wait to get back in the field. The bug has bit and I'm now shopping...so...
 
...at least I get some excersise
 
Sorry for the long read!
 
o7

Open Space game areas in and around London
Dragons Lair Airsoft - Ongar
https://www.facebook.com/groups/129808267105240/
 
AWA Herts - Hertfordshire
https://www.facebook.com/AwaHerts/?fref=ts
 
Billericy Airsoft - Billericy
https://www.facebook.com/Skirmish-Airsoft-Billericay-65355044979/?fref=ts
 
The Sandpit - Kent
http://ucap.co.uk/ucap-airsoft-venues/ucap-sandpit-venue/
 
Red1 One Airsoft CQB:
https://www.facebook.com/Airsoft.CQB.The.School/?fref=ts
 
Tactical Warfare - Croydon
http://www.tacticalwarfare.co.uk/
 
To name a few as you say you live in London which is a pretty big ass place lol.
 
My home site is Dragons Lair as thats where my UKARA is registered to
 
Alternatively you can check out: http://www.airsoftmap.net/
For a map of all the sites.

Sorry man, but lots of what you've said is not true: The VSR is the most upgradable sniper rifle out there - many kits and many manufacturers. Prometheus/LayLax/First Factory/Nineball, PDI, ORGA, EdGI etc. - in fact, the VSR is such a famous platform for its hop that VSR buckings are what are used in many pistols as well because the cut of the barrel has been found to be ideal (almost all Tokyo Marui pistols use VSR hop up buckings). Along side AEG buckings, VSR buckings are the next most common in all of airsoft. Objectively the VSR has the most aftermarket parts available of any springer sniper rifle, but the Maruzen L96 APS-2 clones aren't far behind.

What brand 'metal trigger' did you buy? You realise most of these 'metal' triggers literally just have a metal outer casing but no internal upgrades. One should really only bother with the Airsoft Pro, LayLax or PDI offerings when it comes to the L96 triggers.

A second issue I take with the L96 is its magazine sits slightly further forward (only a few cm, but still) and that's the reason for its overall length being longer, but the inner barrel being shorter with the same overall length. The VSR is far more compact and practical in my opinion.

Avoid buying scopes with sniper rifles as they're usually gash and you want a decent clear one later on. I'd also say to not buy biodegradable BBs unless you shoot a lot (i.e. get through all those BBs in less than 3 months) - they're hygroscopic and will swell very easily. If your site allows non-degradables then pick up BBs that will degrade less and give you a consistent shot and leave less residue in the barrel.

What's the 'spring retainer'? The guide rod/spring guide? More powerful springs also need better sears too.

Again, I think it boils down to functionality. I really liked my L96, but it was pretty big even with the shorter and lighter PDI outer-barrel. Overall the VSR just feels more skirmishable, but both can be made to perform equally well.

Revision locusts with a turbofan, then import their thermal lens as well. It is much better than the ess solution because it doesn't block the vertical vision so you can look down at your gear. Best turbofan solution I know of. But keep in mind I could not get glasses to work, I glazed the insert with polycarbonate with anti fog coating and I still had problems with the inner glass fogging with the fan going on max. So while I rated the locusts very highly I have personally gone for contacts as the glasses insert has not worked for me at all.

Personally i prefer to use G&G normal BBs in my G&G guns and others, i have used ASG blasters but mostly for testing purposes and now theres a new brand called Kurse thats come out and i have been using them but personally i still prefer the G&G stuff.

Hi
 
I am a regular there and shop at Airsoft Zone.
 
Dragons Lair has a Facebook community which you can find here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/129808267105240/
 
They have a website too but its rarely updated:
http://www.dragonslairairsoft.co.uk/
 
Ray Cain (owner) of the site is very friendly and a jovial chap, his wife Jean is very friendly with everyone both regular and new comers, site marshals are generally the owners family and friends and they all enjoy a bit of fun TBH. Games are played on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month with occasional night games played too (look on their Facebook page to see when those crop up). Cost is £25 for a day if you have your own guns, otherwise rental package is £55 + £30 deposit, give everything bar the BBs back and the £30 is refunded to you. Airsoft Zone has a small stall set up at one side selling a small variety of the guns they have in the shop, BBs, smoke grenades and other stuff.
 
They will be happy to accommodate your child (you dont say if its a girl or boy), they dont mind if they are playing with a two tone gun or full on black RIF, all they ask is that they wear a full face mask made of plastic or mesh, no cloth. There is no limit on rate of fire, number of magazines you carry or how many BBs you take with you, this is not Milsim, all they ask is that AEG are at 350FPS max, DMR Rifles locked to semi and at 450FPS Max and Bolt rifles at 500FPS Max, DMRs and bolt with a minimum engagement distance of 25m. All mags must be removed and guns shot at least once prior to entering the safe zone, they generally dont frown upon dry firing in the safe zone if you are testing you gun, i know some sites that go ape shit about dry firing even when you have the gun apart (as in lower receiver away from upper)
 
Games vary in terms of Scenarios and objectives but generally are played out in a small woodland area which is large enough for play but small enough you can really get lost in, there are a few barriers here and there, a fort and a small village. The Safe Zone is well decked out, all benches and prep areas is under a roof, there is usually a tech on site to help with simple repairs, a small tuck shop, large amounts of parking and usually at lunch theres a bloke who does pulled pork buns, burgers and other things.
 
As a first time site for either yourself and your child its a great place, it was where i went for my first Airsoft experience 2 years ago and look where that got me! over 8 guns later and two military operator outfits in black and Multicam with comms everything lol.

Hi
 
I am a regular there and shop at Airsoft Zone.
 
Dragons Lair has a Facebook community which you can find here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/129808267105240/
 
They have a website too but its rarely updated:
http://www.dragonslairairsoft.co.uk/
 
Ray Cain (owner) of the site is very friendly and a jovial chap, his wife Jean is very friendly with everyone both regular and new comers, site marshals are generally the owners family and friends and they all enjoy a bit of fun TBH. Games are played on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month with occasional night games played too (look on their Facebook page to see when those crop up). Cost is £25 for a day if you have your own guns, otherwise rental package is £55 + £30 deposit, give everything bar the BBs back and the £30 is refunded to you. Airsoft Zone has a small stall set up at one side selling a small variety of the guns they have in the shop, BBs, smoke grenades and other stuff.
 
They will be happy to accommodate your child (you dont say if its a girl or boy), they dont mind if they are playing with a two tone gun or full on black RIF, all they ask is that they wear a full face mask made of plastic or mesh, no cloth. There is no limit on rate of fire, number of magazines you carry or how many BBs you take with you, this is not Milsim, all they ask is that AEG are at 350FPS max, DMR Rifles locked to semi and at 450FPS Max and Bolt rifles at 500FPS Max, DMRs and bolt with a minimum engagement distance of 25m. All mags must be removed and guns shot at least once prior to entering the safe zone, they generally dont frown upon dry firing in the safe zone if you are testing you gun, i know some sites that go ape shit about dry firing even when you have the gun apart (as in lower receiver away from upper)
 
Games vary in terms of Scenarios and objectives but generally are played out in a small woodland area which is large enough for play but small enough you can really get lost in, there are a few barriers here and there, a fort and a small village. The Safe Zone is well decked out, all benches and prep areas is under a roof, there is usually a tech on site to help with simple repairs, a small tuck shop, large amounts of parking and usually at lunch theres a bloke who does pulled pork buns, burgers and other things.
 
As a first time site for either yourself and your child its a great place, it was where i went for my first Airsoft experience 2 years ago and look where that got me! over 8 guns later and two military operator outfits in black and Multicam with comms everything lol.

You mean like mine?
 
I have a video review of my G&G TGM5 Retractable and a take down video
 
I also point out a few things to be aware of of the G&G MP5

 
What i really want is this mod:

watch "Kevin and Perry go large" then adapt that attitude until they say yes. If you are too young to watch Kevin and Perry then start wearing your mums cloths when your parents are about and your dad will poop bricks and probably buy you an AEG and possibly make you get a tattoo.
 
If all this fails convince your dad to have a father/son day at your local site and then be amazed how quickly your house fills up with AEG's and surplus army gear.

Tell them it's the only thing keeping you from joining the army. It'll twang every pacifist nerve they have.

Job done.

Not really an issue unless she likes big guns, guy who regulars at a site I occasionally goes to is paralysed from the waist down and uses a mounted MG on his mobility chair. Went to Taiwan and there was a guy with a prosthetic hand which he made up a clamp for his M4, and a tomb raider style rig for his pistol mags.
 
Look up on YouTube as many rifles have a way of loading/unloading with one hand.
 
I would initially recommend a family friendly site, somewhere small and easy going, if your in the South East Cool under Fire, bush valley or apocalypse as it will (hopefully) give her the best impression of the sport.
 
http://youtu.be/42svGQfdehk

Yeha, 5 year old NiMhs (or NiCd if they were well used when you gave up D: ) will just want replacing, they're about £10-15 each so not mega bucks, or swap over to the greatly superior LiPos