Airsoft will face further restrictions long before it happens to air pistols or air rifles.
Not sure I agree with this statement. As I remember it was a Labour Government that was going to ban airsoft. At the time before the compromise of self regulation was agreed the owners of airsoft guns were told you can keep what you have but can’t buy anymore. I don’t remember if they had planned to actually ban the sport of airsoft. Does anyone remember.
In Scotland all airguns are now licensed, with practically all the same requirements as FAC guns. Airsoft guns are considered toys I believe and are not included.
I think airguns might be licensed in England & Wales, the only thing putting off any government is the numbers involved, approx 6 million airguns in circulation according to police figures. At the moment the licensing system can’t cope in many areas, with renewals and grants taking months and extensions being given as a matter of course. Some areas are taking more than a year before they even visit for a grant.
I have no idea how many airsoft guns are in circulation, a lot I would think.
And unlike bans on blank firers where the government can get away without paying compensation as they are claiming they can be converted to fire live rounds, any ban on airsoft would require compensation to be paid.