Want to get into Airsoft

[misfitjay]

Hi guys I'm 38 from Essex, found myself wanting a new hobby, use to play semi pro paintball in my youth (20 years ago) and kinda like the idea of getting into Airsoft, just wanted to know if there are any groups in Essex (north) area who can offer advice, locations, gear etc. much appreciated ☺️ ?? 

Edited August 3 by misfitjay
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[Galvatron]

Welcome!

 

There are a good few sites in Essex though you'll likely have to come closer south.

 

I'd suggest taking a look at this site to find yourself a site to play at.

 

https://playairsoft.uk/map

 

This sticky topic is worth you having a butcher's.

 

Don't worry about going on your tod. The airsoft community is largely supportive and will be happy to help guide you on your first few games - the more you play, the more likely you'll play with and against the same people so there will be good camaraderie found soon enough. I get on really well with a fellow I more often than not play against.

 

In terms of gear, much of it will be a learning experience for you. Advice on what you equip will be hugely personal and you'll have to discover what works for you over time. 

 

I'd say there are 3 key points when you plan getting started.

• Don't skimp on eye protection. Absolutely do not buy it from Ali Express, Wish or Temu - you are playing a huge gamble with your eyesight that just isn't worth what little saving you will make. Even with Amazon and eBay, fakes are sold frequently. You're best off buying from an airsoft retailer where their supply chain will only give EN166 or Z87 compliant eye pro. You don't even have to spend huge amount of money. You can get perfectly suitable eye pro for under £20.
• A decent pair of boots with ankle cover is recommended. You can walk on uneven terrain frequently or put your foot in a literal rabbit hole. They may not prevent you from breaking an ankle but they can help prevent less serious an injury.
• You're best off doing rental rather than buying a gun to start with in case you decide it's not for you. You can buy a two-tone to get started but there is a consistent story where reselling it becomes very difficult and loses more money than expected. Some sites have their own shops so you can handle the RIFs available if they have them or it may be worth you visiting an airsoft shop to get that hands-on feel.

If you have any questions after you've done that reading, do let us know.

[Colin Allen]

Without knowing exactly where you are in Essex, I would recommend Airsoft Plantation, which is just north of Billericay.

[misfitjay]

Hey guys thank you both for your replies. In response to Galvatron, would you recommend buying a cheap chest rig to help manage with loads and kit before even playing or hold out until trying Airsoft? Also thank you for all the other advice concerning eye wear and boots ( I do have crap ankles ?)

 

And Colin, I'm near Braintree and I do drive. Just trying to find something to get into. Lost touch with my old hobbies and this is one that has always interested me ☺️

Also how do you know which sites hold ukara so you can get signed off? Sorry and thanks again guys!

 

[Galvatron]

32 minutes ago, misfitjay said:

would you recommend buying a cheap chest rig to help manage with loads and kit before even playing or hold out until trying Airsoft?

 

It's honestly not a bad idea. They'll be very generic but not a bad way to get yourself started as you'll more than likely have some sort of M4 derivative for your rental gun.

 

32 minutes ago, misfitjay said:

Also how do you know which sites hold ukara so you can get signed off? Sorry and thanks again guys!

 

Most sites that are UKARA registered advertise the fact as it's a good selling point for them to lock you in for at least 3 games. If you go to the Airsoft Plantation website that Colin recommended, it shows it's UKARA registered at the bottom of the page. That's a common trait to look out for.

[Cannonfodder]

Welcome. The posts above have pretty much covered everything but I'll add this. Gloves are recommended as a shit to the knuckles will bloody hurt.

 

Also when on site don't be afraid to ask people about their kit or guns you like the look of, most players are more than happy to show off and talk about their stuff (getting them to stop is probably harder) and will probably let you fire off a few shots if you ask nicely.

[Lyndication]

Can't say I've ever taken a shit to the knuckles, is that how you boys play down south?

[HZR13]

When you do get a shit shot to the knuckles and fingers you will know... OUCH

[Colin Allen]

19 minutes ago, Lyndication said:

Can't say I've ever taken a shit to the knuckles, is that how you boys play down south?

Sheep shit is a lot cheaper than BBs.

[Jedi_Master]

1 hour ago, Colin Allen said:

Sheep shit is a lot cheaper than BBs.

 

And biodegradable, so that will keep the environmentalists happy (unlike the eco activists whom are never happy about anything) 

[Cannonfodder]

2 hours ago, Lyndication said:

Can't say I've ever taken a shit to the knuckles, is that how you boys play down south?

It takes a special kind of partner to agree to such things. Also make sure you trim your nails first?

[ButcherBill]

6 hours ago, Cannonfodder said:

It takes a special kind of partner to agree to such things. Also make sure you trim your nails first?

& remove all rings/watches.

[misfitjay]

I did get use to paintball hits in the past ( even got KO'd by one) ?? gloves is definitely a must. Are there any Essex based groups I should look into? Also thank you all so much for being welcoming and for the advice. 

 

[Galvatron]

On 06/08/2025 at 19:48, misfitjay said:

Are there any Essex based groups I should look into? 

 

 

Honestly, I would pick a site to play at and see how you gel with the staff and other players and move on from there. 

I wouldn't say all social media is bad though you should just be wary of a lot of it. Other players local to Essex who you play with or against may point you in the right direction with time.