Airsoft Gun Age How Old

Introduction

It's not easy navigating the laws and regulations with regards to airsoft gun ownership for minors. The age requirement to purchase an airsoft gun is different from state to state in the United States, with some countries having even stricter requirements. If you're a minor and looking to buy an airsoft gun, here are all the details you need to know.

The Age Requirement to Buy an Airsoft Gun

In the United States, the legal age for buying a new or used airsoft gun is 18 even if the minor is accompanied by an adult or has a parent's permission. There are however some exceptions to this law. In a handful of states, someone as young as 16 can purchase an airsoft gun with the written consent of a parent or guardian.

States that Require Airsoft Gun Buyers to be Age 16

The states that allow minors aged 16-17 to purchase airsoft guns with parental consent are: Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Massachusetts, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

States that Require Airsoft Gun Buyers to be Age 18

The states that do not offer any exceptions and require all airsoft gun purchasers to be age 18 are Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Should You Buy an Airsoft Gun at All?

Before taking the plunge and purchasing an airsoft gun, it's important to be aware of all the laws pertaining to airsoft guns in your state and country. It's also a good idea to understand the nature of airsoft guns and to ensure you're using them responsibly.

Airsoft Guns Are Not Toys

Airsoft guns are often used as toys, but they are in fact replica firearms that can cause serious injury with improper use and should always be treated with respect. It's important to use safety equipment such as eye protection when using your airsoft gun, especially when playing with multiple people at an airsoft field.

Know the Laws in Your Area

It's also important to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations surrounding airsoft guns in your state, county, and city. This is especially important if you're purchasing an airsoft gun for the purpose of defending yourself in a public space. In some states, such as California, airsoft guns are prohibited from being used in public places, even for self-defense.

Brief Recap

In the United States, the minimum age requirement for purchasing an airsoft gun is 18. In some states such as Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, and more, minors aged 16 and above can purchase an airsoft gun with the written consent of a parent or guardian. However, regardless of age, minors should be well aware of all the laws pertaining to airsoft guns in their state and country. It's also important to understand that airsoft guns are not toys and should be treated with respect.