They are not real guns but they look exactly like one. These replicas are true to the minutest detail. Used mostly for recreation purposes, airsoft guns propel plastic 6mm and 8mmpellets at muzzle velocities ranging from 30 m/s to 180 m/s (100 to 637 ft/s) by way of compressed gas or a spring-driven piston. These pellets travel at fairly low velocity and will not penetrate the skin. Airsoft guns are differentiated from real guns by an orange marker on the tip of the muzzle.

Airsoft guns are used in games similar to paintball. For competitions it is a good thing to choose competition grade equipment. Higher grade airsoft guns are perfectly round and super smooth. They are also slightly heavier. They are considered generally safe with proper use. In fact, there are fun ways to use the airsoft gun even at home. Shooting away at soda cans can be an effective stress remover.