Is it okay for a 13 year old to have an airsoft gun?
As an avid airsoft player and content creator focused on the sport, this is a complex question that I get asked frequently by parents of young teenagers interested in participating. While airsoft guns can be used safely under adult supervision with proper protective gear, their projectiles travel at high velocities fast enough to break the skin and cause injuries. Appropriate maturity level, training, and safety protocols are absolute musts.
Supervision Is Non-Negotiable
I cannot stress enough that a 13 year old should never handle an airsoft gun without adult supervision. Even brief moments without guidance can lead to horseplay and unsafe situations. Per the American Academy of Pediatrics, over 90,000 BB and pellet gun injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms between 1990-2014, with the most common injuries being to the eye and skin.
Injury Statistics
| Age Group | Number of Injuries |
|---|---|
| 0-4 years | 5,398 |
| 5-9 years | 36,045 |
| 10-14 years | 77,631 |
With injury rates highest among 10-14 year olds, mature guidance and instruction is imperative to prevent accidents.
Expert Opinions on Minimum Ages
Per airsoft retailers and insurance providers in the UK, the minimum recommended age to start playing airsoft is 13 years old. Children must demonstrate responsible, mature behavior and be able to strictly follow safety rules. Ages 10-12 may be permitted for low-powered airsoft guns under one-on-one adult supervision. Those under 10 years old are prohibited from playing airsoft.
Protective Gear Requirements
High quality, properly fitting protective gear certified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) must be worn at all times when using an airsoft gun. Recommended gear includes:
- Full seal, ANSI Z87.1 rated goggles
- Face mask (mesh lower preferred)
- Long sleeve shirt and pants
- Gloves
- Chest protector
I personally use and recommend the Valken Tango goggles and OneTigris mask for optimal eye and face protection. Never skimp on eye pro – an airsoft BB to unprotected eyes risks blindness.
FPS Limits Based On Age
Fields will chronograph airsoft guns to measure the feet per second (FPS) velocity and enforce strict fps limits based on age:
| Age | FPS Limit |
|---|---|
| Under 14 | 310 FPS |
| 14-17 | 350 FPS |
| 18 and over | 400 FPS |
Exceeding these velocities poses unnecessary injury risks. Parents should verify their child‘s airsoft guns shoot under the 310 FPS limit.
Maturity Level Varies by Child
While 13 years old meets the minimum age requirements of most public airsoft fields, each child‘s emotional and cognitive development differs. Adult guardians must realistically assess if their individual 13 year old demonstrates the maturity and judgement to exercise proper muzzle control, shot distance awareness, safe handling procedures, and rule compliance at all times. Airsoft guns should have no appeal as toys.
I have seen a few young teens act carelessly or ignore hits when overly excited in-game. Strict enforcement of personal responsibility and sportsmanship is vital to safety.
Safe Storage
When not under direct adult supervision, all airsoft guns should be unloaded, deactivated, and securely stored out of children‘s reach in locked containers. Parents must restrict access to equipment and ammunitions to prevent misuse or injuries. Investing in a proper gun safe is highly recommended.
My Recommendations
As someone who has enjoyed airsoft recreationally for years, I believe it can be safe and enjoyable for a mature 13 year old able to follow strict protocols under diligent adult supervision. That said, safety must come first above all else. Not all 13 year olds demonstrate the discipline required, despite best intentions.
I advise all parents to carefully consider their own child‘s responsibleness and ability to prioritize safety procedures before making a decision. Consider enrolling them in formal safety courses. Vet gear for ratings and quality. Master safe handling together and frequently reinforce the critical nature of eye protection. And never let them use airsoft equipment without your direct oversight.
With the right precautions and your child‘s cooperation, airsoft can create lasting memories. But it only takes one lapse in safety or judgement to cause serious harm. Please exercise extreme diligence determining if your 13 year old truly comprehends the gravity of safe airsoft principles. Protection and guidance is our duty as the adults in their lives introducing them to this equipment.
