On the 1st of October 2007, the laws regarding airsoft guns changed. This is a brief summary of those changes, more information can be found here: www.ukara.org.uk If you are under 18 years of age, it is illegal for you to buy an airsoft gun. It is also illegal for anyone to sell one to you, whether you are a skirmisher or not.
Over 18s have to prove that they are airsoft skirmishers. They can do this by taking out membership of an airsoft site which holds third-party liability insurance. In order to facilitate remote selling, UKARA the retailers organisation, has set up a database to which sites can submit their members details. Once a player is verified & on the database, any UKARA member can quickly check that a purchaser is entitled to buy an airsoft gun.
UKARA isn't the only defence airsofters can use. Other Defences may be used against the VCRA, such as:
Historical Re-enactment
For use in museums or TV/film/theatre production. The RIF purchase must be evidenced as relevant to the re-enactment/production purpose. Proof may include photographs and/or a member number showing involvement in the relevant group or museum.
UKASA (United Kingdom Airsoft Site Association)
A recognised airsoft site association. Being affiliated through UKASA-linked structures is presented as a way to show legitimacy/participation in the sport of airsoft.
Website: https://www.ukasa.org/
UKAPU (United Kingdom Airsoft Players Union)
A players’ union for airsoft. Membership/affiliation is intended to show you are an organiser/participant through an established players’ body.
Website: https://www.ukapu.org.uk/
BAC (British Airsoft Club)
A British airsoft club route. It is listed as another recognised organisation that may support eligibility for a compliant purchase.
Website: https://britishairsoftclub.com/
SWAT PASS System
A verification/access system connected to airsoft participation. Listed as a process that helps show a buyer’s entitlement.
Website: https://www.swatuk.co/
Just Cos
Listed as an additional defence route (typically associated with documented activity, such as costume/production contexts). This defence is used for cosplay but also extends to airsoft as some cosplay outfits require replica firearms.
Website: https://just-cos.co.uk/
MVT (Military Vehicle Trust)
A trust involved with military vehicle related activities. Listed as a defence route where evidence of involvement would link the RIF purchase to an appropriate activity.
Website: https://www.mvt.org.uk/
BASC (British Association for Shooting and Conservation)
A recognised sports/outdoor organisation. Listed here as a route that may support eligibility through structured membership/participation.
Website: https://greenshoots.basc.org.uk/MembersLogin
SA (Sportsman’s Association)
A sports association route. It is included as another recognised membership/participation pathway.
Website: https://sportsmansassociation.co.uk/
Airsoft Defence
Airsoft Defence is a secure platform helping players, retailers, and sites prove eligibility for realistic imitation firearm transactions and checks.
Website: https://airsoft-defence.co.uk/
Please note a Firearm or Air Weapon Certificate does not cover as a defence as mentioned above.
Two tone services are also available for those who do not have any exemption, this will change the definition of the rifle or pistol from a RIF (Realistic Imitation Firearm) to an IF (Imitation Firearm). Anyone over the age of 18 can purchase an imitation firearm. More information about the two tone services we offer can be fount here: Two Tone Services and Land Warrior Sports.
If you wish to learn more about UKARA and our two tone service then you can check out our blog here that will explain everything you need to know about UKARA & two tone service.