Featured Airsoft Guns
The UK's largest range of Airsoft Guns, Replicas & RIFs
Browse our Airsoft gun categories and find the perfect platform to suit your needs. We stock beginner Airsoft assault rifles, premium high-end skirmish platforms and replicas of iconic historical guns that look museum-worthy! If you're looking for your first Airsoft gun or planning on getting an upgrade, browse the categories above and find your next Airsoft platform!
Airsoft Gun Laws in the UK
If you're unsure about the legality of Airsoft in the UK, let us answer the most commonly asked questions regarding the laws around Airsoft. While Airsoft guns supplied in realistic colours are restricted, those with a legitimate use (including Airsoft players) can get a "Specific Defence", including UKARA and site membership. For those without a defence, you can get a brightly coloured two-tone replica instead. Don't worry, though, it is perfectly legal to play and take part in Airsoft!
Do I need a UKARA to buy an Airsoft gun/replica?
You only need a UKARA (UK Airsoft Retailers Association), or other valid form of defence, to purchase a realistic imitation firearm (RIF) in a "military" colour, e.g. Black, Tan or Olive Green.
If you don’t have a UKARA or other valid defence, you can instead buy a two-tone Airsoft gun, which is legal for anyone over the age of 18 without a defence.
To get a UKARA, you’ll need to play at a UKARA-registered Airsoft Skirmish Site 3 times or more within 56 Days or 8 Weeks. After this, the site can help register you with the UKARA database.
Are Airsoft guns legal in the UK?
Yes, Airsoft guns are legal in the UK when purchased and used correctly.
Under the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, realistic Airsoft guns (RIFs) require a valid defence, such as UKARA. Two-tone airsoft guns, where at least 51% of the surface is a non-realistic, bright colour, can be sold to anyone over 18.
Airsoft guns must only be used on private land with permission from the owner or at a registered skirmish site. Never carry an Airsoft gun in public, unless transporting it securely to an Airsoft skirmish in a hard case or gun bag.
What is the difference between an RIF and an IF?
A RIF (Realistic Imitation Firearm) is an Airsoft gun that resembles a real firearm, both in colour and silhouette. These require a valid defence to purchase, such as UKARA.
An IF (Imitation Firearm), known as a two-tone Airsoft gun, has at least 51% of its surface painted in a bright, unrealistic colour. These can be purchased by anyone over 18 without a defence.
Can I use an Airsoft gun in my garden?
Using an Airsoft gun on private land, including your garden, is not illegal, provided you have permission and cannot be seen by the general public.
However, for personal safety and legal certainty, we strongly recommend using Airsoft guns at registered skirmish sites. If you're doing target practice at home, ensure proper eye protection is worn by yourself and spectators, and that BBs cannot leave the property.
Choosing the Right Airsoft Gun
As a new player, the amount of choice can feel overwhelming. We're here to help you pick the perfect Airsoft gun to suit your needs. With our dedicated Customer Service team on hand to assist you with any questions, recommendations and other shopping assistance, you can shop with confidence, knowing that you're getting exactly what you want. Plus, you can visit our Huddersfield showroom and get a hands-on experience with any guns or gear you're curious about.
What Airsoft gun should I buy as a complete beginner?
Most beginners should start with an AEG (Automatic Electric Gun) assault rifle.
These platforms are reliable, easy to use, and perform well all year round. Popular beginner platforms include M4 and AK variants from brands like Delta Armory, Specna Arms and CYMA.
A good beginner Airsoft gun typically costs between £80 and £200. If you don’t have a defence yet, you’ll need to choose a two-tone version.
What is the difference between AEG, GBB, and spring Airsoft guns?
There are three main types of Airsoft guns:
- AEG (Automatic Electric Gun): Battery-powered, reliable, and the most common choice for beginners and regular players.
- GBB (Gas Blowback): Powered by green gas or CO2, offering realistic recoil and function. Best suited to experienced players and realism-focused setups.
- Spring-powered: Manually cocked before each shot. Simple, low-maintenance, and commonly used for sniper rifles.
Which Airsoft brands are best for beginners?
Some of the best beginner Airsoft brands include:
- Delta Armory - consistent and reliable, upgraded performance
- Specna Arms - excellent value, especially CORE and Edge series
- CYMA - durable, affordable, and easy to maintain
- G&G Armament - more premium, incredible performance and consistency
These brands all offer dependable platforms suitable for new players.
What is the best Airsoft gun for CQB (close-quarters battle)?
For CQB environments, compact and lightweight Airsoft guns are ideal.
Top choices include Airsoft SMGs such as MP5, P90, and short-barrel M4 variants. Airsoft pistols and gas blowback platforms are also popular for fast-paced indoor play.
CQB sites typically enforce lower FPS limits (around 320–330 FPS), so always check site rules before playing.
Airsoft Gun Performance and Setup
Buying an Airsoft gun is the first part of getting ready to play. We recommend starting with an AEG as they're simple to use and very reliable. Don't forget BBs, a battery and a charger! While we spot-check our products to ensure they're legal, we recommend testing FPS using a Chronograph before playing. Setting your HOP-up for your chosen BB weight is essential, and once set, you should expect a 30-40 meter accurate range when shooting at a man-sized target with most AEGs.
What is the FPS limit for Airsoft guns in the UK?
UK Airsoft sites enforce strict FPS limits to ensure safe gameplay and fun for all players.
The typical limits are:
- AEGs and pistols: 350 FPS (approx. 1.14 Joules with 0.20g BBs)
- DMRs (semi-auto only): up to 450 FPS with engagement distance limits
- Bolt-action sniper rifles: up to 500 FPS with strict engagement distance limits
Limits can vary between sites, so always check before attending. Make sure to test your platforms using a chronograph before skirmishing, to avoid disappointment on gameday!
What BBs should I use with my Airsoft gun?
The correct BB weight depends on your Airsoft gun and playstyle.
- 0.20g: Standard for most AEGs and pistols
- 0.25g–0.28g: Better for outdoor play and improved stability
- 0.30g–0.40g: Ideal for sniper rifles and high-powered builds
Always use high-quality Airsoft BBs for the best consistency and to avoid internal issues like jamming. Never use metal BBs.
Buying from Patrol Base
When buying from Patrol Base, we like to keep things simple! You have two options: come to our Showroom and get hands-on before you buy, or use our website and have your new gear delivered. If you have any questions, our Customer Service Experts are only a phone call or email away. Finance options are available, both in-store and on the website. If you need your kit double time, use our 1-2 Day Dispatch Service!
Can I try airsoft guns before I buy?
Yes, you can visit our Huddersfield showroom, the largest brick-and-mortar airsoft store in the UK and get a hands on experience with any platform that we stock.
We also have a demo range where we often hold events such as shooting challenges or trying out the latest Airsoft replicas to hit the market.
Do you offer a price match on airsoft guns?
Yes, we offer a price match promise on all our Airsoft products.
If you find the same product cheaper from a different UK-based retailer with stock available and not currently on sale, we’ll match their price!
Do you offer finance on Airsoft guns?
Is next-day delivery available on Airsoft guns?
We offer one to two-day dispatch on most Airsoft guns and products, subject to stock and ordering before 2:45 pm.
Orders are shipped via DPD and UPS across the UK, with full delivery options shown at checkout.









