AirSoft Gun and the law - are ASG replicas legal in Poland?
In Poland, the topic of the legality of airsoft replicas is of interest to many people. Due to the very high similarity of ASG carbines to real weapons, questions arise about the legality of owning this type of replicas, as well as about other legal issues.
In the following article, we take a look at the main aspects related to the legality of ASG replicas in Poland, aiming to provide clear information for anyone interested in the sport. Are ASG replicas legal in Poland? Do you have to comply with age, registration or transport requirements? Find the answers to these and other questions below.
ASG - what is it and what is worth knowing about it?
ASG is an acronym from the name 'AirSoft Gun', which when translated into Polish means airsoft gun.
The first ASG replicas originated in Japan and were used by military units for training purposes. Today, these types of replicas are mainly used in the team sport known as airsoft or ASG. In this sport, players take part in pre-planned scenarios under set rules. Each game can be based on a different scenario modelled on missions and actions carried out by the military or uniformed services. As in real-life missions, this requires players to develop tactical plans and execute the gameplay elements accordingly to ensure victory.
Airsoft Gun replicas, or weapons for ASG
ASG weapons are highly reproducible replicas of combustible models with energies ranging from 1 to about 5 J. The power of replicas is determined by considering the discharge velocity measured in feet per second, assuming that 1 FPS equals 0.30 m/s.
ASG replicas are most often made on a scale of 1:1. Plastic balls, usually with a diameter of 6 mm (less often 8 mm), are used to shoot replica carbines. Below is the most popular division of ASG replicas by type of propulsion system:
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Spring-loaded replicas
In this type of replica, the ball is fired by a jet of compressed air. The air is compressed in the cylinder by the movement of a spring-loaded piston. The disadvantage of spring-loaded replicas is the necessity to tension the spring each time before firing. The advantages include, above all, the low price.
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Gas replicas
In gas-powered replicas, the ball is expelled by gas placed in a special reservoir. In the case of gas-powered replicas, it is possible to eliminate the need to reload each time, creating a self-reloading replica model. Gas replicas are also characterised by high power output. Disadvantages of gas replicas include poorer gas performance at low air temperatures.
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Electric replicas (also known as AEG)
In AEG replicas, the firing occurs by compressed air in a cylinder, which is driven by a spring and piston. An electric motor is responsible for the movement of the spring and piston, on which a gear system operates to tension the spring and piston. The electric replica allows shooting with automatic or semi-automatic fire.
Regardless of the type of propulsion system, the vast majority of ASG replicas are deceptively similar to firearms. These replicas are very often made of identical materials to the firearm versions. In addition, replicas of ASG rifles come in the same varieties and we can divide them into: assault, sniper or bull-pup (barrel behind the trigger mechanism). As with firearms, ASG replicas can also be fitted with additional accessories, such as: optical sights, silencer or mounting rails.
Interestingly, many firearms manufacturers are also involved in the production of ASG replicas or sell licences to make replicas based on combustible prototypes.
Are replica ASG weapons legal?
ASG replicas sold by Militaria.pl are fully legal under Polish law and do not need to be registered. The rest of this paragraph explains this in detail.
According to Article 8 of the Act of 21 May 1999 on arms and ammunition in force in Poland, an air weapon is a device dangerous to life and health, which, as a result of the action of compressed gas, is capable of striking a target at a distance with a fired projectile, and the kinetic energy of the projectile leaving the barrel or the element replacing it exceeds 17 J.
The kinetic energy of the ASG replicas offered by Militaria.pl varies between 1 and 5 J, which is why these replicas are not air weapons as defined by the law.
In view of the above, the ASG replica you will buy at Militaria.pl is not a weapon under the law and does not require a permit or registration.
Age restrictions in ASG competitions
Neither a lower nor an upper age limit for the possession of an ASG replica is specified. However, a lower age limit is usually imposed for organised games. This is set by the organiser of the shoot. People over the age of 18 are most often invited to take part in games. People who are 16 years of age or older are also allowed in the games, but written consent from a parent or legal guardian is required. It is worth noting that many of the nationwide games only allow people over the age of 21 to participate.
How to carry and store an ASG replica?
Issues of transport and storage of replicas are not covered by Polish law. In theory, it is permitted to carry a replica in a city, for example, but it should be borne in mind that it is deceptively similar to its flammable counterpart, which may provoke a reaction from passers-by. This is why it is always advisable to carry a replica in a cover.
Where can you shoot ASG replicas?
It is advisable to choose safe locations for conducting games or training with an ASG replica where there is no risk of firing at a bystander, animal or vehicles. Such safe places could be:
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ASG shooting ranges
Special ASG shooting ranges are available in many places, where suitable conditions for shooting replicas are provided. A major advantage of the shooting ranges is the maintenance of all safety standards and qualified personnel. Special shooting lanes are available at the ranges, as well as safety devices to protect against flying bullets or the rental of weapons. The shooting ranges are a good place to practise shooting.
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Private land
Private areas work well as airsoft sites. By design, there is little chance of outsiders being there. If the land is not yours, remember to get permission from the owner first.
Safety rules for ASG games
Although ASG is often considered fun, health risks can occur during gameplay. For this reason, it is essential to follow safety rules that minimise this risk. Below you will find a sample list of airsoft safety rules:
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Always protect your eyes
Eye injuries can be some of the most dangerous consequences of an inadequately conducted ASG game. During dynamic skirmishes and other activities, there is a high risk of accidental firing, a replica malfunctioning or being hit by a so-called 'stray' bullet, which can even result in permanent loss of sight. It is therefore not worth the risk, and it is compulsory to carry throughout the entire game safety glasses, goggles or full mask with a viewfinder throughout the game.
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Protect the rest of the body
It is absolutely necessary to protect the eyes, but this does not mean that protecting the face and body is not important. Attention should be paid particularly to protecting the nose, neck and head. For this purpose, it is advisable to use face masks and various scarves or chimneys to protect the neck. It is not difficult to sustain a head injury during a game, whether as a result of inattention or being hit by an ASG ball, which is why we recommend equipping yourself with an ASG helmet.
It is also worth equipping yourself with waistcoat protecting the chest and knee and elbow guards. Tear-resistant will be equally useful tactical gloves and durable footwear.
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Always carry a first aid kit and a charged phone
The playing field should always be fully equipped first aid kit, with which to administer first aid. It is also essential that at least one of the players has a charged phone so that help can be summoned if necessary.
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Avoid direct contact
Close contact with an opponent, such as tugging or pushing, should definitely not take place during gameplay. Another very important consideration is to ensure that shots are not fired at close range - damage to the protective elements and consequent bodily harm can occur.
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Designate a safe zone
It is a good idea to designate a safe zone in the area where the game is being played. This zone should be free of gunfire to ensure the safety of players who wish to rest, adjust their equipment and remove their masks in this area.
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Comply with prohibited targets
First and foremost are bystanders, animals and objects that are not part of the game. Prohibited targets should also include prohibited parts of the players' bodies, and shots to the head and face area should be avoided.
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Control the power of the replica
ASG replicas often undergo tuning, which can also affect its kinetic energy. It is necessary to control that the replica does not exceed the set limits.
In professional games, the replica can be shot by the event organisers to measure its power before the player is allowed to play. Alternatively, you can measure the power of the replica yourself using the chronograph.
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Follow the rules of the game
It is imperative that the established rules of the game and the rules and regulations of the ground or facility on which the game is played are strictly adhered to.
In addition to these rules, also remember to properly secure the replica before and after the game and to transport it safely: the magazine should be unfastened, the balls removed from the cartridge chamber, the safety set to the safe position and all equipment secured in its cases.
Also remember to secure the power source. For spring-loaded replicas, ensure that the spring is not under tension. If you are using an AEG replica unplug the battery, and on a gas replica empty or unplug the gas tank.
ASG offer at Militaria.pl
At Militaria.pl you will find all the equipment you need for ASG games. Our offer includes various types of replicas, including: pistols and revolvers, assault rifles, sniper rifles and machine guns, as well as grenade launchers, grenades and ASG mines. You will also find accessories for the replicas: bullets, CO2 cartridges, rechargeable batteries, batteries, chargers and magazines. Also worth noting are sights as well as target sights, targets and shotgun shells.
As we mentioned, protection is key, which is why our ASG range includes a wide selection of protective accessories and tactical gear. A must-see in our category AirSoft Gun.
