As a sport, airsoft uses its fair share of abbreviations and specific terminology that can be confusing for newbies. To help you out, we've created an in-depth airsoft glossary to help you decode messages from teammates or on airsoft forums.
Whether you're a complete rookie or getting back into the sport after a few years and want to brush up on your abbreviations, acronyms, and jargon, this guide covers everything from weapon terms to safety abbreviations.
Airsoft Glossary – Key Terms Explained
- Airsoft uses a wide range of abbreviations and terminology to enable fast, clear communication during games, forums, and team coordination.
- Understanding common airsoft terms helps players react quickly in high-pressure situations and improves teamwork on the field.
- This glossary covers essential categories, including airsoft gun types, gameplay roles, game modes, gear, safety rules, and tactical language.
- Knowing technical and safety-related terms such as FPS, joules, UKARA, and chrono checks is essential for legal compliance and safe play in the UK.
- Learning airsoft jargon helps new players integrate into the community faster while allowing experienced players to communicate more effectively.
Why Does Airsoft Use Abbreviations?
Airsoft is full of abbreviations, and for good reason; they make communication quicker and easier during games and discussions.
In a fast-paced game where split-second decisions matter, knowing a few key terms and acronyms helps players share important info without wasting time.
You’ll also see these abbreviations pop up in forums, guides, and community chats, making it easier to talk about more complex topics.
We like to think of it as a shared language that brings airsoft players together and helps newbies get up to speed faster.
Are Airsoft Terminology Abbreviations Important?
Absolutely! Getting the hang of airsoft abbreviations is a total game-changer. It helps everyone communicate on the fly, especially when the action heats up on the field.
When you use terms like AEG (Automatic Electric Gun) or FPS (Feet Per Second), you can pass on key info in seconds. Plus, it’s a great way for newbies to learn the ropes and feel like they're part of the squad.
So, whether you're plotting your next move with teammates or just hanging out in forums online, knowing the right lingo will make you feel right at home in the airsoft world.
The Socom Tactical Airsoft Glossary:
Because there are so many abbreviations and terms used in the world of airsoft, we've broken our glossary down into different sections to help you find the terms you need quickly.
Please note: This glossary is as in-depth as possible, but new terms are being coined all the time by players, so we may have missed some newer ones!
Airsoft Gun Abbreviations:
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- AEG (Automatic Electric Gun): The most common type of airsoft rifle, powered by a rechargeable battery.
- AEP (Airsoft Electric Pistol): A pistol version of an AEG, also using a battery.
- ASG (Air Soft Gun): A general term for any airsoft gun.
- AR (Assault Rifle): A category of rifle, like the M4 or AK series.
- GBBR (Gas Blowback Rifle): A gas-powered gun where the slide or bolt moves back and forth to simulate a real firearm.
- LMG (Light Machine Gun): A rifle designed for sustained, suppressive fire.
- MWS (Modular Weapon System): A system allowing a gun's parts (like the upper and lower receivers) to be swapped for different uses, such as close-quarters battle or long-range engagement.
- NBB (No Blow Back): A gas-powered gun where the slide does not move when fired.
- SMG (Submachine Gun): A compact automatic weapon, like an MP5.
- RIF (Replica Imitation Firearm): The legal term for a realistic-looking airsoft gun in the UK.
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Gameplay & Role Terms:
- Skirmish: An organised airsoft game or battle.
- OP (Operation): A large, organised airsoft event, often with a story or specific objectives.
- AAR (After Action Report): A review or debrief of a game after it has finished.
- CQB/CQC (Close Quarters Battle/Combat): Gameplay in tight spaces like buildings, where engagements are very close.
- DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle): A semi-automatic rifle modified for higher accuracy at medium-to-long ranges.
- Sniper: A player role focused on long-range shooting with a high-powered rifle.
- Medic: A specific player role with the ability to "revive" hit teammates, based on the game's rules.
- MilSim (Military Simulation): A type of airsoft game focused on realism, often imitating military tactics, gear, and command structures.
- AO (Area of Operation): The designated play area or map for a game.
- BDU (Battle Dress Uniform): The clothing or camouflage uniform a player wears.
- CO (Commanding Officer): The leader of a team or squad.
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Game Types:
- Team Deathmatch (TDM): A straightforward game where two teams compete to eliminate each other.
- Capture the Flag (CTF): Teams must infiltrate the enemy's base, capture their flag, and return it to their own base to score.
- King of the Hill: A game where teams fight to control a single, specific point on the map for as long as possible.
- Domination: Teams score points by capturing and holding multiple locations on the field simultaneously.
- VIP Escort: One team must protect a designated "VIP" player and get them to an objective, while the other team tries to eliminate them.
Gear & Equipment Terms:
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- RIS/RAS (Rail Interface/Accessory System): The rails on a gun used to attach accessories like scopes, grips, and lights.
- MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment): The grid of webbing loops on vests and packs used to attach pouches and gear.
- Hop-Up: A mechanism inside the gun that applies backspin to a BB, increasing its range and accuracy.
- CO2: A type of compressed gas, stored in 12g cartridges, used to power some airsoft guns.
- Green Gas: A common propane-based gas used to power GBB guns, which often contains silicone oil for lubrication.
- LiPo (Lithium Polymer): A lightweight, high-performance rechargeable battery type for AEGs.
- Hi-Cap (High-Capacity Magazine): A magazine that holds a large number of BBs (often 250+) and is loaded by winding a wheel or pulling a cord.
- Mid-Cap/Low-Cap: A more realistic magazine that holds fewer BBs (usually under 250) and does not require winding.
- Tracer Unit: A device attached to a gun's barrel that "charges" glow-in-the-dark BBs so they appear as visible streaks, especially for night games.
- BB: The plastic or biodegradable pellets used as ammunition in airsoft.
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Safety & Rules:
- FPS (Feet Per Second): The speed at which a BB leaves the barrel, used to measure the power of a gun.
- Joule: A unit of energy. It's a more accurate way to measure a gun's power, as it accounts for both the BB's speed and weight.
- Chrono (Chronograph): A device used at airsoft fields to measure a gun's FPS and joule output to ensure it is within safe limits.
- Eye Pro: A general term for mandatory eye protection, like goggles or masks.
- Full Seal Goggles: Goggles that form a complete seal around the eyes, which is the minimum standard for safety at most fields.
- Bang Rule: A common safety rule where a player can shout "Bang!" to eliminate an opponent at very close range, instead of shooting them.
- UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association): An association in the UK that manages a database to verify eligible airsoft players, allowing them to purchase realistic imitation firearms (RIFs).
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Tactical & Communication Terms:
- Fireteam: A small group of players (usually 2-4) working together as a tactical unit.
- Bounding: A movement technique where one player provides covering fire while another moves forward, alternating roles.
- Flanking: Attacking the enemy from the side or rear for a tactical advantage.
- Suppressing Fire: Firing continuously at an enemy's position to keep them pinned down and unable to move or shoot back.
- Call Your Hits: The most important rule in airsoft: honestly acknowledging when you have been hit by a BB.
Technical Terms:
- MOSFET: An electronic component installed in AEGs to improve trigger response, increase the rate of fire, and protect the electrical system.
- Shimming: The process of adding thin washers (shims) to correctly align the gears inside a gearbox for smoother and more efficient operation.
- AOE (Angle of Engagement): Adjusting the alignment between the gears and the piston in a gearbox to prevent premature wear and damage.
- TDC (Top-Down Centre): A modification to the hop-up unit that applies pressure directly from the top for more consistent and precise BB spin.
- RPS (Rounds Per Second): The rate of fire of an automatic airsoft gun.
General Slang & Military Terms:
- DOA (Dead on Arrival): A player who is eliminated immediately after entering the game or respawning.
- AWOL (Absent Without Leave): A player who is missing from their assigned position.
- ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival): How long it will take to reach a location.
- KIA (Killed in Action): A player who has been eliminated from the game.
- MIA (Missing in Action): A player whose location is unknown.
- ROE (Rules of Engagement): The specific rules for the game being played.
- Tango: A common term used to refer to an enemy player.
- UW (Unconventional Warfare): Gameplay involving sabotage or other non-standard tactics.
Final Thoughts: Stay in the Know With Our Airsoft Glossary
Understanding airsoft terminology and abbreviations is essential, especially when you're on the field or at a shooting range.
Clear communication can often make the difference between winning and losing a match. Knowing these terms helps you coordinate with your team, respond quickly to situations, and stay on top of strategies and tactics.
One of the best things about airsoft is that there's always something new to learn. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, this glossary can help you expand your knowledge and share it with new players to strengthen the airsoft community.
You can find more airsoft tips and tricks on the Socom Tactical blog. We regularly update with the latest news and hot topics in the world of airsoft.
