The Full Airsoft Loadout Checklist
Best Affordable Airsoft Gear Buys in 2023
Every airsoft or milsim player needs some necessities to get playing. Starting off is very daunting, and finding the right gear is often a huge pain, so I put together a full checklist of every gear-related item needed for airsoft right here. In this checklist, I will break down the most cost-effective high quality gear that I personally have used and recommend.
1. Eye Protection
Every field requires some type of eye protection, and there are really two ways to go with this. A full face mask, or full seal goggles and a mask/bandana over your mouth. Keep in mind that mesh goggles are NEVER an option because they can be shot through or split bb’s in half and send shrapnel flying into your precious eyes. If you are under 18, many fields require a full face covering, and my personal choice is a full face mask called the ANSI rated Evike Valken MI-7 Full Face Mask. It is very comfortable and provides thermal lenses so it never fogs up on you.
The other option is full seal goggles and a mesh mask or bandana. The best option is the Valken Sienna Goggles. They provide excellent comfortability and plenty of protection.
2. Mouth Protection
Some fields require mouth protection if you are under 18, but I would recommend it for anyone. I’ve personally seen people get permanent marks of their face and chipped teeth from not wearing mouth protection. Again, there’s two ways you could go with this one — A mesh mask or a bandana. For a mesh mask, I HIGHLY recommend the OneTigris Foldable Mesh Mask because it is foldable, lightweight, covers your ears as well, and fits great with the goggles above.
If you choose a bandana, I recommend the BLIENCE camo wind-resistant bandana because of the high-quality stretchable polyester and comfortable fit on nearly every head shape.
3. Gloves
Gloves are a very important accessory in airsoft, as they help protect hands from cuts, scrapes and bruises while playing. Getting shot in the hand in airsoft is the most PAINFUL spot to be hit, so gloves are a necessity. They also improve grip and handling of your airsoft gun, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately. Additionally, gloves add an extra layer of protection when crawling, diving, and performing other physically demanding actions on the field. I use and recommend these fingerless tactical gloves, which provide ample protection while allowing for maximum dexterity and grip.
4. Chest Rig
A chest rig/tactical vest is the MOST IMPORTANT piece of airsoft gear on this list, and I cannot stress getting one enough. A chest rig allows you to carry ammunition, magazines, and other essential gear in a convenient and accessible manner. The rig distributes the weight evenly across the torso, reducing fatigue and allowing for a more comfortable playing experience. With its adjustable straps and customizable pouches, chest rigs can be tailored to fit the individual player's needs and preferences. I personally use and recommend a Yakeda Tactical Vest, which offers a high-quality construction and ample storage space for all your airsoft essentials. As a bonus, it comes with a free patch!
5. Tracer Unit
A tracer unit is an essential accessory in airsoft, as it allows players to visually track the trajectory of their BBs and see where they are hitting, which is very useful especially in low light conditions. Tracer units also add an exciting and unique element to airsoft gameplay, creating bright and visually appealing tracer effects with every shot fired. For those of you on a budget, I recommend the Acetech Brighter C tracer unit, which offers reliable performance and affordability. If you are looking for some cool features such as multi-colored BBs, then be sure to check out the Acetech Biofrost, which offers a variety of color options and advanced features.
6. Optics
An optic is another essential accessory in airsoft, as it enhances accuracy and allows players to quickly acquire targets in fast-paced gameplay. A good optic should have clear and bright reticles, be durable, and have adjustable brightness settings to accommodate different lighting conditions. An optic also adds a personal touch to a player's airsoft gun and can greatly enhance their overall performance and playing experience. I personally use and recommend the Feyachi red dot sight, which offers a bright and clear reticle, durable construction, and multiple brightness settings for a range of lighting conditions. If you play at outdoor fields and would benefit from a sight with zoom capability, then this Lancer Tactical 1.5-6x zoom scope would be great for you! 1.5x zoom is great for closeup, and for farther away you can zoom right in to 6x which is plenty for airsoft rifles.
7. Slings
A sling allows you to comfortably carry their airsoft gun when you are not using it and quickly transition to using it in combat. A good sling should be durable, adjustable, and allow the player to easily transition between carrying and shooting positions. If your rifle does not have Quick Detach (QD) sling mounts, then I would recommend this 2 point sling, which attaches to the front and rear of the rifle. If your rifle has QD sling mounts, then I would recommend this QD sling, which allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment from the rifle.
8. (Optional) Combat Shirt
This one is purely optional, because it is more cosmetic than effective, and if you are running on a budget then I recommend sticking to the basics first. Even though a combat shirt is mainly cosmetic, there are some benefits due to the stretchable and breathable material this specific shirt is made of. As an added bonus, it makes your airsoft/milsim gear loadout look perfect. The combat shirt I recommend is linked here.
The Extras:
Those 8 things make up the most important airsoft accessories to have, but there are many more that are still very useful. These are extra mags, knee pads, tactical pants, holsters(if you have a pistol), etc. If you are curious about those, subscribe below or check out the rest of Bandit Boys Airsoft posts!
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