Airsoft Game in Qatar: Business Project Proposal

Introduction

A document designed to determine the key directions of the state development of Qatar is the Qatar 2030 strategy. The concept is based on five basic principles:

1. Modernization subject to the preservation of traditions;
2. Orientation to the needs of the present generation as well as of the future ones;
3. Controlled growth and inadmissibility of external expansion;
4. Compliance of the number of foreigners working in the country and their qualifications with the tasks of its development;
5. Economic growth, social development, and environmental protection.

As stated in the concept, the successful implementation of these principles depends on a solid foundation resting on four “pillars”:

1. Human development;
2. Social development;
3. Economic development;
4. An enabling environment, which implies harmony between economic growth, social development and environmental protection.

At the same time, the humanitarian section of the Social Development Strategy, drawn up on the basis of the main vision of the country’s development until 2030, is aimed at a qualitative improvement in health care and education. For this, the Qatari leadership has prepared appropriate programs. In particular, in April 2011, the launch of the National Health Strategy was announced, in which the main emphasis is placed on providing residents with almost all medical care possible today, as well as on continuing research work in this area (Qatar General Secretariat for Development Planning, 2011). At the same time, it is taken into account that the population of the country will increase annually by at least 2.1% (Qatar General Secretariat for Development Planning, 2011). The social program assumes an improvement in the quality of life; it emphasizes the extremely important role of the family in the education of the younger generation. This should be facilitated by the holding of all kinds of free cultural events: exhibitions, festivals, visits to museums, the organization of musical programs related, among other things, the holding of international competitions in various sports.

Thanks to the implementation of the public health strategy and the promotion of healthy lifestyles, the value of an athletic lifestyle has now increased among young people in Qatar. Also, along with standard sports, increasingly more young people are beginning to be interested in and get involved in various specific sports games. Military-oriented games (such as paintball, airsoft, hardball, etc.) are some of these games, in which the interest of young people has been actively increasing.

Airsoft is a usually non-profit, team-based military sports game. This type of military sports game differs from other similar games (paintball, hardball, etc.) in that it has a greater emphasis on imitation of real combat units. That is, the light pneumatics used in this game, unlike weapons in other similar games, visually copies real-life types of weapons. It is also customary for players to wear a military field uniform (or as much as possible similar). In the game, players use copies of various military equipment and related equipment. As a result, one can say that airsoft is a type of sports game focused on the maximum copying of real combat actions, where, accordingly, the participants play the role of fighters.

Airsoft is interesting to young people, first of all, as an extreme military-oriented sports game, that is, most of the players go to this sport, in one way or another, being fond of military topics. Therefore, they have an interest, because in the process of this game they can assume the role of a fighter and want to feel the corresponding sensations that are difficult to get in ordinary life. However, there are also airsoft players who claim that this sport is relaxing for them, that is, during the game they “let off steam,” the game does not give many opportunities to get new sensations, but simply gives a break from everyday life. There are also people for whom airsoft is, so to speak, “fun” – it is an opportunity to shoot from a weapon, “remember childhood,” just play war games or “feel like a man with a weapon” (Daniel, 2015). Secondly, young people go to play airsoft to acquire various military-tactical skills of behavior in hostilities, skills of firing weapons, teamwork, and so on. On average, the lower limit of the age of participation is between 18-20 years, the upper one reaches 45-50 years, but the main composition is between 20 and 35 years old (Daniel, 2015). Airsoft, despite the dominance of male participants in the game, is not gender homogeneous, and the number of female participants only increases over the years.

For a full immersion in the game, these points are extremely desirable and important, because the main goal of airsoft is the maximum imitation of real combat operations, but at the same time with minimal injury to the participants. That is, in the course of the game, the players gain experience of survival in various combat actions. Moreover, it is an opportunity to communicate with people with similar interests and, of course, establish new acquaintances. Also, given that universal conscription was introduced in Qatar in 2014, paramilitary sports such as airsoft seem to be highly advisable, since they can help young people gain important combat training skills even before being drafted into the army. In connection with the above, the study of the possibilities of legalizing airsoft in Qatar seems to be a very urgent task.

Background

Military team games have significant positive potential both in the field of health improvement and disease prevention, and in the field of youth socialization and patriotic education. However, while paintball is legal in Qatar, airsoft is prohibited. Meanwhile, airsoft has a number of significant advantages over paintball. First of all, a significant difference can be traced in the very atmosphere of the game. Paintball attracts players with aggressiveness and activity, fast pace of battles, the small size of the field, the need to constantly move and calculate enemy attacks, and does not oblige participants to have specialized skills. Airsoft is more suitable for people who, in addition to drive, need a special atmosphere. Detailed recreation of military surroundings, a variety of locations, protracted battles and tactics “think first – then shoot” are the hallmarks of the game.

To be safe in paintball, one needs a special set of ammunition with a mandatory mask to protect the head and neck. Airsoft players do not have special requirements when choosing a uniform. The exception is high-strength glasses that protect the eyes from bullets. Paintball markers are more like futuristic guns powered by compressed air, nitrogen or carbon dioxide. Due to the larger diameter of the bullet, their injury risk is slightly higher, so one can say that playing paintball is more painful than airsoft. Unlike paintball markers, airsoft uses imitation of real military weapons, down to weight, layout, magazine capacity. It has great hitting accuracy, long range and high speed of the balls. In addition, airsoft balls are lighter and, therefore, less unpleasant when hit. Paintball is a recognized sport, and as any sport, it is characterized by entertainment, the presence of strictly specified rules, referees and spectators. Airsoft is a hobby popular with reenactors and real men as it simulates real combat and gives more room to maneuver; in fact, airsoft has only positive aspects. It is safe if to follow all the rules; it gives the opportunity to ‘discharge’ psychologically, provides physical activity and development, in connection with which the legalization of this game in Qatar seems to be very relevant.

Literature Review

Airsoft first appeared in Japan, where its true home is located. After the end of World War II, Japan could not conduct exercises and use real military weapons. In order not to lose the skills of self-defense and possession of weapons, the Japanese came up with a “toy” weapon. Instead of bullets used in a real firearm, rifle or machine gun, Japanese began to put plastic bullets (Betty, 2012). They are made from a material that cannot kill, but can give a person an unpleasant sensation when directly hitting the body. Such weapons allowed the Japanese to officially and quite legally engage in military training. Then this original idea was taken up by other countries. Weapons with plastic bullets began to be used both by the military during exercises (because it is cheap) and by ordinary civilians for entertainment. This is how the game, which today is known as airsoft, was born, which later turned into a sport.

Airsoft is a team military sports game in which an airsoft drive is used for shooting – as it was mentioned above, an exact replica of real firearms and plastic balls. The essence of airsoft is to simulate paramilitary actions by opposing teams. In airsoft, there are generally accepted rules that are based on the observance of a culture of behavior between airsoft players and safety standards. For example, the use of force to grab equipment or weapons is not allowed. It is also not allowed to use killed participants for the purpose of natural shelter. Airsoft tries to bring the atmosphere and surroundings of combat conditions as close as possible, so that the players get the feeling that everything is happening in the atmosphere of real battle (Siniecki, 2016). Each game has its own scenarios that must be followed – every game is played according to the established scenario. Game scenarios can be very different: “hunting” for a group of enemies, seizing a building, destroying a sabotage squad, and so on. There are a huge number of existing scenarios worked out in battles. Despite this, everyone can offer their own unique game scenario.

The main “image” feature of airsoft game is the weapon. For airsoft players, this is an exact copy of a real combat drive. At the same time, the weight, rate of fire and recoil of the butt are all for real. The choice of airsoft weapons is huge: the assortment includes more than one hundred types of devices. A specific feature of airsoft is that the game is played on fairness, since the airsoft ball does not leave visible traces. After being hit, the player must wear a red armband and take a place among the killed participants. When a player does not admit defeat, he is ‘awarded’ the title of MacLeod.

Modeling is encouraged in airsoft. In this case, players use the uniforms and equipment of real-life army units from different countries of the world. At the same time, uniforms are usually brought to order from the country of the modeled unit. Airsoft has undeniable advantages over other games, which include the following (Siniecki, 2016):

• High realism of the ongoing actions;
• Reduced injury risk – according to the established rules, the firing range is more than 50 meters. Hitting an airsoft ball cannot harm the player. In addition, airsoft players use special equipment that can protect the body, face, and head of the player from various injuries;
• Minimum costs – ammunition in airsoft is cheaper than in paintball. The player can fully enjoy the battle, while spending little money;
• No space restrictions – the game can be played indoors or in the forest. Specially equipped polygons can be used for airsoft games; the games are much more interesting than in paintball, since there are buildings of different heights, empty buildings, and trenches on the territory.

Often, participants in airsoft battles are injured not as a result of the use of weapons against them, but from falls from a height, collisions with building elements or trees. Damage to the skin and soft tissues (bruises, abrasions) can appear in the player if safety requirements are not followed. For example, it is strictly forbidden to take off glasses during a battle, even if a participant just wants to scratch eyes. Beginners wishing to join the ranks of airsoft players are afraid of knocking out teeth with standard balls. However, such cases are extremely rare and can be easily prevented by wearing a special mask on the lower part of the face. In terms of the level of injury, airsoft is similar to football or basketball. Following the rules of the game allows enjoying it without fear of various negative consequences (Western Australia Airsoft Club Inc., 2018). One of the important differences between airsoft and other types of similar military-sports games (paintball, laser tag) lies in its original non-commercial spirit. If it is difficult for paintball or laser tag to imagine the existence of regular large games with 1000 participants on a non-commercial basis, then for airsoft this state of affairs is the norm.

Research shows that the obvious benefits of participating in airsoft games are improving the social well-being of game participants, reducing social tension, increasing interest in leading a healthy lifestyle, and strengthening the physical and moral conditioning of young people. There is an improvement in the conditions for organizing leisure activities for residents of urban micro-districts, which reduces social tension and contributes to a decrease in the level of criminal activity, especially in disadvantaged areas (Western Australia Airsoft Club Inc., 2018). Also, airsoft helps to increase performance, discipline, independence of decision-making, development of strong-willed and moral and psychological qualities in adolescents, increases the level of involvement of young people in sports sections, helps propaganda in the field of sports. If to carry out a comparative analysis of equipment used in paintball and airsoft, then airsoft weapons look preferable, which have a number of advantages over paintball ones, and make their use especially effective (Mildenhall, n. d):

1. Realism of current events. In addition to the appearance of the weapon, which is as close as possible to the image of the original models, plastic balls are used in airsoft, the impact force of which is higher than that of consumables in paintball. In addition, participants in battles often copy real battles or wear the uniform of certain units.
2. Almost complete correspondence of airsoft weapons to the existing combat models of weapons. The weapon is represented by spring-piston, electro-pneumatic, and gas models.
3. A variety of possible scenarios. Players often recreate the atmosphere of games (S.T.A.L.K.E.R, Fallout, etc.). Military actions can last no more than 2-3 hours or stretch over several days.
4. Small traumatic effect on the participant, in contrast to the paintball (when using airsoft weapons, a person may limit himself to protective devices for the eyes and face). When the ball hits the torso, the player does not even get a bruise (unless shoot was made at close distance).
5. Minimum costs. The cost of ammunition in airsoft is much cheaper than paintballs with paint.
6. Ability to conduct games in any conditions, which may be either urban conditions (buildings, construction sites), playgrounds, or shooting range, any forest, field. There are no restrictions on the space of the game – battles can be conducted indoors, in a forest or on a training ground.
7. Reliability and durability of airsoft weapons.
8. The ability to conduct single and automatic fire from various positions only at short distances (up to thirty meters);
9. Minimal impact of climatic conditions on airsoft weapons.

At the same time, personal protective equipment can be used: light body armor, plastic helmets with a transparent impact-resistant visor. Before directly conducting practical games using airsoft equipment, it is necessary to organize classes (2-4 hours) to study its material part, operating rules, and safety measures for weapons use.

The table below summarizes the main differences between paintball and airsoft.

Table. Airsoft and paintball: difference and main characteristics

Source: Drawn up by the author based on manufacturers’ websites and blogs.

World Experience and Legal Implications

The USA can be called the center of world airsoft; the federations promoting this game have more than 500 thousand members. Some manufacturers of airsoft weapons and ammunition are focused specifically on the United States. Many countries are following the United States in their airsoft legislation. According to federal law, airsoft weapons do not belong to the category of firearms, but are called “soft pneumatics,” legal for all ages (Legal Issues in Airsoft, 2020). However, if the body of the weapon is not transparent, manufacturers are obliged to make an orange marking on the end of the barrel, indicating that the weapon is not combat. The only limitation is the requirement to hold events with the use of airsoft weapons outside the city. Minnesota even allowed children under 14 to participate in airsoft games on the state level.

Airsoft is also legal in Japan and weapon rentals are widespread. There are also special polygons with lots of objects on the field. However, all the attention of the authorities is aimed at preventing the slightest possibility of turning the airsoft barrel into a real firearm. First of all, this is the limitation of the muzzle energy, which should not be higher than 0.98 joules (95 m/s). Legal standards for strike weapons include, but are not limited to, the use of non-ballistic plastics and low melting point metals. The incompatibility of mechanisms and mechanical components with the components of firearms is checked, as well as many other parameters. In Denmark, airsoft guns are not subject to the gun control legislation, so only a few general pneumatics rules apply to them – in particular, reaching the age of 18 (Legal Issues in Airsoft, 2020). Airsoft is quite popular in this country, and international games are regularly held.

It is significant that in the emirate of Sharjah (United Arab Emirates) back in 2011 the largest Middle East paintball and airsoft park (Sharjah Paintball Park) opened. In addition to outdoor areas for paintball and airsoft, it has a two-story building with two playing fields inside. On the ground floor of the building, styled as a barracks interior, there is a reception, an armory room, a Grab’N’Go cafe, a specialized shop selling paintball accessories, men’s and women’s changing rooms, showers, storage rooms, and training rooms. On the second floor, there are two “battlefields.” In addition, the Sharjah Specialized Park has three more open fields with planes, jeeps, bunkers and high towers. The park is located on the territory of Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club. The reluctance of the Qatari authorities to legalize airsoft is surprising, despite the fact that it is not only legalized, but also quite popular in the neighboring Arab country of the UAE.

Educational and Recreational Potential of Airsoft

Airsoft has high educational potential and contributes to strengthening public health. In a number of studies, a very low aggressiveness of large groups of airsoft players was noted, as well as their high degree of self-organization (there were just phenomenal examples of tolerance for boorish manifestations of “non-combatants” – those who do not play) (Daniel, 2015). Airsoft players increase their ability to adequately perceive events in a state of stress, as well as an increase in the stress threshold itself. Weekly games lasting 5-6 hours and daily games about once a month maintain some physical fitness even for those who do not play sports. People with alcohol and drug addiction are eliminated from airsoft. With the constant use of technical devices (drives, walkie-talkies, night vision devices, optical devices, etc.), the level of technical competence increases even among those who were previously far from it. In addition, airsoft contributes to the development of democratic behavior – people with different social status learn to renounce who they are outside the game.

Airsoft fosters teamwork skills as well as ethical behavior and honesty. If in paintball one can immediately see who is “alive” and who is “killed” (the enemy has hit, and the paint with which the “bullet” is filled spills over the clothes as a bright spot), then in airsoft, the hit of a six-millimeter plastic ball leaves no marks on the ammunition. The “shot” fighter must leave the battle by himself. Those who do not leave the game when they were hit are called MacLeods, that is, “immortals.”

Everyday activity in a modern city limits a person, replacing real emotions and sources of vitality with artificial counterparts. Human is not adapted by nature to long-term work while sitting and breathing the city air. Especially it is relevant for people who are naturally endowed with ingenuity and the need for self-realization. They find rest in the city by sports hobbies, various hobbies associated with extreme sports and spending a long time in nature. However, if there a desire of dynamics and physical development and one hobby should be chosen, airsoft becomes one of the optimal options.

The playing airsoft person has a large reserve of equanimity, which is transferred to his personal life. Where an ordinary person got angry and would have lost his temper, the airsoft player will simply ask politely and make it clear that it is impossible to outrage him. Every weekend, competitions are held in which people who are passionate about airsoft experience a variety of feelings within the game – from justified and sporting aggression towards the enemy to feelings of command honor and respect for the opponent.

The same skills, in different forms, will be useful in any sphere, education, business, and so on. These skills include the ability to build strategy and tactics for the medium and long term. In airsoft, military skill is closely related to reflection. Most viewers see only the spectacular design of each game: analogs of military weapons, shooting harmless “bullets” and sometimes expensive uniforms. However, the most important thing is that military tactics and strategy are hidden behind these symbols. Airsoft develops agility and dexterity, because without such skills one cannot win in a battle, even if he has the best weapon among all. The desire, which is contained in every man – to be the first – will certainly involve the whole brain, and after 5-10 games, he will think differently, win more often, and project the ability to see the possible development of events 2-3 steps forward into his life. This is a great skill that chess players, athletes and politicians develop. Airsoft develops the ability to think several steps ahead no worse than intellectual games, and, in addition to this, the body develops physically.

Full and harmonious forward movement is impossible without a competitive spirit. After all, namely in the confrontation with a strong player one can gain precious experience and understanding of what leads to victory and what does not. Weekly competitions with masters of disguise, physically strong and resilient people, as well as former military personnel will not let to relax. However, at the same time, the participant in the game will enjoy improving himself. Airsoft is played by different people who are distinguished by their craving for difficult and interesting tasks.

Despite the fact that airsoft is a game of armed clash between teams, one will not find aggression in it. The game has a multifaceted effect on a person’s life, his physical form and state of mind, and protects against stress. Psychologists unanimously state that the main disease of the century, which has affected all strata of society, regardless of gender, nationality, status, is stress (Smith, 2017). This condition is, first of all, the body’s response to irritation, with the production of excess energy. When a stressful situation arises, the muscles of the body are tense; the heartbeat, and also the pulse quickens. The human body feels the need to release the accumulated “charge.” To avoid directing destructive energy to body, it is rational to direct the gathered potential in a positive direction in time.

The causes of stress can be very different. According to statistics, in descending order, the main causes of stress for citizens are the following (Smith, 2017):

1. The rise in prices and the high cost of goods – about more than a third of the respondents are worried with them.
2. Unemployment and terrorism – a quarter of the respondents expressed concern about each of these points.
3. Housing problems and health.

One cannot but worry the fact revealed by sociologists – alcohol has become the most popular means of relieving stress among men. More than a third of the men surveyed practice “self-treatment” in this way. In second place in terms of the prevalence of “male medicine,” there is watching TV. It is unlikely that such methods will bring a lasting positive effect and will have a good effect on the physical health of males.

The world is full of stress, and one of the most effective ways to deal with it is to reduce stress through the release of adrenaline. If to look at the release of adrenaline as a chemical process, it can be defined as the starting point of the response. Its role is to shift the body into an active state with a characteristic release of energy sufficient to achieve maximum physical activity and thought process, as well as to feel good. Along with adrenaline, a significant amount of oxygen enters the bloodstream, the breathing rhythm changes, the body is overwhelmed with energy. The adrenaline rush is regarded by psychologists as the best way to escape from danger.

In addition, adrenaline is an excellent remedy for dampening the negative effects of cortisol, another stress hormone. Its distinctive feature is a slow, imperceptible release into the bloodstream under the influence of daily irritation and chronic tension, which leads to a decrease in endurance, a tendency to colds, headaches, immune system failures, in the stomach – in short, cortisol is much more dangerous than adrenaline.

It is important to consider that this method of dealing with stress should be used ‘in doses.’ A long, regular release of adrenaline will cause the opposite reaction – wear of the body and a strong depletion of energy reserves. Long-term stimulation of the body will require constant maintenance of physical resources at a high level. The best option for the beneficial use of adrenaline will be participation in an active game, during which the body benefits and adjusts its work. After the end of the game, it will take time to recuperate. In addition, an excess of stress and anxiety is characteristic of indecisive people, so participation in games that develop lightning-fast reactions and the ability to make quick decisions will be useful in such cases.

After the successful resolution of a short-term stressful situation, a surge of dopamine will occur in the part of the brain responsible for the sensation of pleasure, causing a state of euphoria, a surge of joy. The way out of stress is in the game; airsoft battles are optimal for dealing with stress, because they lead to a serious short-term burst of adrenaline and vivid emotions, which ultimately give the body a much-needed boost of vigor and relieve psychological fatigue. Some authors argue that each person has its own norm of emotions or emotional peak (Kach, 2011). From time to time, a person feels the need to achieve it, otherwise the risk of developing pression increases. Approximately one third of the population, according to experts, has a high threshold for emotional reaction, which means an increased need for an emotional outburst (Kach, 2011). It can be any extreme sport, skydiving, high speed on the track and, of course, the game – anything related to experiencing a sense of risk allows getting rid of stress and self-dissatisfaction. Therefore, regular airsoft exercises, leading to short-term periodic surges of adrenaline, will be invaluable in preventing stress.

In addition, it is worth noting the fact that the airsoft players themselves confirm the positive effect of the game. They find its value in the fact that in the process of reproducing military historical realities there is an adrenaline rush and emotional relief (Kach, 2011). If a person feels the need to relieve stress, he/she should try hand at airsoft. Despite the similarities, this is no longer a child’s war game. Six months of training can make dramatic changes in life, making airsoft an important part of life. Thanks to this game, a person begins to think about what thoughts were inherent in a soldier lying in a shelter or trench, waiting for the start of an attack: how did he feel, rising under heavy fire to storm the enemy fortification? How did scouts make their way behind enemy lines, or what did those who were left surrounded by without a chance of survival think, and the only question is when and what death awaits? (Betty, 2012). Those who will not remain indifferent to such experiences will be able to find themselves in airsoft, which means that this game turned out to be useful, showing the way to calmness, balance, health in the age of stress and emotional experiences.

One of the proven methods of instilling patriotism in a person is to familiarize with the history of the wars of one’s country, teach the primary skills of hand-to-hand and armed combat. Passion for airsoft corresponds to all the canons, thanks to which a person has a feeling of love for the Motherland, which is not imposed by the agitation of the military enlistment office or the city district. Feelings are strengthened and developed by a person independently, thanks to which they are fixed in life forever and transmitted to descendants.

The state carries out the formation of patriotic values through familiarizing young people with spiritual and moral and cultural, as well as patriotic and historical lessons. This approach awakens in different categories of young people an active life position in the direction of patriotic consciousness.

It is known well that if an extreme case comes, then men who skillfully handle weapons will be able to provide protection not only to themselves and their loved ones, but also to the whole country. Airsoft teaches namely the first and basic skills of handling weapons, protective equipment, and offensive grenades. Training is carried out in the form of a real battle, in which only artificial bullets are used, as a result of which such hobby theoretically cannot cause harm. In addition, the young person will feel the importance of theoretical and practical knowledge of camouflage, correct attack or retreat. That is, military training is closely associated with patriotic education in practically “real” conditions. Namely this combination of theoretical lessons with practical exercises in nature or among the abandoned city ruins will finally convince a young person of the importance of his desire to protect homeland and convey on this desire to heirs.

A man at any age expresses himself and learns the world through games. Airsoft is the same game as the rest, however it is like a shooter with perfectly ‘written’ graphics, physical characteristics and a realistic world. Here, too, the battle reserve ends at the wrong time, and the person who volunteered to cover the retreat of the group “drops out” from the game, delaying the enemy squad for two minutes.

Mutual assistance, empathy, healthy rivalry and support are not born out of nothing, and these, in turn, are among of the main components of military-patriotic education. Airsoft develops these feelings, and a person who has gone through several games realistically imagines what he is capable of, how people behave under “fire.” Thus, the special format of the game well promotes patriotic education.

One of the most important components of the state youth policy is the civil, patriotic, and physical education of young citizens. The problems that have existed for a long time related to the education of civic consciousness and high spirituality of the younger generation cannot be solved by individual actions and events. A well-thought-out system is needed to ensure the coordinated activity of public organizations, military-patriotic clubs, educational institutions and other associations involved in civic and patriotic education. In today’s conditions of erosion of national and cultural values under the influence of globalization and mass culture, an impetus is needed for the development of innovative approaches to the implementation of civil-patriotic education of young citizens. This role can be fulfilled by regional Centers for holding military sports games. Such centers can work in several areas of patriotic education at once:

• Cultural and educational history;
• Physical culture and sports and recreation;
• Propaganda;
• Methodical function;
• Work on preparing young people for military service;
• Building up planned and purposeful work of state, municipal, and public organizations and associations;
• Make adjustments, timely reveal and eliminate emerging problems, and most importantly – to test innovative forms of work with youth.

The order of the games can provide for a clear construction of the system of their organization, starting from school stages, ending with the preparation of winning teams for international competitions. At the same time, military-sports games, being a complex event, solve several serious problems in military-patriotic education and civic education of youth:

• Education of patriotism and civic responsibility among the younger generation;
• The formation of high ethical principles in young people, a worldview based on the values of citizenship and patriotism, the skills of interethnic and interfaith communication;
• Development of initiative and leadership qualities, independence of thought, ability to analyze events in the history of the state;
• The formation of a healthy lifestyle, physical and spiritual and moral education of young people;
• Organization of various forms of physical culture and sports work;
• Psychological preparation for overcoming difficulties, development of skills and the ability to act in extreme situations.

In addition, airsoft contributes to the development of such an important quality in young people as hard work. Young people show persistence in achieving a common goal, overcome obstacles available to them, stubbornly improve in mastering game techniques, show ingenuity – all this contributes to fostering a positive attitude towards work. The latter is due to the fact that in the course of competitive, game activity, such personal qualities as purposefulness, activity, poise, the ability to work in a team, personal charm, justice, discipline, and the ability not to get lost in extreme situations develop. The qualities instilled in players by airsoft battles – the formation of an airsoft player’s desire for a healthy lifestyle, loyal to others everyday behavior, learning new and useful, developing oneself as a person, a sense of own importance in the process of society development contribute to the formation of a great feeling of love for the Motherland, awareness of the need for its protection.

In the theory of psychology, there are various descriptions of the models of team roles that describe the ideal team. Interest is attracted by Belbin’s model, in which 9 main roles are singled out: coordinator, designer, generator of ideas, critic, earner, performer, support of the team, finalizer and specialist. Despite the modest name “performer,” a team is impossible without a good performer. At the same time, one person can perform several roles at once, depending on individual abilities and inclinations. There should be no “best” roles in a team – each role has its own specific value. It is important that each team member is aware of their role and their value, so that the functions they perform are understandable and close to them. The team of airsoft players fits well into the considered model, making adjustments only in the name and the specific functions laid down in the role. When a team is recruited and the process of forming its unity is underway, to improve the quality of communication and mutual understanding in the team, there are many proven techniques that have a beneficial effect on the climate within the team and the understanding of the players with each other.

Communication is not just the transmission or exchange of information using speech, gestures, facial expressions – it is, first of all, the relationship of two or more people. It is important to be able to communicate with each other in friendly manner, which means not only talking, but also listening to the other. There is no place for tension or constraint in positive communication – “hospitality” is important in the team, when everyone can expect to be listened to and his words will not be ignored. In communication, patience is important, which allows the team member to realize his value, be better imbued with his mission, mobilizing all abilities and desires for the benefit of achieving the results of the whole team.

In airsoft, in addition to the qualitative characteristics of communication, such useful abilities are also developed as the speed of interaction between team members, the clarity of the general vision and understanding of tasks and methods of their implementation, and in addition, airsoft teaches “to be in a team,” to be surrounded by other people. This means that in real life the airsoft player will be able to find his place, to feel his usefulness and significance in the realities of today’s intense and eventful life.

Working on the team’s fulfillment of its mission in the game, the player learns to speak to the point, without addressing to demagoguery. In the game, idle chatter will end in complete failure for the entire team. The transmitted information in the game is conveyed to the opponent briefly, clearly, – it will come in handy in life, in the necessity to present information so that one will be listened to carefully and with confidence. The team learns to discuss; if there is disagreement, one can always discuss it with the rest of the team and the commander. A person experiencing shyness and excitement when communicating in a team, through the game, acquires the ability not to be afraid to express his point of view, and, if necessary, to justify and defend it. Naturally, this is a direct road to leadership in life. Acquiring communication skills as part of the performance of certain tasks of the team, a person involuntarily gets involved in conversations with his colleagues outside the game. So, airsoft gives its fans the opportunity to find not just associates, but good acquaintances and even friends.

The airsoft team has its own Charter, and it helps to establish a hierarchy of relationships, rules of conduct on and off the game, and also encourages the team to adhere to strict discipline. Discipline is the key to a successful future for the airsoft team. The Charter of each team contains the norms of discipline, explaining its maintenance by the goal of the best organization and controllability of the team during the game, respectful attitude between the players.

The first condition for discipline is strict subordination according to the roles and positions. For failure to comply with a rule approved by the Charter of the team, a system of punishments is provided: oral, removal from office, demotion, suspension from the game for a certain period and an extreme measure – expulsion from the team. However, it is unlikely that one will get a positive effect with a punishment alone, therefore there is also a system of rewards, including oral gratitude, written gratitude, promotion of a fighter in position, valuable gifts (for special merits).

In the words of the players themselves, discipline is the cornerstone of team building. Discipline in the team is based on the mutual respect of the players, the authority of the leader (Frisbee, 2012). Without discipline, the team will lose its strength and unity, anarchy will begin. Without the discipline and firm will of the commander, conflicts will occur; there will be those who will show discontent and even sabotage, and in such conditions the team ceases to be a team. To resolve, and even better – to prevent such conflicts – the commander must have a subtle sense of the psychology of his charges; sometimes, they need attention and patience, but sometimes it is necessary to be tough.

Team relationships are extremely important. Every day, when meeting people in different situations – at home, at work or other public places, people build certain relationships with interlocutors, and such experience is not always successful. The airsoft team also needs to build relationships, with every player learning to build relationships with respect for all team members and commander, taking into account the need for strict discipline. In the game and in the team, the usual subordination does not exist – the immediate boss from real life can become a simple fighter, and his subordinate, due to the manifested qualities, becomes a leader. During the game, the usual boundaries that divide society into layers are erased – those who are wealthy or with little prosperity, those who have taken ‘good’ place in the life of an individual or those who have just begun their path to success. However, outside the game, members of the same team, regardless of their rank in airsoft, are equal. Discipline in the team includes concern for a healthy lifestyle, the Charter condemns excessive alcohol consumption, such a gross violation threatens either demotion or complete exclusion from the team. An exception is the use of small amounts of alcohol in cold weather.

Airsoft contributes to the formation of personality; during the battles, each player has many prerequisites for self-improvement. Indeed, in a stressful period, working closely with the entire team, a person begins to analyze and look at himself/herself from the outside, to assess own traits. The team is his environment, which, as in life, has a significant impact. Each person needs encouragement and positive assessment from others, and the direction of his further development depends on what his environment will be.

In the eyes of the player, a team is not just a group of people gathered for several hours – it is a society of like-minded people. Performing various strategic tasks, a person from the team can always rely on a comrade, he will always lend a helping hand to a comrade in need. In addition to the skills of survival in extreme conditions, the ability to help and sympathy is acquired. One of the positive qualities developed in team play is patience and endurance. In the minutes of waiting in an ambush, overcoming difficult terrain where the battle is unfolding – all this makes to learn to endure and wait for the right hour to start the attack and the commander’s signal. Faced with difficulties in the game, the player in life becomes more resilient, strong in spirit, possessing sufficient endurance and perseverance to achieve his life goals.

Proposed Methodology for Conducting Airsoft Games and Safety Rules

The variety of games is quite wide and depends on many factors: location, goals of the game, requirements for participants, equipment used, etc. (Frisbee, 2012):

Official games

Often, they are called big games. For example, this could be the annual Closing/Opening of seasons and other thematically coordinated airsoft games led by a regional organization. Players from various cities and regions come to such games, and the number of participants can be several thousand. When the organizers of the game have a certain amount of funds, military equipment can be involved in the game: armored personnel carriers, water transport, trucks, and even helicopters.

Inter-team games

In another way, airsoft players call such games “meat.” As a rule, inter-team games take place on weekends when most of the players are free. The organizers announce the coordinates of the area where the game will take place, and everyone can come to it. After the training camp, all players are divided into two or more teams and play according to the specified scenario. Basically, the participants are fighters from one region, however, players also come from neighboring ones. The variety of games is quite wide and depends on many factors: location, goals of the game, requirements for participants, equipment used, etc.

Private games

They are organized to exclude the participation of unfamiliar teams or players. Only invitees can attend the private games. The main feature of such games is the minimum number of beginners. Sometimes, on private games, some restrictions may be introduced, which are provided for by the well-known rules of airsoft, or some of them are canceled. For example, in the game they can introduce a complicated system of hits: after the first hit, a soldier is considered wounded – he can be “cured” or “finished off” and only after that he is considered “killed.” Also, in private games, technical restrictions can be introduced: the introduction of a ban on the use of bunker stores or a restriction of the muzzle energy of balls (when leaving the barrel, the speed of the ball should not be higher, for example, 120 m/s).

MILSIM

The name MILSIM means “military simulation” (MILitarySIMulation). This is a kind of airsoft game that simulates real combat conditions as much as possible. Airsoft equipment and weapons are extremely similar to the equipment of military simulated units. Basic principles of MILSIM are as follows: strict selection of players; limitation on ammunition; just one life per game.

International Games

International airsoft games are the largest games attended by teams of airsoft players from different countries. This makes it possible not only to hold unforgettable games, but also to gain invaluable experience and knowledge of foreign airsoft teams and their tactics.

Basic safety rules for handling airsoft weapons are boiled down to the following:

1. Do not remove protective equipment throughout the range.
2. It is forbidden to shoot at a player who is closer than 1 meter from the shooter.
3. It is forbidden to deliberately aim at the players’ heads, especially at close range, unless the player is hidden behind cover, and only the head is visible.
4. It is forbidden to aim and shoot at people without protective equipment and not related to the game.
5. During breaks between games, the weapon must be locked.

Children under 18 cannot be held responsible for themselves and in the event of injuries, the responsibility will be put on the organizer of the game. Therefore, airsoft rules limit the age of participation in open games to the bar “18 years and above.” In some cases, children can be allowed to play small games in the presence of parents or with their written permission. However, such cases are rare and require agreement with each participant in the game. There are also specially organized events for minors; the organization of such games includes the availability of experienced instructors, thorough preliminary training, safety briefings and low-power airsoft weapons.

Recommended Equipment and Weapon

All airsoft weapons can be divided into several groups:

• Mechanical weapons. The shot occurs after the release of the spring-loaded piston from the cocking position. The piston moves in a special pneumatic chamber.
• Gas-cylinder weapons, which are triggered by the impact of the energy of compressed gas. It is pumped into the handle through the valve.
• Models of guns with electric drive for air compressor. Such weapons are of greatest interest to airsoft fans.

In addition to such weapons, special grenades and rubber knives are used in airsoft; however, throwing knives is prohibited according to safety rules. In turn, grenades can be thrown on gas, underbarrel and grenades based on low-power firecrackers.

Spring weapon

This is the most affordable and inexpensive weapon, the piston platoon in which is made by hand. Its main disadvantage is considered to be its low rate of fire. As a rule, in airsoft, only sniper rifles and shotguns equipped with a spring platoon are most often used. The thing is that for sniper rifles, the rate of fire is not an important selection criterion, and the low fire rate of the crushers can be compensated for by the fact that the drive emits several charges simultaneously. The main advantage of this drive is that it works at any temperature difference.

Gas weapon

This drive is more popular and widespread. The principle of operation of gas airsoft guns is based on the action of frozen or compressed gas. Carbon dioxide is often used for this purpose. Various propane-based gas mixtures are also often used; gas circuits are applied in pistols. However, one can also buy machine guns, sniper and assault rifles that work on this principle.

Some models of gas weapons may even have a recoil – it happens when fired: the bolt rapidly moves back. The main disadvantage of the drive is the impossibility of its operation in the low temperature. However, the high range and rate of fire are significant advantages that should be considered when choosing a weapon for airsoft.

Electro-pneumatic weapon

Such drives are rightfully considered the most popular among airsoft players. Their principle of operation is similar to that of a spring drive. However, in them, the spring is not charged manually, but automatically by an electric motor that is powered by a battery. The main advantages of this drive include the highest rate of fire, since it can fire 1000 rounds per minute, as well as a good range. However, electro-pneumatic weapons also have one significant drawback – they are very sensitive to low temperatures and can stop working in cold weather. In addition, these drives are battery dependent – the number of shots they fire is limited by the battery capacity.

The convenience of a weapon in battle depends on the material of manufacture. Steel and plastic are the main components for the production of airsoft weapons. These two materials bear the main structural load. Receivers, receiver linings, springs, electric motors are made of steel. Plastic is used in the production of coat boxes, hop-ups, stems. Silumin, aluminum, wood and nylon are used for external technical elements: stock, forend, pistol grip, magazine, aiming system. The strength and lightness of the material affects the cost of the weapon.

Plastic airsoft guns

This look allows giving the replica a complete resemblance to the original. Most modern weapons have a plastic receiver with a forend. An example is the German HK G36 assault rifle. For production, ABS plastic is used, which is distinguished by a fair margin of safety and resistance to temperature extremes. In addition, the plastic case is lighter than wood and metal. Lightweight bodies are manufactured by ICS or Jing Gong. Another reason for the production of plastic airsoft weapons is economy. Jing Gong is an example, with most of its range falling into the budget category. The Cybergun brand also produces inexpensive replicas of real plastic weapons. The main disadvantages of this material are as follows:

• Firstly, it quickly loses its aesthetic characteristics, easily scratching without the possibility of eliminating defects.
• Secondly, some components of such weapons break easily, usually at the points where the fixing screws are tightened. If a player faced with such a problem, then he/she can replace these parts with metal ones.

Steel airsoft weapon

These devices are heavier, more impressive and more expensive. Blued steel and aluminum-based alloys are used for production. A significant drawback of such weapons is weight, especially with a steel drive. On average, the mass of such a drive will be around 3-4 kilograms, and in a long battle it will become serious disadvantage. At the same time, metal parts require careful handling, not differing in this from plastic ones. In addition, some key structural components must necessarily be metal – these are the drive housing, the outer barrel and all kinds of clamps.

Wooden airsoft weapon

A rare group of airsoft weapons is represented by wooden replicas. The stock, forend and stock are the parts that can be made of wood. There is only one reason for using this material – historical accuracy. The AK-47, M14, PPSh or Mosin rifle in the original have wooden parts, and their counterparts for playing airsoft repeat this. Wooden weapons do not tolerate excess moisture: at first they swell, then dry up and crack. Dents and scratches quickly form on it. However, with a certain skill, they can be removed, and some players even welcome their appearance as a kind of part of the entourage.

In airsoft, as in most modern shooters, participants use primary and secondary weapons. The main weapon is usually a submachine gun or automatic rifle; less often they use a sniper or a machine gun. Very rarely, mainly a shotgun, a hand grenade launcher or its under-barrel counterparts can be applied for reconstructions. A replica of a pistol acts as an auxiliary weapon, less often a short-barreled machine gun or a submachine gun is used.

Today, AEG is the pinnacle of Air Soft Guns development. AEG weapons are quite young, they appeared in the early to mid-90s in Japan and immediately gained immense popularity all over the world due to their high degree of realism (all models are exact copies of military weapons and are made in 1:1 scale), the ability to choose the type of fire (single, continuous, fixed for 3 shots). A spacious magazine (from 30 to 200 shots) and a large selection of accessories are also important details. Specifications are as follows:

• Caliber: 6mm
• Muzzle velocity: 76 – 97m / s
• Kinetic energy: about 2J
• Rate of fire: 650 – 1000 rounds per minute
• Distance of a direct shot: 15 – 20m
• Maximum shot distance: 50m

AEG Configuration

The general view of the weapon is shown in the picture below.

The body (usually in the grip or butt) contains an electric compressor, which consists of the following main parts:

• Piston with mainspring:

• Reducer

• Electric motor

As an overall example, sectional view of the FA-MAS rifle is show below.

Airsoft guns are mainly manufactured in Japan, although guns made by Korean and Chinese manufacturers can be purchased. One of the companies that is the undoubted leader in the production of weapons for airsoft – Tokio Marui – can be especially noted (TM for short). The company’s products are in constant, steady demand all over the world, and this is not surprising, since the birthplace of airsoft is Japan, and Tokyo Marui is the pioneer of airsoft weapons. Such weapons (examples can be seen on the picture below) are made mainly of impact-resistant plastic, equipped with a system for twisting the ball, a copper or brass barrel with a polished inner channel. The kit also includes a number of plastic balls.

Core advantages of weapons for airsoft Tokyo Marui can be summarized as follows:

• High quality of production;
• Aesthetic appearance;
• Accuracy and stability of shots;
• Ease of use.

As for the cost, it is slightly higher than the Chinese counterparts; however, given the excellent build quality and reliability of the weapon, its price is justified. Separately, it is worth noting the excellent packaging of each model. This emphasizes the attitude of the manufacturer to both the product itself and the consumer. The equipment is packed not only beautifully, but also correctly, which allows keeping the drive and all its components in perfect condition.

Conclusion

The proposal represents conceptual vision of the possibility and rationality of airsoft game legalization on Qatar. It is shown that, in frames of Qatar-2030 strategy, public healthcare in the country acquires especially important meaning, in particular, in connection with youth policy. This interesting and low-traumatic game has a high health potential for both young people and Qatari society in general. It is assumed that the legalization of airsoft and the promotion of this military sports game will help to reduce the level of stress among the population, reduce tension in society, eliminate social conflicts, as well as improve the crime situation in disadvantaged areas, which is especially important in the current conditions of large-scale activation of Islamist terrorist organizations recruiting young people into their ranks. Moreover, taking into account introduction of compulsory military service in Qatar, airsoft games represents excellent preparation of young men to real military service. In addition, airsoft game is an effective educational tool for the formation of teamwork skills, ethical behavior and honesty, leadership qualities, and the ability to make effective decisions quickly among citizens and especially young people.

References

Betty (2012). A Japanese origin – Airsoft gun. Fpszpine.

Daniel, R. (2015). Participants profile in airsoft sport. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 180, 1316-1321.

Frisbee, W. (2012). The airsoft Bible: Book of tactics. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.

Kach, K. (2011). Health benefits of Airsoft combat. Ezine Articles.

Legal Issues in Airsoft (2020). AirSoft How. Web.

Mildenhall, M. (n. d.). Airsoft. Personal choice and community impacts Submission 167.

Qatar General Secretariat for Development Planning (2011). Qatar National Development Strategy 2011~2016: Towards Qatar National Vision 2030. Web.

Siniecki, A. (2016). Airsoft games as a way of reusing post-military areas. Civil Engineering and Architecture 4(4), 63-173.

Smith, N. (2017). Different benefits of playing Airsoft games. Sooper Articles.

Western Australia Airsoft Club Inc. (2018). Briefing note on the sport of airsoft: Legal status, risks and socio-economic benefits.

Appendix A

Airsoft Guns: Basic Safety Guidelines

Airsoft guns are non-lethal replicas of real firearms and used generally within a game format at designated places. Despite their quite safe-sounding name, airsoft guns although not lethal can be very dangerous. However, with the right air soft gun safety equipment and an adherence to some basic safety guidelines, you can shoot without fear of unexpectedly injuring yourself or someone else. Read on for some basic guidelines for the use of airsoft guns.

1. Always treat airsoft guns as if they are loaded and handle them with care.
2. Do not shoot your gun at anything other than an official safety target. Only put your finger on the trigger if you are ready to fire your gun. Accidental firing particularly at close range can result in damaged eyes or lost teeth.
3. Do not brandish an airsoft gun in a public place. They should be used in designated areas for airsoft gun use.
4. A note to parents of children using airsoft guns. If your child brings an airsoft gun to school or uses it in any other public place they run the risk of being suspended or even arrested. In the worst case scenario, they risk being shot by a police officer as airsoft guns are often excellent copies of real firearms and can quite easily be mistaken for the real thing.
5. To minimize the potential for unexpected injury, always be aware of what is behind, beyond and either side of your target before you fire your gun at your target.
6. Airsoft guns shoot plastic pellets at a slower rate than that of a real firearm. Therefore, airsoft guns can be used to shoot at human targets without injury but under certain conditions. The most important condition is eyewear. Never shoot at someone who is not wearing proper protective eyewear. Recommended eyewear are eye goggles rated at least ANSI Z87.1 or goggles used for paintball. Always wear eye goggles yourself when you are using airsoft guns.
7. Other recommended safety accessories are a thick jumper or eve a bullet proof vest if possible, plastic hip guards and forearm guards, knee protection and shin guards, steel toe combat boots and leather gloves. Cover all skin areas as much as possible.
8. When transporting your gun to and from a game carry it in a gun case. The gun case is safe, protects your gun and can be used to store Airsoft pistols, accessories and spare magazines. Remember in some places using a case is the only legal way to carry your gun. Respect the laws of the area in which you are carrying your gun.
9. Airsoft guns cannot be bought by children under 18 and can only be used by children under 18 if supervised correctly.
10. Be aware of all local and federal laws governing the buying, carrying and use of airsoft guns. Contact your local police department for more information.

Appendix B

Airsoft Rules

1. General Provisions
   1. Airsoft (hereinafter referred to as the “game”) is a non-commercial, team, military-sports game.
   2. Mentally balanced citizens who have reached the age of 18, who have their own game weapons and equipment, and who agree with these Rules, are allowed to participate in the game.
   3. The meaning of the game is collective relaxation in the bosom of nature, neutralization of negative emotions and aggressive aspirations, the joy of mutual communication of worthy people.
   4. A team is a voluntary association of people led by a team leader or team representative. A team is 10 or more uniformly (within its own team) dressed players.
2. Purpose and Process of the Game
   1. The game is played by two or more teams, armed and equipped in accordance with the requirements of these Rules.
   2. The game is played according to a pre-agreed scenario in an open area. The goal and objectives of the game, the start and end times, the boundaries of the playing area are determined by the scenario or teams of the participants immediately before the game. The construction of any artificial structures to mark the game boundaries is not allowed.
   3. The playing area does not include only the residential camp (camps) of the teams, which must be surrounded by a white rope. It is forbidden to set up a residential camp (s) in the immediate vicinity of combat positions or any other location that could interfere with the normal course of the game.
   4. The goal of the team is to complete the task set by the scenario.
   5. The white flag is used to indicate the capitulated team or part of it, or is an attribute of parliamentarians.
   6. The progress of the game, the fulfillment of the assigned tasks and the observance of these Rules may be controlled by intermediaries appointed by mutual agreement of the teams. The decisions and instructions of the intermediaries in terms of compliance with the Rules are binding on the players and are not subject to discussion during the game.
   7. The game is played for fairness, therefore no disputes between players during the game are allowed. Players who quarreled among themselves during the game are eliminated from it until the very end and continue the argument in the residential camp.
3. Game Weapon
   1. Weapon. It is allowed to participate in the game with industrial-made pneumatic weapons made of plastic and light alloys from those available for free sale, adapted for firing plastic balls (BB) of 6 mm and 8 mm caliber and not being a modification of commercially available pneumatic weapons of any other caliber. (see Appendix # 1, clause 1.1.)
   2. Pyrotechnics. For the manufacture of imitations of grenades and mines, it is allowed to use industrial-made firecrackers that have passed certification, from among those available for free sale. (see Appendix # 1, clause 2.1.)
   3. Steel arms. As an imitation of cold weapons, it is allowed to use dummies made of soft, easily bendable plastic (polystyrene, polyethylene) or rubber, which do not have sharp edges. (see Explanation, clause 3.1.)
4. Game Equipment and Equipment and Cloths
   1. Participants are allowed to use any equipment and equipment in the “Military” style from among those available for sale or made by themselves.
   2. The only limitation is the mandatory external similarity of the players of the same team.
   3. Frankly “civilian” outfits are not allowed.
   4. A player without eye protection that can withstand a point-blank shot from an airsoft weapon at a ball speed of 172 m/s and with a ball weight of 0.2 grams, it is not allowed to participate in the game.
   5. In airsoft games, it is prohibited to wear equipment or equipment that was massively used in the armies of the world before 1953 and later than real time.
5. Fortification and Defense Engineering Facilities
   1. The games allow the construction of engineering structures, digging trenches, trenches and bunkers.
   2. As additional protection for defended structures, it is allowed to use bags of soil, bulk ground parapet, rigidly fixed concrete, stone, brick, metal structures, timber with a thickness of at least 3 cm.
   3. All materials and structures intended to provide additional protection must not be installed in such a way as to injure players. When constructing roofs near an engineering structure, the use of branches, plywood, chipboard is not allowed. It is allowed to use awnings, if they do not interfere with the ingress of balls and grenades into the fortification.
   4. Intentional damage or destruction of engineering structures is not allowed, unless otherwise provided by the scenario.
   5. Any engineering structure must have at least one unobstructed entry / exit for players.
   6. It is forbidden to install barbed wire on the approaches to positions, dig traps and other devices that can harm the players and equipment of the participants.
6. Technics
   1. Equipment participating in airsoft games should fall under the concept of “military” equipment, that is, it should be a real army model of military equipment adopted by any army in the time period that is accepted for admission to airsoft (see clause 4.5), or be an exact copy of such a sample.
   2. The admission of the technique, the rules of its participation, the rules of its defeat and the restrictions imposed on it, are coordinated with the organizers no later than two weeks before each game.
   3. Any rules on technique used in airsoft games must not contradict the laws of the country in which the game is played.
7. “Killed”
   1. The “killed” player must immediately put on a red bandage on his head, neck or weapon and go to the residential camp or other place specified by the scenario.
   2. The “killed” player is eliminated from the game for a specified time or until the end of the game.
   3. A “killed” player in the playing area does not have the right to: transfer his game weapon to someone, share ammunition, enter into conversations with anyone other than other “killed” ones, tell other players any information about the enemy and the progress of the game. (See Explanation, paragraph 1.2., 2.2., 3.2.)
   4. The “killed” player must observe the complete radio silence mode before entering the game.
   5. “The captives”
   6. Any player can be captured. (See Explanation, clause 4.1.)
8. Non-combatants
   1. Non-combatants include: wives, children, girlfriends of players, photographers and cinematographers, intermediaries, cooks and other service personnel, locals and tourists.
   2. Non-combatants who arrived with any of the teams, in order to avoid misunderstandings, wear a red bandage on their head, neck or arm throughout the game. In the absence of such a bandage, all responsibility for the possible consequences lies with them.
   3. Relations with tourists, locals, mushroom pickers and fishermen should be level and neutral. The emergence of conflict situations and their resolution by forceful methods is not allowed.
9. Correspondents
   1. Photo / Video correspondents at Airsoft games are fully subject to the Airsoft rules and are obliged to comply with these rules in full.
   2. An exception may be games in which Photo/Video Correspondents can be admitted to the playing area by non-combatants (the organizer (s) is obliged to notify potential participants about the option of participation of correspondents in the game, no later than 2 weeks before the start of the game), subject to the following points of the rules.
   3. Correspondents must wear a red jacket and headdress.
   4. The correspondent has no right to enter into conversations with any of the participants in the game.
   5. The correspondent has no right to approach the participants of the game closer than 10 meters.
   6. The correspondent is prohibited from staying between the players.
   7. Correspondent is prohibited from being inside fortified positions
   8. Compliance with all the rules does not guarantee the correspondents and their equipment from falling into them balls or pyrotechnics, in this case, any claims of correspondents to the players or organizers of the games are not considered.
10. Limitations
    1. It is forbidden to pick up and throw away initiated firecrackers and other pyrotechnic items.
    2. It is forbidden to shoot at anyone wearing a red bandage, as well as local residents, tourists, mushroom pickers, fishermen.
    3. Any sort of clarification of the relationship between the players during the game is prohibited.
    4. Participation in the game of persons under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.
    5. It is forbidden to touch or take someone else’s weapon without the owner’s permission.
    6. Tactical flashlights with a luminous flux of more than 200 lumens are prohibited.
    7. When playing in confined spaces (buildings / structures) and the ability to shoot at opponents at very short distances, it is forbidden to use airsoft weapons with a shot energy of more than 120 m/s.
11. Liability of Players
    1. A player convicted of non-compliance with these Rules, especially with regard to honesty, is subject to universal ridicule, contempt and other sanctions, up to and including public expulsion.
    2. For violation of the rules of the game, in addition to the offender (s) himself, the entire team, in which the player is at the time of his violation of the rules, is (in full measure) also responsible.
12. Additions
    1. The organizer (s) of the game has the right to make additions to the rules of airsoft when organizing their game, if these additional conditions do not contradict the meaning of the rules of Airsoft and with the law of the country in whose territory the game is played. In this case, the organizer (s) is obliged to notify potential participants about the changes no later than 1 month before the start of the game.
13. Explanation
    1. The small arms specified in the regulations must fire industrially manufactured 6 mm explosive balls weighing between 0.12 and 0.43 grams. Or 8 mm balls weighing 0.34 grams. The muzzle energy of the Weapon must not exceed 3 Joules. The speed of the ball at the exit from the bore should not exceed for 6mm / 8mm:
    2. For pistols and revolvers – 110/85 m / s. *
    3. Pump action guns – 120/95 m / s *
    4. For electro-pneumatic and gas, automatic weapons – 140/100 m / s *
    5. For machine guns (MG) and light machine guns (LMG) – 150/115 m / s. *
    6. For long-barreled weapons with single fire – 172.5 / 130 m / s. *
    7. * Speeds are indicated when shooting with a 6 mm ball – weighing 0.20 grams; 8 mm – weighing 0.34 grams.
    8. When measuring speeds, as an error of measuring equipment, the influence of external factors, etc. an error of plus or minus 5% is accepted.
14. Participation in the games of weapons that do not fall under any of the points, is negotiated with the organizers of the games in advance.
    1. A player who is hit by at least one ball in any part of his body or equipment is considered a “killed” small arms. Ricochet does not count. Weapon hits do not count. Friendly fire counts in the same way as enemy fire.
    2. Game pyrotechnics should be made on the basis of industrial firecrackers that have passed state certification and are available for free sale in the territory of the country. Imitation is allowed for games, similar in appearance to a real-life prototype without additional effects in the form of sparks, sound, etc. The striking element is 6 mm BB balls weighing up to 0.20 grams. inclusive. Game pyrotechnics must be tested before playing by the game pyrotechnics officer. It is prohibited to simultaneously detonate game pyrotechnics located at a distance of less than 20 cm from each other.
    3. “Killed” by an imitation grenade is a player who has been hit by at least one imitation grenade striking element in any part of the body or equipment. Weapon hits do not count.
    4. Imitation of cold steel must be made and applied in compliance with all safety measures that exclude any traumatic effect. An imitation cold weapon used to hit a player can be made of soft (easily bendable) plastic or rubber and should not have a single sharp edge or edge. The length of the blade of imitation of cold weapons should not exceed 40 cm. The length of the handle is not more than 20 cm. Throwing imitation of cold weapons at the player is prohibited.
    5. A player who was struck in the torso with an imitation melee weapon is considered “killed”.
    6. It is forbidden to strike with a cold weapon in the head, neck or limbs.
    7. Any player can be captured.
    8. One player can be captured by at least two players of the other team, while both players must be no more than three meters from the captured player and one of them must be outside the captive’s field of view. If this condition is met and the player is informed about the capture, he must obey and follow the rules of the captive.
    9. If an attempt is made to take prisoner without a specified numerical superiority, then the one who illegally tried to take the prisoner is considered “killed” and acts according to the rules and scenario.
    10. A prisoner can be asked a maximum of three questions, after which the prisoner is considered “killed” and acts according to the rules of the game.
    11. The time spent in captivity should not exceed 1 hour (the time is counted from the moment of capture and is controlled by the prisoner himself).
    12. A captive can only answer questions in monosyllables: “yes, no, I don’t know.”
    13. The captive is obliged to truthfully answer the questions asked to him.
    14. After captivity, the player is prohibited from telling any information about the enemy.
    15. Weapons and game equipment are not confiscated from the prisoner, but the prisoner has no right to use any weapon against opponents until the moment of entering the game after captivity.