Airsoft battles
often play out as intense competitions.
Airsoft players compete in mock combat simulations, known as battles, and use replicas of real firearms designed to fire plastic pellets at their opponents. Airsoft battles require split-second decision making and solid tactics, as the slightest error can result in the elimination of a player or even an entire squad.
Communication
All airsoft teams, including random pickup groups formed just before a battle, should determine a set of hand signals for communication. These signals create the primary form of battlefield commands. The most common command signals stand for halt, move forward, enemy spotted, take cover and fire. Teams that regularly play together should also develop more advanced signals for giving commands to certain players, identifying enemy positions and calling in heavy fire support. Each team’s hand signals will vary, as experienced combatants know that their foes may be spying on their signals from afar.
Command
Teamwork stands as the key to victory in battle. Players should decide before a match who will take the role of the commander. Larger groups may also assign lieutenants to give orders to individual squads. Only commanders may speak with tournament officials. Many teams enforce the rule that only the commanders may speak at all. Other players, including lieutenants, should act on a commander’s order even if they think it is in error. Arguing on the field of battle creates a dangerous situation and belies a player’s inexperience. Players may change commanders or discuss errors in judgment after the battle.
Combat
Successful airsoft combatants keep their cool in battle and focus on the situation at hand. Players must always concentrate on their surroundings and keep an eye out for enemy movement. Most experienced airsoft players learn to move with a very low center of gravity and use the terrain to cover their advance. Always carry a weapon as close to the body as possible to help reduce your profile and exposed areas. The importance of this method weighs doubly when moving, as enemy snipers or assault troops need only to score a single hit to eliminate opponents under common airsoft tournament rules.
Tags: Airsoft battles, commanders speak, hand signals