Airsoft guns are legal in Ireland since the 2006 Criminal Justice Act altered the Firearms Acts. Any airsoft gun that is muzzle energy is one joule or less is no longer classified as a firearm and no license is required. HOWEVER. Airsoft guns are now classed as Real Imitation Firearms (RIFs) and cannot be carried in a public place at ANY TIME. Even if you are carrying your RIF to the boot of your car, you MUST have it in a suitable carry case. If you are playing on private land with the permission of the owner, you must still ensure you are out of sight of the general public. If any member of the public feels threatened by what they see, they may contact the authorities and you could find yourself in serious trouble. Penalties for carrying a RIF (Real Imitation Firearms) in a public place include up to a €5000 fine or imprisonment up to 5 years, or both.
Airsoft Guns are not toys! They are used for target practice and war games. Please make sure to wear safety goggles or a full face mask at all times. The impact of an Airsoft BB pellet will sting sharply for a few seconds and may leave a small bruise or red mark if it hits bare skin. The low velocity and low weight of the Airsoft round ensures its safe use by players.
Age Restrictions
To buy an airsoft gun you must be 18 years or over. There is no set age to use or own an airsoft gun, therefore to buy an imitation firearm and either gift it to someone else, or allow them to use it, regardless of their age, you are not breaking any law.
An Garda Siochana
The information below is intended to inform handlers of airsoft replicas as to the some of the powers of An Garda Siochana in the circumstance of the handler giving reason to be stopped. When transporting, or in the possession of replica firearms, handlers should ALWAYS act with due care and discretion so as to avoid the possibility of causing any form of distress to any member of the general public. Mishandling of Replica Firearms which, intentionally or otherwise, causes alarm to a member of the general public is classed as assault and will be viewed as such in the eyes of the law. An Garda Siochana will ALWAYS treat replica firearms with the same prejudice as actual firearms.