Who Invented Airsoft?

Written notes of firing small plastic pellets date as far back as Japan in the late 1970s. While airsoft has become a well-known international pastime, the first airsoft products surfaced in countries like Japan and Taiwan. But who can we credit with inventing airsoft and how did it become so popular?

The History Of Airsoft

The earliest airsoft style guns were released in Japan in the 1970s and might have been an imitation of small-arms training replica products released years earlier in the 1940s by Taipei-based Daisy. These guns and pellets were safety-oriented and marketed towards the rapidly growing sports shooting' common among Japanese hobbyists. In the 1980s, plastic pellet guns appeared in the UK and the US, and by the 1990s many manufacturers had designed cheaper versions.

The Seed Of International Appeal

In 1992, the arms-length Tokyo Marui company released a replica of the Beretta M92 gas-powered pistol - an iconic product which marked the seed of international appeal for airsoft products. This further propelled the growth of airsoft and led to devoted international fans. Soon airsoft guns were appearing in military and police training programs, due to their realistic look and relatively inexpensive nature.

Expansion During The 2000s

After 2000, the evolution of light-weight and easy to use guns helped fast-track growth in the airsoft market. In the US and Europe airsoft guns began to be used for recreational purposes, including combat games and target shooting. The Asian market offerings also increased during the 2000s with imitation, simulation, and hybrid collections appearing in retail stores.

Renewed Interest In 2021

While enthusiast are always interested in new products, easy availability of airsoft guns saw a massive boost in 2021 due to quarantine orders and the inability to participate in intended sports activities. Companies like Airsoft GI, Airsoft Station, and Pyramyd Air helped stoke the fire with online sales, tutorials, tips, and pro-level content.

Conclusion

Airsoft began as a fun and safe oddity in Japan and Taiwan before expanding into the UK and US in the 80s. By the 90s, a range of airsoft products was being produced, fueled by the international appeal of iconic product iterations like the Beretta M92. After an explosion of airsoft gun production between 2000 and 2020, the pandemic of 2021 led to renewed interest in airsoft and increased availability through regular and online retailers.

Insights

The invention of airsoft and subsequent market growth is largely credited to the creative and specialized craftsmanship of Japanese companies like Tokyo Marui and Taiwan-based Daisy. As airsoft products increased in variety and availability, they also increased in popularity as a safe and recreational alternative to regular firearms. Airsoft guns have continued to evolve, appealing to a wide range of military and recreational enthusiasts alike.