Squad Roles: The Versatile Rifleman

Today, we’re going to be talking about the most common type of gameplay style seen on the field, which is the role of a rifleman. What makes you this type of player as opposed to a sniper, for example? Well, that is defined by equipment and play style.

First, let’s talk about the guns. AEGs come in all sizes and styles and are generally built to suit CQB and outdoor fields. For classification purposes in airsoft, we tend to lump everything into this category of rifleman regardless of what the real counterpart was designed for. Most places will keep it rifleman, DMR, sniper, and even support. This keeps it simple for fields to chronograph and enforce rules. FAF Airsoft is an outdoor field with mixed terrain and maps. This gets you exposure to different playstyles and different ranges. In airsoft, most of your guns will be categorized as rifles. They will tend to have semi-auto and full auto and can shoot up to 400fps on .20g BBs. For FAF, it’s very much the same, but we measure in Joules and we chrono with .32s, which equates to 1.5J = 320fps with .32. Full auto is acceptable except on the smaller maps or if you are within 15 feet of the player. The availability to play other classes will depend on the field or event organizers, particularly in milsim aisoft events. If you play at an indoor (CQB) field, all these classes are irrelevant, and all guns, regardless of shape, style, and modifications, must adhere to the indoor limits, which are much lower. 

Check out some starter kits

If you should decide to keep it simple and play the role of a rifleman, modifications to the gun are pretty open in this category as long as you adhere to FPS limits. In our previous DMR video, you'll remember that some places differentiate roles and how you play based on upgrades and performance. Let's look at an example set of rules; this one is from our local airsoft field, FAF Airsoft in Parker, CO.

 

The nice thing about playing your general rifleman class on a field is that you are flexible enough to do many things. AEGs already have a good range, so you can be at a distance and lay down some good fire using full auto for great effect. You can run up on the objective or other players and get in their faces if you are aggressive. Most players often enjoy getting a good AEG and playing the game from this role.

Where people get it wrong is they try to start in a specialty role and then might not enjoy the gameplay as much because it is very limited. I see that a lot with new players who go on YouTube and see a sniper cam video and get excited to play that first, only to realize they hate it. That’s usually a bummer for those guys because they already spent their money and are locked in a more specialized type of gameplay. In my experience, the variety in gameplay you get with a regular AEG is more satisfying to new players than the role of a sniper, which is a lot of waiting and being slow and methodical. My advice is to do some heavy research before purchasing to have a better time out there. That should cover the gist of the rifleman's role in airsoft. We will do more segments like this, with the next one focusing on the sniper next time at Fox. Thank you guys for watching and we will see you next time.

Back to blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What Gamemodes are in airsoft?

Airsoft features a variety of gamemodes to suit different preferences and playstyles. Common gamemodes include Team Deathmatch, where teams compete to eliminate as many opponents as possible; Capture the Flag, where teams attempt to capture the opposing team's flag and return it to their base; and King of the Hill, where players fight to control a specific area for as long as possible. Other popular gamemodes include VIP Escort, where one team protects a designated VIP while the other team tries to eliminate them, and Search and Destroy, where teams take turns attacking or defending objectives. Each gamemode offers unique challenges and requires different strategies, keeping gameplay fresh and exciting.

What is airsoft gameplay?

Airsoft gameplay involves players using replica firearms that shoot plastic BBs to simulate military or law enforcement scenarios. Players participate in various gamemodes, working individually or in teams to achieve specific objectives such as eliminating opponents, capturing flags, or securing areas. The gameplay emphasizes tactics, teamwork, and strategy, often incorporating realistic combat elements like cover, flanking maneuvers, and communication. Safety rules and protective gear are essential to ensure a fun and injury-free experience. Airsoft gameplay can range from casual skirmishes to highly organized milsim (military simulation) events that mimic real-world military operations.

Is airsoft a game or a sport?

Airsoft can be considered both a game and a sport. As a game, it involves recreational activities where players engage in various scenarios and gamemodes for fun and entertainment. As a sport, airsoft requires physical activity, skill, strategy, and teamwork, similar to other competitive sports. Many players take airsoft seriously, participating in tournaments, leagues, and milsim events that demand high levels of fitness, coordination, and tactical planning. Whether viewed as a game or a sport, airsoft offers a unique blend of excitement, challenge, and camaraderie.

What is a airsoft milsim game?

An airsoft milsim (military simulation) game is a type of airsoft event designed to closely replicate real-world military operations. These games often span several hours or even days, with participants taking on specific roles such as rifleman, sniper, medic, or squad leader. Milsim games emphasize realism, incorporating detailed scenarios, objectives, and rules that mimic actual military missions. Players use realistic tactics, communication, and equipment, including uniforms, radios, and military-style gear. The goal of milsim is to provide an immersive experience that tests players' skills, endurance, and teamwork in a controlled environment.

What is the role of the rifleman in squad?

The role of the rifleman in a squad is to serve as the primary infantry soldier, equipped with a versatile rifle to engage enemy forces at various ranges. The rifleman is responsible for providing effective firepower, maintaining suppressive fire, and supporting the squad's movements and objectives. They are often the backbone of the squad, offering flexibility and adaptability in combat situations. The rifleman must be proficient in marksmanship, tactics, and communication, working closely with other squad members to achieve mission success. Their versatility makes them essential in both offensive and defensive operations.

How many soldiers are in a squad?

A typical squad consists of 9 to 13 soldiers, depending on the military organization and specific unit structure. In many armies, a standard infantry squad comprises around 9 soldiers, including a squad leader, two fire teams of four soldiers each, and additional roles such as a medic or radio operator. Each fire team usually includes a team leader, rifleman, automatic rifleman, and grenadier. This structure allows the squad to operate effectively in various combat scenarios, providing flexibility and the ability to execute different tactics.

What is the role of a squad leader?

The squad leader is responsible for commanding and coordinating the squad's activities. Their primary role is to ensure the squad accomplishes its objectives while maintaining the safety and effectiveness of its members. The squad leader plans and directs tactical maneuvers, communicates with higher command and other units, and makes critical decisions during engagements. They also manage the squad's logistics, including ammunition, equipment, and supplies. Effective leadership, communication, and tactical knowledge are essential qualities for a squad leader to successfully guide their team through diverse combat situations.