One of the most commonly asked questions by our players is, "What kind of gear should I get?". While getting the $300 plate carrier might be the highest quality gear for each of them, that will mean almost nothing if it isn't the right gear for you or if you aren't efficient with it. Everything from modularity, durability, accessibility, cost, and comfort are all things to consider when picking out your first piece of gear. Here are the top items that we recommend to all players who need help getting their first loadout.
DEFCON Commando Chest Rig - $59.99
The DEFCON Commando Chest Rig is a platform for a great low price. The rig is lightweight yet is capable of many functions, and is easy to put on and take off with quick-detach buckle systems. On the front, we have several essential pouches, such as 3 closed-top magazine pouches that will fit most standard magazines, such as M4 or AK Variants. Across the chest features a pouch for small items, such as spare magazines, along with a large section of Velcro for those who would love to display patches and other hook-and-look accessories. On the left side, we have a large radio holder, which can be used for other needs such as water bottles, bottles of bb's, a gigantic bag of snacks, or anything your heart desires. On the right side, we have a decently sized admin pouch that can store essentials such as spare batteries, dead rags, medical supplies, and anything else needed on the field. The Admin pouch, as well as the mag pouches, can be removed to reveal 3 rows of MOLLE webbing, which you can then build to personalize your loadout.
BRAVO FAST Helmet - $39.99-$64.99
Helmets can become one of the most useful equipment for those looking for convenience, not to mention the protection you will get from these. The BRAVO FAST Helmets are rather sturdy and have everything you need. Most helmets only include the helmet itself and do not come with much to it. These helmets, however, come with many essentials we think should be included. The helmet comes with pre-installed Velcro for patches and other accessories across the top and rear of the helmet, unlike some helmets that do not come with it installed or any Velcro whatsoever. In the box, you will find padding to insert yourself to make the helmet more comfortable.
Additionally, the helmets come with an assortment of ARC rail accessories, such as swivel hooks for keeping your goggles with the helmet and a picatinny rail adapter for those who would like to mount other accessories to the helmet. Finally, this helmet can grow with you. The standard BRAVO FAST helmet fits most. However, for those with smaller or larger heads, there is also the Advanced Drop In-Kit, which turns this helmet into a quick-adjusting helmet that fits most head sizes and is available for $24.99.
Condor Modular Pistol Holster - $14.99
Sidearms in airsoft are your backup. If your primary is unavailable for some reason, your sidearm must be available at all times. We can't even keep track of how many times we've had players come to us asking if we've found their pistol at our field because they holstered it in their hoodie or pants pocket. A holster with some form of retention will help you in the long run. These Condor Modular Pistol Holsters are inexpensive and easily fit almost all pistols. They are fully adjustable with adjustable Velcro straps for longer and shorter guns. On the back are standard MOLLE straps to weave through your compatible MOLLE setup or belts for those who want to have their pistol holstered at the waist. Underneath the protective flap, you will find two Velcro straps connected by a single button. Insert your pistol into the holster and adjust the straps accordingly so the button is just behind the grip, and you are good to go! The design of this holster makes it ambidextrous, ideal for both left and right-handed shooters. Due to its one-size-holsters-most design, you no longer have to shop for a new holster whenever you get a new pistol!
Elite Force Kill Rag - $9.99
Kill rags are helpful for both your team and opponents on the battlefield but are more important to you. When you are hit or 'killed,' it is customary to call out HIT loud enough so your opponents hear you, put your hand up, and pull out your dead rag if you have one. Some players resort to raising their hands and waving before crossing through engagement areas when returning to spawn. Sometimes this works, but not everyone can always see the hand, and some might unintentionally shoot at you before they realize you are hit. Dead rags help prevent this by being normally a bright color, such as red or orange. In instances when your opponent can't see your hand, they will most likely continue to shoot you, not knowing you're already dead, which often leads to having a bad day in general at the field. Elite Force Kill Rags make it much easier to deploy your dead rag and reduce the number of rounds coming at you. These rags attach via a MOLLE Strap, are tucked into the pouch, and can be drawn by pulling on the Velcro tab. They're very easy to use and very easy to put away.
Condor Stryker Gloves - $24.99
Gloves are not only there just to make you look cool in airsoft. Gloves help protect you from your environment, cold, unforgiving nature, and incoming BBs, and it's hard to say which is worse. After a few personal experiences of being shot in the knuckles, I will never go without gloves ever again. Condor Stryker Gloves are padded where they count, allowing you to have dexterity in your hands still and be effective on the field. Across the knuckles is extra padded rubber to prevent you from going through what I and several others have gone through. There is extra cushioned padding on each of the fingers along the typically exposed areas when holding a rifle or pistol. Whether right or left-handed, each glove has slightly more flexibility in the index finger, allowing for fast, controlled trigger pulls no matter what platform you are on. Available in multiple sizes and colors, Condor Stryker Series gloves are great for all players, new or experienced.
The Shemagh - $9.99
Last but not least, the Shemagh. These 44" x 44" Shemaghs have several applications and can be worn several ways to fit your style. Typically, most players wear them around the neck, covering the face's lower half. While not as protective as a mesh mask (Shemaghs will not stop a BB from breaking a tooth), they have some advantages. Shemaghs can keep you warmer in the colder weather, keeping your neck, head, and cheeks warm, depending on how you wear them. They also keep you from having exposed skin, reducing the felt impact on the soft tissue of your neck. They come in various colors and designs, so you can pick one that matches your needs!
By following this guide on what to wear for airsoft and packing the additional essentials listed, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy your first airsoft game to the fullest. Remember, airsoft is not just about the gear but also about strategy, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Enjoy the game, and welcome to the airsoft community!
