Are airsoft imitation firearms and other realistic replicas legal?
Airsoft guns are legal in Ireland since the 2006 Criminal Justice Act altered the Firearms Acts.
As such, any airsoft gun thats muzzle energy is one joule or less is no longer classified as a firearm. No license is required for an airsoft gun.
HOWEVER. Airsoft guns are now classed as Real Imitation Firearms (RIFs) and cannot be carried in public 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 well contact the authorities and you could find yourself in serious trouble.
Penalities 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.
Air Soft Guns are not toys! They are used for target practise and war games and only by persons that are at least 18 years old. Make sure always to wear safety goggles or full face masks.
The impact of an Airsoft round 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
An Garda Siochana
The information below is intended to inform handlers of airsoft replica’s as to the some of the powers of An Garda Siochana in the circumstance of the handler giving reason to be stopped. This list is by no means comprehensive.
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.