UK Airsoft FPS Limits

UK Airsoft FPS Limits (Based on 0.20g BBs)

In the UK, airsoft guns are subject to strict FPS (Feet Per Second) limits to ensure player safety and comply with legal classifications under the Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA).

The legal limits are:

• AEGs & Semi-Auto Guns (fully or semi-automatic):
  Max 350 FPS with a 0.20g BB (~1.14 Joules)

• DMRs (Designated Marksman Rifles) (semi-auto only):
  Max 400 FPS with a 0.20g BB (~1.49 Joules)
  Must have a minimum engagement distance and lock to semi-auto.

• Bolt-Action Sniper Rifles:
  Max 500 FPS with a 0.20g BB (~2.32 Joules)
  Requires longer engagement distance and proper safety measures.

Exceeding these limits may make your replica a Section 5 firearm, which is illegal without proper licensing.

Always check with your local site, as they may have their own rules and chrono procedures. All airsoft guns must be tested with 0.20g BBs unless stated otherwise.

Here's a quick reference FPS chart based on standard UK limits:

 

BB Weight (g)	AEG / GBB Rifle (1.13J)	DMR (Semi-Locked) (1.64J)	Bolt-Action Sniper (2.32J)	Pistols (1.13J)
0.20g	349 FPS	420 FPS	500 FPS	349 FPS
0.25g	312 FPS	376 FPS	447 FPS	312 FPS
0.28g	295 FPS	355 FPS	422 FPS	295 FPS
0.30g	285 FPS	343 FPS	408 FPS	285 FPS
0.32g	276 FPS	332 FPS	395 FPS	276 FPS
0.36g	260 FPS	313 FPS	372 FPS	260 FPS
0.40g	247 FPS	297 FPS	353 FPS	247 FPS
0.45g	233 FPS	280 FPS	333 FPS	233 FPS
0.50g	221 FPS	266 FPS	316 FPS	221 FPS

Important Notes:

• Joule Creep Applies – Many UK sites chrono using heavier BBs to ensure fairness.
• Minimum Engagement Distance (MED) – DMRs & Snipers must follow site-specific MED rules.
• HPA & GBB Joule Testing – Sites may chrono with actual BB weight to prevent FPS abuse.