Two Tone Vs Single Colour RIFs

Airsoft Restrictions: Two Tone vs. Single Colour RIFs (UK)

In the United Kingdom, the purchase of airsoft guns, particularly those that look realistic (Realistic Imitation Firearms or RIFs), is governed by the Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA) 2006. This legislation differentiates between RIFs and Imitation Firearms (IFs), often referred to as “two-tone” airsoft guns, and imposes different restrictions on their purchase.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences in restrictions when buying a Two Tone vs. Single Colour RIF in the UK:

Two Tone Airsoft Guns (Imitation Firearms – IFs):

• Appearance: These airsoft guns must have at least 51% of their surface area painted in a bright, non-military colour. Common colours include bright blue, green, orange, or pink. This makes them easily distinguishable from real firearms.

• Purchase Restrictions: The primary restriction on buying a two-tone airsoft gun is the age of the purchaser. You must be 18 years or older to legally buy a two-tone airsoft gun. Retailers will typically require proof of age.

• “Defence” Not Required: Importantly, you do not need to possess a specific “defence” under the VCRA to purchase a two-tone airsoft gun. The bright colouring itself serves to make the item an imitation firearm, thus bypassing the need for the buyer to demonstrate a legitimate reason for owning a realistic-looking replica.

• Ownership: Once purchased legally (i.e., you are over 18), you can own a two-tone airsoft gun without any further restrictions related to its appearance.

• Under 18s: Individuals under 18 cannot legally purchase any airsoft gun, including two-tone models. However, a parent or guardian over 18 can purchase a two-tone airsoft gun and gift it to a minor for use on private property with supervision or at designated airsoft sites.

Single Colour RIFs (Realistic Imitation Firearms):

• Appearance: These airsoft guns are designed to have a realistic appearance to real firearms, including their colour schemes (e.g., black, tan, olive drab, camouflage).

• Purchase Restrictions: Buying a single colour RIF is subject to stricter regulations. In addition to being 18 years or older, you must have a valid “defence” under the VCRA.

• Establishing a “Defence”: The most common way to establish a defence is by being a registered airsoft skirmisher at a UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association) registered airsoft site.

This typically involves:

• Regularly attending skirmishes at a registered site (usually a minimum of three times within a period of no less than two months).
• Becoming a member of the site.
• The site registering you on the UKARA database, providing you with a unique UKARA number.

Other potential (but less common) defences include:

• Membership in a properly insured historical re-enactment group.
• Use in film, television, or theatre productions.
• Purchase by a museum.
• Being a Crown Servant acting in pursuance of their duties.

Retailer Verification: When purchasing a single colour RIF, you will need to provide proof of your valid defence (e.g., your UKARA number) to the retailer, who will verify it before completing the sale. Retailers may also have policies of shipping RIFs only to the address associated with your registered defence.

• Ownership: Once you have legally purchased a single colour RIF with a valid defence, you can own it. However, you are responsible for its safe storage and transportation.

• Under 18s: Individuals under 18 cannot legally purchase single colour RIFs, as they cannot establish the necessary defence.

Key Differences Summarized:

Important Considerations:

• It is illegal to remove the bright colours from a two-tone airsoft gun to make it appear more realistic. This is considered converting an Imitation Firearm into a Realistic Imitation Firearm without a valid defence.

• The regulations primarily apply to the point of purchase. There are generally no restrictions on owning a legally acquired RIF or IF, provided you are over 18. However, the public display or misuse of any airsoft gun can lead to legal issues.

• Always purchase airsoft guns from reputable retailers who understand and comply with UK law. They will be able to guide you through the necessary requirements.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone looking to buy airsoft guns in the UK to ensure they comply with the law and enjoy the sport responsibly.