State of Ohio Rules on Airsoft Rifles

Airsoft replica firearms often look exactly like the weapons imitated.replica airsoft image by MelenaVerde from Fotolia.com

Ohio law governs the transport and public display of weapons. Airsoft weapons look remarkably similar to real weapons. Most airsoft weapons replicate real weapons on a 1:1 scale, according to Airsoft Arms, an online military and tactical supply source. Because of this, it is wise to follow federal, state and local laws governing the use and show of weaponry. Ohio airsoft competition limits the firing speed per second, or FPS, of airsoft weapons used in "combat."

Carrying an Airsoft Weapon in Public

Transporting an airsoft weapon, whether in a vehicle or simply carrying it, requires a case in most areas of the United States. Typically only those permitted to carry concealed weapons may carry guns outside of a case until on private property permitting shooting. Strike Back Now, online global airsoft informational resource, recommends unloading weapons completely before transport and removing batteries from electric powered airsoft weapons. Gun cases should lock, tie or sip in such a way as to not open during transportation. If pulled over with an airsoft gun in the vehicle, alert the officer to the existence of an airsoft weapon. Many states require storing ammunition away from a weapon while in transit; tough not a real gun, airsoft gun ammunition easily stores separately.

Airsoft, and toy weapons must clearly receive markings from manufacturers like bright orange tips, to alert police and other authorities to the presence of a replica or toy weapon. Changing any markings on an airsoft weapon to make it look more realistic could result in serious danger or death for airsoft owners. Police 20 yards away may mistake a gun with a bright orange tip as real, while an unmarked replica looks exactly like the real thing. Some airsoft weapons allow for tip removal during competition or for police and military training exercises; these tips must always return to airsoft weapons before transport to ensure owner safety.

Airsoft weapons offer manual, semi-automatic and fully-automatic varieties, but FPS must fall under certain speeds for competition use, according to Strike Back Now. FPS speeds vary by area. Ohio airsoft competition rules set FPS speeds for indoor full automatic, outdoor full automatic and sniper semi-automatic weapons. Indoor competition full automatic weapons must fire below 350 FPS. Outdoor competition full automatic weapons must fire below 400 FPS. Sniper semi-automatic weapons must fire below 500 FPS. Other Ohio airsoft competition laws typically change between individual venues or competitions. Ohio airsoft competitors must know and follow state and individual venue airsoft rules while competing in Ohio.