Find out when you can register for UKARA and buy a realistic imitation firearm (RIF). Enter your first game date and how many game days you’ve played, and we’ll tell you what you still need and the earliest date you could qualify.
How UKARA works
The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 restricts the sale of realistic imitation firearms (RIFs). One defence is buying a RIF to take part in airsoft skirmishing at an insured site. The UK Airsoft Retailers Association (UKARA) database is the most widely recognised way to prove it.
- Play at a UKARA-registered site. Not every site is registered, so check first.
- Play three game days at that site, spread over at least two months (56 days).
- Ask the site to register you. They submit your details, usually after checking photo ID.
- Use your UKARA number when you buy a RIF. Registration lasts 12 months and is renewed by continuing to play.
RIF or two-tone?
| RIF (realistic) | Two-tone | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Realistic black, tan, olive etc. | At least 51% bright colour |
| Who can buy | Only someone with a valid defence | Anyone aged 18 or over |
| Legal to own | Yes | Yes |
| Legal to use at a site | Yes | Yes |
This is general information, not legal advice. It covers England, Wales and Scotland. Read our full guide to UKARA, RIFs and UK airsoft law.
While you wait
Keep playing on hire kit or with a two-tone, and use the time to build the rest of your loadout. Our which airsoft gun quiz and Airsoft Loadout Cost Calculator help you plan, and the Airsoft Game Day Checklist makes sure you’re ready for each game day. Looking for a site? Our sister site OP-TAC runs regular game days.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get UKARA?
At least 56 days. You need to play three game days at the same UKARA-registered site, and the games must be spread over a period of at least two months (56 days). Once you qualify, the site registers you on the database.
Do games at different sites count towards UKARA?
No. All three game days need to be at the same UKARA-registered site, and that site registers you. Games at other sites, or at sites that aren’t registered, don’t count.
How long does UKARA registration last?
Registration lasts 12 months. It’s renewed by continuing to play regularly at a registered site, so keep playing and ask your site to renew it if needed.
Can I buy a RIF without UKARA?
Only with another valid defence, such as being part of an insured historical re-enactment group or a film production. Most players use UKARA. Without a defence, adults can buy two-tone guns, which are legal to use at sites.
Can under-18s get UKARA?
No. You must be 18 or over to buy any imitation firearm and to register for UKARA. Many sites let younger players take part with parental consent.
Does UKARA apply in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland has different firearms legislation, so the rules there are not the same. This checker covers England, Wales and Scotland.
Get game-day ready
Eye protection, clothing and kit for your next game, whether you’re hiring or bringing your own.
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Take the quiz →Airsoft Loadout Cost Calculator
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Build your loadout →FPS to Joules Calculator
Convert airsoft fps to joules (and back) for any BB weight, then check it against typical UK site limits.
Open the calculator →General information, not legal advice. Your site decides whether to register you.