UKARA Information
Frequently asked questions — Buying airsoft guns in the UK
Q: What is UKARA and do I need it to buy a RIF?
UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association) is a registration scheme that provides a legal defence under the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 for purchasing Realistic Imitation Firearms (RIFs). A RIF is an airsoft gun that looks like a real firearm — i.e. it isn’t brightly coloured or transparent. To obtain UKARA registration, you must play at a registered airsoft site at least three times over a period of not less than 56 days. Titan Forge Airsoft verifies UKARA registration at checkout for all RIF purchases.
Q: Can I buy a RIF without UKARA?
Other defences exist besides UKARA — including being a registered firearms dealer, a film or TV production company, or a museum. For most players, UKARA is the easiest route. Alternatively, you can purchase a two-tone airsoft gun (at least 51% brightly coloured) without any defence.
Q: How do I get UKARA registered?
Play at a registered airsoft site at least three times, with your visits spread over at least 56 days. Titan Forge Airsoft is co-located with Skirmish Wycombe Airsoft, a UKARA-registered site in High Wycombe. Once you’ve completed your three games over 56+ days, the site registers you with UKARA. Registration is free and lasts for one year, after which a single game renews it for another year.
Q: What is a two-tone airsoft gun?
A two-tone airsoft gun is one where at least 51% of the visible surface area is a bright colour (typically orange, yellow, blue, or green) rather than a realistic military or firearm finish. Two-tone guns can be sold to anyone aged 18+ without any UKARA defence.
Q: What age do I need to be to buy an airsoft gun in the UK?
You must be 18 or over to purchase any airsoft gun in the UK. Two-tone guns can be purchased by anyone 18+. RIFs require both an age of 18+ and a valid defence (typically UKARA).