Airsoft In The Netherlands

Are you thinking about moving to the Netherlands? or just want to know more about airsoft in the Netherlands? Well, this blog is for you. We will go over everything a new player or a current player needs to know to fully understand how to play airsoft in the Netherlands. In this blog, we’ll go over everything you need, including legality and memberships such as the Dutch Airsoft Association (NABV), equipment requirements, places to play, and everything else you would need to know. So let’s get started.

Is Airsoft Legal in the Netherlands?

The most frequently asked question by newcomers is mainly “is airsoft legal in the Netherlands?” and the answer is yes. Airsoft is recognized as a legitimate sport and governed by specific regulations. The Dutch Airsoft Association (NABV) serves as the governing body for airsoft in the Netherlands, setting rules and guidelines that players must follow.

To play airsoft in the Netherlands, you need to be at least 18 years or older. This age requirement is crucial as it ensures that players are mature enough to handle the responsibility of a replica airsoft gun. The NABV places great emphasis on safety,  ensuring that only responsible adults participate in the sport, as well as making players have to pass a VOG check. A VOG check or "Verklaring Omtrent Gedrag" which mean a Certificate of Good Behavior in Dutch, is a check to see if you have any kind of criminal record or other complications with the law.

Once you meet the age requirement, the next step is to become a member of the NABV. This will include getting your membership card as proof of your affiliation with the Dutch Airsoft Association as well as paying a yearly contribution top the NABV of around 80 euro. This membership card is essential for buying or participating in airsoft in the Netherlands.

Are Airsoft Guns Legal in the Netherlands?

Yes, airsoft guns are legal in the Netherlands. However, players have to go through certain obstacles to be able to buy or use airsoft guns, such as getting an NABV membership. Players who do not have an NABV membership are not permitted to own any sort of airsoft replica. If you wish to play airsoft or own any sort of Airsoft gun in the Netherlands, you must go through the proper legal framework, and the main way to do that is to get a membership with the NABV. Always take safety seriously when playing, and wear eye protection such as safety goggles or full-face masks while playing.

What Is the Legal FPS Limit in the Netherlands?

All airsoft guns are typically measured in either Feet Per Second (FPS) or Joules (J). FPS tell us what speed a BB travels upon firing out of the barrel, while Joules measures the kinetic energy of the BB. Understanding these measurements can seem a bit complicated at first, but it is important for compliance with Dutch regulations.

To ensure that you are in compliance with these legal limits in the Netherlands, here is the most up-to-date Limits from the NABV website.

Rifles and Pistols: 360 FPS or 1.2 J

DMRs: 450 FPS or 1.8 J

Sniper Rifles: 500 FPS or 2.32 J

Unlike other countries where the standard testing is with a .20g BB, in the Netherlands these measurements are made with a .30g BB. Do keep in mind that these limits are all subject to change. So always refer to the NABV's official guidelines for the most accurate and updated information.

Can You Buy Airsoft Guns Without an NABV Membership?

The short answer is no. In the Netherlands you cannot purchase any sort of airsoft gun or airsoft magazine without being an NABV membership holder. You must follow these rules as they could get you in legal trouble if you do not follow to them. The NABV membership is essentially a license that allows you to buy airsoft replicas. The NABV is responsible for ensuring that all members follow to the rules and safety guidelines outlined for the sport.

How to Purchase Airsoft Guns in the Netherlands

To buy an airsoft gun in the Netherlands, you first need to complete the registration process of getting your NABV license. This ensures that you are 18 years old and Have the correct membership. Once you have this membership, you can either go to a physical store or buy online with a retailer like us at eHobby, which has the biggest selection of airsoft replicas on the market at the best prices.

Looking for the best starter airsoft gun on a budget? Check out this blog on the best starter gun under $250

Whether in-store or online, you will have to show or send a copy of your NABV membership card as retailers will require you to have this to purchase airsoft guns and for them to ship it to you. You should also expect to fill out forms, provide identification, and possibly undergo any necessary checks as part of the purchasing process, as each retailer may have different procedures that you will need to follow.

What is the Legal Age to Play Airsoft in the Netherlands?

The legal age to play airsoft in the Netherlands is 18 years old. This age requirement ensures that players are more mature and have a greater sense of responsibility when playing with replica guns.

While having fun in airsoft is the most important part. It is also important that you closely follow the safety regulations, whether it’s legal regulations or just common sense rules. This ensures that all players are of legal age and that the sport promotes a culture of responsible participation.

Where to Play Airsoft in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has a plethora of places to play airsoft. Dedicated airsoft fields are available all throughout the Netherlands and are specifically designed for airsofters to use. These fields often have large environments, with structures and obstacles, or even large woodland areas. These places allow airsofters to participate in matches that can promote teamwork and challenge the player's skill set.

Indoor Fields: Often referred to as CQB (Close Quarters Battle) indoor arenas are perfect for all-year-round, as you don’t have to deal with the outdoor elements. These arenas typically include multiple rooms with corridors as well as doors or other obstacles.

Outdoor Fields: Outdoor venues are usually a mix of natural environments, with some man-made objects in between. Outdoor games usually have larger fields and will have bigger game types with larger teams of various sizes.

NABV Events: Participating in events organized by the NABV is a great way to engage in airsoft. These events take place in certain locations, or even places where you cannot usually play airsoft. These events provide unique games and are always a great way to meet new players.

Can You Ship Airsoft Guns to the Netherlands?

Shipping airsoft guns to the Netherlands is pretty straightforward, but some regulations must be followed when shipping. When ordering online locally or from overseas it is crucial that you include a copy of your NABV card. Some online retailers will email you asking for this after you have made your purchase or will ask you at the checkout. The reason is that this document serves as proof of your eligibility to use and own airsoft guns in the Netherlands. You must familiarize yourself with the import and export laws of the Netherlands so that you can effectively ship your airsoft guns into the Netherlands.

Before completing your order, always check that the retailer understands the specific requirements for shipping airsoft guns to the Netherlands. This is to ensure they have all the correct documents for shipping to the Netherlands, as you don’t want to get your package stopped. Most online retailers will know how to ship to the Netherlands and other countries.

However, it is always advisable just to double-check if that retailer can ship to the Netherlands first, this is due to some retailers only shipping in select countries. Here at eHobby, we ship to the Netherlands on a daily basis and we know what procedures must be done to ensure that your airsoft gun arrives at your front door safely, So you will have no issue shopping and shipping with us.

Did you buy an airsoft gun with an orange tip? want to remove it? Check out this blog about how to remove orange tips from airsoft guns.

Final Remarks

In conclusion, airsoft in the Netherlands offers a great experience filled with unique places to play and unique people to meet. However, you must understand all the legal frameworks if you want to play in the Netherlands, then you can fully immerse yourself in the sport that we all love.

However, with any sport, always ensure that you are following the safety rules, whether that be wearing eye pro or a full face covering. Always ensure that you are safe. If you want to know more, follow the guidelines provided by the NABV or the specific venue you are going to play at. By doing so, you can ensure an enjoyable experience that will make you keep coming back for more. Now that you have this knowledge, you’re ready to embark on your journey to the Netherlands and enjoy airsoft there.