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Airsoft Field Limits — Joules, FPS & Engagement Distances

Common energy caps by game type, with FPS equivalents at four BB weights.

Engagement typeJoulesMin. engagement0.20g0.25g0.30g0.40g
Indoor CQB1.14 JNone350313286248
Outdoor AEG1.49 J10 ft400358327283
UK legal max (VCR Act)1.32 J377337308267
Outdoor DMR1.88 J50 ft450402367318
Bolt-action sniper2.32 J100 ft500447408353
Check if your gun passes — FPS ↔ Joules calculator

FAQ

Are these limits universal?
No — they're the most common defaults in North America and Europe. Every field publishes its own rule sheet, and some use different tiers (e.g. 1.0J CQB or 1.7J DMR). Always check before you travel.
Why do DMRs and snipers get higher limits?
Because they're semi-auto or bolt-action only and carry minimum engagement distances (MEDs). The higher energy is offset by the requirement to stay 50–100 feet away from other players.
What happens if I chrono over the limit?
You won't be allowed to field that gun. Bring a backup, a weaker spring, or downgrade options. Some fields allow downregulating HPA on the spot.

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