Interest in airsoft

Hey everybody, just wanted to say hello after browsing the forums for a while and being a bit of a lurker. I've been getting the urge to get into airsoft or paintball lately and stumbled across this site. Seems like a great resource for those interested. Anyway, I was hoping perhaps I could do some drop in with you folks. Frankly, I'm a little confused as to how to get started. I don't own any of my own gear, and from my understanding, there are 2 main fields you guys play at, so unless somebody is willing to rent out their gear to me for the day, it'd have to be at a field that rents. I apologize for my general lack of knowledge, i've tried familiarizing myself with the site, but perhaps there's someone I could directly contact to get involved? I'd just like it if i didn't show up on game day completely unprepared or forgetting something major that prevents me from playing.

Also, not to sound like a wimp, although i suppose there's no way i won't asking this question: how badly do these things hurt compared to paintball?

[jsae]

You will find rentals and rides in the games section.

Many players have spare or semi-retired gear they can rent as well as guns they are comfortable renting, too.

Have you seen the Getting Started header topic? Also, read Meatshower's Guide to BBwarz in this New Player section.

Thanks for the reply, Jsae. I'll take a more thorough look through the games section. I hadn't noticed anything in there regarding that other than game dates/location/attendance etc but i'll admit it was a pretty brief glance.

I've read through Meatshower's guide and seems like a good plan to follow. I'll just rent for the first few times, and if I really enjoy the sport, I'll gladly pick up my own set of gear. I'm going to try swinging by one of these days or nights (maybe tonight if I can convince the girlfriend to tag along haha) to introduce myself and meet some of the regulars. I won't have any gear or anything obviously, it's more just to see what kind of atmosphere it is.

[jsae]

viewforum.php?f=39

It's in the gaming subsection, alongside the Game Days. You should be able to just scroll to it.

If you don't see it, you may need to introduce yourself officially and gain the next level of access.

Don't see it just yet. I introduced myself in another thread so hopefully it'll show up shortly.

Welcome! Another thing to mention is that with our games at Panther there are field rentals available. Other players will generally rent you better gear than the field but it's an option to get started on. The BBs generally hurt less than paintballs in my experience, so don't worry much about that. And feel free to ask any questions you have, we are here to help

Thank you for the welcome I actually swung by the Panther match last night near the end there and spoke with a few people. Seems like a great bunch and looked like a lot of fun. Very friendly and helpful. I'm hoping to make it out and actually participate next time around