The global market value of Airsoft guns was estimated to be approximately £1.6 billion (US$2.1 billion) in 2023. The increasing interest of millennials in extreme sports is expected to drive the sales of Airsoft guns at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.3% during the forecast period.
The industry value of Airsoft weapons is forecasted to reach £3.8 billion (US$4.9 billion) by 2034, rising from a projected £1.7 billion (US$2.2 billion) in 2024. Airsoft Mil-Sim, a simulated combat sport using replica firearms that fire plastic BBs, attracts over 60,000 participants nationwide at various locations, making it one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in the UK.
The global Airgun market is expected to reach £2.9 billion (US$3.8 billion) by 2027, up from £1.6 billion (US$2.1 billion) in 2021, with a projected CAGR of 8.2% during 2024–2027. Factors such as the presence of numerous market players and high market competitiveness have contributed to significant developments.
Airgun shooting is among the most popular shooting sports in the UK, with over 6 million air rifles estimated in England and Wales alone. Airguns are utilized for both formal and recreational target shooting, with targets ranging from simple paper "bullseye" targets in indoor ranges to more intricate "field targets" set in woodland environments to represent typical Airgun quarry.