Airsoft players in Cyprus want their sport to be legal. The Cyprus Airsoft Association (CAA) is leading this effort. They want to make the rules for airsoft clear. The sport has become much more popular. The CAA has given a proposal to the government. This proposal will change gun laws. It will make rules for buying and using airsoft equipment. Many people say this equipment is not like real guns.
For over ten years, airsoft has been in a legal unclear area. Since 2008, it was technically "illegal." This is because of general gun laws. The sport is growing now. Argyris Argyrou, the CAA President, said it was a "closed circle" before. Now, it is considered "illegal." This affects about 6,000 players. It also stops the sport from growing. Interest in airsoft grew by 70% during the pandemic. This shows why clear rules are needed.
The CAA wants to show that airsoft toys are not real guns. They say the current laws do not understand this. This can cause worry for people. A Member of Parliament, Prodromos Alambritis, supports the new proposal. It wants rules like those for paintball. The goal is a clear system. There will be a list of equipment. There will be rules to stop misuse.
The plan includes special areas for airsoft games. Argyrou said they want to "identify roughly 10 specific areas." These areas will be marked. This is to keep the public safe. Organisers will tell the police about game times. They will use a code word, like "blind." This will stop games if someone enters the area. Safety is important. The CAA also checks equipment. Players must be 18 or older.
Making airsoft legal will help many players. It will also help the public understand the sport. Airsoft teaches skills like teamwork and responsibility. The CAA believes a clear framework will help the sport grow. They hope the new law will be in place by January. This will be a new start for airsoft in Cyprus.