UKARA, RIFs and Two-Tones: Buying an Airsoft Replica in the UK

If you want to buy a black, tan or other realistically coloured airsoft replica in the UK, you will hear about UKARA, RIFs and “two-tones”. This guide explains what those terms mean, how players usually get registered, and what to expect when you order a replica from OnlyAirsoft.

This is a plain-English overview, not legal advice. The law can change, so check the official sources linked below or ask us if you are unsure what applies to your purchase.

RIFs and two-tones: what is the difference?

UK law treats airsoft replicas differently depending on how realistic they look.

Realistic imitation firearm (RIF): a replica that could be mistaken for a real firearm. Most airsoft rifles and pistols in black, tan, dark earth, olive or silver are RIFs.
Imitation firearm (IF), usually called a “two-tone”: a replica where at least 51% of the surface is a bright colour such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple or pink (or transparent). Two-tones are not treated as realistic, so they do not need the defences described below.

Under the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, it is an offence to manufacture, import or sell a RIF unless a specific defence applies. The defence most players rely on is the one for airsoft skirmishing, which is where UKARA comes in.

Age limits

You must be 18 or over to buy any imitation firearm in the UK, whether it is a RIF or a two-tone. That is why every order on our website includes an 18+ confirmation at checkout, and why we may ask for ID.

What is UKARA?

UKARA (the United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association) runs a database of registered skirmishers. Retailers check it to confirm that a buyer is a regular player at a registered airsoft site, which supports the skirmishing defence for selling a RIF.

UKARA is not a firearms licence. It is simply a way for a retailer to confirm that you play airsoft regularly.

How do you get a UKARA number?

The usual route is:

Find a UKARA-registered site. Not every site is registered, so ask before you book.
Play at least three games at that site, spread over at least 56 days. Many players rent a replica for these first games.
Ask the site to register you. Sites normally do this through their membership scheme, and you will need to be 18 or over.
Keep your membership current. Registration is usually linked to your site membership, which typically lasts 12 months, so keep playing to stay registered.

Each site manages its own membership, so the exact process, fees and paperwork vary. Check with the site where you play.

Other defences

UKARA is the most common route, but it is not the only one. Other groups that may be able to buy a RIF include historical re-enactors, theatre, film and TV productions, and museums. Retailers usually ask for proof and judge these on a case-by-case basis. If you think one of these applies to you, contact us before ordering.

Buying from OnlyAirsoft

At checkout you confirm that you are 18 or over and can enter your UKARA number or other defence.
Orders that include a RIF are dispatched once we have confirmed your age and your defence. See our Terms & Conditions and Delivery Information for details.
You can also visit us at 20–22 Castle Street, Thetford to talk it through in person.

Without a defence you can still buy two-tone replicas, as well as clothing, protective gear, BBs, batteries and most accessories.

Two things to avoid

Do not repaint a two-tone into realistic colours. Changing an imitation firearm so that it becomes realistic can count as manufacturing a RIF.
Do not carry replicas openly in public. Transport them in a closed bag or case, travel straight to and from the site or shop, and follow your site’s rules.

A note on power

To count as an airsoft gun in law (rather than a firearm), a replica must fire small plastic BBs no larger than 8mm, with a muzzle energy of no more than 1.3 joules for replicas that can fire more than one shot per trigger pull, or 2.5 joules for others. Sites set their own, usually lower, limits for different replica types. Check the rules at the site where you play.

Quick checklist

Am I 18 or over?
Is the replica a RIF or a two-tone?
If it is a RIF, do I have a UKARA registration or another valid defence?
Does my site have power or replica rules I need to meet?