I don't think the SRC's are that cheap. When you consider all the other gear I invested in such as BDUs, Radios, Tac Vests, Extra Mags, and bbs, I estimate that I spent nearly $500 on the equipment. We have to remember that version 1 CAs had its share of problems. I think the important part is to plan games and scenarios out with clear objectives and orders. I played with a group of kids on the 22nd of November and the all followed the orders I was giving them and they were very respectful. Only after 20 minutes of sitting and waiting for somebody to show up and realizing all of the other defensive teams had abandoned their positions did I let them move out of position. I think with a good leader and clear objective, even the young ones will listen and pay attention. I don't think the type of gear causes what happened to paintball. Take video games as an example, there are numerous types of video games for a variety of players. I personally play Battlefield 2, America's Army, Call of Duty, as well as others. While I personally prefer the realistic games such as America's Army, I think BF2 when played with a group of people who want to employ real tactics and manuevers can be just as rewarding. I can't stand games like Quake and Doom where it is run and gun, but alot of people do and spend more on those games. (I DON'T KNOW WHY!) I guess what it comes down to is the type of players there are. I would rather play the MILSIM way honestly, but I think you can have a group that plays MILSIM and a group that plays more of paintballish. I'm not advocating Paintball style, in fact I have never played nor will I, but I think it comes down to the person and what their objectives are. I think most people who buy the gear want to impersonate the military, and that's why they play Airsoft instead of paintball. Just my two cents. I just don't think gear is the reason you are seeing the different groups. Paintball started out like Airsoft, but gained popularity and the majority of people like the speedball style much like a lot of gamers enjoy Doom and Quake. I just think with increasing visibility the game and increased numbers that you will see some halfwit playing Quake-like in Airsoft(UNFORTUNATELY). Hopefully, AA can maintain a group of core players who cherish the MILSIM aspect and carry the tradition on.
Sorry for the long rant,
John Flowers
P.S. Gixser, I don't disagree with you on what you want from airsoft, but I don't know if cheap gear is the reason you are seeing more of these players. I think the overall awareness of the sport has grown. I learned about airsoft from my nephew who is 13 years old and plays with a clear pistol. I did some research and found Arizona Airsoft and said WOW!!!! that is actually what I was looking for. I just think kids are becoming more aware of the sport because of stores like Sports Chalet and Sports Authority selling the clear plastic stuff.
