AIRSOFT BATTLEFIELD: CAMP R&R

Nestled deep within the temperate rain forest of Oregon lies Camp R&R, a bastion for adrenaline junkies and airsoft operatives.

In the clandestine woods of Gales Creek is a replica battlefield founded in 1998 by Ray Marty and Tim Eyre when they bought the property, once the location of the old Consolidated Timber Co.

About an hour Northwest of Portland, BB warriors meet once a month to test their skills, show off their kits, nerd out over each other’s gear, and engage in mock combat scenarios. The pursuit of glory not only brings us all together but also satisfies some primal instinct I feel is left unattended within the urban sprawl of the city.

Airsoft is a sport whose origins date to early 1970s Japan, emerging from a blend of passion and necessity. Stringent laws on weapons and firearms created a niche for collectible replicas that fired 6mm plastic BBs using spring, motor, or gas power.

The most common choice for players today is the AEG, or Automatic Electric Gun, which employs high-speed electric motors and high-output batteries to propel .20-gram BBs at 300-400 feet per second. Some others may choose to use heavier BBs; high-powered sniper rifles will often use BBs weighing up to .48 grams to ensure reliable accuracy and distance.

Many players also run replicas called Gas Blowback Rifles or Pistols that mimic the blowback of a real weapon. These run on CO2 (carbon dioxide) or propane gas, and the most dedicated players wear kits (outfits) that run through lines connected to high-pressure air tanks.

Safety is of utmost importance at the field. Even though we are playing soldier out in the forest we must always maintain proper use of protective eyewear any time we are engaged, or at the firing range. While our replicas are not real firearms, they can easily damage an eye or hurt someone.

For this reason, we always have our replicas chronographed and tagged. Camp R&R staff member David will have everyone bring their replica and eye protection, and test fire a few BBs to check for speed according to the weight of the BB fired. Eye protection is non-negotiable on the battlefield, and we will graciously and courteously shout “blind man” if anyone is having issues with their goggles or glasses, even if they are just fogging up, and pause action to help them off the field.

It’s absolutely required to be safe so that we can all have the most fun. While not required it’s recommended to also wear a face mask, either a mesh mask or balaclava, which can help protect teeth from being chipped.

Outdoor fields hold a commitment to eco-friendliness. They require biodegradable BBs made from polyactic acid (PLA), ensuring that nature’s beauty remains unspoiled by “forever plastics.”

Everyone is welcome and appreciated at Camp R&R. I’ve seen a range of players from young kids around age 9-12 all the way up to a few grizzled combat veterans in their 50s, girlfriends and moms joining in, too. The community is truly diverse and openly inclusive, representing diverse backgrounds and identities, all coming together to share their passion for airsoft. Whether you are a newcomer or an experienced player, you will be cheerfully greeted and welcomed in the community.

The R&R’s field terrain is rough and arduous. It’s quite a hike through the dense undergrowth surrounding a ramshackle village littered with run-down vehicles, a bank, a jail, a gas station, and even a two-story church, where players can oversee the entire town and lay waste upon oncoming forces. But the attention to detail Tim and Tank bring to the field heightens everyone’s immersion and creates an unforgettable experience, every game.

The next game is just around the corner on Nov. 11! Games are hosted on the second Saturday of every month, rain or shine. Entry is $20 for the day and includes free overnight camping. Visit CampRandR.com and Facebook.com/CampRandR to keep track of future games.