Getting an ww2 airsoft RIF.

It is harder to aquire a weapon if you are only interrested in the WWII side. Some recomend going to regular airsoft days to get a feel for it, although I don't, it can just make it simpler - go to a few open days, enough to get a UKARA, then you can go to the good stuff.

If you are a re-enactor things can also be simpler, as you already will have exemption under the VCR to get a period airsoft gun.

fortunately most games will have something they can load out weaponwise as you get into it. What it does enable you to do is concentrate on the other bit first - the clothes etc - and you can come to the gun down the line.

Would a soldier be classed as a crown servant? If so, crown servants are exempt from the VCRA if they have proof of employment.

Well I spent too long writing out a reply to have it explained before I hit post

Gunman Airsoft runs a few WW2 weekend events. You could just turn up to a few of his events (Link to the Gunman forum, http://www.gunmanforum.com/ )

Most sites will have hire guns, Gunman allows you to borrow full kit and gun as well as people on this forum will lead out kit on a "bend it, buy it"

Would a soldier be classed as a crown servant? If so, crown servants are exempt from the VCRA if they have proof of employment.

No, that wouldn't work - soldiers aren't required to purchase airsoft guns for their work. "the purposes of functions that a person has in his capacity as a person in the service of Her Majesty."

Gunman Airsoft runs a few WW2 weekend events. You could just turn up to a few of his events (Link to the Gunman forum, http://www.gunmanforum.com/ )

This is a good route to obtain a UKARA defence as Gunman is part of the UKARA scheme. You can also buy guns from Gunman as a bone fide club member, subject to laws pertaining.

Is this a airsoft game site? Can I become a member here and go to three events and hire uniforms and weapons?

The short answer is no, an airsoft site is a physical location whose organisers have, (for the purposes of complying with UKARA requirements), Public Liability Insurance and run a membership scheme. Gunman is a good example.

As has been said above the easiest way forward is to attend 3 games over 2 months or more at a suitable site, most if not all will have hire guns available, which will then entitle you to membership and registration with UKARA.

Just as a side note, it's the site membership that gives you the legal defence to purchase a RIF, getting registered with UKARA just makes it simpler especially with UK dealers most of whom use UKARA to verify your defence.

Edited to address the point made in CWs post below

Just as a side note, it's the site membership that gives you the legal right to purchase a RIF, getting registered with UKARA just makes it simpler especially with UK dealers most of whom use UKARA to verify your defence.

This is true, and another reason to frequent Gunman games as Gunman is both a 'site' and a retailer... (although it isn't a legal right, not even an exemption, just a kind dispensation from the Home Secretary )

Is this a airsoft game site?

No, this is an internet website and discussion forum although it is used to organise games too. As above, an airsoft site is a physical place where airsoft games are run.

Like Gunman http://www.gunmanairsoft.co.uk/ or First & Only http://www.firstandonlyevents.co.uk/

(which are also websites & discussion forums too....)

Cheers
Martin

Come to some WWII airsoft games/events (lets not start on what we call this again) and borrow a gun. If you like it join AFRA to get your defence and then buy a gun. Simples!
I have an MP40 to loan, plenty of others do too. Just get stuck in and then buy a gun, there's no hurry.