In this guide
If you’ve looked at buying an airsoft gun in the UK, you’ll have come across the terms “two-tone” and “RIF” and probably wondered what the difference is, why some guns are bright blue or orange and whether you actually need one.
The short answer: it comes down to UK law. The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (VCRA) regulates the sale of realistic-looking imitation firearms in the UK and the two-tone system is how retailers legally sell airsoft guns to players who don’t yet have a valid defence.
This guide explains exactly what two-tone means, how it differs from a RIF, who needs what and how to move from two-tone to realistic imitation firearms once you’re an established player. If you’re completely new to airsoft, start with our complete beginner’s guide for the full picture.
What does two-tone mean?
A two-tone airsoft gun has been painted so that at least 51% of its visible surface is a bright, unrealistic colour, typically blue, orange, red or green. The purpose is to make the gun clearly distinguishable from a real firearm at a glance.
Two-tone guns are functionally identical to their realistic counterparts. They shoot the same, perform the same and accept the same upgrades. The only difference is the colour.
Common two-tone colours
- Blue, the most common two-tone colour in the UK
- Orange, often used on pistol grips and handguards
- Red, less common but meets the requirement
- Green / bright colours, occasionally used, must be clearly unrealistic
The colouring is usually applied by the retailer before sale. It’s not a factory option, the same gun model is available in both realistic and two-tone versions.
What is a RIF?
A RIF (Realistic Imitation Firearm) is an airsoft gun that looks like a real firearm. It hasn’t been two-toned, it has the manufacturer’s original realistic colouring, typically black, tan, olive drab or camouflage.
Under the VCRA, you need a valid defence to purchase a RIF. The most common defence for airsoft players is UKARA registration, proof that you’re an active skirmisher.
What is an IF?
An IF (Imitation Firearm) is the broader legal category. Both RIFs and two-tone guns are imitation firearms, they imitate the appearance of a real gun. The difference is:
- RIF = realistic-looking (requires a defence to purchase)
- Two-tone IF = clearly unrealistic due to bright colouring (anyone over 18 can purchase)
The law: VCRA explained simply
The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 made it an offence to sell or manufacture realistic imitation firearms (RIFs) unless both the seller and buyer have a valid reason.
Key legal points
- It is NOT illegal to own a RIF. The law restricts the sale and manufacture of RIFs, not ownership or possession
- You must be 18+ to buy any airsoft gun (RIF or two-tone) from a retailer
- UKARA registration is the most common defence for purchasing RIFs
- Other valid defences include: film/TV production, theatrical performances, historical re-enactments, Crown servants (military/police) and museums
- Gifting a RIF is legal, you can receive a RIF as a gift regardless of your UKARA status. The restriction is on commercial sale
For a detailed breakdown of all UK airsoft legislation, read our UK airsoft rules and regulations guide.
Who needs a two-tone gun?
You need to buy a two-tone gun if:
- You’re new to airsoft and haven’t played enough games to register with UKARA
- You don’t have UKARA registration (or another valid defence)
- You want to try airsoft before committing to regular skirmishing
Most new players start with a two-tone gun, play their qualifying games, register with UKARA and then either purchase RIFs going forward or have their two-tone repainted.
How to get UKARA (and buy RIFs)
UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association) is a voluntary database that retailers use to verify a buyer’s defence for purchasing RIFs. To get registered, you need to:
- Play at a UKARA-registered site at least 3 times
- Over a period of at least 56 days (about 2 months minimum)
- Register through that site, they submit your details to the UKARA database
Once registered, you can purchase RIFs from any UKARA-registered retailer, including us. Your registration lasts 12 months and can be renewed by continuing to play.
For the full step-by-step process, read our complete UKARA registration guide.
Can I repaint a two-tone gun?
Yes but only if you have a valid defence (such as UKARA registration).
Once you have your UKARA number, you’re legally entitled to repaint your two-tone gun to a realistic colour. This effectively converts it from a two-tone IF to a RIF. Many players do this with their first gun once they’ve earned their UKARA.
Repainting tips
- Use proper spray paint designed for plastics (Krylon Fusion, Montana or Rust-Oleum)
- Disassemble the gun first, remove the barrel, stock and any moving parts
- Sand the two-tone paint lightly for better adhesion
- Apply thin, even coats, 3-4 light coats is better than one thick one
- Allow proper drying time between coats
- Clear coat for durability (matte finish looks more realistic than gloss)
Two-tone vs RIF: does it matter for gameplay?
Functionally, no. A two-tone gun shoots exactly the same as its realistic counterpart. The internals are identical, same gearbox, same hop-up, same barrel, same performance.
That said, there are a few practical differences:
- Visibility: A bright blue gun is easier to spot in woodland. This matters more in some playstyles than others
- Resale value: Two-tone guns have lower resale value because they appeal to a smaller market. A RIF holds its value better
- Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, most players prefer the look of a realistic gun. It’s part of the hobby’s appeal
- Upgrades: All the same upgrades work on both. A two-tone CYMA AK takes the same parts as its realistic twin
Buying your first two-tone gun
If you’re starting out, a two-tone AEG is a solid first purchase. Look for a reliable platform from a reputable brand, the colour washes off later (literally, once you have your UKARA) but the quality of the gun underneath is what matters.
Our recommendations for first-time buyers:
- CYMA CM.040 series (AK), excellent V3 gearbox, very reliable, easy to upgrade
- CYMA Platinum M4, metal body, MOSFET included, great out of the box
- G&G CM16 Raider 2.0, the classic starter M4, proven and affordable
- Specna Arms CORE series, good value M4 with decent internals
Read our best airsoft guns for beginners guide for detailed recommendations and what to look for.
Browse our full range of airsoft guns, two-tone and RIF options available.
Frequently asked questions
Is it illegal to own a realistic airsoft gun without UKARA?
No. The VCRA restricts the sale of RIFs, not ownership. You can legally own a realistic airsoft gun, you just can’t buy one from a retailer without a valid defence. You can receive one as a gift, inherit one or own one you purchased before the VCRA came into effect.
Can I use a two-tone gun at airsoft sites?
Yes. Every airsoft site accepts two-tone guns. Many players on any given game day will be using them, especially at sites popular with beginners. Nobody cares what colour your gun is during a game.
Can under-18s buy airsoft guns?
No. UK law requires buyers to be 18 or over for both RIFs and two-tone guns purchased from a retailer. However, under-18s can play airsoft using guns owned by a parent or guardian or using rental guns at sites.
What if I have UKARA from a site that closes?
Your UKARA registration is tied to the database, not the specific site. If your site closes, you can renew your registration through any other UKARA-registered site by playing there regularly.
Can I buy a RIF online without UKARA?
Reputable retailers will not sell you a RIF without verifying your defence. If an online retailer sells RIFs without checking, they’re breaking the law and you should question the legitimacy of their business.
Is a clear or transparent gun the same as two-tone?
Clear/transparent airsoft guns are generally treated similarly to two-tone under the VCRA, as they don’t closely resemble real firearms. However, the safest legal position is a gun with 51%+ bright colouring from a UKARA-registered retailer.
Ready to get started?
Whether you’re picking up your first two-tone AEG or you’ve got your UKARA and want your first realistic rifle, we can help. Visit us in store, browse our airsoft guns range online or read our UKARA registration guide to start the process of getting your defence.
Visit us: A10 Spectrum Business Centre, Medway City Estate, Rochester, Kent ME2 4NP
Email: [email protected]
