- What do I need to play?
PRIMARY EQUIPMENT:
- Airsoft Gun
- Paintball Goggles and Paintball Mask (w/Thermal Lenses)
- Battle Dress Uniform (BDU's) or other Tactical Attire
- 1-3 Hi Capacity Magazines
- 1-2 Hi Capacity Batteries
- Battery Charger (w/DC capability)
- Food & Water
- Watch or other Timepiece
SECONDARY EQUIPMENT:
- Harness (belt + suspenders) or Tac Vest
- Boots
- Gloves
- Headgear
- FRS Radio
- Canteen or CamelBack
ADDITIONAL:
- Money for admission and ammo.
- Sweatband or headwrap
- Small rag to wipe goggles
Note! Never touch thermal lenses! You must use micro-fiber cloth or you will scratch them.
Be sure to invest in good quality gear. Otherwise, you'll suffer on the
field when it breaks on you. As with most things in life, you get what you
pay for so spend a little extra and it'll pay off in the long run.
- Do I have to wear BDU's to play?
Some type of military clothing or tactical attire is required. BDU's, jumpsuit, military t-shirt, etc. but NO BRIGHT COLORS.
Sometimes the scenario calls for civilians, but generally you must dress up. We go through a lot of trouble to dress the part and it's not fair to everyone else if you do not.
- I am not 18 years old yet, but I will be soon. Can I still play?
Absolutely! Sequoia Airsoft is open to ages 13 and over.
- Do you have to wear paintball goggles?
Affirmative. Goggles MUST be paintball-approved goggles w/mask such as JT, Scott, etc. NO EXCEPTIONS. This is and insurance requirement and will not change so please
do not inquire for exceptions.
- What about Bolle T-800 goggles? Balistic Military Goggles? Airsoft Mesh Goggles?
Negative. Goggles MUST be paintball-approved goggles such as JT, Scott, etc. NO EXCEPTIONS. This is do primarily to liability and will not change so please
do not inquire for exceptions.
- You mentioned that Scott goggles are ok, correct?
Scott PAINTBALL goggles. Not ski goggles.
If you don't know what a PAINTBALL GOGGLE is then search the internet and do some research. Ask the vendors if they qualify. Paintball goggles have their own ANSI standard and NOTHING else qualifies!
- If I get goggles with anti-fog lenses, how do I keep my own glasses from fogging?
There are a number of different ways. You need to research the internet and learn more about paintball products such as anti-fog that can be put on your glasses, special masks designed to accomadate glasses, goggle fans, etc.
- Do you have to wear paintball masks?
Affirmative. Facemasks are required for all Sequoia events.
- Why do we have to use Bio ammo?
Because plastic, or plastic covered ammo is littering. This would jeapardize our ability to use the field and is strictly enforced. Using plastic, or 'semi' bio ammo is a sure way to get yourself banned from the field.
- How much is the field ammo?
Please read the pricing section.
- How much ammo will I need?
That depends on how much you shoot. Most players use 1-2 bags per day and some use twice that. It depends on your style and the type of game.
- How much is rental equipment?
Sequoia Airsoft is not renting equipment at this time except for goggles/mask. Otherwise, all players must be self-equipped. Please reserve rental goggles when you register.
- Do I have to pay on the Website?
Negative. You are welcome to pay at the field with cash or check. Only credit cards must use on-line payments in advance.
- How do I register?
Use the registration form provided on the website.
- When does Registration close?
The night before the game. Do not procrastinate! Register ASAP if you think you might go. There is no harm in registering, or cancelling, so just do it.
- Where are you located? What is the address?
The field is located 30 min from Los Gatos in the mountains; there is no address. Directions are provided to registered players, only.
- Where is the closest hotels? Airports? Campgrounds?
The field is no more than 45 min from anywhere in the San Jose valley. So, you can stay anywhere near San Jose and be within an hour from the field:
The closest airport is San Jose (SJC) or San Franciscos (SFO). SJC is about 45 min from the field and SFO is about twice that.
The closest public campground is Uvas Canyon. Information can be found at http://www.sccgov.org/portal/site/parks/
- Can my team play together? Can I play with my friends?
Of course! Be sure to use the same team name when you register and you will be assigned to the same unit.
- How do you select teams? Do I have to be on a team?
We select teams right before the game starts and balance them accordingly. You are welcome to play on the same side with your friends or team members.
You do not have to have your own team. We pick teams at the field.
- How do you tell the teams apart?
We issue colored armbands after we split up the teams. Sometimes we can split up by uniform pattern, but it seldom balances so we use armbands most often.
- How long is the season? How do I join the league?
Sequoia Airsoft is open to the public year round. We do not have organized teams or leagues.
- Do you allow upgraded guns for Snipers?
Negative. All guns must shoot 400fps or less with .20g ammo. No exceptions.
- Doesn't that make Snipers useless?
Negative. Sequoia Aisoft uses a unique set or rules that will challenge
your abilities as a sniper with stealth, fire control, and target aquisition.
The equipment is not nearly as important as your fieldcraft. High power guns will make no difference the way we have devised the rules. This is by design for safety reasons.
- Can I use my mini-electric, spring, or gas gun? Does it have to be an AEG?
You can use any airsoft gun as long as it shoots less than 400fps with .20g ammo.
However, full-sized AEG's (airsoft electric guns) are more powerful, reliable, and have larger battery and ammo capacity. As such, everyone uses AEG's. Gas, spring, or mini's will be SEVERELY outgunned and you will NOT have a good time against the AEG's. Everyone uses as AEG for this reason.
- My gun is shooting 400-and-something (over 400); can I still use it?
Negative. All guns must chrono 400 or LESS. Tune them for sub-400 velocities with a .20g bb. No exceptions.
- What can I do to practice ahead of time?
MOVEMENT
Your squad should practice moving in single file, skirmish line, and wedge formations. Literally walk around and practice until everyone gets the hang of it. Firezones are important. Stress that each person has a role and responsibility.
COMMUNICATION
Determine your radio call signs and get use to them. Make up some common verbal commands for common situations (attack, retreat, flank right, flank left, etc.) Write them down in advance and practice them along with your movement.
ROLES
Determine your squad leaders, point men, and rear guard. Usually, people fall into these positions according to their style of play and leadership ability.
SKIRMISH
Practice the following formats.
- Attack/Defend: One team holds the flag, the other tries to steal it. Then, rotate.
- Convoy: Select a road. One team must travel up the road, the other must slow them down. Use a time limit.
- Multiple Objective: Similar to attack/defend, but use multiple flags. Radios and communication are important if you're going to seize all the flags. Plan your offense and defense.
- Search/Destroy: Self explanatory. Movement and communication are important.
PHYSICAL CONDITIONING
Try to work out at least 3 times per week. Even simple calistetics will help. Do the three basics:
Pushups, Situps(crunches), and Kneebends(squats). Try to work yourself up to at least 3 sets of each doing as many as
you can handle. Try jogging, biking, or other cardiovascular excersises for endurance. Airsoft is a physical
game and the better shape you are in the better you will do in battle.
- I have an (x) gun that shoots (x) fps, a (y) gun that shoots (Y) fps, and a (z) gun that shoots (z) fps; which one can I use?
You may use any airsoft gun as long as it shoots 400fps or less with .20g ammo. No exceptions! AEG's are the most desireable
for their high capacity ammo, batteries, and power. Gas guns are less desireable and usually only used as sidearms. Spring guns
will be severely outgunned by the AEG's and no one really uses them.
- Can I use my Laser?
Red lasers are ok as long as you do not aim them at the eyes.
Green lasers are not allowed at all!
- Where is a good place to buy equipment?
In the Bay Area, Airsoft Extreme has stores with the latest airsoft guns, gear, and other goodies.
You must purchase your ammo at the field. You may pay for ammo in advance with credit cards on the website.
For BDU's and tactical gear, try The Mtn View Surplus (Campbell), Mtn View Surplus (Mtn View), R.E.D. Surplus (San Mateo),
J&S Surplus (Moss Landing), or Steven's Creek Surplus (San Jose).
On the internet, try US Cavalry, Sportsmans Guide, or Cheaper Than Dirt! for BDU's, tactical gear, camping supplies, etc.
Paintball-Online.com has paintball masks, replacement lenses, anti-fogging supplies, etc.
- Can I bring smoke grenades or pyrotechnics?
Negative.
- Can I bring paint grenades?
Negative. There are too many complaints about ruining expensive gear so paint grenades are not allowed.
- I have (this) pattern BDU and (that) pattern BDU; which one is acceptable to wear?
Any military attire is acceptable.
- Can we wear the standard issue army t-shirts in lieu of the BDU shirts?
Any military attire is acceptable.
- Is a helmet or boonie hat mandatory?
Negative. Headgear is optional, but encouraged. It is up to you.
- Do you allow spectators or camera operators?
Negative. Only registered players may attend. Family and significant others are the only exception.
Camera operators distract players from their game and we do not allow them to stand around. Participating players may take combat photographs, only. Please do not e-mail for exceptions.
- How often are you open?
We are open on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month year round rain or shine.
Sometimes, the dates can vary due to holiday weekends or special events so consult the Airsoft Event Calendar for a complete list of games.
- Can I reserve the field for a private group?
Negative. We do not do private games. Please join us on any public day!
- Can I use (this) goggle or (that) goggle?
Goggles MUST be paintball-approved goggles such as JT, Scott, etc. NO EXCEPTIONS!
- I have (this) headgear and (that) facemask. Are they acceptable?
Paintball Facemasks are mandatory. Headgear is optional, but encouraged. It is up to you.
- How do I pay?
Pay cash or check at the field or use our on-line payments page for credit cards (website, only) You must bring cash or check to pay at the field.
- Do I have to order bb's or can I buy them at the field?
Ammo is always available for sale at the field. You may pay for ammo in advance with credit cards on the website.
- What time do you start? How long do the games go?
Registration opens at 8:30 and is open all day.
The first game briefing is at 9:30 and the game will commence afterwards. Lunch is usually from 12:30-1:30 and the afternoon session lasts until around 5:00.
Please arrive and be ready by 9:30am to join the first game or just show up whenever you can. Games are usually 60 minutes and go throughout the day.
YOU MUST CHECK IN, CHRONO YOUR GUN, AND BE READY TO PLAY BY 9:30 TO MAKE THE FIRST GAME.
- How long does each game last? Do you sit out or respawn?
Our games are usually consist of 1 hour missions with a 5 minute respawn. When you are hit you sit out for 5 minutes then may re-enter the game.
We take a 10 minute break in between missions.
- What about weather? Do you play if it rains?
Of course. Soldiers do not get the luxury of selecting their weather and neither do we.
If you're concerned about getting wet, just wear a poncho and boonie hat. The poncho will keep you and your gun dry and the boonie hat will keep water off your goggles.
You can get either for $20 or less at your local surplus store. Then, hold your weapon under your poncho or cover up any exposed batteries or wiring you're concerned with. Just use common sense!
- How many players are there on a typical day?
Our attendance has varied from 7 to 238 and averages around 45-50.
- Is that a place where one can go anytime and practice target shooting?
Negative! This is private land and you would be TRESPASSING. You are ONLY allowed to be there on game day. You will have time to target practice before the game or visit your local shooting range.
- How does one join an Airsoft Team?
Search the internet for clubs in your area and ask around at the field. Try to meet people like yourself and start one of your own!
- What about poison oak?
Poison oak is a naturally occuring plant in Northern California. The field has been groomed by cutting it down and spraying it with poison, but there will always be trace amounts.
Long sleeves and gloves are a simple solution as long as you do not touch your clothes afterwards. Tecnu makes a both preventative and a treatment lotion available in drug stores. It's good to use both.
- Where can I stay in town?
Los Gatos is the closest town with hotels.
Anywhere in the San Jose area will be 45 min or less to the field. Use http://www.mapquest.com and enter "los gatos, ca" to get an idea.
Do a hotel search at on-line at sites such as http://www.orbitz.com or http://www.travelocity.com and enter "Los Gatos, CA" for listings there and surrounding areas.
Any of those cities [San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, etc.] will work. You can book a room on-line.
- I am totally new to airsoft. I just purchased my gun and gear. What pointers do you have for beginners?
Read the FAQ at www.combatenterprises.com for starters. Bring extra mags and batteries if possible.
Keep your eyes open on the field. Be alert. Move quietly. Stay fluid. Be aggressive and don't get tunnel vision -keep scanning your surroundings at all times.
Find someone that knows what they're doing and watch them. You'll be fine!
