Support Gunner

In an airsoft war, it is easy for a squad to get pinned down by enemy fire, an unable to fight back or relocate. This is where the support gunner comes in. The gunner is in charge of providing assistance where it is needed on the field. Need covering fire so you can progress the frontline? Need help getting out of a tight spot? Have an important bunker un-manned? The support gunner's job covers all of these areas and more.

If you wish to pursue a role in gunning, there a few things you must know. The first thing, the cost. A good gun suitable specifically for support (more on this later) is rather expensive. The second, physical fitness. Carrying an average of 10-15 lbs. of equipment, and a 15 lb. gun is no easy feat, especially when you need to get in a specific position quickly. Gunning requires top stamina and fitness. Lastly, preparation. Gunning is just as much a passive role as it is an active one, and requires some before-hand knowledge. Some tips on being prepared will be offered. If you are sure you want to become a gunner, here some (hopefully) helpful strategies and tips. :D


COST- Gunning is tough without the proper equipment. However, said proper equipment is on the expensive side as far as price goes. Carry with you, the usual supplies (see 'Assault' post for details). If you already have these supplies, good for you; proceed to step 2. Arguably the most important piece of equipment a gunner can carry. Without this, he is practically useless. A suitable support gun is usually found in the form of a LMG (Light Machine Gun). These are considerably more expensive than other AEGs. An example of an LMG is pictured below. If you have a job, you're in luck. If you do not, then it will require some time. Either try to find a job, or wait for a close relative to die, so you can inherent something of worth.

PHYSIQUE- As previously mentioned, carrying around equipment all day is strenuous. If you aren't already in peak physical shape, try to work out some. Chances are, you won't have to hold your gun upright too often if you find a good bunker or mount to set your gun up on; as a result, arm strength is recommended, but not required. What you will need to work on, however, are the leg muscles, and abdominal muscles. These are your driving force, and will help you get from place to place quickly. Lower body strength can also compensate for lack of upper-body strength, if you sling your gun, and use your legs to keep you balanced, you can roughly regulate your distribution of weight. Practice trekking up slopes with weights, and go out for runs regularly; you'd be surprised how quickly you gain leg strength.

PREPARATION- In addition to having all of your supplies ready, it helps to know the area before-hand. This means doing your homework. If you know where you are going to be playing ahead of time, drive (or get a ride) there and scout out the area. Make sure it isn't private property. Make note of foxholes, bunkers, windows, or doorways that could make a good setup position. Be sure to assess their relevance and usefulness in various situations. Try to find a position that will give you a good view of the whole area, or at least a valuable choke point. If you own, or have permission from the owner of the area you will be playing in, why not make some bunkers yourself? Sure, it might take some work, but that's what step 2 was for. ;] Be sure to keep in mind the field of vision you will have when inside the bunker, whilst making it. Be sure to conceal it well, and if you want, chop down a few small trees (preferably saplings, fuck off EPA) and set up vertically in your bunker, and possibly cover the top with sod, or tall grass. Below is a good example of a well-made bunker.

-Miscellaneous tips-

• Become comfortable with your gun's iron sights, to the point where a scope is not needed.
• Gun upgrades are usually required. Rarely, if ever, is a gun great right out of the box.
• Always hold the gun's stock tight against your shoulder to reduce recoil.
• Invest in the largest magazine you can find; hi- cap. drum mags are a good choice.
• Practice reloading speed often; the faster you can reload, the faster you can get back into the game.
• Even though you have the ability to remain in one spot, don't abuse it. Sooner or later, someone will take note of you firing, and try to overtake the bunker. If you have teammates, they will help defend it. If not, then plan relocation.