A recommended gun for newcomers is an Echo1 best for the pricing, great deals. look them up on Evike.com . I have been playing for about 4 years and have a 3,000 dollar load out, Meaning Gun tactical vest, all accessories. and no there is no license required to oun a replica airsoft gun. Now what to look for when starting.... 1-look for FPS " feet per second" any thing below 120 is terrible anything above 350 is highly dangerous... 2-look for range outputs. " if the seller is willing to let you try before you by than go for it. 3- If you want real quality, go with CLASSIC ARMY great guns. mine was 700$ with all upgrades and is shooting about 400 FPS 4- recommended never to buy from WALLMART!! a serous airsofter never will and never has. I cant stress enough on how important it is to oun a good quality well oiled gun.. 5- The long battled argument over paint ball and airsoft, the reson airsoft is better is because we are more tactical.... 6- If you have any questions regarding this please feel free to drop me an email. Tgbernosky@yahoo.com thanks . mahargmot