Local airsoft supply shop

Hobby players, clubs and teams, parents buying protective gear for teens (where age rules allow), and event organizers.

Retail margin on replicas and accessories, steady repeat sales of consumables like BBs and batteries, plus repairs, upgrades and club or team orders.

• Product knowledge and customer service
• Stock buying and inventory control
• Basic repair and tuning (helpful)
• Careful record keeping

• Federal rules on replica firearms, muzzle velocity limits and importing. Check with the Canada Border Services Agency and the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program before buying stock
• Provincial and municipal rules on minimum buyer age, ID checks, display and storage, which vary by place
• Local bylaws and your landlord's lease terms for selling realistic replicas
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, and a check that your insurer will cover this stock
• Theft and security, plus slow-moving stock tying up cash
• In Quebec, French-language rules for signage and product information

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $120,000, depending on the unit, the fit-out and how much stock you buy. Slow-moving stock can tie up cash, so a modest opening range is worth considering.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, stock range and how well you build a base of regular players and clubs. Your own costs and margins will decide what is left.

Check federal rules on replica firearms, muzzle velocity limits and importing with the Canada Border Services Agency and the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program before buying stock. Also check provincial and municipal rules on buyer age, ID checks, display and storage, plus your lease terms.