Bigpop

My cell phone rings and as soon as I see the name "Bigpop" display on the caller ID, I begin laughing. I haven't even started talking to him and I'm already in a good mood, ready to hear his joking and ribbing.

Bigpop and I have been friends now for a number of years and since the day I met him, we have shared many laughs together. His love for airsoft stems from the fun he has being with friends and while he is quite competitive, the fun of the game is always of greatest importance. It makes my day whenever he shows up to an event.

Bigpop's real name is Jay. He is an owner and the founder of Long Island Airsoft and a member of Green Mountain Rangers. He and LIA run the airsoft games at Cousins Paintball in Coram, Long Island - New York. He first started LIA in a small home-workshop and now continues to serve airsofters with guns 'n gear at his retail store in West Babylon, NY.

The impression Jay wanted to display for this shoot was plainly simple - The Airsofter; or, as Jay calls it, "The Regular Guy Look" . This completely exemplifies the goal of most airsofters that play locally here on Long Island. The approach is often rather relaxed, using weapons and equipment that identify many armies and units. No priorities on what's militarily or historically accurate, just nice looking kit that works.

Today's Menu:

LBT riflemans vest
LBT ranger pack
SOE duty belt
ZM sling
Bates DOD boots
Under Armour heat gear gloves
Under Armour stretch fit hat
Under Armour sweat band
5.11 digital desert pants and shirt
TM Aug with LIAS spec op upgrade with Ronins custom tuning

One of the comments Bigpop made during the shoot was "Hey man, I don't wanna look mean... you guys always want to look mean and tough. Is it OK if I smile?"

This is typical of the Bigpop attitude. Always ready to have fun and laugh.

"Yeah, smile if you want... Mary."

All kidding aside, Bigpop's drive and competitive determination is unmatched. I have seen many players who, while on patrol, stop dead in thier tracks. Someone says; "Be careful... Pop's out there!" and nobody moves.

I think many airsofters can relate to these photos. Even if you impressions depict a specific soldier, you can understand Bigpop's desire for nice kit. "A comfortable uniform and quality gear" is how he summed up his approach. All that, and some beef jerky.Oh - and don't forget the fancy-dancy insulated underwear!

Thanks to Pop for posing for these pics. I had a lot of fun and hope we can do it again... or maybe just go eat some bacon and egg sandwiches.