Picking the Right Faction: RUSFOR

Factions at Nordic Milsim are more than just the uniform color or pattern your team wears. They embody a distinct atmosphere or "vibe" that deepens immersion. This is cultivated through our staff, veteran players, and the standards that are enforced—or in some cases, deliberately relaxed.

While the overall tone of the event is serious, it’s hard to take yourself too seriously when you’re hurling insults in exaggerated Russian accents or borderline incoherent Russian phrases. This theatrical flair is complemented by staff and players who speak Russian, giving RUSFOR participants the feeling of fighting alongside authentic Russian fighters. It also gives NATO players the sense that they’re facing a genuine Russian adversary.

If you're new to Milsim, RUSFOR is a welcoming faction. Its players are eager to show newcomers the ropes and share insights about gear they’ve spent far too much time researching (myself included). The typical RUSFOR infantry platoon strikes a balance: serious when it counts, but quick to enjoy downtime when it’s available. The command structure is respected, and objectives are pursued relentlessly.

Night watch rotations are established, though their execution often depends on how engaged small unit leaders are. Some lessons—like the importance of vigilance—are best learned the hard way.

How to choose/build your RUSFOR Kit

If you're brand new to the RUSFOR scene, the sheer variety of options available can make it difficult to settle on a specific direction. Asking questions in the Nordic Milsim Discord or your local airsoft community can help narrow down your choices to a few that make the most sense.

Here are some helpful starting points:

• Identify existing teams and the kits they use

• Research Russian units that match your style of play

• Ask broader questions about gear recommendations

• Or simply buy affordable starter gear and attend an event

Many teams and Russian kit enthusiasts have already created gear lists and shared the best places to source different items. Most are happy to pass on the knowledge they've acquired.

Due to sanctions and the current geopolitical climate, it's no longer as easy as it was four or five years ago to purchase authentic Russian gear. Prices have increased, shipping routes have closed, and import/export laws—particularly the enforcement of 2014 sanctions—have changed.

Common purchasing options include:

• Facebook groups such as Red Market, ATACKA (EastBloc/RUSFED Buy & Sell), and Russian Gear B/S/T (North America only)

• Private sellers via Discord or Facebook

• Auction pages on Facebook or other websites (note: some listings may raise ethical concerns depending on the gear’s origin or condition)

• AliExpress, where copies of most items are available and the quality is generally suitable for airsoft

• Local airsoft retailers

Beware of Scammers/Scalpers

Despite how niche this hobby is—and how even more niche the RUSFOR airsoft community may be—scammers are everywhere. Whether it's Facebook, Instagram, Discord, or any other platform used for private sales, bad actors are always looking for opportunities. In some cases, even previously reputable sellers have used their positive reputation to make quick money.

To avoid falling victim to scams, keep the following tips in mind:

• Avoid sending payments through unprotected methods when purchasing items online. This includes Swish, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal Friends & Family, and cryptocurrency. The only exception is if you know the seller personally or are meeting in person to complete the transaction.

• PayPal Goods & Services can be the difference between getting scammed and staying protected. If you insist on using PayPal G&S, many scammers will refuse to "sell" to you. This method allows PayPal to refund your money if the item you were promised never arrives.

• Ask trusted members of the community whether a seller has been used recently and if they can be vouched for.

• If you're unsure about pricing, ask questions. Scalpers are everywhere, especially now. Don’t pay 200% of an item’s value just because you’re uncertain about its worth.

Examples of Airsoft Impressions of Russian Units

SSO

Photo Credit: Taiga

FSB

Photo Credit: Rushing Russians - Gruppa Zapad

SOBR

Photo Credit: Rushing Russians - Gruppa Leshy

VDV

Photo Credit: Rushing Russians - Gruppa Lazurnye

MORPEH (Marines)

Photo Credit: Rushing Russians - Gruppa Soldati

Motor Rifles

Photo Credit: Rushing Russians - Gruppa Lazurnye

Pro-Russian Separatists/Militia

Photo Credit: DOA-I

Photo Credit: DOA-I

Don't Overthink it

As mentioned earlier, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re just starting out. But all you really need for your first event is a decent uniform, a load-bearing vest, and a replica that fits your faction. Don’t stress about having the perfect setup—focus on learning and improving as you go. Sometimes, less really is more.

This hobby isn’t the cheapest to dive into, so it’s wise to begin with the basics. And remember, it never hurts to ask questions before making a purchase. Hop into the Discord and reach out if you’re unsure about anything—there’s always someone willing to help.

Photo Credit: DOA-I

Photo Credit: DOA-I

No clue what to search or where to start? Check this out

To aid in your research, here are some equipment examples that may help guide you in the right direction:

Helmets:

SSH-40

SSH-60

SSH-68

SFERA

6b7-1m

6b26

6b47

Kolpak-20

Kolpak-100 (PASGT copy)

MICH (chinese copy used by RUSFOR)

LShZ-1

Body Armor:

6b13

6b23

6b43

6b45

Redut

Fort Defender 2

Fort Gladiator

Pantsir

Monolith

Load bearing vest:

6sh104

6sh112

6sh116

6sh117

Smersh

Nerpa

Tarzan

Chicom

Mk2

British DDPM Osprey

SADF 83

Chinese AK Chest rigs

Especially now, more and more "Western" equipment is being used by RUSFOR—often in the form of Chinese or Russian-made copies. The list provided is not exhaustive, but it should help guide your search.

As always, if you're unsure about anything, don't hesitate to ask. Happy hunting, and we'll see you on the field.

Conclusion

Joining the RUSFOR faction at Nordic Milsim means stepping into a role that’s gritty, immersive, and uniquely rewarding. Throughout this guide, we’ve covered everything from gear basics and sourcing tips to faction culture and scam avoidance. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned player, RUSFOR offers a space where you can learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the experience.

The RUSFOR faction lets you embody the kind of adversary you once faced in games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. But here, there are no main characters—no scripted outcomes. You’re not a prop for NATO, and your story is yours to shape. RUSFOR walks the line between chaotic rabble and disciplined force. The mission may be unclear, the orders questionable, but the expectation remains: get the job done, no matter what.

We’ll see you on the field. Stay sharp, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The community is here to help—and the experience is what you make of it.

Join the Nordic Milsim Discord and start building your kit!

JOIN HERE