Paintball Safety Tips- Gear, Speed and Sportsmanship
kevin asked:
Paintball safety is an important consideration to anyone involved in the sport. According to statistics comparing serious injuries sustained across a number of sports, paintball is one of the safest sports you can play. This is probably a surprise to most people. As there is no direct contact between players, you are 19 times less likely to be injured playing paintball than American Football, for example. Another reason for the encouraging paintball safety statistics is that there is an important emphasis on wearing the right safety gear.
The number of injuries may well be low in comparison with other sports, but they can be severe. It is not much fun to be struck on any unprotected part of the body by a paintball travelling at 300 feet per second. We must always keep in mind the paintball safety precautions that we need to take to ensure an injury free session.
1. Wear the Right Gear
You must always wear your goggles or mask; you need to protect your eyes and ears from paintball damage.It is sensible to invest in a mask customized with ear flaps, and visor to give protection from sunlight. Ideally, the mask should cover the whole head to avoid being struck on any sensitive area.
Padded paintball suits give extra built in protection to vulnerable areas such as the neck and chest. It’s a good idea to invest in extra protective equipment like boxes and collars to increase your paintball safety.
2. Watch Your Speed
The regulated paintball speed to be observed by all players is 300 feet per second in outdoor play. All protective gear is tested up to this limit. Any ball striking the skin above this speed will greatly increase the chance of serious injury. Chronographs are worth the investment if you are playing in private fields. In indoor play, 200 feet per second is adequate for paintball safety.
Blind firing is when you shoot randomly without seeing a target. This is dangerous as you can’t see what you’re firing at so you risk shooting someone at point blank. Have an awareness of where you’re shooting before you fire.
You should be cautious when it comes to overshooting, although there are no rules against it. It is unnecessary to fire 10-20 consecutive shots at a person after you’ve already made a successful hit. If the rules don’t call for you to overshoot to win, avoid it as a courtesy to other players.
You can offer your opponent a chance to surrender if he is within 10-15 feet away by shouting, “Surrender.” He can walk away with his arms raised or refuse to surrender, in which case you can shoot him. It shows sportsmanship to allow your opponent the chance to walk away and improves their safety.
Paintball safety is of paramount importance to enjoying the sport. The majority of injuries happen in private fields where there is often a lower level of investment in paintball safety equipment. To avoid serious injury, you would be wise to play in regulated paintball centers and observe the pointers above.
Paintball Safety Tips
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Paintball safety is an important consideration to anyone involved in the sport. According to statistics comparing serious injuries sustained across a number of sports, paintball is one of the safest sports you can play. This is probably a surprise to most people. As there is no direct contact between players, you are 19 times less likely to be injured playing paintball than American Football, for example. Another reason for the encouraging paintball safety statistics is that there is an important emphasis on wearing the right safety gear.
The number of injuries may well be low in comparison with other sports, but they can be severe. It is not much fun to be struck on any unprotected part of the body by a paintball travelling at 300 feet per second. We must always keep in mind the paintball safety precautions that we need to take to ensure an injury free session.
1. Wear the Right Gear
You must always wear your goggles or mask; you need to protect your eyes and ears from paintball damage.It is sensible to invest in a mask customized with ear flaps, and visor to give protection from sunlight. Ideally, the mask should cover the whole head to avoid being struck on any sensitive area.
Padded paintball suits give extra built in protection to vulnerable areas such as the neck and chest. It’s a good idea to invest in extra protective equipment like boxes and collars to increase your paintball safety.
2. Watch Your Speed
The regulated paintball speed to be observed by all players is 300 feet per second in outdoor play. All protective gear is tested up to this limit. Any ball striking the skin above this speed will greatly increase the chance of serious injury. Chronographs are worth the investment if you are playing in private fields. In indoor play, 200 feet per second is adequate for paintball safety.
Blind firing is when you shoot randomly without seeing a target. This is dangerous as you can’t see what you’re firing at so you risk shooting someone at point blank. Have an awareness of where you’re shooting before you fire.
You should be cautious when it comes to overshooting, although there are no rules against it. It is unnecessary to fire 10-20 consecutive shots at a person after you’ve already made a successful hit. If the rules don’t call for you to overshoot to win, avoid it as a courtesy to other players.
You can offer your opponent a chance to surrender if he is within 10-15 feet away by shouting, “Surrender.” He can walk away with his arms raised or refuse to surrender, in which case you can shoot him. It shows sportsmanship to allow your opponent the chance to walk away and improves their safety.
Paintball safety is of paramount importance to enjoying the sport. The majority of injuries happen in private fields where there is often a lower level of investment in paintball safety equipment. To avoid serious injury, you would be wise to play in regulated paintball centers and observe the pointers above.
Paintball Safety Tips
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If You are Going To Play Paintball You Have To Get The Right Gear
Gregg Hall asked:
Playing paintball is lot of fun but it can be painful without the right gear. Most people when they first get into paintball just think about the paintball gun, paintballs, air tanks, and a mask to protect their face, until they get hit one good time! Investing in a little extra safety gear will make your playing experience much more enjoyable and keep you from getting injured unnecessarily.
Another tip that you may not have thought of, always bring along the manual for your gun as well as the schematics. Sometimes you have to take apart your paintball markers so be sure that you have your Allen wrenches handy too.
One of the most aggravating things that can happen to you is to run out of batteries. It’s as bad as running out of paintballs or CO2. Always make sure you have plenty of extra batteries with you so that you don’t get shot or have to end your game early due to running out of power.
Now, let’s get into what type of pads you should be looking for. You definitely want a neck guard to guard against those painful hits in the throat and neck area. Unless you are some kind of mutant, those shots hurt like crazy. Get a neck guard that wraps around and is lightweight. Thigh pads are good to get also, thigh shots hurt a lot and if you get a real good one it can give you a cramp that interferes with your play. Shin guards are a definite recommendation for the same reason. As far as I am concerned gloves aren’t even an option. Your hands are almost always exposed, if get popped in the knuckles real good you will be looking for a pair of gloves fast.
Don’t ever participate in paintball without a proper face mask. If your mask is cracked or badly scratched replace it. If you get hit in the eye you could easily be blinded. Keep an extra mask as well in case one is damaged while playing.
Problems with your markers can be easily repaired in most cases by simply replacing the o-rings and cup seals. Because they are made of rubber they will wear down over time and can cause your marker to stop working properly. You should also lubricate your marker regularly and keep the marker oil with you at all times when you are playing. You should also have a squeegee with you in case you need to remove something that gets in your gun barrel.
After you have been participating in the sport awhile and you are familiar with your gear you will have a better idea of what you need to keep with you when you are playing. You will definitely want pliers, screwdrivers, and tweezers to start as well as extra screws, bolts and springs. Be sure to bring along some Teflon tape and duct tape for quick on field repairs. Being prepared ahead of time will keep you in the field longer.
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Playing paintball is lot of fun but it can be painful without the right gear. Most people when they first get into paintball just think about the paintball gun, paintballs, air tanks, and a mask to protect their face, until they get hit one good time! Investing in a little extra safety gear will make your playing experience much more enjoyable and keep you from getting injured unnecessarily.
Another tip that you may not have thought of, always bring along the manual for your gun as well as the schematics. Sometimes you have to take apart your paintball markers so be sure that you have your Allen wrenches handy too.
One of the most aggravating things that can happen to you is to run out of batteries. It’s as bad as running out of paintballs or CO2. Always make sure you have plenty of extra batteries with you so that you don’t get shot or have to end your game early due to running out of power.
Now, let’s get into what type of pads you should be looking for. You definitely want a neck guard to guard against those painful hits in the throat and neck area. Unless you are some kind of mutant, those shots hurt like crazy. Get a neck guard that wraps around and is lightweight. Thigh pads are good to get also, thigh shots hurt a lot and if you get a real good one it can give you a cramp that interferes with your play. Shin guards are a definite recommendation for the same reason. As far as I am concerned gloves aren’t even an option. Your hands are almost always exposed, if get popped in the knuckles real good you will be looking for a pair of gloves fast.
Don’t ever participate in paintball without a proper face mask. If your mask is cracked or badly scratched replace it. If you get hit in the eye you could easily be blinded. Keep an extra mask as well in case one is damaged while playing.
Problems with your markers can be easily repaired in most cases by simply replacing the o-rings and cup seals. Because they are made of rubber they will wear down over time and can cause your marker to stop working properly. You should also lubricate your marker regularly and keep the marker oil with you at all times when you are playing. You should also have a squeegee with you in case you need to remove something that gets in your gun barrel.
After you have been participating in the sport awhile and you are familiar with your gear you will have a better idea of what you need to keep with you when you are playing. You will definitely want pliers, screwdrivers, and tweezers to start as well as extra screws, bolts and springs. Be sure to bring along some Teflon tape and duct tape for quick on field repairs. Being prepared ahead of time will keep you in the field longer.
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Keeping In Stock: Paintball Supply
Riley Hendersen asked:
Paintball has become a hugely popular sport, and so it only makes sense that with the dramatic increase in participants and increased demand for equipment, that there would be an increase in paintball supply to cater to this growing market. Paintball supply is a general term that is equivalent to “paintball store” or sponsor. A paintball supply is a store, either physical or online, where one can get any type of supplies needed.
Many paintball supply places will often times have a “package deal” for those just getting into the sport. This can include a gun with ammonition, goggles, or any collection of equipment needed by anyone before going out to join a paintball game. Part of what makes a paintball supply useful is not only do they offer equipment at every level of pricing, from the cheapest paintball markers to the most expensive ones, but paintball markers can often be upgraded in many ways: the barrel, the air tank, the ammo holder, the sights, all of these things can be changed and upgraded, and a paintball supply will have all the necessary parts, pieces, and experience to do so.
A paintball gun package is not a bad way for a beginner to start off, if the beginner has done enough work to have a vague idea of what they want. The paintball guns often come with gravity-fed hoppers ranging from a hundred rounds and up (and know your style: if you are a sniper, don’t pay an extra $20 for a hopper that holds another 100 rounds of ammo). Paintball supply places will have experts to help you out, but that can only be so helpful. You have to have a basic idea of what you’re looking for or how deep your interest is, and beyond that don’t discount an expert’s advice too quickly. They can save you a lot of grief.
Paintball supplies such as barrels, goggles and safety gear, ball hauling, loaders, gun accessories, clothing and apparel, and even odd ball odds and ends such as paintball mines are often available from a paintball supply. Much of this can be bought online, though if you have a paintball supply in your area, you should visit the store in person, especially if you are a newbie.
A paintball supply is also likely to be the local hang out for individuals who are really into the paintball scene in general. This can help teach you the lingo, you can listen to what products are really impressing, and which ones are falling flat. These players will also have an idea of any major events going on in the area, or might even know about some great get together or paintball fields you didn’t even know existed. If nothing else, it never hurts to absorb wisdom from the experts, so that you will know what you are doing and have more confidence as you go further and further into the paintball world.
A paintball supply is a place that can serve all your needs, both for equipment, and for camaraderie. Don’t dismiss it off hand, because you never know what that one afternoon trip to the paintball supply could turn into.
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Paintball has become a hugely popular sport, and so it only makes sense that with the dramatic increase in participants and increased demand for equipment, that there would be an increase in paintball supply to cater to this growing market. Paintball supply is a general term that is equivalent to “paintball store” or sponsor. A paintball supply is a store, either physical or online, where one can get any type of supplies needed.
Many paintball supply places will often times have a “package deal” for those just getting into the sport. This can include a gun with ammonition, goggles, or any collection of equipment needed by anyone before going out to join a paintball game. Part of what makes a paintball supply useful is not only do they offer equipment at every level of pricing, from the cheapest paintball markers to the most expensive ones, but paintball markers can often be upgraded in many ways: the barrel, the air tank, the ammo holder, the sights, all of these things can be changed and upgraded, and a paintball supply will have all the necessary parts, pieces, and experience to do so.
A paintball gun package is not a bad way for a beginner to start off, if the beginner has done enough work to have a vague idea of what they want. The paintball guns often come with gravity-fed hoppers ranging from a hundred rounds and up (and know your style: if you are a sniper, don’t pay an extra $20 for a hopper that holds another 100 rounds of ammo). Paintball supply places will have experts to help you out, but that can only be so helpful. You have to have a basic idea of what you’re looking for or how deep your interest is, and beyond that don’t discount an expert’s advice too quickly. They can save you a lot of grief.
Paintball supplies such as barrels, goggles and safety gear, ball hauling, loaders, gun accessories, clothing and apparel, and even odd ball odds and ends such as paintball mines are often available from a paintball supply. Much of this can be bought online, though if you have a paintball supply in your area, you should visit the store in person, especially if you are a newbie.
A paintball supply is also likely to be the local hang out for individuals who are really into the paintball scene in general. This can help teach you the lingo, you can listen to what products are really impressing, and which ones are falling flat. These players will also have an idea of any major events going on in the area, or might even know about some great get together or paintball fields you didn’t even know existed. If nothing else, it never hurts to absorb wisdom from the experts, so that you will know what you are doing and have more confidence as you go further and further into the paintball world.
A paintball supply is a place that can serve all your needs, both for equipment, and for camaraderie. Don’t dismiss it off hand, because you never know what that one afternoon trip to the paintball supply could turn into.
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Tips For Picking Out A Paintball Gun
M. Jedediah asked:
Paintball is a challenging and rather physical pastime that can quickly become the favorite recreational activity for preteens, teens and grown men and women. Getting started in the game will require some equipment, however. On the top of the list, once safety gear is taken care of, will be a paintball gun. It’s simply not possible to play without one.
For the beginning player, buying a paintball gun can be a bit of a crapshoot. Without a feel for the sport, it can be a little difficult to say what make and model and even features will fit personal style of play. Before diving into a purchase, it’s a good idea to:
* Budget. A paintball gun can be a rather big investment. With some guns running upwards in the $1,000 range, having a firm price range in mind can help guide purchases. Fortunately, there are many great guns in much, much lower pricing categories. Beginning players do not need to take out a loan to get started.
* Consider style of play. Most players start out on slower paced woods ball fields, but that doesn’t mean they’ll stay there. If you’re typically the kind of athlete that likes speed and challenge, a gun designed for this might be in order.
* Talk to other players. Chances are if you’re starting out, you have a friend or two that already plays. Get their input on what type of paintball gun should be considered. Veteran players can offer some sound advice and most of them love to talk about paintball guns any chance they can get.
* Read reviews. While friends can offer very solid advice, it doesn’t hurt to see what other people have to say about particular makes and models, as well. Professional and player reviews can provide a lot of insight about guns in every price range.
The best way to get a feel for a particular paintball gun before buying one is to actually try it out. If it’s at all possible, do just that. Other options for getting a feel for the game without buying a paintball gun right off the bat include:
* Borrow one. If friends have extra guns, this is a great way to check out the sport before making a big investment. Some friends might be loathe to loan out a spare paintball marker, but those who are trying to entice more buddies into playing likely will offer them up.
* Rentals. Most paintball fields offer a limited number of rentals. This is a fantastic way to check out a number of different guns before actually deciding on one to buy. These might not include top of the line choices, but rentals typically include some of the better beginner and even novice models.
Paintball is a fun sport for almost anyone who likes fast-paced action to get into. Although physical, this is also a game of cunning and wits. Getting started, however, will require a paintball gun. Whether one is purchased outright, borrowed or rented, it is important that a beginning player find a gun he or she is comfortable with. Understanding the basics of the gun can make all the difference in the world on the fields.
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Paintball is a challenging and rather physical pastime that can quickly become the favorite recreational activity for preteens, teens and grown men and women. Getting started in the game will require some equipment, however. On the top of the list, once safety gear is taken care of, will be a paintball gun. It’s simply not possible to play without one.
For the beginning player, buying a paintball gun can be a bit of a crapshoot. Without a feel for the sport, it can be a little difficult to say what make and model and even features will fit personal style of play. Before diving into a purchase, it’s a good idea to:
* Budget. A paintball gun can be a rather big investment. With some guns running upwards in the $1,000 range, having a firm price range in mind can help guide purchases. Fortunately, there are many great guns in much, much lower pricing categories. Beginning players do not need to take out a loan to get started.
* Consider style of play. Most players start out on slower paced woods ball fields, but that doesn’t mean they’ll stay there. If you’re typically the kind of athlete that likes speed and challenge, a gun designed for this might be in order.
* Talk to other players. Chances are if you’re starting out, you have a friend or two that already plays. Get their input on what type of paintball gun should be considered. Veteran players can offer some sound advice and most of them love to talk about paintball guns any chance they can get.
* Read reviews. While friends can offer very solid advice, it doesn’t hurt to see what other people have to say about particular makes and models, as well. Professional and player reviews can provide a lot of insight about guns in every price range.
The best way to get a feel for a particular paintball gun before buying one is to actually try it out. If it’s at all possible, do just that. Other options for getting a feel for the game without buying a paintball gun right off the bat include:
* Borrow one. If friends have extra guns, this is a great way to check out the sport before making a big investment. Some friends might be loathe to loan out a spare paintball marker, but those who are trying to entice more buddies into playing likely will offer them up.
* Rentals. Most paintball fields offer a limited number of rentals. This is a fantastic way to check out a number of different guns before actually deciding on one to buy. These might not include top of the line choices, but rentals typically include some of the better beginner and even novice models.
Paintball is a fun sport for almost anyone who likes fast-paced action to get into. Although physical, this is also a game of cunning and wits. Getting started, however, will require a paintball gun. Whether one is purchased outright, borrowed or rented, it is important that a beginning player find a gun he or she is comfortable with. Understanding the basics of the gun can make all the difference in the world on the fields.
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Why Paintball Is Popular
Andri Irawan asked:
Paintball is fast becoming one of the most popular games around. It has become an alternative past time from the usual athletic games being played; and it has become one of the most exciting outdoor sports in the world. Anybody can play paintball, regardless of race, sex, age and social status. It is a game for people who have taste for competition and adventure.
The game combines two of the most popular childhood past times: tag and hide-and-seek, the objective being to capture the flag of the enemy while protecting one’s own.
There are several reasons for the popularity of paintball:
1. It is the team sport that enables one to remove an opponent from the game without being penalized for it. In fact, removing one’s opponent is very much part of the game. It is the survival of the smartest and the quickest.
2. There is a strong sense of danger, not necessarily a physical one. The threat of being removed from the game makes it more exciting for the participants. But since it is only a game, the fear is not enough to make one mentally-incapacitated. With the right safety gear, no one is really in any real danger. It is all in the mind.
3. All players are equal. Experience is the only basis of one’s edge over the other player. Factors such as race, gender and age do not put one ahead of the other.
4. There is a total absence of physical contact. There is no need for a player to manhandle his opponent so that he can be eliminated from the game. One only needs to shoot the opponent, which can be done from a relatively safe distance. Very few injuries and no deaths have resulted from playing paintball.
5. There is no need to be an athlete. Playing paintball does not require extreme physical strength. In fact, the game can be played with very few physical movements.
6.No one really needs to be experienced to enjoy the game. Though it matters, a lot of old-time players find themselves surprisingly eliminated by first-time participants. It is anybody’s game.
7. It is gadget-crazy. Everybody likes gadgets. Paintball requires a lot of them.
Paintball is a very stimulating and exciting sport. Playing the game gives one the chance to renew the inner child in people. It enables one to maximize his sense of adventure, without risking life and limb for that sought-after rush.
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Paintball is fast becoming one of the most popular games around. It has become an alternative past time from the usual athletic games being played; and it has become one of the most exciting outdoor sports in the world. Anybody can play paintball, regardless of race, sex, age and social status. It is a game for people who have taste for competition and adventure.
The game combines two of the most popular childhood past times: tag and hide-and-seek, the objective being to capture the flag of the enemy while protecting one’s own.
There are several reasons for the popularity of paintball:
1. It is the team sport that enables one to remove an opponent from the game without being penalized for it. In fact, removing one’s opponent is very much part of the game. It is the survival of the smartest and the quickest.
2. There is a strong sense of danger, not necessarily a physical one. The threat of being removed from the game makes it more exciting for the participants. But since it is only a game, the fear is not enough to make one mentally-incapacitated. With the right safety gear, no one is really in any real danger. It is all in the mind.
3. All players are equal. Experience is the only basis of one’s edge over the other player. Factors such as race, gender and age do not put one ahead of the other.
4. There is a total absence of physical contact. There is no need for a player to manhandle his opponent so that he can be eliminated from the game. One only needs to shoot the opponent, which can be done from a relatively safe distance. Very few injuries and no deaths have resulted from playing paintball.
5. There is no need to be an athlete. Playing paintball does not require extreme physical strength. In fact, the game can be played with very few physical movements.
6.No one really needs to be experienced to enjoy the game. Though it matters, a lot of old-time players find themselves surprisingly eliminated by first-time participants. It is anybody’s game.
7. It is gadget-crazy. Everybody likes gadgets. Paintball requires a lot of them.
Paintball is a very stimulating and exciting sport. Playing the game gives one the chance to renew the inner child in people. It enables one to maximize his sense of adventure, without risking life and limb for that sought-after rush.
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Paintball Do you Want the Advantage?
Joel pearce asked:
Having the best gear helps having an advantage over your opponent when playing paintball. Little things like lighter vests, goggles, helmets, gloves and of course your gun. If you take your paintball seriously you’ll know what I’m on about. Having lighter gear means more movability, more energy and smarter thinking. But you must choose your gear carefully some paintball gear looks good but in actual fact could slow you down or won’t provide you with the stealth or accuracy you will need to win the game.
How can you tell which gear is right for you. Well it will all be determine by your level of game play if you are a beginner start of with the basic rented gear. Doing this gives you a better idea about the gear associated with paintball. Playing with rented paintball gear for the first time will provide you with information on which things are uncomfortable, to heavy or just won’t fit you right. This is a great way to find out about paintball gear and the way the game is played.
Experienced Players know that paintball guns are an important factor. Prices can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. So let’s talk about paintball guns there are hundreds of different guns on the market but which ones give you that big advantage. Obviously having a lighter gun will increase your moveability but what about the length of the gun barrel? In my opinion the ideal length of your paintball gun should be around 8 to 14 inches having a barrel any longer really doesn’t provide any advantages. It does not give you more accuracy, makes movability a lot harder and of course the gun it self will be heavier. Take your time when finding a paintball gun ask other gamers which gun they prefer best for there style of game.
The right gear can mean the difference of winning and losing but also more importantly safety. Make sure you find good strong safety gear. Your safety gear should fit your body Comfortably having lose paintball gear can be dangerous especially goggles and your helmet. So make sure you find the right gear to protect yourself and give you the best possible advantage over your opponent, but please remember have fun!! Your, not going to win every game, it’s a team sport you can’t win it by yourself.
I wish you and your friends the best on your next paintball game experience and hope you enjoy the adrenaline rush playing paintball provides.
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Having the best gear helps having an advantage over your opponent when playing paintball. Little things like lighter vests, goggles, helmets, gloves and of course your gun. If you take your paintball seriously you’ll know what I’m on about. Having lighter gear means more movability, more energy and smarter thinking. But you must choose your gear carefully some paintball gear looks good but in actual fact could slow you down or won’t provide you with the stealth or accuracy you will need to win the game.
How can you tell which gear is right for you. Well it will all be determine by your level of game play if you are a beginner start of with the basic rented gear. Doing this gives you a better idea about the gear associated with paintball. Playing with rented paintball gear for the first time will provide you with information on which things are uncomfortable, to heavy or just won’t fit you right. This is a great way to find out about paintball gear and the way the game is played.
Experienced Players know that paintball guns are an important factor. Prices can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. So let’s talk about paintball guns there are hundreds of different guns on the market but which ones give you that big advantage. Obviously having a lighter gun will increase your moveability but what about the length of the gun barrel? In my opinion the ideal length of your paintball gun should be around 8 to 14 inches having a barrel any longer really doesn’t provide any advantages. It does not give you more accuracy, makes movability a lot harder and of course the gun it self will be heavier. Take your time when finding a paintball gun ask other gamers which gun they prefer best for there style of game.
The right gear can mean the difference of winning and losing but also more importantly safety. Make sure you find good strong safety gear. Your safety gear should fit your body Comfortably having lose paintball gear can be dangerous especially goggles and your helmet. So make sure you find the right gear to protect yourself and give you the best possible advantage over your opponent, but please remember have fun!! Your, not going to win every game, it’s a team sport you can’t win it by yourself.
I wish you and your friends the best on your next paintball game experience and hope you enjoy the adrenaline rush playing paintball provides.
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10 Things You Should Have In Your Paintball Kit
Lee Dobbins asked:
All set and ready to go? Got your gun, balls and hoppers with you? Then you are ready to play…But wait, you are going to a fight and you do not go out there without the necessary precautions and tools. You don’t want to be caught in a war zone with your pants down, do you?
So here are 10 things you should go without when playing paintball:
1. Paintball mask
Not safety goggles, sun glasses or shooting glasses, you need a paintball mask. You just can’t play without this safety gear. A thermal mask is recommended but it you want to save some money get the single lens with an anti-fog coating.
Make sure the mask fits perfectly on your face and that you are comfortable wearing them on. Remember that you will be running and shooting with the mask on so make sure it does not get in the way. A mask that covers your ears is also a good idea, but make sure that your hearing is not impaired by the ear flaps.
2. Barrel cover
Sometimes called as barrel plug or barrel sock, this is simply a blocking device that prevents a misfire from your gun. Remember injuries can result from accidents such as a misfire. No organized field will let you play without one.
3. Spare tank
Your gun is powered by carbon dioxide or nitrogen. For pumps and pistols, a 12 gram cartridge is used. This is good for 15 to30 shots. So it is a good idea to have a spare tank with you just in case you run out of air. A 20oz cylinder or tank is usually good for 1000 shots or more. Get a refillable tank to save money.
4. Squeegee
A barrel break can ruin your momentum and your game. Make sure you are prepared and have a squeegee in hand to clean your gun barrel to get yourself back in the game. It is also a good idea to have a spare squeegee with you on the field.
5. Gun oil
Not just any gun oil, but a paintball gun oil. Before buying one consult your gun’s manual and see if it requires a specific kind of oil. Remember that your gun’s performance depends on its parts. Put a few drops of gun oil in the o-rings and other parts of the gun as recommended in the manual to keep your gun in good running condition.
6. O-rings and cup seals
These tiny parts are crucial to your gun’s performance, but they tend to break easily. Have a few spares in your kit just in case they give in during the game. You will find that most gun problems can be solved by simply replacing these small parts.
7. Safety equipment (neck and shin, elbow and knee pads, gloves)
Remember that Paintball is an aggressive game. You need to be constantly on the move when you are in the field. Safety precautions like neck and shin guards protect your body from unnecessary injuries. Make sure that they are lightweight and anatomical tailored for comfort.
8. Batteries
If your gun or hopper runs on batteries, make sure you have spare ones when you are on the field. You don’t want to be left in a situation where your gun is dead and you have no where to hide. Not a pretty picture.
9. Miscellaneous tools
These tools can simplify your life in and out of the field. Allen wrenches, tweezers, ***** drivers even Teflon and cotton swabs can be useful things in your kit. These are your gun’s first aid tools. Remember, this is a game and usually the winners are those who often come prepared.
10. First aid kit
Although relatively safer than golf, tennis, jogging or swimming (according to insurance statistics), paintball is still an active game. Have a first aid kit in your gear, it pays to be ready in unexpected circumstances.
Whether you are a beginner or an expert on the field, your success will greatly depend on the kind of gears you have and how equipped you are from unexpected situations like mechanical glitches in your gun or some paint on your face. Be prepared so you can enjoy your game to the fullest.
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All set and ready to go? Got your gun, balls and hoppers with you? Then you are ready to play…But wait, you are going to a fight and you do not go out there without the necessary precautions and tools. You don’t want to be caught in a war zone with your pants down, do you?
So here are 10 things you should go without when playing paintball:
1. Paintball mask
Not safety goggles, sun glasses or shooting glasses, you need a paintball mask. You just can’t play without this safety gear. A thermal mask is recommended but it you want to save some money get the single lens with an anti-fog coating.
Make sure the mask fits perfectly on your face and that you are comfortable wearing them on. Remember that you will be running and shooting with the mask on so make sure it does not get in the way. A mask that covers your ears is also a good idea, but make sure that your hearing is not impaired by the ear flaps.
2. Barrel cover
Sometimes called as barrel plug or barrel sock, this is simply a blocking device that prevents a misfire from your gun. Remember injuries can result from accidents such as a misfire. No organized field will let you play without one.
3. Spare tank
Your gun is powered by carbon dioxide or nitrogen. For pumps and pistols, a 12 gram cartridge is used. This is good for 15 to30 shots. So it is a good idea to have a spare tank with you just in case you run out of air. A 20oz cylinder or tank is usually good for 1000 shots or more. Get a refillable tank to save money.
4. Squeegee
A barrel break can ruin your momentum and your game. Make sure you are prepared and have a squeegee in hand to clean your gun barrel to get yourself back in the game. It is also a good idea to have a spare squeegee with you on the field.
5. Gun oil
Not just any gun oil, but a paintball gun oil. Before buying one consult your gun’s manual and see if it requires a specific kind of oil. Remember that your gun’s performance depends on its parts. Put a few drops of gun oil in the o-rings and other parts of the gun as recommended in the manual to keep your gun in good running condition.
6. O-rings and cup seals
These tiny parts are crucial to your gun’s performance, but they tend to break easily. Have a few spares in your kit just in case they give in during the game. You will find that most gun problems can be solved by simply replacing these small parts.
7. Safety equipment (neck and shin, elbow and knee pads, gloves)
Remember that Paintball is an aggressive game. You need to be constantly on the move when you are in the field. Safety precautions like neck and shin guards protect your body from unnecessary injuries. Make sure that they are lightweight and anatomical tailored for comfort.
8. Batteries
If your gun or hopper runs on batteries, make sure you have spare ones when you are on the field. You don’t want to be left in a situation where your gun is dead and you have no where to hide. Not a pretty picture.
9. Miscellaneous tools
These tools can simplify your life in and out of the field. Allen wrenches, tweezers, ***** drivers even Teflon and cotton swabs can be useful things in your kit. These are your gun’s first aid tools. Remember, this is a game and usually the winners are those who often come prepared.
10. First aid kit
Although relatively safer than golf, tennis, jogging or swimming (according to insurance statistics), paintball is still an active game. Have a first aid kit in your gear, it pays to be ready in unexpected circumstances.
Whether you are a beginner or an expert on the field, your success will greatly depend on the kind of gears you have and how equipped you are from unexpected situations like mechanical glitches in your gun or some paint on your face. Be prepared so you can enjoy your game to the fullest.
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Be Prepared – Top 10 Things to Have in Your Paintball Gear Bag
Johnathan Brandon asked:
I can’t count the number of times that I’ve seen someone arrive at a field or paintball outing only to discover that they left their hopper at home… or how many times I’ve seen a gun break only to find that the owner doesn’t have a tool kit or spare parts available. Luckily in most cases, there are others around who did remember, and are happy to help out, but sometimes being unprepared means you may get to sit and watch others play.
That being said, I’ve compiled a list below of the top 10 things to make sure you always have in your bag before you head out to the field. We’ll assume for the sake of this article, that you haven’t forgotten your gun.
1. Paintball Mask – This should probably be number 1, 2 and 3 on the list. You should never play paintball without a mask that is designed for paintball. Let me say that again. You should never play paintball without a mask that is designed for paintball. Your eyes are much to important to take any chance losing them. Safety goggles or sunglasses don’t offer the protection you need when a paintball is heading at your face going 285 feet per second.
Paintball masks come in many varieties. All masks that are intended for paintball should meet the minimum safety requirements, so after that your choice is going to be focused more on comfort, visibility, and style. More expensive masks tend to excel in all three areas but something like the entry level vForce Armor Goggles are fine for beginners. For more experienced players you may find them wearing the vForce Profilers or the vForce Grill vision systems.
2. Safety Gear – Even though a mask is considered safety gear, I felt it was important to list it separately. There are a number of other safety items which should be considered as well such as paintball gloves, neck protectors, and knee and elbow pads. These will make you more likely to dive when necessary to avoid being shot, and will make you less likely to get hurt doing so. You can also wear a chest and back protector. These come in different varieties and will help minimize the number of bumps and bruises you go home with. The Spyder Body Shield is a very popular version because it looks more like a Jersey than a catcher’s chest protector.
strong>3. First Aid Kit – I keep a small first aid kit in my bag in the event that I get a cut or scrape. You can typically find a general all purpose kit at your local drug store. I’d typically make sure that it includes band-aids, triple-antibiotic ointment, gauze pads and tape. If it doesn’t include them, I’ll throw in a small bottle of pain-reliever in the event I get a headache, or as I get older, for some of the related aches and pains.
4. Barrel Cover – I keep my barrel cover on my gun when it’s stored away. This helps me avoid forgetting it. All reputable and insured fields will require that you have a barrel cover on your marker at all times except during play. Most will not accept a barrel plug, so if your marker came with a plug as most Spyder Paintball Guns did until last year, you will want to get a barrel cover before heading to the field. If you forget, most fields will gladly sell you one.
5. Squeegee – Squeegees come in a few different formats. The “battle swab” consists of two soft ends, which can be inserted into the barrel to soak up any residual paint. They typically fold in half and are pretty easy to keep in your back pocket or cargo pants for easy cleaning on the field if you have a ball break in the barrel. Jerk squeegees consist of a wire or plastic lead with rubber washers and fabric on one end. They are pulled through the barrel to pull out most of the paint. Straight shot squeegees are similar but do not have much flexibility in them. Both the jerk and the straight shot squeegees require that you remove your barrel or disassemble your gun to use them, so they are not ideal for on the field cleaning. I would recommend having both a battle swab and a jerk or straight shot squeegee in your bag. It’s frustrating to have your balls going every way except straight because you have a dirty barrel.
6. CO2 or Nitro Tank – It seems obvious but it’s worth mentioning that you shouldn’t forget your tank. There are two main varieties of tanks… CO2 tanks are typically measured in ounces, which describe how much liquid CO2 the tank will hold. 20oz CO2 tanks seem to be the most popular and a full tank will typically give you 900 – 1000 shots. Keep in mind that some guns (typically more expensive guns) do not recommend using CO2 and instead recommend Nitrogen tanks, which in most cases use normal compressed air. These are typically measured by the size of the tanks (in ci or cubic centimeters) and pressure (in psi or pounds per square inch). The larger the tank and the higher the PSI, the more shots you will get. It’s worth noting that not all fields can fill the higher PSI tanks, so you may end up getting 3000psi fills on a 4500psi tank.
If you play a lot, or don’t play on a formal field, then you may want to consider having two tanks. This will allow you to get both filled and allow you to keep playing if one breaks or is empty. DO NOT attempt to repair a malfunctioning tank on your own. Paintball tanks are under very high pressure and you may be injured or killed if you are not properly trained to service and repair tanks. Your local paintball shop or dive shop are good places to start when looking for someone to repair a tank.
7. Tools and Spare Parts – Most markers come with a few spare parts and tools needed to performance maintenance on the marker. Make sure these stay in your bag. In addition, most manufacturers sell parts kits which include more of the same parts, and in many cases other parts which you will want to have on hand in the event that they break. O-rings and cup seals are obvious items to have. An o-ring pick will help with removing damaged or broken o-rings that need replacing. You will also want to have gun oil in your kit, which should be applied to the o-rings as well when you are replacing them or cleaning your marker. Be sure to check if your marker requires or recommends a particular type of oil.
8. Batteries – If your marker is electronic, as more and more are these days, you will want to make sure you have spare batteries and a charger in your bag. If your hopper requires batteries (many require 2), then you’ll want to account for those as well. I like to keep a fully charged set of batteries in my gun and hopper and another charged spare set as well. A rapid car charger can come in handy if your batteries die. You’ll be out of play for a bit, but at least the whole day won’t be wasted.
Important: Be sure to check your markers guidelines to make sure you are using the right type of battery. Some are pretty specific about whether standard batteries should be used or the types of rechargeable batteries available.
9. Food and Water – If you are playing at a field, chances are that they will have snacks and drinks available for sale, and will probably offer some sort of lunch as well. The key here is to be sure that you stay well hydrated. Because many players choose to dress in layers to reduce the sting of being hit and are normally wearing masks, it’s easy to become overheated or dehydrated. This will bring and end to what would otherwise be a great day. If you are playing with friends in the woods, be sure to take drinks and snacks with you. Take the opportunity to grab a drink in between games and I guarantee you will last longer and feel better as the day progresses.
10. A Towel – It sounds minor, but I’ve found that a small towel comes in handy for wiping my face or my gun off between games. It gives you something to lay your gun on if you want to avoid getting it scuffed up (though if you’re playing hard, it’s going to get scuffed up), and it’s good for wiping your hands off.
Having fun on the paintball field has a lot to do with how prepared you are to play. A great paintball gun is nice, but if you don’t have everything you need to keep it and you in good working order, you’ll spend more time on the sidelines than the field. Having these items in your bag will go a long way toward keeping you safe and on the field. Play hard!
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I can’t count the number of times that I’ve seen someone arrive at a field or paintball outing only to discover that they left their hopper at home… or how many times I’ve seen a gun break only to find that the owner doesn’t have a tool kit or spare parts available. Luckily in most cases, there are others around who did remember, and are happy to help out, but sometimes being unprepared means you may get to sit and watch others play.
That being said, I’ve compiled a list below of the top 10 things to make sure you always have in your bag before you head out to the field. We’ll assume for the sake of this article, that you haven’t forgotten your gun.
1. Paintball Mask – This should probably be number 1, 2 and 3 on the list. You should never play paintball without a mask that is designed for paintball. Let me say that again. You should never play paintball without a mask that is designed for paintball. Your eyes are much to important to take any chance losing them. Safety goggles or sunglasses don’t offer the protection you need when a paintball is heading at your face going 285 feet per second.
Paintball masks come in many varieties. All masks that are intended for paintball should meet the minimum safety requirements, so after that your choice is going to be focused more on comfort, visibility, and style. More expensive masks tend to excel in all three areas but something like the entry level vForce Armor Goggles are fine for beginners. For more experienced players you may find them wearing the vForce Profilers or the vForce Grill vision systems.
2. Safety Gear – Even though a mask is considered safety gear, I felt it was important to list it separately. There are a number of other safety items which should be considered as well such as paintball gloves, neck protectors, and knee and elbow pads. These will make you more likely to dive when necessary to avoid being shot, and will make you less likely to get hurt doing so. You can also wear a chest and back protector. These come in different varieties and will help minimize the number of bumps and bruises you go home with. The Spyder Body Shield is a very popular version because it looks more like a Jersey than a catcher’s chest protector.
strong>3. First Aid Kit – I keep a small first aid kit in my bag in the event that I get a cut or scrape. You can typically find a general all purpose kit at your local drug store. I’d typically make sure that it includes band-aids, triple-antibiotic ointment, gauze pads and tape. If it doesn’t include them, I’ll throw in a small bottle of pain-reliever in the event I get a headache, or as I get older, for some of the related aches and pains.
4. Barrel Cover – I keep my barrel cover on my gun when it’s stored away. This helps me avoid forgetting it. All reputable and insured fields will require that you have a barrel cover on your marker at all times except during play. Most will not accept a barrel plug, so if your marker came with a plug as most Spyder Paintball Guns did until last year, you will want to get a barrel cover before heading to the field. If you forget, most fields will gladly sell you one.
5. Squeegee – Squeegees come in a few different formats. The “battle swab” consists of two soft ends, which can be inserted into the barrel to soak up any residual paint. They typically fold in half and are pretty easy to keep in your back pocket or cargo pants for easy cleaning on the field if you have a ball break in the barrel. Jerk squeegees consist of a wire or plastic lead with rubber washers and fabric on one end. They are pulled through the barrel to pull out most of the paint. Straight shot squeegees are similar but do not have much flexibility in them. Both the jerk and the straight shot squeegees require that you remove your barrel or disassemble your gun to use them, so they are not ideal for on the field cleaning. I would recommend having both a battle swab and a jerk or straight shot squeegee in your bag. It’s frustrating to have your balls going every way except straight because you have a dirty barrel.
6. CO2 or Nitro Tank – It seems obvious but it’s worth mentioning that you shouldn’t forget your tank. There are two main varieties of tanks… CO2 tanks are typically measured in ounces, which describe how much liquid CO2 the tank will hold. 20oz CO2 tanks seem to be the most popular and a full tank will typically give you 900 – 1000 shots. Keep in mind that some guns (typically more expensive guns) do not recommend using CO2 and instead recommend Nitrogen tanks, which in most cases use normal compressed air. These are typically measured by the size of the tanks (in ci or cubic centimeters) and pressure (in psi or pounds per square inch). The larger the tank and the higher the PSI, the more shots you will get. It’s worth noting that not all fields can fill the higher PSI tanks, so you may end up getting 3000psi fills on a 4500psi tank.
If you play a lot, or don’t play on a formal field, then you may want to consider having two tanks. This will allow you to get both filled and allow you to keep playing if one breaks or is empty. DO NOT attempt to repair a malfunctioning tank on your own. Paintball tanks are under very high pressure and you may be injured or killed if you are not properly trained to service and repair tanks. Your local paintball shop or dive shop are good places to start when looking for someone to repair a tank.
7. Tools and Spare Parts – Most markers come with a few spare parts and tools needed to performance maintenance on the marker. Make sure these stay in your bag. In addition, most manufacturers sell parts kits which include more of the same parts, and in many cases other parts which you will want to have on hand in the event that they break. O-rings and cup seals are obvious items to have. An o-ring pick will help with removing damaged or broken o-rings that need replacing. You will also want to have gun oil in your kit, which should be applied to the o-rings as well when you are replacing them or cleaning your marker. Be sure to check if your marker requires or recommends a particular type of oil.
8. Batteries – If your marker is electronic, as more and more are these days, you will want to make sure you have spare batteries and a charger in your bag. If your hopper requires batteries (many require 2), then you’ll want to account for those as well. I like to keep a fully charged set of batteries in my gun and hopper and another charged spare set as well. A rapid car charger can come in handy if your batteries die. You’ll be out of play for a bit, but at least the whole day won’t be wasted.
Important: Be sure to check your markers guidelines to make sure you are using the right type of battery. Some are pretty specific about whether standard batteries should be used or the types of rechargeable batteries available.
9. Food and Water – If you are playing at a field, chances are that they will have snacks and drinks available for sale, and will probably offer some sort of lunch as well. The key here is to be sure that you stay well hydrated. Because many players choose to dress in layers to reduce the sting of being hit and are normally wearing masks, it’s easy to become overheated or dehydrated. This will bring and end to what would otherwise be a great day. If you are playing with friends in the woods, be sure to take drinks and snacks with you. Take the opportunity to grab a drink in between games and I guarantee you will last longer and feel better as the day progresses.
10. A Towel – It sounds minor, but I’ve found that a small towel comes in handy for wiping my face or my gun off between games. It gives you something to lay your gun on if you want to avoid getting it scuffed up (though if you’re playing hard, it’s going to get scuffed up), and it’s good for wiping your hands off.
Having fun on the paintball field has a lot to do with how prepared you are to play. A great paintball gun is nice, but if you don’t have everything you need to keep it and you in good working order, you’ll spend more time on the sidelines than the field. Having these items in your bag will go a long way toward keeping you safe and on the field. Play hard!
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How To Find The Best Paintball Gun For You
Tony B asked:
Paintball is indeed a challenging sport and has recently turned out to be one of the best part-time activities for lots of people who want to experience an exciting outdoor activity.
Once you start playing on a regularly basis, it is better that you purchase your personal safety gear, along with choosing a paintball gun you feel confident with and which will also give you a more enjoyable time.
It is understandable that you may have no idea where to start with, while looking for a gun that shoots straight and fast. There is a lot to choose from, and a lot to know about them, which will be the most suitable for you, and be all you have looked for. So, take your time and do your research well.
It is true that you may hear serious players talk about different ways of choosing a gun, so you can learn from them what make and model is the best, and if that particular mark and model is all they were looking for. You could go to those veteran players that are more than happy to give you a piece of advice, as if there is anything they love talking about, that’s their paintball guns.
You should know from the very beginning that paintball guns may be quite expensive but they are sure worth it, especially if you are really into playing this game. It’s very important to get what you want, or even start with a common gun, and then work your way up to the special gun you want, as you become more experienced.
There are guns that range up to thousands of dollars, so you may want to start with a gun that your feel comfortable to spend your money on. Taking out a loan for this kind of gun is not what I advise you to do, unless there’s someone in your family that would loan you the money.
Think about your style when you start playing it, and when you are out in the open. Paintball is a slow game but, as you become a passionate and regular player, your entire style will change to a more competitive one, and get faster as you see more of a challenge in this exciting sport.
So, you should start looking for a gun designed for speed as well as for performance.
Start surfing the Internet and you’ll find lots of information on makes and models; you could even try reading other’s opinions and reviews on this.
Of course, one way you can really get the feeling of the gun is to actually test it and make sure you ask if you could try it, before you purchase it. What you could also do, is to try your friends’ guns, as there would always be someone that might let you try his gun. Or, you could even rent a gun; ask them about the models, as chances are they don’t have one model only. Rentals usually include better beginner as well as novice models.
Paintball was designed for your fun, and if you remember western movies, we even tried imitating cowboys shooting each other in the movies, and hiding behind trees or rocks. This is the reason they invented paintball, and western movies have been taken to a new, modern level under the form of a game, even if it sometimes hurts.
So, whether you choose to purchase or borrow the gun, it must be comfortable.
In order for you to get the most out of a gun, you need to have a basic understanding of how it works and what you can do with it.
Caffeinated Content
Paintball is indeed a challenging sport and has recently turned out to be one of the best part-time activities for lots of people who want to experience an exciting outdoor activity.
Once you start playing on a regularly basis, it is better that you purchase your personal safety gear, along with choosing a paintball gun you feel confident with and which will also give you a more enjoyable time.
It is understandable that you may have no idea where to start with, while looking for a gun that shoots straight and fast. There is a lot to choose from, and a lot to know about them, which will be the most suitable for you, and be all you have looked for. So, take your time and do your research well.
It is true that you may hear serious players talk about different ways of choosing a gun, so you can learn from them what make and model is the best, and if that particular mark and model is all they were looking for. You could go to those veteran players that are more than happy to give you a piece of advice, as if there is anything they love talking about, that’s their paintball guns.
You should know from the very beginning that paintball guns may be quite expensive but they are sure worth it, especially if you are really into playing this game. It’s very important to get what you want, or even start with a common gun, and then work your way up to the special gun you want, as you become more experienced.
There are guns that range up to thousands of dollars, so you may want to start with a gun that your feel comfortable to spend your money on. Taking out a loan for this kind of gun is not what I advise you to do, unless there’s someone in your family that would loan you the money.
Think about your style when you start playing it, and when you are out in the open. Paintball is a slow game but, as you become a passionate and regular player, your entire style will change to a more competitive one, and get faster as you see more of a challenge in this exciting sport.
So, you should start looking for a gun designed for speed as well as for performance.
Start surfing the Internet and you’ll find lots of information on makes and models; you could even try reading other’s opinions and reviews on this.
Of course, one way you can really get the feeling of the gun is to actually test it and make sure you ask if you could try it, before you purchase it. What you could also do, is to try your friends’ guns, as there would always be someone that might let you try his gun. Or, you could even rent a gun; ask them about the models, as chances are they don’t have one model only. Rentals usually include better beginner as well as novice models.
Paintball was designed for your fun, and if you remember western movies, we even tried imitating cowboys shooting each other in the movies, and hiding behind trees or rocks. This is the reason they invented paintball, and western movies have been taken to a new, modern level under the form of a game, even if it sometimes hurts.
So, whether you choose to purchase or borrow the gun, it must be comfortable.
In order for you to get the most out of a gun, you need to have a basic understanding of how it works and what you can do with it.
Caffeinated Content