Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Paintball Accessories You Can’t Play Without

Having the markers, tanks, guns, vests and other equipment complete the excitement when you plan to play paintball. But little do others know that it is the small and simple things that count even before the game begins. Sometimes the little accessories that are locked in a toolbox are all that are needed to complete a paintball game. A toolbox is the first aid kit of the game; if anything goes wrong that is unexpected or unavoidable, there is no reason to fret.

The gun’s manual: there are instances in the game when the gun has to undergo “intensive surgery”. Guns differ from each other regardless of the physical similarities of some. If that time comes when it needs to be disassembled, the manual can make it easier to put it all back together. Try to find manuals with problem solving ideas, they really help.

Reserve batteries: some guns require batteries to function. It would be such a waste of time if in the middle of the game the batteries died and you could not continue to play so keep new batteries available.

Allen wrench to the rescue: some players have either inherited their guns from their friends or bought second-hand guns. If you did not get a set of Allen wrenches when you bought the gun buy a set from a hardware store and be sure to keep them handy.

Oil ole’! Make sure that there is a small can of oil for the paintball gun inside the box as well. Sometimes weather dictates if the gun needs oiling; be sure to get the specific oil type recommended by the manual for the gun.

Mask lens as spare: when worse comes to worst, mask lens’ will either become blurry or scratched. Don’t hesitate to replace them if your vision is impaired as this really affects how the game is played.

Squeegee anyone? Carrying one on the field is enough during a game, so why not bring a replacement if anything goes wrong? It saves time for playing rather than looking for a squeegee.

Cupseals and reserved O-rings: some players do not know that O-rings and cup seals can be damaged easily and this will hurt the paintball gun big time so it is a must to replace the cupseal before this happens.

And for the player, always have a neck guard around to save the neck from those disturbing shots that hit your neck. There may be a team available to do first aid when something goes wrong but it would make sense to carry a personal first aid kit. Carry around spare basic safety “gadgets” like a mask, gloves, and pads and have a worry free paintball game.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Paintball Basics

Paintball is a safe, simple yet challenging and strategic sport that is played usually by two teams, each with at least two players. Adults and kids alike enjoy this sport as they often refer to it as an advanced or improvised game of tag.

Tournaments attract many spectators of all ages, as it is a very exciting game to watch.

Paintball games are of various types, however, the most popular game often played is called "capture the flag". The object or the goal of this game is for teams to advance to the opponent’s base, move the other team’s flag to its destined location, at the same time guarding your own flag.

The paintball field has many obstacles such as tires, forts, old cars, hay and the newest are “inflatables” that are constructed as refuge for team players; making the game all the more exciting, as if participating in an actual game of war in videos.

When one is hit, it can hurt briefly and at times give players bruises. Players are typically required to be in long sleeves shirt and pants, making sure that the color is not be identical as that of the judge and complete paintball gear such as mask, helmet and goggles for safety.

The sport of paintball has a distinct and accurate set of rules that are strictly followed. The producer of the tournament is the absolute authority in regard to either an alteration or addition to the rules; marshals oversee the event, and their decision is always final. No dispute on the paintball field is accommodated or entertained.

A military approach to paintball is useless, as that knowledge is recognized and understood by the teams. A team’s tactic should be carefully planned; your team’s line of attack will not be known by the opposing team, and there should be a quick switch of plans in case something goes wrong.

There must be a lot of team work involved, as everyone moves through the field. As a team member moves, there should be others to guard and keep watch and give off covering shots when necessary. A team that moves together with a common objective will have a great chance of succeeding in this game.

Communication in the field is also very important. A team-mate can shout the position of the opponent. The moment that a player is seen, the game for that player is up; so there is no reason for you to keep quite; instead, inform the others the location of the enemy.

The excitement of this game concludes when you are seen and eliminated - a situation that all team players struggle to avoid.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Paintball Gears and Accessories

In any sport, proper gear, outfitting and other accessories are always necessary. Gear and accessories not only ensure the safety of players but they also allow the player to be comfortable. Gear is needed to perform a safely and effectively. In paintball, some gear and accessories should be considered before you actually play the game.

1. The most important gear needed to play paintball is the paintball gun which is used to fire paintball at opponents. There are many paintball guns to choose from. They come in various sizes depending on the needs of any player.

2. A player must have a paintball masks as they are required in playing since they ensure the safety of players. Paintball masks are not just ordinary masks but are masks are specifically designed for paintball games. An extra mask would serve as a replacement should you need it.

3. Proper clothing is needed when playing paintball. The clothes need to be heavy-duty and the colors are usually those known as “camouflage”. Players are also required to use shoes intended for running since paintball requires a lot of running but heavy-duty boots may be used as an alternative.

4. Squeegees are also recommended equipment for players when out on the paintball field: but cotton rags may also be used to wipe off any paintball hits on the body.

5. First-aid kits must also be part of the equipment. Accidents and injuries are sometimes unavoidable and it is better to be safe than sorry.

6. Other tools and gear may be beneficial once a player gets used to the game. He may find that screwdrivers, tweezers, pliers, and even cotton swabs would come in handy. Spare batteries for the guns should also be considered.

This gear and accessories are necessities for paintball players. Some fields do not allow players to play the game if they are not wearing the proper clothing, shoes, etc. Players must always consider their own safety as well as the safety of other players. Protection of the eyes is a priority when playing paintball. All players must observe the safety rules and policies set by the field to allow them to have an enjoyable and danger-free game.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Supplies Needed for the Game of Paintball

Paintball is a growing game not only in the United States but also in the world. A survey conducted in 2005 has shown that this is the third most popular game in the world.

The use of equipment to protect the players has earned it a reputation as a safe sport - this is better than football or hockey which have a reputation for causing injuries.

For people to play this game, it is required that a player wear safety gear at all times. This consists of a helmet, chest pad, gloves, and knee and elbow pads. The guns used are only allowed to have a maximum firing speed of 300 feet per second.

Anyone who wants to try this game should first buy the necessary equipment which can be purchased at the local sports store or online. A helmet may $20-$90. Since it fogs up due to perspiration, dirt, or paint it would be a good idea to buy a cleaning solution and anti-fog spray as well.

Protective gear for the chest can be bought for less than $30. These come in different colors and will protect the individual should a direct shot hit the body. Pads for the knees and elbows can also be purchased for less than $40 each.

The most important thing needed for battle is the player’s firearm. This can be handguns to assault rifles. The price of these guns run from $100 to more than a $1,000 depending on the features of the gun. Most of these are semi-automatic and can hold several paintballs before being reloaded.

A crucial part of the game is ammunition. This also comes in different colors and ranges in price from $24- $60. A box contains 2000 rounds - more than enough for one game. The player can also buy grenades to be used against the opponent for almost the same price. It is a good idea to buy a loader that will save time when it is time to reload.

Paintball as some would say is “better than the real thing”. This thrilling sport keeps the heart pounding and the adrenaline going. Should the person be interested in this game, the first thing that needs to be done is getting the right equipment from the shop and learning the rules.

After briefing, it is time to suit up, lock and load, and get ready to be in the combat zone.

Tips in Choosing a Paintball Gun

Today paintball is one of the most popular sports not only in the United States but around the world. It is a fun and exciting game that offers adventure to its players. When getting on the paintball field, it is very important to consider your one important friend - the paintball gun.

Paintball would not be paintball without the paintball gun. All paintball guns may look the same but it is important to remember that choosing the right paintball gun is not an easy task. Here are some tips that you may need to consider:

1. The very first thing that needs to be considered when buying a paintball gun is the price. It is important that the buyer determine his budget for the gun. There are many paintball guns in the market and prices may range from $100 to $900. The cost of the gun will depend on the brand and features that come with it.

2. It is recommended a person test all types of guns before buying one. He may want to try those that he has borrowed or rented which will give him the chance to choose which a gun that works for him. The paintball gun should provide ease of use and comfort for the user.

3. Before buying a paintball gun, it is important that he decide on the size of the gun, the paintball loader and the tank that he desires. Remember that the bigger the tanks and the paintball loaders the heavier the gun becomes. A good gun should be the right size for the user and should contain the amount of paintball needed to fire at the opponents.

4. The buyer should shop around first before deciding on a particular paintball gun. This will give him the chance to evaluate and compare prices. Some shops offer lower prices than other shops, so do some research and purchase the one that fits your needs and pocketbook.

5. Seek advice from friends who play paintball, instructors, and coaches of paintball games who will be able to provide some tips on what paintball guns they have used and have found effective. Paintball stores can also recommend some good paintball guns and/or those that they most often sell to their customers.

After choosing the right paintball gun, you must familiarize yourself with the machine. Practicing with the paintball gun will help you move with the gun as well as apply some strategies for using the gun.

Where To Buy Your Paintball Gadgets?

Paintball is fast becoming one of the world's most exciting and popular sports. In fact, paintball has risen from being known as just a pastime or a hobby, to a favorite sport among men and women in over 40 countries.

Those who have tried playing paintball to pass away their time have become smitten by the excitement of the sport. More and more people are forming their paintball squads and clamoring for more paintball items.

If you are among those who have learned to love paintball as a sport, then you need to check out the various paintball stores for basic and new paintball products.

Various shops selling paintball accessories have sprouted in the marketplace like mushrooms, due to the high demand for them. Blame it on the rising popularity of paintball. Visiting paintball stores is not only fun but it will give you a firsthand feel and view of the products you are buying.

There also are many online paintball stores that are selling paintball products for prices lower than those offered by actual paintball shops. By doing your shopping online, you do not only save on cost but also time. Just let your fingers do the walking and the talking.

Some online stores have more than five thousand paintball items that can be shipped within 24 hours. However, online stores will only offer free shipping of products when the items purchased amount to more than $150. Online stores also accept payments via credit cards like Master Card or American Express, cash, or through personal or cashier's checks.

Among the important paintball accessories that a player should possess, aside from the paintball guns and pellets of course, are the following:

1. Paintball mask - Never play paintball without the mask! Paintball experts are as one in saying that new players should buy the mask before the gun because it is a safety tool.

2. Batteries - Spare batteries for your guns will always be handy in case your gun needs them. Why waste a good opportunity to fire upon your enemy just because of a battery failure.

3. Oil for the paintball gun - This tool may not top the list of items being carried by paintball players but believe me; it makes your gun more efficient and keeps it in tip-top shape.

4. Gun manual - This is necessary when you have to take your gun apart and then put it back together again. With a gun manual, you can never go wrong.

5. First aid kits - While paintball is not a particularly dangerous sport, carrying a first aid kit in one's pockets will not hurt - in fact, it is necessary for the unexpected bumps and bruises that occur while playing the game.

When buying your paintball items either from the actual or online paintball stores, make sure that you have reviewed their product return policy as you might no longer be able to return certain products depending on the paintball store's policy.