You've heard all about how exciting paintball can be. It's great exercise, a way to have fun with your friends, and an excellent sport for anyone who has a competitive spirit. Before you get to enjoy it to the fullest, however, you should learn how to use a paintball gun.

Paintball guns aren't overly complicated, but they're not as simple as you might think, either. You can't just grab any random paintball gun and expect to be able to play -- not if you want to have a chance at winning, anyway. You should know the basics of how these guns operate.

It would definitely help to learn some tips when it comes to how to use a paintball gun. This will help you get into the game with the confidence that you know what you're doing. That way, you can enjoy it as much as possible!

How Does a Paintball Gun Work?

If you have an interest in learning how to use a paintball gun, the first thing you should do is learn how one of these works. Of course, paintball guns fire paintballs. But exactly how does this happen?

Depending on the type of gun you have, there is a canister full of some sort of gas. Usually, it's carbon dioxide, but it could be nitrogen or even run-of-the-mill air. A short and controlled burst of this gas causes a paintball to come barreling out.

The gun also contains a hopper, which puts the paintball at the head of the line into its appropriate spot in the firing assembly. There is a single paintball that is in place that is prepared to go out the next time you pull the trigger.

The hopper moves the paintball that is first in line directly in front of a piston, which will propel it out when you shoot the gun.

Types of Paintball Guns

When you're on your quest to learn how to use a paintball gun, you should also learn about the different types of paintball guns. That's right, not all paintball guns are created the same.

Different types operate using different mechanisms, which will affect the specific directions when it comes to how to use a paintball gun for you.

There are hybrids of these three types, as well as other types that are on the market. However, the three main types are pump, mechanical, and electronic paintball guns.

10 Rapid Tips on How to Use a Paintball Gun for the Very First Time

When you're learning how to play paintball, a big part of succeeding is learning how to use a paintball gun properly. It might seem very simple, but the truth is that there are a few things that you should do in order to ensure that your gun functions optimally.

There are also certain tactics that you should employ while you're actually playing; that is, if you're interested in winning.

1. HPA tanks beat out CO2

When you're playing paintball, it's no secret that accuracy is essential. One way that you can make your paintball gun more accurate when you fire is to change the type of air you use. Instead of carbon dioxide, you can upgrade to HPA or High-Pressure Air.

First of all, you should make sure that your gun can operate using HPA. It works for most of the newer paintball guns, but you shouldn't assume it'll work for yours. Don't start using it without making sure your gun can handle it.

Carbon dioxide gas is very sensitive to temperature. If you're a science buff, you know that temperature and pressure have a direct relationship with one another. So, if CO2 is sensitive to temperature, the pressure can go all over the place with changing temperatures.

And this will make it very hard for you. Think about it -- if the pressure in your gun isn't consistent, your accuracy likely won't be either. HPA is much less sensitive to temperature and will be much more consistent for you.

2. Wash your gun, not just your uniform!

You can't expect your gun to be clean at all times when you're playing paintball. It's inevitably going to get muddy. However, you should also keep in mind that playing paintball with a dirty gun is one of the leading causes of inaccurate shots.

You should, of course, run a squeegee through the barrel. And you should make sure that the squeegee is clean. However, you need to clean and inspect the entire gun, not just the barrel.

You should make it a habit to check your paintball gun pretty regularly, especially after really messy matches. Make sure to check the raceway inside your motor, the detents, the eyes, the body, and the bolt and hammer, along with the barrel. It's almost a given that the accuracy of your game will be better for it.

3. Lube: a Goldilocks situation

Lube is very useful, a fact you should know while learning how to use a paintball gun. You need to keep certain parts of the gun coated with lube for optimal performance and maintenance. However, if you use too much lube, it can travel into places that could interfere with the performance of your gun.

If you use too much lube, it'll usually end up in the barrel. That could mess up the accuracy of your shots.

In other words, you don't want to use too much lube or too little lube. You want the amount of lube you use to be just right. Unfortunately, you'll probably have to figure this out by trial-and-error because no set amount works for every gun.

4. Paintballs should be subject to scrutiny

It can take a while to inspect your paintballs, which is why a lot of players don't do it. Especially since most reputable paintball distributors will produce high-quality paintballs. However, you need to keep in mind that you're never guaranteed perfect paintballs.

Even tiny imperfections on a paintball can significantly affect its trajectory in the air. Also, you should keep in mind that if one bad paintball ends up breaking inside your gun, it can mess up your entire game.

It would be a good idea for you to take a few minutes to inspect your paintballs before any game.

5. Don't get too attached to specific parts of your gun

Make sure that you check the parts of your gun on a regular basis. One example, which we have already mentioned, is the gas tanks and switching from CO2 to HPA. Also, you should make sure that your regulator is in top form.

It's possible that your regulator could have flaws from the very beginning. Or, after you've been using it for a long time, it could end up with wear and tear that could affect your game.

What you should do is test your regulator fairly regularly. If you see that it's not operating well, you should be prepared to either repair or replace it. You should make sure that it delivers consistent operating pressure.

6. Hoppers must be proper

Of course, it's essential to make sure your gun is clean on the outside. You should inspect several parts on the outside, as well as the barrel. However, it doesn't end here -- you need to check the hopper as well.

Keeping your hopper clean is just as important as keeping your barrel clean. Keep in mind that all of the paintballs that start out in the hopper will end up in the barrel anyway.

If you have oil, dirt, or the residue from a broken paintball in your hopper, it's eventually going to end up in your barrel and mess up your game.

7. It should fit like a glove

You need to make sure that your paintballs are the right size for the barrel of your gun. That is an important part of how to use a paintball gun.

If your paintballs are too small, they'll bounce around as they're leaving the barrel. That means they're not going to have a smooth flow, compromising your accuracy.

If the paintballs are too big, there will be friction between the barrel and paintball as they flow towards the exit location. As a result, the paintballs could break in the barrel. Alternatively, there will be so much drag that they'll go out at a slow velocity.

In order to make sure you're using the right-sized paintballs, there is a test that you can do. Unscrew the barrel from your gun and drop a paintball down the barrel.

If it drops straight through, it's too small, and if it gets stuck, you should blow on it with a small burst of air. If it's still stuck, it's too big, but if it exits the barrel with the short burst of air, it's the perfect size.

8. Reduce, reuse, recycle -- NOT!

In the second grade, they always told you that recycling is a good thing. And this might be true when it comes to paper, cans, and bottles. It is not, however, true when it comes to paintballs.

When you're in the middle of a game, it might be tempting to reuse paint pellets that have been dropped on the ground or have been fired already and still appear intact. After all, they're free pellets, right? They might seem free, but the truth is that your decision to use them will probably cost you by jamming your gun.

Paintball pellets have gelatine shells, which will absorb water very quickly. The pellets will become soft and swell up, to the point where they may not fit into the gun barrel or might not go through the hopper.

If you happen to drop a few pellets while you're loading your gun, you can use them, but only as long as they are still clean and dry. If you drop them in mud or a puddle of water, you're better off just leaving them.

9. Running on empty is never a good idea

The gas in a paintball gun isn't the same as the gas in your car. After all, cars operate using liquid gasoline, and paintball guns operate using literal gases. However, in both cases, you really shouldn't run on empty.

A part of learning how to use a paintball gun is learning that paintball guns have gas tanks that will generally give you a certain number of shots. Usually, you'll get several hundred shots before you have to replace the gas tank.

When you're starting to run low on gas, your pellets will start to lose velocity, which can definitely impact your game. If you think you might be running low, you should ask a marshal to check the gun and possibly fit it with a new gas tank.

Also keep in mind that the number of shots that deplete the gas tank applies to every time you pull the trigger, not just every pellet that you fire. Many people will dry fire their guns just for kicks, and this costs gas.

10. Aim before you fire!

This may seem like it goes without saying, but you'd be surprised how many paintball players fire first and aim afterward.

Basically, what they're trying to do is adjust their shot as they are firing it, so eventually, they end up hitting their opponent. However, it's often counterproductive.

Once you've fired your first shot, your opponent knows that he or she is a target and is much more likely to move and minimize your chances of making your shot.

Learning how to use a paintball gun isn't just about the maintenance of the gun itself, but also utilizing it in the proper way during a game. It's always best to be as covert as possible when you're playing paintball. Hide, aim, and then fire!

Ready, Aim, Fire That Paint!

Now that you're familiar with paintball guns and some tips on how to use a paintball gun, aren't you excited about trying out your new knowledge in a game?

Like any other game or sport, it'll take some getting used to. You're probably not going to be a champion paintball player your first time. But like anything else, practice makes perfect.

As long as you utilize all of the knowledge you have about how paintball guns work and how to use one properly within a game, you stand the best possible chance of becoming an excellent paintball player.

Just go out there and have fun, while also remembering that knowledge and strategy are your friends.

What do you think of everything we've just told you about how to use a paintball gun? Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

Featured Image by John Miller from Pixabay

The Dye DM14 is representative of more than a decade of constant paintball progression. Clients and athletes alike have been looking for perfection, so that is what Dye have aimed for in their design choices.

Upgraded and rebooted, the DM-14 is smaller, yet has a greater air efficiency compared to previous versions, with a sleek design that is shorter than the DM-13. It’s also the easiest DM to keep clean by far.

When you choose the DM, you can be certain DYE has left no stone unturned in making sure this marker performs incredibly well.

These rings make it easy to quickly work out the proper replacement O-ring you should use when doing maintenance of your marker.

The Eye Pipe, with its inner design, houses a polycarbonate pipe, protecting the self-cleaning system from dirt as well as broken paint. This makes sure that the eyes constantly monitor the ball drop. This system does away with double feeding too.

DYE's one-piece Fuze bolt system works at a very low 145PSI. This low working pressure generates a smooth spool cycle, minimal recoil, and extreme precision.

Imagine individually customized ergonomic comfort, in addition to optimal trigger speed. With the Reach Trigger, it's possible to adjust the angle and reach of your trigger.

The new angle adjustment together with the Spring and Travel Tension lets you create a personalized fit to attain your optimal shooting capabilities.

The Complete wrap around Sticky Grip allows for easy access to the battery and circuit board for programming without using tools. The Sticky Grip comprises a front rubber contact pad and back rubber contact grip, for maximum comfort and stability.

The Dye DM14 marks Dye’s first GasThru tournament marker. The macro line was taken away to improve gameplay ergonomics and toughness. Changing hands in important situations hasn’t been faster or simpler.

The DM14’s profile is the lowest of any marker in Dye’s DM series. Being almost half an inch shorter, it is truly compact for a seriously aggressive profile. To achieve this, the LPR was transferred to the front and redesigned into a self-contained cartridge for effortless maintenance.

The all-new Quick Release Bolt Assembly is the quickest, easiest and most dependable bolt removal system on the market. An easy, one-touch spring loaded button enables the user to remove and reinstall the bolt kit in seconds.

Standard care has never been easier or more accessible.

The ASA keeps the cam lever system on & off switch. Having the knob locked in position, air can be delivered into the marker for premium comfort and a compact design.

When discharged, trapped air is let out, making tank removal easy, and lessening wear on regulator threads and O-rings.

The Hyper 4, the most recent creation of Dye's trusted regulator line, is the most dependable and consistent regulator Dye has ever produced, with the quickest disassembly accessible.

Standard maintenance is doable in less than a minute, enabling the best performance for your marker every single day.

The UL 45 framework is the culmination of high pro player Influence and innovative engineering. The hourglass UL framework was designed to give the player total control of the marker. Additionally, it enables gamers to quickly and easily pull the trigger.

Here is what some of Dye’s trusted fan base is saying about the Dye DM14. Needless to say, they were mostly as impressed as us, although some of them had a few issues here and there.

For the most part, the DM24 seems to be a very responsive, powerful marker.

Although shopping for a Dye DM14 marker can be quite thrilling, it’s also important to remember that to play paintball, you also have to have a mask for protective purposes.

Paintball masks, or paintball goggles, are there to serve a protective purpose, and it’s because of this, you can’t play a single paintball game without one.

If you are just beginning to enjoy paintball as an interest, we would recommend you purchase some paintball goggles as one of the first items along with your marker.

All paintball masks come in a single universal size with straps to adjust how they fit your face, though some do provide greater protection and vision than others. Various brands and models of paintball masks have different fits, so it’s a worthwhile idea to try some on prior to buying.

What fits one individual well may not match another person, and a badly fitted goggle can cause even the most expensive masks to steam - look out for models with thermal lenses, as these are double paned and less likely to steam up.

It’s quite clear that Dye has done a wonderful job of crafting a powerful, responsive marker that performs well in the toughest situations. Its feature list is not to be sneered at, and response from customers shows that it’s not only well built, but any shortcomings are more likely due to personal preference.

The Dye DM14 is a wonderful marker with wonderful potential – a great choice that you can truly grow with. You won’t be disappointed!

Paintball is a game designed for everyone to play. In fact, although it is often considered a male-orientated sport, many women love the idea of paintballing.

Paintball is intense, challenging and enjoyable, as well as being a great workout.

There are plenty of women who turn up to paintball games and prove that they can play as rough as men do.

There is, however, a few critical differences between the genders. It is said that women new to the game often ask a lot more questions than men before they play.

Even though much of this is just erring on the side of caution, a lot of it can pertain to the rules of how to play, what to wear, or how they should conduct themselves.

This piece aims to assist women with the best paintball tips for girls and women, and how to approach paintball in order to get the most out of their experience. Read on!

Suitable Attire for Women Playing Paintball

Women can of course wear anything when playing paintball, but some things are more suited to getting involved in the game than others. Below are our top picks for what you should wear when gearing up for a game.

What Women Should Wear Playing Paintball

There are some women who make the decision to play with yoga pants. Even though they are good to use in most situations, unfortunately they don't work well for paintball.

The material is too thin to provide any protection, so sweatpants (perhaps with yoga pants layered underneath) are a better solution. They will supply some cushioning and allow for adequate movement during the game.

Women may also wear leggings or gym shorts underneath for additional protection. Find a pair of sweatpants that fit correctly so that you don't need to worry about tripping while running, and if it's really hot, you can wear basketball shorts with skin and knee protectors.

However, this isn't recommended until you have played a few times and know how it feels to get shot! Wear layers – this allows you to remove them as you get hot. Alternatively, if you would like a more convenient (and comfortable) option, you can use a padded bra.

Advantages of Vests

If you’re worried about the factor of pain when playing paintball, a paintball vest might be a useful piece of kit to buy.

These vests combine a range of different functions in order to help you during tactical gameplay.

Most paintball vests have tough plating that helps to protect your body from injury. Many also have pockets and clips that help you store items.

There are a wide variety vests out on the market. Different manufacturers will offer various types of vest depending on their focus.

Many of these include plate carrier vest, which can be laid out in various ways, and chest rigs, which are very small and light.

Wearing a vest is among one of our favorite paintball tips for girls. After a game or two, you may find that you don’t need it. But until you’ve experienced what it feels like to get hit with paintballs for several hours, you may want to wear as much protection as you can.

Our Thoughts on Paintball Tips for Girls

It may be intimidating at first but preparing for your first paintball game can be an exciting – rather than scary – experience. Follow all of our advice and you’re sure to have a thrilling time out on the field!

For most people, airsoft is a recreational sport they just enjoy when they have free time on their hands. I bet that’s how you take it too. That means you want to enjoy the sport without breaking the bank or having to deal with your wife’s fury after you tell her you bought a $1,500 toy in the form of an airsoft gun. I kid you not, you will sleep with the dog – outside.

That is why I want to give you a pass back to your bedroom. No, you don’t have to give up your second love. I want to show you some of the best cheap airsoft guns that will keep you in the game and in your bedroom. I know you can’t to get to them so let’s get right to it.

The Best Cheap Airsoft Guns – Take Your Pick

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Airsoft. There are many great Airsoft guns on the market that you can get for less than $20.00. Yes, you read that right, a great quality Airsoft gun for $20. Let’s take a look at the best cheap airsoft guns.

The Best Cheap Airsoft Guns – Saving the Game and Your Money

Like I promised you in the beginning, very good cheap airsoft guns are a reality, and the list above is proof of that. You’ll definitely save a couple of bucks as without compromising the quality of your game with these airsoft guns. Now all you have to do is read this with the missus and sweet talk her into letting you get one. Oh, and access to the bedroom.

There’s no game like paintball. It’s fast-paced, adrenaline driven, and very exciting to play. But great as it is, for you to enjoy it to the max you need to play it safe. Because if paintball safety is not a priority, it can turn out to be a dangerous sport. And casualties will literally become casualties that will need medical assistance.

Let’s take a look at some of the paintball safety rules and gear that keep the game of paintball safety and enjoyable.

Paintball Safety Gear – Keeping You Safe

Paintballs can be quite harmful as they are shot out at high velocities. They are not as soft as they look and feel when stationery, in fact, they are known to rip holes in light clothing and inflicting some painful injuries. This is why it’s important that you gear up properly when playing paintball. Some of the paintball gear that is a must include the basic ones I’ve listed below.

Paintball Safety Rules – Playing it Safe

To keep everyone safe, including officials and spectators, paintball safety rules are paramount – they must be known and obeyed. Here are a few basic ones to get you started.

1. Never fire your paintball gun when you or anyone near you is not wearing proper protection.

2. Never remove your goggles in the field or in the elimination zone.

3. Always keep your marker’s safety in the safe position. If your gun has a power feed, keep it in      the OFF position when you’re not using your marker.

4. Don’t fire your paintball marker unless you are firing at a target. Blind firing or firing without           looking could lead you to accidentally shooting referees, spectators or players leaving the            field.

5. Make sure to use a barrel plug when not using your marker.

6. When storing your maker, make sure it’s uncharged and unloaded.

7. Only pressurize your paintball gun only when you're ready to use it.

8. Never service or use a paintball gun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

9. When preparing your paintball marker for use, always remember to set your velocity to under 300 FPS. This is the safe level for paintball markers. You can check the shooting speed using a paintball chronograph.

10. Always observe and obey close range rules and never fire at anyone within 10 feet of you. Give them the option and chance of surrendering.

Paintball Safety – For the Good of the Game

Paintball safety can never be stressed enough. As exciting as the game is, never get so carried away that you neglect to observe the rules and regulations that govern play and safety. It’s all for the good of the game.

You’re streaking through the paintball field. Ducking, weaving, and rolling so as to avoid being hit. The feelings the game elicits out of you are beyond description, all you know is that you love the game. But there is one thing you don’t know and would love to know. It’s probably been on your mind for some time now – “What are paintballs made of?”

Sure it’s not a concern that can stop the game, but you being one who loves to know as much as you can about your favorite sport can’t help but wonder. Besides, once in a while the paint may find itself in your mouth and knowing what you have ingested is always a good thing, right?

Well, my friend, you have happened upon the right web page as I am here to give you the answer you are looking for. Hopefully, it will be as colorful as the subject matter.

Initially, paintballs were made from unsafe materials like thin glass for the shell and toxic dyes for the fill. But that was mostly when they were used to mark things and not being projected at other human beings as a sport. Today’s paintballs are very safe both for the player and the environment.

Let’s dissect your paintball and see what it really is, shall we? You’ll probably be surprised when you discover what your favorite missile is made of.

If you have ever taken supplements or liquid capsules, you have ingested a paintball. No, not really but the shells of the 2 are made from exactly the same material. That is why, initially, paintballs were made by pharmaceutical companies as they already had the materials and machinery to make paintball shells.

The shell is actually made of gelatin because of the many advantages that gelatin has in terms of paintball use. Firstly, gelatin is hard enough to carry the “paint” to its target without breaking and yet soft enough to beak upon impact.

The second reason that gelatin is the preferred capsule material is that it is “green”. It is a non-toxic and biodegradable material.

The major drawbacks of gelatin though are that it quickly absorbs water, leading your paintball to swell even after a brief contact with water.  This swelling can cause your marker to jam. On the flip side, exposure to air or the sun will cause the gelatin shell to dry out and become harder and deformed. Your paintball won’t “splat” upon impact due to the dryness and the deformities can also cause your marker to jam.

This is why it is always best to get your paintballs just before a game so as to make sure you have the perfect paintballs.

When the question of what paintballs are made of is asked, the conclusion many run to is that paintballs are made of paint. After all, that’s why they are called paintballs, isn’t it?

Well, surprisingly, the answer is no. A deeper probe is in order so as to solve this twist in the mystery.

Although most paintball manufactures keep the exact formula of their fill a secret, the basic formula of paintball “paint” is the same.

Most modern paintballs are made using water-soluble, biodegradable, and non-toxic dyes contained within polyethylene glycol. The simple ingredients for the paint are quite surprising as they include:

Yes, these are food grade ingredients that won’t cause you any harm if ingested. And they definitely don’t harm Mother Nature when they splat onto the ground. The only real victim of paintballs is your clothes if you wear your normal clothes during play.

The mineral oils, calcium, Ethylene glycol, and iodine give the mixture its “paint” texture and look while the food coloring gives it its color. So much for paintballs being made of paint.

In addition to the ethylene glycol based fill, there are also some cheap paintball variants that use an oil based fill. If at all possible, avoid them at all costs as they are not as friendly to your clothes and the environment as the ethylene glycol based ones.

So there you have it. The mystery of the paintball has been solved. I’m sure it was not something you were not expecting. But at least the good thing is that that drop of “paint” that strayed into your mouth is harmless, so no need to bother your doctor (and wallet).

You can't play paintball without a proper gun. However, your gun will never work at top level unless it is properly cleaned. Paintball guns are not cheap. In fact, they are one of the most expensive parts of the sport. As a result, you want them to last as long as possible. This guide will cover some of the best cleaning practices to make sure your equipment is around for years to come.

The first part of cleaning a paintball gun is making sure you have all of the necessary supplies. There are several tools you need, but almost all of them will be easily accessible everyday items. You need your gun's schematic (which is either in the box, manual, or manufacturer's website), Q-tips, paper towels, Allen keys, pull-through squeegees, lubricant, and warm water.

Once you have all of those in order, move to a wide or open work space where your parts will stay in one place and not be easily lost.

The first part of learning how to clean a paintball gun is to de-gas it. You never want to risk misfire, which means you should remove the fuel canister and locate the ASA lever. If you gun has no lever, you should check the instructions on the manufacturer's site on how to de-gas your model.

Next, you want to carefully (very carefully) disassemble your model. Starting with the hopper, remove the barrel, hammer, bolt, and grip frame. As you do this, be sure to set each piece aside in its own space with the screws or fasteners.  This will help easily reassemble it when the time comes and also make sure you never accidentally lose any parts.

Though all parts need to be cleaned, they are each done in their own way. You want to start with the body. However, before you begin you need to find out if you need to run a squeegee through the gun. Do that first if needed, then use a wet Q-tip or toothbrush to make sure everything is properly cleaned out. That will prevent jamming. Once that is done, you should wipe the body down with a paper towel to ensure everything stays dry.

The next step in this process is cleaning the barrel. To do that, you want to use a pull-through squeegee to get any paint residue from the barrel. This helps stop jamming and increases accuracy. Once you are done and the paint is gone, wipe the barrel down with a damp paper towel and carefully dry it.

After that, you want to take care of the bolt and hammer. Take a paper towel and use it to clean both parts. You also want to check the o-rings on each piece for any general wear and tear. Though some strain is fine, too much indicates that they need to be replaced.

The final part of the gun you need to clean is the grip frame. You start this process by cleaning out any debris with a Q-tip or toothbrush. However, as the trigger assembly is complicated and tough to put back together, do not take it apart. Once you've cleaned it, carefully dry and check for any signs of damage.

Once you've successfully cleaned your gun, you next need to perform an inspection. First, you should replace any cracked or damaged O-rings. Then, check the rings and look at the screws for any potential signs of damage. If you find any parts that are not up to snuff, replace them.

Proper lubrication is another part of learning how to clean a paintball gun. After you've cleaned and dried everything, carefully lubricate each and every part. While it can be tempting to use generic brands, only use paintball oil that is recommended by the gun's manufacturer.

Once the above steps have been completed, you have to put everything back together. This is just as important as the cleaning because improper reassembly can lead to damaged or worn parts. While reassembly differs from model to model, the overall rule is to put things back in order by going through each piece and installing it with fasteners or screws.

Anyone who plays paintball needs to know how to clean a paintball gun. This is an important part of making sure your purchase keeps working as intended over a long period of time. You never want your gun to break early on, and you also want to avoid any accuracy or performance issues. As long as you follow the above steps every now and then, you will be able to shoot worry free.