Splatter Ball Gun: Gear Up and Bring the Pain!

Splatter ball guns, also known as paintball markers, are recreational guns that fire paint-filled capsules called paintballs. They allow participants to engage in paintball games and activities. This comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know about splatter ball guns.

Key Takeaways

Type	Description
Markers	The actual paintball gun, comes in various styles like pistols, rifles, machine guns, etc.
Paintballs	Gelatin or plastic capsules filled with water soluble paint, the ammunition.
CO2 or HPA	Power sources that use CO2 canisters or HPA (high pressure air) tanks to propel the paintballs.
Masks/Goggles	Crucial protective gear, must be worn to protect eyes and face.
Barrel Socks	Covers the gun barrel to indicate a player is out of the game.
Velocity	Speed paintballs travel, typically 200-300 fps for recreational play.
Modes	Settings like semi-auto, ramping, burst, and full-auto firing modes.
Accuracy	Affected by quality of paintballs, barrel bore size, and consistency of velocity.
Range	Distance a paintball can travel, affected by velocity and environmental factors.

What is Splatter Ball Guns?

Splatter ball guns, commonly called “paintball markers”, are recreational pneumatic guns designed to mark players with paint for sport and games. They use compressed air or CO2 to propel capsules containing water soluble paint, called paintballs, through the barrel at speeds of approximately 200-300 feet per second. When the paintball hits a target, the gelatin or plastic capsule ruptures and leaves a bright smear of paint marking the target.

Paintball markers come in many styles modeled after real firearms like pistols, rifles, submachine guns, sniper rifles, and even grenade launchers. However, they are designed specifically for paintball sports rather than inflicting harm. The ammunition itself stings briefly on impact but rarely causes injury when safety regulations are followed. This combination of exciting firing systems and simulated combat makes splatter ball guns an enjoyable recreational outlet for sport shooting and simulated battle games.

While often associated with organized team sports played on dedicated paintball fields, splatter ball guns can also be used informally in settings like woodsball games, target shooting competitions, and simulated war games. Their versatility supports a range of applications. However, they do require safety precautions and supervision to use responsibly.

Whether you’re a beginner getting started in recreational paintball sports or an experienced player looking to upgrade your markers and gear, this guide will walk through everything you need to know about splatter ball guns. We’ll cover key terminology, components of paintball markers, types of guns, required equipment, where to play, safety and regulations, tactics, maintenance, and much more. Let’s get started understanding the world of splatter ball!

Splatter Ball Gun: Key Components and Terminology

Splatter ball guns have some specialized components and terminology related to their design and function. Learning the key terms will help you understand how they operate. Here are some of the main components and phrases:

• Marker – The paintball gun itself, which uses compressed air to mark players with paintballs. Also commonly called a “paintball marker”.
• Paintballs – Gelatin or plastic capsules filled with water soluble, non-toxic paint. They are the ammunition of splatter ball guns.
• Loader – Holds extra paintballs and feeds them into the marker through the feed neck. Loaders can be gravity fed hoppers or electronic hoppers that automatically load paintballs.
• CO2 vs HPA – CO2 (carbon dioxide) and HPA (high pressure air) are the two main power sources used to propel paintballs. CO2 is cheaper but less consistent.
• Tank – The cylinder that holds compressed air, either CO2 or HPA. Tanks come in various sizes.
• Regulator – Controls airflow from the tank into the marker at consistent pressure to stabilize velocity.
• Velocity – The speed at which the paintballs travel, measured in feet per second (fps).
• Accuracy – The precision and consistency of paintball flight path towards an intended target.
• Range – The maximum distance a paintball can travel in flight before dropping. Higher velocity increases range.
• Modes of Fire – Electronic markers offer different firing modes like semi-auto, burst, ramping, and full-auto.
• Trigger – Button that activates the firing sequence when pulled. Some triggers allow faster rates of fire.
• Bolt – Moves back and forth, allowing paintballs to enter the barrel before firing.
• Barrel – Hollow tube that guides paintballs downrange towards targets.
• Goggles – Crucial protective gear that must be worn at all times when using splatter ball guns to prevent eye injuries.

Familiarizing yourself with these key terms and components will provide a solid overview of how splatter ball markers function and what features contribute to their performance. With the basics covered, let’s move on to the different types of splatter ball guns available.

Types of Splatter Ball Guns

There are many styles and varieties of splatter ball guns on the market. While specific models come and go, these are the main categories of paintball markers:

Pump Paintball Guns

• Oldest and simplest type of marker
• Manually “pumped” to chamber each paintball
• No electronics, tanks, or regulators
• Lower rate of fire
• Reliable performance
• Affordable price
• Great for beginners

Semi-Auto Paintball Guns

• Fire one shot per trigger pull
• Uses compressed air tank for power
• Still reasonably affordable
• Allows faster shooting than pumps
• More upgrade potential
• Popular starter choice for recreational play

Electronic Paintball Guns

• Advanced markers with electronic firing systems
• Multiple firing modes like semi-auto, burst, ramping, full-auto
• Programmable circuit boards and sensors
• Require battery packs
• Higher performance potential with tuning
• More expensive but highly customizable

Magfed Paintball Guns

• Able to switch between traditional loader and magazines
• Realistic military simulation style
• Lower ammo capacity than hopper-fed
• Heavier than standard markers
• Affordable to high-end models available

MilSim Paintball Guns

• Designed for military simulation players
• Realistic scales and materials like metal
• Authentic gun models like M4, AK-47, etc
• Higher quality and price tag
• Advanced capabilities for immersive simulation

This covers the major types you’ll encounter when browsing splatter ball guns. You’ll also find specialty models like sniper rifles, pistol carbines, machine guns, and grenade launcher style markers. There are plenty of options to suit your style and budget.

Required Gear for Paintball

In addition to the marker itself, there is other essential gear you’ll need for a safe, complete setup:

Masks/Goggles

• Must wear eye protection designed specifically for paintball
• Full face masks provide the best protection
• Anti-fog lenses help maintain visibility

Paintball Loader

• Holds extra paintballs in the marker
• Gravity fed hopper or electronic loader
• Typically mounts on feed neck of gun

CO2 or HPA Tank

• Carbon dioxide or compressed air tank
• Provides power source to propel paintballs
• Various sizes measured in ounces

Paintballs

• Gelatin or plastic shells holding paint
• Mark opponents they hit through splatter
• Non-toxic and water soluble
• Variety of bright color options

Barrel Plugs/Socks

• Placed over barrel when not shooting
• Indicates you are out of play
• Required safety measure
• Usually bright colored fabric socks

Paintball Jersey/Pads

• Athletic style jersey provides some protection
• Sliding pads for knees/elbows optional
• Camouflage patterns common
• Layer clothing under jersey

Maintenance Kit

• Kit for cleaning and lubricating marker
• Includes squeegee, oil, grease, pads, brushes
• Keeps marker operating smoothly

With this full setup of marker, paintballs, loader, tank, mask, and other gear, you’ll be ready to dive into the sport! Safety should always come first when using splatter ball guns.

Paintball Safety 101

While splatter ball guns provide fun recreation, they do shoot projectiles at high speed and require safety measures. Follow these basic guidelines:

• Always wear ASTM approved goggles designed specifically for paintball. These must be worn at all times when anywhere near markers in use. Eye protection is by far the most critical element.
• Use barrel plugs/socks when not actively shooting or on the field. This includes keeping them on in staging areas. Only remove them when ready to begin a game.
• Treat markers as if they are loaded at all times, even if paintballs are not present. Avoid looking down the barrel.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot at targets on the field. Do not point markers at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
• Set your marker to “safe” mode when not aiming at targets between games. This prevents accidental discharge.
• Follow all posted safety rules and listen to field referees. Rules are in place to prevent injuries and maintain fair play for all participants.
• Use low impact paintballs only, specifically those formulated for recreational play. Do not modify paintballs.
• Maintain control when shooting. Avoid excessive velocity “hot” markers that increase risks of harm.
• Remove paintball tank before transport and storage. Do not transport pressurized markers.
• Store markers and paintballs securely and prevent unauthorized access. Follow local regulations.
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and take breaks between games to rest.

Following basic safety protocols helps ensure paintball remains an exciting but responsible recreational activity everyone can enjoy.

Choosing a Paintball Venue

Once you have the proper gear, one of the first decisions is choosing a location to experience paintball games and test out your new marker. Here are some of your main options:

Paintball Fields

• Dedicated commercial outdoor fields designed for paintball
• Offer varied terrain with inflatable bunkers, buildings, etc
• Staff provide refereeing, rentals, air fills
• Provide full service play for casual participants
• Offer competitive team tournaments and scenario events
• Range from affordable to premium facilities

Woodsball Areas

• Public land like forests and abandoned areas
• More natural terrain and features like rocks, trees, streams
• Requires more self-supplied gear and preparation
• No staff oversight or maintained fields
• Fun for informal games with friends
• Check local laws and get landowner permission

Indoor Paintball Arenas

• Contained indoor space with maze-like layouts
• Close combat style of play
• Less affected by weather conditions
• Typically smaller than outdoor fields
• Fast paced games in close quarters
• Rentals and staff often available

Backyard Paintball

• Set up homemade field on private property
• Only practical with large rural properties
• Allows practice and casual games at home
• Needs netting or barriers for safety
• Convenient but very limited space

With public paintball fields, you’ll get a full experience but at an hourly cost. Private land options are cheaper but require more responsibility. Choose based on your budget, desired play style, and access to land.

Paintball Regulations and Legal Issues

While paintball equipment is largely unregulated at the federal level in the USA, you still need to follow some guidelines depending on where you live and play:

• Transportation – Paintball markers may be classified as “firearms” in some states when transporting outside of property where they are used. They must be unloaded and securely stowed.
• Public Lands – National parks and public lands often prohibit recreational paintball. Always check regulations before playing in public spaces.
• Minimum Age – In most states you must be at least 18 years old to purchase a paintball marker, though younger ages may participate under supervision.
• Velocity Limits – Most commercial fields limit velocity to 300 fps or less. Markers shooting hotter than local limits may be chronographed and prohibited.
• Goggle Rules – Failure to wear proper masks/goggles everywhere on a field will get you ejected from a facility. Eye protection is heavily enforced.
• Insurance – Some locations may require paintball liability insurance for those providing equipment or setting up private fields.

While infrequent, poor behavior with paintball guns can also lead to criminal charges like assault or property damage. Responsible and legal use is expected at all times. Overall, simply use good judgement and respect safety regulations on any paintball lands or venues.

Improving Your Paintball Accuracy

When you first start playing paintball, it’s common to struggle hitting your targets consistently, especially at long range. Here are some tips to improve your shooting accuracy:

Use Quality Paint

• Cheap paintballs are prone to veering off course and chopping in the barrel
• Spend a little more for roundness, smooth shells, and bright fills

Size Your Barrel Bore

• The ball should have just a little wiggle room in the barrel
• Too tight and balls will break, too loose affects trajectory

Clean Your Barrel

• Clean out paint and oil buildup with squeegees and swabs regularly
• Keeps the inside of your barrel smooth

Use a Quality Loader

• Gravity fed hoppers lead to more ball breaks
• Electronic loaders feed smoothly and consistently

Maintain Consistent Velocity

• FPS constantly spiking up and down reduces accuracy
• Quality regulators help maintain steadier muzzle velocity

Practice Frequently

• Develop skill at different ranges and shooting positions
• Get a feel for how to aim your unique marker

While practice makes perfect, quality gear optimized for your marker will take your precision shooting to the next level.

How to Increase Your Paintball Gun’s Range

When paintball guns are stock out of the box, their effective range is typically 100 to 150 feet. With some simple tuning, you can stretch out the distance your markers can shoot and hit targets further downfield. Here are some effective ways to increase your splatter ball gun’s range:

Use Premium Paintballs

Higher end tournament grade paintballs hold their shape better in flight for maximum distance. Avoid cheap paints prone to dimpling.

Max Out the Velocity

Safely turn up the velocity to the maximum legal limit for your field, usually 300 fps. This adds energy to the paintballs.

Upgrade to a Longer Barrel

18 to 24 inch barrels allow more time for acceleration resulting in higher muzzle velocity. Just don’t go too long.

Overbore the Barrel

Using a barrel where the bore is slightly larger than the paintball reduces friction for added speed.

Use Light Paintballs

Look for paintballs around .50 to .68 caliber rather than heavier .69+. Lighter paint can travel further at the same velocity.

Add a Vertical Grip

Vert grips help keep your marker steadier for better aim at long distance targets. Reduce wobble for tighter groupings.

Use HPA instead of CO2

High pressure air offers more consistent velocity for accuracy and range versus fluctuating CO2 output.

Angle Your Shots Upwards

Aim slightly high to compensate for gravity over longer distances. This helps you place shots on target.

With the right tuning and quality gear, you can stretch your effective range without compromising too much on accuracy. Just be sure to chronograph your velocity and obey field limits.

Top Paintball Tactics and Gameplay Tips

Succeeding in paintball games requires skill, strategy, and knowledge of effective tactics. Here are some key tips:

Communicate with Your Team

Constant verbal coordination of positions and engagements helps win games through teamwork.

Use Cover and Concealment

Only expose yourself when ready to shoot. Use terrain, buildings, and props to hide your movement.

Suppress and Pin Down Opponents

Lay down rapid fire to pin opponents behind bunkers while teammates flank their sides.

Watch Your Flanks

Don’t get tunnel vision. Periodically check your sides and rear to avoid sneaking opponents.

Save Paint When Pinned Down

If cornered, don’t waste all your ammo. Hold your position and wait for backup.

Be Patient

Rushing often leads to fast eliminations. Let opponents make mistakes first.

Keep Your Gun Clean

Clean your barrel regularly to avoid chopping balls in key moments. Carry squeegees.

Carry Plenty of Paint

Bring more pods and reloads than you think you’ll need so you don’t run dry at bad times.

Make Each Shot Count

Aim carefully and don’t spray and pray. Conserve ammo for decisive engagements.

With practice and experience, you’ll refine tactics that take advantage of terrain and teamwork to outmaneuver opponents. Paintball rewards both individual skill and team coordination.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Paintball Marker

Investing in a quality splatter ball gun is the first step, but keeping it in top condition is equally important. Follow this maintenance routine:

Store Safely

Keep your marker unloaded in a secure case when not in use to prevent damage. Remove air tanks.

Inspect O-Rings

Check O-rings regularly for cracks, replacing any damaged ones to avoid air leaks or velocity issues.

Lubricate Components

Use paintball oils and greases on the bolt, trigger, regulator, and moving parts to prevent sticking.

Clean the Barrel

Using barrel swabs and squeegees, wipe away any paint, oil, or debris buildup after each day of usage.

Replace Batteries

For electronic markers, swap out worn batteries in the marker and loader to prevent power loss during games.

Check the Loader

Inspect loader feed necks, shells, motors, and sensors. Replace worn parts affecting loading.

Confirm Velocity

Use a chronograph regularly to verify your muzzle velocity hasn’t deviated from your field’s limits.

Inspect Air Tanks

Look for any corrosion or leaks around the valve. Tanks may need hydrotesting after several years.

Clean Externally

Wipe down your marker with a damp cloth to remove dirt, paint splatter, and debris after play sessions.

Check Screws

Vibration can loosen grips, rails, and screws over time. Tighten anything loose before playing.

Confirm Safety

Test safety modes and trigger function to ensure nothing is sticking or malfunctioning.

Replace Worn Parts

As internal components like seals wear out, replace them to keep your marker firing consistently.

With regular cleaning, testing, and replacement of damaged components, your paintball gun will deliver reliable performance for years of recreational play.

Conclusion

Splatter ball guns provide exciting opportunities for sport shooting games and simulated combat using paintball projectiles. With proper safety gear like masks, paintball markers allow participants to enjoy the thrill of shooting and marking opponents without injury.

When starting out, focus on established fields with rentals, training, and referees to learn safe practices under supervision. As you advance, upgrade to your own personal marker and equipment optimized for factors like accuracy, range, and rapid firing. Practice both individual shooting skills plus team tactics.

While challenging at first, paintball is an extremely rewarding recreational activity with gameplay accessible to almost anyone. With the right gear and safety practices, splatter ball guns offer fun for all ages under proper supervision. The sport continues growing as technology makes markers more affordable, customizable, and capable. Just be sure to maintain your equipment and follow field regulations.

With this guide’s help understanding the basics of paintball guns, gear, venues, safety, and gameplay, you’ll gain confidence getting into the sport. Now grab your splatter ball gun marker and get ready for some paint-slinging action on the field!

Frequently Asked Questions About Splatter Ball Guns

Here are answers to the most popular questions people have about splatter ball guns: