What Is Paintballing Like?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

Let us start by defining what a complete set of gear looks like; this will include a paintball marker, mask, hopper, air tank, and pants. Of course, there will be extra equipment, like shins, knee pads, or a balaclava.

The basic set of equipment will more than likely cost a person between three and six hundred dollars, depending on the brand of gear and budget restrictions. Then a paintballer will need to find ammo, cartridges, and any reloading equipment for the heat of battle.

Three guys paintballing - what is it like?

How Much Do Paintballs Cost?

When you are looking to buy in bulk, the best options are to go for the two thousand counts of paintballs which typically will top out at one hundred bucks.

Inside will be four packages of five hundred rounds each, making it easier to split the costs between friends and teammates.

There will be a discount, bargain price paintballs that will be cheaper but also have higher breaking counts. Then you will have the professional paint, which a package of five hundred could cost you close to or more than the twenty-five dollars mentioned earlier.

 

What is the Most Expensive Part of the Gear?

The most expensive part of paintballing will be the Marker, especially if you want a high-performance Marker to paint your friends and enemies with.

However, if we look at this question from a long-road perspective, we can see that it will inevitably be the paint and air tanks.

To keep costs down, consider buying second-hand equipment or searching the web for the auction site with the best prices. This could end up making the most expensive part of the gear, driving to get it.

 

How Much does Full Gear Cost?

As mentioned earlier in the article, a complete set of gear will cost between three and six hundred dollars on average.

There will be differences considering various brands and the prices they stand by, the extra equipment that is desired (padding, reloading containers, barrel sights), and the designer clothing.

This number depends on what a player wants out of its equipment if they are looking for brand new gear or willing to work with a set for the second time through merchandise. After that, it is up to the combatant to customize their loadout.

 

Moneysaving Tips

The easiest way to save money is to take the time, do some investigating into brands and gear, do the research and then piece together a complete set. Older model markers with adequate firing capabilities are hundreds of dollars cheaper than newer ones.

Another tip would be to keep your marker barrel clean, and there is nothing more frustrating than having paint break all over the barrel and then getting marked in the middle of the match.

Plus, consider purchasing a Marker and all it requires to function, then use a winter coat and snow pants; you’ll be a bigger target, but; your wallet will thank you.

 

How Expensive is Paintball as a Hobby?

This is, by no means, a cheap sport to play; the gear alone will cost hundreds, if not around a thousand, dollars to get started.

Then you will have to change the air tanks every so often, purchase a bucket of paint each outing, pay the entrance fees at the combat facility, and so forth.

It can be a super expensive hobby, but the key is to go with friends and search for older model Markers if need be. Another money-saving tip, play paintball with a large group of friends because together with everyone, the costs diminish substantially.

 

Final Thoughts on What is Paintballing like

There are plenty of ways to get out and recreate, stay healthy, and be active; one fun way to do that is to get out and play some paintball with friends, run around, and let the paint fly.

You can save the most when you take a large group to the Paintball field or facility and mark one another up in multiple different forms of play.

This is a fun and fast-paced sport; many youths will enjoy playing their FPS video games in real life, and even the older gen’s can enjoy a bit of friendly combat. However, remember to research gear and facilities before getting ahead of yourself.

What Does The Hk Army Stand For?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

The Paintball Accessories, Gear, and Marker provider HK Army stand for quality products that Paintball enthusiasts can enjoy. 

Many agree that HK Army is a leader within the Paintball community by producing and providing high-quality paintball equipment, markers, and lifestyle apparel.

The company was founded in 2007 and took the industry by storm, becoming an internationally recognized brand with distribution reaching over sixty countries worldwide. 

Many enthusiasts have become familiar with visibility during tournaments and the use of their products by professionals through sponsorships, marketing partnerships, and influencer reviews and testing productions.

Person wearing helmet aiming using a paintball gun - What Does The Hk Army Stand For?

Who Invented the Term?

The HK term has been used since Heckler & Koch designed and produced the project HK50 assault rifle. 

Then again, rumors have spread that the Paintball HK Army term was coined during the late 20th and early 21st century by a group of youngsters known as the gaming clan Hostile Kids.

These individuals took what they learned from the digital realm and brought it to the paintball arena. 

Regarding which member coined the term, it would take a documentary tip interview in which fans and paintball enthusiasts alike can learn about the combat sports’ more competitive teams.

 

When was it Made?

The team was officially founded in 2007; HK Army has provided quality paintballing equipment, protective padding, and marker technology. 

The company is based in Signal Hill, California, giving them a unique position allowing convenient national and international shipping options.

This relatively brand-new company has cultivated a passionate following and reciprocated by providing industry-leading gear and innovative accessories to improve a combat athlete’s experience. 

There is also a nice variety of clothing and gear options to which a fan can get fitted and rep the HK army and look good.

 

How did it Become Popular?

Rarely is there a brand that started the way HK army did, which started as a paintball team with a massive and passionate fanbase and became a company. 

Instantly, as merchandise and paintball gear were being released, brand-loyal customers and fans were purchasing their products.

Very quickly, the rest of the paintball world took notice of the clean lifestyle products, the quality equipment, and innovative accessories. In response, professionals and HK army fanatics, in turn, began looking at and utilizing the HK army line of products.

Therefore, the company grew exponentially as the awareness of its brand spread and proved to be of the highest quality.

 

What Kind of Paintball Products does the HK Army make?

HK army is one of those companies with products designed, developed, and built by players; the standard of quality products reflects this fact. The Hk Army brand is one of the paintball manufacturers and providers of everything needed to fire some paint. 

This group does it with panache. Presented below are the basic categories of items placed in a list of products offered by the HK army brand:

 

  • HSTL Skull mask, goggles, and headwear
  • Loaders
  • Air Systems
  • Paintballs
  • Gloves, Jerseys, and Pants
  • Protective gear, Harnesses, and cleats
  • Barrels and Marker upgrades
  • Gear bags, cases, and other accessories

 

Does it Have Quality?

As mentioned in this article, the HK army has built its image on the creativity and imagination of its members and fanbase. Then took that passion and created paintball products that matched the expectations of those people about the brand.

Rated in the above four out of the five-star range, personal and professional reviews agree that these markers and other corresponding gear are of top-notch quality.

Rarely does a company have such fresh lifestyle lines of clothing but also delivers on the Paintball Markers sold and provides quality safety equipment and protective gear.

 

Final Thoughts on What does the HK Army Stand for?

HK Army is an exciting brand to follow concerning the game/combat sport of Paintball, as well as fashion. This brand provides everything from goggles and masks to Markers and loading clips and everything a participant would need on the battlefield.

Taking a look at what this brand is offering, a customer or fan can see the high energy bright look provided by the fashion and lifestyle line. 

Still, it also has this release-the-beast equipment feel when you visit a competitor in full gear. 

Only bright things are foreseeable for this company, and we, as fans, are lucky to witness them.   

Shemagh Vs. Balaclava

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

Sometimes, a person is out enjoying nature or performing a duty in the coldest weather. Having something to cover the head and face in a layer can be beneficial in providing an extra layer of protection against bugs, wind, or winter cold. 

On the other hand, having an item that can be easily removed when the protection is no longer needed would come just as in handy. 

For example, a Balaclava is a close-fitting garment that covers the whole head and neck, except for parts of the face, for vision and breathing purposes.

A Shemagh is a soft piece of cloth, similar to a bandana, traditionally worn by Arabic cultures to cover the head, shoulders, neck, and face parts that will not obscure the wearer’s vision.

Which one Has Better Quality?

To be blunt, there is no difference between the effectiveness of either item. However, the Balaclava does have a nice feature when it comes to putting it on and taking it off, which the Shemagh takes time to wear and remove. 

As for the materials, a Balaclava is commonly made with wool base materials and various custom fibers specially designed for the job.

Shemagh scarves are made primarily of woven cotton, which makes the material as durable and robust as a length of cloth. However, some producers have veered away from traditional fabric and instead employed wool for their product needs.

 

Which One is More Popular?

To be culturally sensitive, the answer is the Balaclava; the main reason the Shemagh is a traditional cultural piece used by Arabic people and typically only worn in the desert climates of the world. 

A shopper can find Balaclava in standard department stores and outdoor gear shops, among other stores in the United States, but also online and almost everywhere on Earth.

A debatable point comes from using what is called ‘the Bandana,’ which could be considered a smaller version of the Shemagh. This would make the combination of the two the more popular choice amongst humanity on Earth.

 

Pros & Cons: Shemagh vs. Balaclava

The Balaclava two pros of having one are thus, in times of high wind, cold or inclement weather, a balaclava can protect the head and face but also help regular body heat through the top of the head. 

Also, the Balaclava is easier to put on and take off than the Shemagh and other head garments.

The Shemagh and bandana are made with lighter cotton-like materials, which are fantastic for hot weather and when a person is protecting their head, neck, and face from the sun. 

Another benefit is the lightweight materials make wearing the Shemagh nicely aerated, helping regulate body heat and sweating.

A con for each would be the Balaclava can be uncomfortable in hotter weather, making it a poor choice for desert travel during the day. The Shemagh takes time, requiring knowledge of how to wrap the materials that few cultures possess.

 

Price Range: Shemagh vs. Balaclava

To start, take a balaclava, found in just about every type of store; it is the standard wool woven variety and will cost between five and fifty dollars. 

The higher quality designs, made for first responders and military-type users, will cost much more and can exceed amounts nearing one thousand dollars.

The simple form of the Shemagh, a Bandana, is relatively inexpensive and can be bought for less than a dollar in some situations. 

One advantage of the Shemagh is how affordable the materials are, which is reflected in the prices ranging from around five US dollars to approximately fifty dollars. Still, the highest quality materials will cost anywhere near five thousand dollars.

 

Final Verdict: Shemagh vs. Balaclava

When it comes to headgear, the hat is the easiest to put on and remove, but then you have winter and desert extremes. The Balaclava is a better fit for the colder regions of the Earth, providing protection from the elements and the bitter cold.

While the Shemagh is a unique tool for keeping the body cool while traversing the deserts and hotter regions of the planet, this type of garment is usually used for extended travel and military-type operations and work.

 

Final Thoughts on Shemagh vs. Balaclava

Humanity developed many creative solutions to protect from certain earth elements, including cold and heat. However, there are a few products or garments better suited for keeping a person’s head and body warm than a nice wool-woven balaclava.

One drawback of its design is the lack of usage for the world’s hotter regions, but this is where the Shemagh has made its usefulness known. 

When appropriately used, the lighter cloth will allow cooling air to pass through it, which helps keep the body temperatures down and reduces sweating or the possibility of overheating.

Planet Eclipse Etha 2 Vs. Empire Mini-Gs

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

Paintball has become one of the most exciting new sports to catch public attention; Planet Eclipse and Empire Mini, a pair of paint Marker manufacturers right in the mix of it all. 

In Manchester, England, a small retail store in 1991 named Paintball Planet started it all. Over the next eleven years, Planet Eclipse became an industry leader.

Empire Paintball is a worldwide leader in manufacturing and distribution, as a trademark of G.I. Sportz Paintball which a group of pro-Paintball Players founded.

 

Which One Has Better Features?

The Planet Eclipse Etha 2 has a gamma core bolt system that delivers high-performance firing even in the harshest weather and features a two-piece barrel of exceptional quality. 

This Marker also has an ergonomic design with space between the front grip and trigger guard, which is handy for high-volume shooters and folks with bigger paws.

The Empire mini-GS has one of the lightest markers in the game. In addition, their aluminum construction gives durability to sporting equipment. Couple that with the larger front grip, trigger guard area, and popper engine firing system, and you have a quality Empire Marker.

Which Model is More Popular?

Both Paintball manufacturers have been around since the beginning of the sport, and the popularity of these brands is amongst the highest in the industry. The Etha 2 is a quality choice for both a beginner and a professional.

Still, the Empire Mini-GS marker takes the prize in popularity. Even as of 2021, the Mini-GS was taking out the competition and not looking back; the combination of top-quality Markers and reasonable pricing gave for a deadly sales strategy.

Taking care of the barrel, the firing systems, and general maintenance is the easiest in the business.

 

Pros & Cons: Planet Eclipse Etha 2 vs. Empire Mini-GS 

To examine these two excellent markers, each will get a pro and con; the Etha 2 can shoot even while caked in mud or rain, which is a definite pro. One con would be the bulky backend design, which can cause vision and line of sight issues.

The Mini-GS utilizes the electro-pneumatic paintball marker system with a pneumatic solenoid that delivers efficient shooting and maximizes the firing rate. 

However, there is an issue with larger players, especially those with big hands, who may find the space between the front mount and the trigger guard unforgiving.

 

Price Range: Planet Eclipse Etha 2 vs. Empire Mini-GS 

The Mini-GS by Empire has an excellent combination of quality markers, all for a reasonable price. Most Marker kits on the market will run anywhere between three hundred and fifty dollars to upwards of six-seven hundred dollars.

Now, Planet Eclipse’s Etha 2 will have an even more extensive range of prices because of the variety of options available and other features factored in. 

Depending on the Model and kit accessories, this intermediate-level Marker will cost a buyer around four hundred dollars and over one thousand dollars.

 

Final Verdict: Planet Eclipse Etha 2 vs. Empire Mini-GS 

These two Markers are fine examples of what the industry has evolved into; the Etha 2 is robust construction and can take a beating from any battlefield, weather pattern, or whatever can be thrown at it. In addition, it delivers accurate shooting and smooth semi-auto firing.

The Mini-GS delivers a quality product for a smaller price tag than many other top manufacturers, including the Etha 2, which is known to have models that cost in the range of a thousand dollars or so. 

In the end, the Etha 2 is of better readiness for professional battlefields with its durability.

 

Final Thoughts on Planet Eclipse Etha 2 vs. Empire Mini-GS

Two legendary Paintballing companies, a pair that has been there since the beginning of the sport, when a Survivor game took place in the northeastern United States. The game spread to the U.K. and across the U.S.

When Planet Eclipse released the Etha 2, there was little doubt that it would be one of the best paintball Markers ever made but then found a pleasant surprise in the durability department.

Then comes Empire with their affordable Mini-GS that fire efficiently even in the coldest weather, all in a compact package. Ultimately, doing a little personal investigation and research will go a long way in making a well-informed purchase.

Dye M2 Vs. M3

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

When passion meets drive, you find people like Dave Youngblood, who in 1994 founded the DYE Precision paintball company.

Over the twenty-five-plus years of existence, DYE has grown into one of the manufacturing leaders in the Paintball industry, with facilities spanning the globe in six countries on four continents.

This brings us to the comparison of two fine Paintball markers, the DYE M2 and the DYE M3+. The M2 was released in 2015 to an anxious audience and received rave reviews, but then came the new M3+ Marker, which got its initial release to the public in 2018.

Which Model is More Popular?

At this point in the market and with all the innovations that went into the DYE M3+, the M2 has been effectively replaced by the M3. In addition, there are significant upgrades to the ASA, the recoil mitigation system, the solenoid housing, and the spooling system.

With all that being said, a combatant or player can see all the improvements when firing the M3+ Marker in the accuracy and increased firing rate capabilities.

As a player pushes the Marker to shoot faster, it responds with a smooth launch and reloads processes without issue.

 

Which one Has Better Features?

To begin, let us review the specifications of the M2, which has a Billy Wing Fuse bolt system, an electronic control system network including Method Operating Systems, and eVOKE system. All of these combined create a quality paint Marker.

The M3+ has an improved bolt system, the FL-21 bolt system, a MOSAir board, wireless charging, and a newly designed BWing21 Mag-Reach Trigger, to name a few.

The DYE M3+ was intended to build off the successes of the first models, improve and implement the best features of the other marker types, and then add newer age technologies.

 

Pros vs. Cons: DYE M2 vs. M3

Let us break this down into a feature each, and the M2 pro is that Marker is lightweight, which makes it easy to maneuver around the battlefield. A major con would be the limited capabilities of the board and custom programming.

A pro of the M3+ Model would be the high performance via Hyper 3 regulators, which helps deliver seamless semi-auto and fully automatic firing capabilities.

A con would be the incredibly expensive price tag for replacement parts, which is bad news considering the recent recall because of defective USB ports.

 

Price Range: DYE M2 vs. M3

There is something extraordinary about these paintball markers; the DYE M2, even after being off the production line for years, can still be found brand-new at a price of eight hundred and seventy-five dollars.

But unfortunately, some stores, like Amazon, report the Marker being out of stock. The M3+, however, is nearly double that, with some models having an MSRP of above fifteen hundred dollars and two thousand dollars.

In addition, some second-hand markers have been seen to have similar pricing to the M2 in the eight hundred dollars range.

 

Final Verdict: DYE M2 vs. M3+

There is a clear distinction between the two models of Markers; the DYE M2 was the best Marker in 2015 and can still be an effective tool in the sport. If your play type meshes with the older firing matrix of the M2, there are still parts and tuning guides for you.

The M3+ is the better Marker of the two and delivers accuracy and smooth firing rates.

There are over a dozen program settings on the board to fine-tune this Marker to its user’s unique preferences and not to mention an easy clip tank attachment which adds a nice cherry on top.

 

Final Thoughts on DYE M2 vs. M3

DYE Precision brings it to the paintball battlefield and delivers a quality product when we refer to the M3+ Marker. The M2 could be utilized as a fantastic beginner marker for children or the newbie trying out the sport for the first time.

To be forward, the M3+ is the top-of-the-line Marker out there, and if you can afford the steep price tag, it will not disappoint.

Unfortunately, though, as I watched a review by an associate of DYE, he hinted at the company working on something which could be an M4 that might be coming out soon; who knows, we will have to wait and see.

Most Common Paintball Size

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

The standard industry size for paintball is .68 caliber paint, which is the preferred size of serious combatants and casual players. 

However, there are variations of calibers used by paintball professionals that have minimal changes to the paintball size, which go no more extensive than 0.69 calibers.

The larger-sized paint will offer higher velocity shooting, increasing accuracy and improving longer-ranged shots, especially when compared to the casual player’s favorite calibers, which can be as small as 0.50. 

In addition, these smaller paintballs cause less injury, like bruising, because of the slower velocity that comes with the lowered caliber.

Person shooting with a paintball gun - Most Common Paintball Size.

Why is it Most Common?

To put some context to this question, there must first be a knowledge of velocities and mass. Calibers smaller than the standard 0.68 will suffer a loss of speed out of the barrel and range.

This can be caused by breakage; the smaller paintball cannot withstand the pressure needed to launch it with purpose and accuracy. 

On the opposite side of the spectrum, larger paint calibers will cause the weaponry to be heavier plus require higher-pressure canisters, which makes this an expensive and unattractive option.

O.68 caliber is just right, in most experts’ and players’ opinions, giving combatants the range and accuracy needed.

 

Do Most Paintballs Fit in it?

The most common sized hopper, barrel size, and marker calibers will accommodate paintball sizes between the 0.68 and 0.69 caliber range. So answered, yes, most paintballs will fit in a standard paintball marker setup, but there will also be some that will need a conversion kit.  

Professional leagues and tournament holders will have players use the standard size of 0.68 to maintain a fair playing field for the combatants and their teams. 

Other casual paintball establishments will carry the less harmful 0.50 caliber rounds, which will also fit in most models with an adaptor or conversion kit applied.

 

What Are the Pros of This Caliber?

When thinking about calibers, the larger the round, the more damage it does. In the military, many are privy to the knowledge of a 0.50 caliber weapon, which has earned a reputation amongst the ranks.

For Paintball purposes, this is a wimpy caliber that none of the professionals use, the pros of using a 0.68 caliber paintball are mostly the accuracy and range balance that comes with it. 

This is because of the manufacturer’s balanced design, which incorporated aerodynamics, structural integrity, and rifle-projectile mimicking air flight behaviors to induce the most realistic feel possible.

 

What are the Cons of This Caliber?

As with any weapon of a larger caliber, the weight of the projectile launcher increases alongside any increases in caliber size, which is the case for paintball markers. 

For example, compared to a 0.50 caliber paintball marker, a 0.68 caliber marker is heavier to incorporate the larger projectile and the attachments needed to launch the paint.

Think of it like this, an SMG, in many respects, uses smaller calibers than, say, an assault or sniper rifle. The benefits of a smaller weapon are agility and movement speed because of the lighter weight and smaller attachments compared to the larger weaponry.  

 

Which Caliber is the 2nd Most Popular?

As discussed throughout this article, the 0.50 caliber paintball would be considered the second most popular option in the Paintballing community. 

This is because of the nice change of pace, referring to the intensity and combative nature of the more significant caliber competitions.

Most casual events will select this smaller paintball size because of the slower out-of-the-barrel speeds, the less bruising projectile speeds upon impact, and the lighter markers for easier aiming. 

However, it is easy to see why players looking for a more fun gear experience would vie for the 0.50 caliber round.

 

Final Thoughts on Most Common Paintball Size

When approaching the paintball field, or participating in a paintball match, be sure to understand which type of play you’re getting yourself into. The most casual games will likely want to use the second most popular paintball size at 0.50 calibers.

The velocities and impacts are lesser, so many less battle-hardened folks will have a better experience using this caliber. As for the combat-tested, ready players, the larger paintball size for the standard competition is 0.68 calibers.

Those are the basics of Paint sizes, some advanced players might tweak their paint sizes by 0.002 calibers and upwards of 0.01, but that is for another time.

 

How To Read Paintball Tank Hydro Dates?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

When playing a combat sport like Paintball, players must keep their equipment in the cleanest and most functional state possible. This will require regular maintenance of their equipment and the various components that make up the paintball marker.

One of the most critical parts that make the whole paintball marker work is the compressed air and CO2 tanks.

If not properly tended to, these high-pressure tanks could not only rupture and then explode, injuring players or worse but could also cause performance issues in the midst of combat.

Therefore, it is essential to know that the hydro date is located on the third row of information placed on the crown of most paintball canisters.

 

Where is the Hydro Date on a Tank?

First, let us add a bit of context; a hydro date is the same as a manufacturer’s date. The application of this information is to maintain the performance of the air tank but also to estimate when the units will need to have them re-hydro tested when they expire.

To find the hydro date, locate the manufacturing date on the crown of the compressed air or CO2 tank. The testing will then allow a participant or professional to have a sense of control over the maintenance and performance of his paintball marker.

Some brands will have different locations; the best action plan is to ask a professional at the fields you play at or purchase paintball equipment.

Few paintball tanks on ground - How To Read Paintball Tank Hydro Dates?

How Can I Tell When My HPA Tank was Made?

As mentioned previously, most manufacturers will place the ‘Hydro date’ or ‘Manufactured on a date’ on or around the crown of the tank, close to the portion that screws onto the paintball marker. This is, however, only the case for some paintball equipment producers.

One easy way to get the date an HPA tank was made is to ask the experts at the store the tanks were purchased. They should know the location of that information or how to access it for the customer.

One thing to consider when purchasing tanks from an online store or directly from the manufacturer would be to find a batch date or to call the logistics department and find out that information straight from the warehouse.

 

How Many Digits for a Date are There?

When looking at specific models of paintball HPA tanks, the dates will be mixed in with a jumble of other information. The dates are, however, reasonably uniform regarding the number of digits that make up the Hydro date.

There will be a total of four digits that will make up the dates of manufacturing, which will be usually separated by a four-digit code made up of both numbers and letters.

Not all units will have those dates, for some HPA paintball tanks under two feet in length are not required to take the re-hydro test and come in smaller sizes than the standard bottles.

 

What does 5-year Hydro Mean?

When referring to the maintenance needs of paintball equipment and markers, there are bits of information that a player must know about to ensure they will get the best out of their stuff. One of these tidbits of information would be the five-year hydro test date.

This statement refers to the three-to-five-year range in which most HPA tanks are projected to begin failing, most commonly by leaking pressure.

This is common in all pressurized gas and liquid systems; over time, most materials break down or fail with age, which then can cause pressure loss or cause an explosion.

 

What do the Letters Stand for?

When looking at the information printed on a CO2 tank, most manufacturers will have more than just the four digits of the Hydro-test date.

Much of that information pertains to the model, the design type, batch labeling, and other details the company uses to identify products.

The vital information for the player will be the four digits that make up the month and year in which the product was manufactured.

Those dates will generally be found on the third row of information printed on the tank, and for your information, under that print will be instructions on how to find the life expectancy and Re-Hydro date.

 

Final Thoughts on How to Read Paintball tank Hydro Dates

It is crucial for those that would like to be competitive, or at least not make a fool of themselves, in the combat sport of Paintball to maintain the integrity of their HPA tanks and systems.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to know the manufacture date, which happens to help identify the date when a hydro-test will be required.

There are smaller tanks that will only last for a short time during combat and will not require hydro-tests. These are not standard sizes and will generally be shorter than two feet in length.

Paintball HPA tanks are like any pressured gas apparatus. Therefore, they need to be tended to with a certain level of seriousness to avoid unnecessary injuries.

Can you use HPA at MILSIM?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

Just for those that do not know what HPA stands for, it refers to High-Pressure Air tanks, which will produce higher velocity shooting effects than lower-pressure tanks. Again, for those not privy to Paintball culture, MILSIM stands for military simulation.

To be straightforward, a player can use HPA tanks when running a MILSIM situation. But, of course, to be confident, each pit and paintball field will have its own set of rules; check in with the front desk and ask questions.

The easiest way to know if you can use your equipment is to call ahead and confirm with the facility managers.

Two person wearing paintball gears in a jungle - Can you use HPA at MILSIM?

What are the Advantages?

The beginning models of markers had propulsion systems that would launch paintballs with enough velocity to leave marks on trees that needed to be cut or on livestock for identification purposes. 

The advantage of having High Pressured Air systems and tanks would be the velocity of the paint being shot, the accuracy that comes with that, and the increased firing rate.

Higher powered equipment like the HPA tank Marker have higher accuracies than lower pressure markers and will, in addition to the benefits mentioned above, increase the range of the Marker as well. So, all in all, if you intend to be competitive, then the HPA is for you.

 

Is HPA good for Paintball?

In effect, the High-Pressure Air tanks have made the Markers better. The mechanisms operate smoother and at faster trigger speeds, and automatic versions do not lose pressure as quickly, all of which adds to the quality of the game.

In each match, with quality HPA technology, a combat athlete will have consistent pressure and quality of fire. In addition, the paint will be launched with consistent velocity, with higher accuracy, and at a more extended range when necessary.

To say it clearly, yes, HPA has been a fantastic innovation for the sport of Paintball. As a result, there is a noticeable improvement in the quality of matches and the enjoyment levels of the participants of the sport.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before You Use HPA?

The first thing you must know is that the higher-pressure air tank will launch the paint at an increased velocity, which in plain terms, means when it hits its target, it will more than likely leave a mark. 

Therefore, First-timers or veterans of the sport, the user of the HPA, must be aware of specific responsibilities that come with firing a projectile with that much velocity.

Make sure everyone has an eye and facial protection helmet or mask, advise against bare skin attire and promote thicker clothing options to avoid bursitis, and be aware that an HPA marker is capable of hurting someone if misused.

 

Does Accuracy Deteriorate with HPA?

Quite the opposite is true; replacing an older setup with a High-Pressure Air system will increase the accuracy of the Marker and improve the players’ quality of play. 

However, if an air tank gets low over time, as with all Paintball tanks, the paint’s velocity and accuracy will slow and lower, respectively.

To increase the accuracy of a Paintball Marker, a combatant must maintain the pressure levels of the tanks used during competition. Otherwise, risking potential accuracy, performance, and range reduction in the heat of battle.

Develop strategies that involve swapping tanks to avoid any pressure loss performance issues.

 

What are the flaws of HPA?

When comparing an HPA system with a standard system, it is hard to see any flaws outside of a casual situation. 

A flaw, in this situation, would be scaring off a child or partner because of a painful experience to which participants would want lower-pressured equipment geared towards enjoyment and not realism.

Other flaws might include shorter longevity compared to the lower-powered tanks or the increased spending on paintballs because of the automatic abilities made possible by HPA systems. 

But, straight to the point, there is not much to complain about when shooting paint with one of these higher-pressure air tank markers.  

 

Final Thoughts on Can you use HPA at MILSIM?

As a paintball enthusiast, High-Pressure Air tank systems make for some fun out in the fields of combat. 

The accuracy, range, and speed at which a player can fire are all increased with an HPA system marker, which generally translates into a better overall experience and matches quality.  

Advice, have a different setup for different situations, such as when playing with children; consider using a low-powered, non-HPA marker to avoid unnecessary injuries. 

However, when in MILSIM situation type play, be sure to have the best Marker possible, and HPA tanks will go a long way to improving your chances of success. 

How far can a Sniper Gel Blaster shoot?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

There is more than just one brand of Gel blaster currently on the market; each will make various versions of long-range sniper-like blasters, and each would be a different maximum range on their product. 

On average, though, a Sniper Gel Blaster will have the ability to shoot upwards of twenty-five meters in the distance.

Mind you, and this is an additional five meters further than the standard twenty meters at which most models of gel blasters are maxed out in range. Five meters is a long way if you want an edge in your next game.

Woman aiming with a paintball gun in hands - How far can a Sniper Gel Blaster shoot?

What Gel blaster Gun Shoots the Farthest?

While digging around, looking at various products, and listening to reviews, there was this one model of Sniper rifle gel blaster with a range of seventy meters suppressed. 

I am speaking, of course, of the Nerf Sniper blaster, more specifically, the M20 Construct by Sabre.  

While being tested, this gel blaster could launch a projectile further than seventy meters with velocity. As the expert pointed out, companies and individuals are making many versions of gel blasters.

This is one Sniper Rifle Gel blaster model capable of accurately shooting over seventy-plus meters.

 

Does Being hit with a Gel Blaster Hurt More?

Gel Blaster is a game designed to eliminate the fear of injury and to have family-friendly options in which all can have combat sport fun. In addition, these balls are designed to evaporate, unlike airsoft or paintball, which are known to leave players with injuries.

The developers of these toys had it in mind to create a projectile shooting toy, like that of nerf, but also with the ability to satisfy an adult’s passion for combat sports. 

In contrast to the previous combat sport options, there are hardly any reports of severe injury connected to the Gel blaster.

 

Can you Make it go Even Further?

Unlike in the Call of Duty games, no products available in the Gel blaster market allow upgrades and customizations. With this, players can increase certain aspects of their weapons, such as accuracy, firing rate, and range.

When increasing the range on your Gel blaster Sniper rifle, it would need to increase shot velocity with pressurization and/or use longer barrel attachments to help with accuracy.

Otherwise, specific brands will have specialized branches that will have effects such as the desired increased range for your Sniper Rifle gel blaster.

 

Do Smaller Gels Go Faster?

When thinking about gun types, gel blasters are designed similarly to authentic military-style weapons, meaning real-world physics applies to these toys. 

Therefore, the shorter barrel blasters, along with the smaller caliber gels, will be designed for more agile play and require a lesser FPS rate because of the shorter-range needs.

This means that over the shorter distance, yes, the smaller gels will go faster. 

Still, a larger gel will be launched at a higher velocity in a Sniper shot situation. Therefore, SMG-styled gel blasters are designed for the faster player needing to move quickly and aim just as quickly.

 

What is the Most Potent Gel Gun?

There are a couple of different ways to look at this question. Therefore we will focus on the specific aspects that would make a Gel blaster considered a powerful one. 

The first aspect to consider is how many rounds the blaster can hold and fire without jamming.

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For this example, we have the Automatic Gel Ball Blaster M4 Splatter Ball Toy, which houses more than fifty thousand rounds and is capable of firing fifteen rounds per second with a maximum burst of one thousand and two hundred rounds at once.

Therefore, making this one of, if not these, the most powerful blaster in the game.

 

Final Thoughts on How far can a Sniper Gel Blaster Shoot

Many adaptations have been developed since the invention of the Survival Game in the 1980s, to which Paintballing swept the world. Gel Blaster is an adaptation of the paintball combat sport, delivering a different type of gameplay with hydro-based rounds.

There are many different brands of Gel blasters, many of which have customizable or authentic military-style designing and come in Sniper rifles, heavy machine guns, SMG varieties, and more. 

This relatively new sport is gaining popularity, but as with any purchase or venture, be sure to do a fair bit of research to become an informed buyer.

How many times can you Hydro a Paintball tank?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

These combat sports have a very domestic and non-violent origin story. The truth is that in the 1960s, the Nelson Paint company was tasked with creating a solution for Cattlemen and Lumberjacks alike. 

Charles Nelson stepped up and created the Crosman 707 marker. This product was designed to launch small paintballs at cattle needing sorting and to mark trees for harvesting. 

Still, the product offered did not meet the customer’s expectations, to which Charles responded. He sought the help of a renowned BB-gun manufacturer to which the Nel-Spot 007 Marker was invented and mass-produced.

A paintball tank in a person's hand - How many times can you Hydro a Paintball tank?

When did it All Begin?

As mentioned before, the origins of this sport start in the fields of a rancher and out in the forest on a lumberjack’s belt. However, it was not until years later that the idea of making a game out of the paintball launcher was brainstormed.  

The year was 1981, and three friends were discussing the ability of city folk to survive in the forests and who were the better survivors, country or city folk? 

The debate was so heated that it lasted for days until the idea for the game was born upon seeing an advertisement for a Nelson paintball marker.

 

Where did it All Start?

The first match of Survivor Game was held out on a one hundred and twenty-five-acre plot of land in the woodland areas of New Hampshire. 

The dozen-player bout took place in the Northeastern state; ironically, the winner of the first match was a man named Ritchie White, who surreptitiously captured the flags with stealth. He proceeded to play the entire match without firing a single paintball shot. 

The game was so enjoyable that a participant named Bob Jones could not help but publicize the game, which he wrote in an article published in Sports Illustrated

 

Who Invented the First Paintball Gun?

So, as we already know, because of the aforementioned information, Charles Nelson, as part of Nelson Paint Company, was challenged to fill a need and invented the Crosman 707 and, with some help, the Nel-Spot 007, which lasted as a product well into the 1980s. 

In this decade, other manufacturers began developing unique and advanced paintball markers and other field equipment.

These companies include Tippmann, Empire, and Planet Eclipse; by this point, the three friends had contracted from Nelson Paint Company shipments of paintball ammunition to properly stock the competitions taking place internationally.

 

When was the First Paintball Match Held?

Looking back into the beginning of the game Survivor’s inception, the three friends, Bob Gurnsey, Charles Gaines, and Hayes Noel, held the first match out in the woodlands of New Hampshire. 

The date was June seventh, 1981; the three amigos and nine other players pitched one hundred and seventy-five dollars each to fund the first ever ‘capture the flag’ formatted survivor match.

Four flag stations were positioned on a one-hundred-and-twenty-five-acre plot. 

The participants were given a Nel-Sport 007 Marker, protection for eyes, and a basic playing field map.

 

When did Paintball Become Popular Worldwide?

The popularity of the new sport took off in the 1980s; in 1983, Bob Gurnsey hosted a paintball tournament called The National Survival Game National Championship. A Canadian team took the trophy and prize of three thousand American dollars.

The growth was steady through 1985, and later in 1988, the international paintball community decided to form The Foundation of the International Paintball Players Association, signally the game’s extreme popularity worldwide. 

In fact, at the end of the decade, it was estimated that over seventy-five thousand players in the United States participated in Paintball matches.  

 

Final Thoughts on How many times can you Hydro a Paintball tank

Survivor Game, better known as Paintballing, is a rare combination of physical competition and combat. 

So it is somewhat ironic that a battle match survivor game in which players tag or shoot one another was born out of a challenge from Cattlemen and Lumberjacks to create a product in which they could mark their livestock and/or lumber.  

The history of this sport is fascinating and should make for a fun Hollywood production sometime in the future. 

From Charles Nelson at Nelson Paint Company to the three friends Bob Gurnsey, Charles Gaines, and Hayes Noel, to the creation of an International players association, this sport has come a long way in a short time.

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