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There is more than one type of paintball; the various calibers can be used by players specializing in a specific aspect of the game, i.e., sniper calibers are smaller, so they can fly further and quieter.
Otherwise, the standard-size paint used around the game would be between the calibers of .68 – .691. The most sure-fire way to know what caliber ammunition a field you are going to play at uses is to call and ask, do an online search, or ask someone that has played there.
Even just taking the time to visit the place and ask the pro behind the counter what calibers they have available.
What is the Standard Size of Paintballs?
The ‘standard’ size for painting would be .68 caliber rounds and is widely used by HPA combatants and professionals. This is the most popular ammunition for play; .50 caliber rounds are the second most favorite paint.
The standard for differing rifle-style and handgun marker types differ. For example, specialized smaller caliber rifles can act as sniper rifles, and spray shot paintball Markers can use larger calibers for a more devastating spread.
For the last example, a handgun could use a small caliber to allow for snap-quick firing ability and close-quarter combat.
Ammunition for paintball markers runs between .43 to .68 calibers, generally.
What is the Difference Between .50 Caliber and .68 Caliber paintballs?
The apparent difference is the size, being that .68 is a bigger round than .50 equaling a total of three times the size. This makes the .50 caliber a lower-impact option that will take the sting out of the game for beginners and those less fond of pain and more intent on the game.
The larger .68 caliber round will, in fact, often, leave a friendly reminder that you were shot. In addition, they will leave a nice welt or bruise in the shape of a paintball, which for some these battle scars are boast-worthy and are often compared by players young and old.
Does a Bigger Caliber Mean Better Accuracy?
To be to the point, no; the bigger calibers do not automatically mean that the Marker will be more accurate. The reality is that the smaller calibers, such as the .50-sized rounds, fly more efficiently than the larger rounds and are slightly more accurate.
At long distances, the larger caliber paint will be the better choice because of the higher velocity at which they are launched from the barrel. Therefore, the difference in accuracy is not significant enough at short distances.
.50 caliber rounds have a lower velocity and are, therefore, better suited for beginners, parents, and casual enthusiasts.
Do Bigger Calibers Hurt More?
The larger calibers can hurt through simple visual and personal testing and leave a nice round bruise/welt. Simply put, the larger calibers fly out at higher velocity than their smaller counterparts and strike with a solid smack.
Suppose your party’s general consciousness is to enjoy the paintball game but to stay away from the painful bruising and welts. In that case, a downgrade in caliber is a good idea.
The new trend in paintball is the rise in popularity of .50 caliber paint. In removing the fear and pain element of the game, more people will want to take part in the game.
What does Low-Impact Paintball Mean?
Low impact refers to the lower velocity at impact when a painted round strikes a player after being shot. The popular play option is to use the smaller .50 caliber paint rounds.
In contrast to larger calibers, the low-impact velocity from the smaller paint rounds is less painful; it causes less bruising when a player is shot.
The smaller caliber also means the timid beginner or minors and children now have an option to play the sport without fear of a painful shot.
Remember, the smaller caliber translates into a shorter shooting range for the Marker being shot.
Final Thoughts on What Size Paintballs do Fields Use
There are more than just two sizes of paint rounds on the market, but the most popular currently are .50 and .68 caliber. The larger caliber is better for longer distances and faster paint velocity, resulting in the traditional welt yielding smack.
The smaller .50 caliber paint is perfect for the girlfriend, child in your life, or a hesitant beginner that has avoided paintball combat because of a fear of pain.
The smaller round comes out of the Marker barrel at a slower velocity than larger calibers; each hit will result in less damage and prevent unnecessary bruising or welts.
