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For most players, the last thing they’re thinking about in the middle of a paintball firefight is whether or not those paintballs are going to ruin their clothing. However, once they get done with a hard day on the paintball field, they’ll realize just how dirty your clothes have gotten. New players especially often wonder… Do paintballs stain clothes? To answer this question we’ve put together a list of things to consider when playing paintball.

What Are Paintball Made Of?

Paintballs are made of dyed gelatin with a hard outer shell to keep the paint inside of the paintball. The gelatin and the dyes have varying degrees of water solubility meaning that they come out when washed with water soap and water in a washing machine. Since most paintballs are water soluble, they will not stain clothes.

However, not all paintballs are made equal. Some paint is made with high quality ingredients that are easy to wash out but there’s a lot of paint made with inferior coloring and ingredients which actually makes the paintballs more painful and less likely to break. Unfortunately you can’t control the type of paint that other players put in their guns especially when price is the deciding factor. The highest quality paintballs are brittle since they break more easily on impact; these paintballs are also made with higher quality ingredients.

Regardless of the quality, paintballs are biodegradable and are generally made with some mixture of water, glycerine, sorbitol, and polyethylene glycol. However the different dyes have their own chemical composition which depend on the companies that make them.

What Are Your Clothes Made Of?

In addition to lighter colored clothing, the materials your clothes are made of can influence staining severity. Synthetic fibers are less likely to stain because they aren’t as absorbent as other materials like cotton. This is why many paintball companies make clothing out of synthetic fibers like polyester mixed with elastic. 

In addition to the material your clothing is made of, you should also consider what color it is. First, lighter colored shirts are more likely to have mild staining and discoloration after getting hit. This is to be expected and with advanced knowledge, you can use appropriate attire to avoid staining. Dark clothing is ideal to help prevent staining.

Another thing to consider is the amount of time that passes before washing your clothes. Paintballs were made water soluble to avoid staining, however, if you don’t wash your clothes within a few hours of coming off the field, it is more likely that your clothing will stain. If you play in light-toned clothing and then let it sit for a few days after playing, your clothes will almost certainly have stains.

How to Remove Paintball Stains

Removing paintball stains isn’t difficult if you know what to do and what to look for:

1. Act quickly: As soon as you’re done playing paintball, remove your clothes. You may even want to consider bringing a change of clothes to the field to avoid getting your car dirty too. Paintball stains that are caught early are much easier to remove than those that have had time to set into the fabric.
   
   
2. Rinse with cold water: Once you’re home or at a place where you can wash, begin by rinsing the stained area with cold water. This helps to loosen the dye from the fabric so that it doesn’t stick there. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the stain to set further into the material.
   
   
3. Use a stain remover: Apply a pre-treatment stain remover or laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it into the fabric. Allow the stain remover to sit for at least 15 minutes to help break down the dye.
   
   
4. Wash in cold water: Wash the clothing in cold water with a mild detergent, following the care instructions. If possible, add a color-safe bleach to the washing cycle to help lift the stain further.
   
   
5. Check before drying: After washing, examine the clothing for any remaining traces of the stain. If the stain persists, repeat steps 2 through 4. Avoid placing the garment in the dryer until the stain is entirely removed, as the heat can set the stain permanently into the fabric.
   
   
6. Dry according to care instructions: Once you've successfully removed the stain, dry the clothing following the manufacturer's care instructions. Air-drying is generally the safest method, as it helps to avoid potential heat damage from the dryer.

Why Paintball May Ruin Your Clothes

Paintball may not stain your clothes because of the paint rather because all the diving and sliding may ruin your clothes. While this can happen in speedball, clothing damage is most frequent in woodsball. Players can get muddy, dirty, wet and more in woodsball. There are also more ways to rip and tear clothing on stray branches or bunker corners in woodsball. Speedball, because of all the sliding, can also cause wear and tear with clothing. Grass stains and turf burns are more likely in speedball than paint stains are. However, because of the high likelihood that your clothing may get stained or damaged, we recommend playing paintball in older clothes that you’re okay with losing or damaging.

What To Wear For Paintball

For players who are merely renting equipment and playing for an afternoon once or twice a year, we recommend wearing old clothing when playing paintball. However, if you plan on playing paintball more frequently, it’s best to invest in some real protective paintball equipment and gear. The best gear is made with breathable fabric to help wick sweat away and keep the paintballs from staining. Good paintball gear also provides padding in all of the right areas to help protect you from the impact of shots and diving. Carbon protective gear as well as HK Army Protective gear are excellent brands to begin with.

Conclusion

Paintball is an intense sport that attracts both men and women seeking a thrill. In recent years, women have been taking up the game and showing that they can compete just as fiercely on the paintball field as men can. With the rise in female participation, there has been a growing demand for women's paintball gear designed specifically for the unique needs of female players. We wanted to create a guide for women to help choose the best paintball gear for their own unique needs to promote a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience on the field.

What Not to Wear

At the end of the day, paintball is a sport that presents a fair amount of danger for mild and moderate injury. As such, the main consideration for women who play paintball is the type of clothing that they should wear to help eliminate any unnecessary injury. Many websites sell women's paintball clothing that are form-fitting and offer little, if any, protection. The truth is that this type of paintball clothing will likely lead to substantial bruising and other injuries. While these clothing items may look cute and attractive, they’re perhaps the farthest thing from good paintball attire and should be avoided at all costs. Even clothing like sweatpants and a sweatshirt is better.

Having Style on the Field

Showing off on the field is just a part of the great game of paintball. However clothing is not a good way to show off style. Instead, nearly everything within paintball–markers, goggles, bags, loaders, and more–is modular and modifiable. Changing these areas are great ways of expressing style within paintball.

Lone Wolf’s Top 5 Picks of Paintball Gear for Women

1) Slide shorts

Slide shorts are a crucial piece of equipment for any player but especially for women. Slide shorts help cushion the impact when diving, sliding, and moving from one bunker to the next. Our favorite are the Infamous PRO DNA Slide Shorts which have excellent padding and protection. These shorts not only provide padding from dives, slides, and falls, but they also provide protection from paintball strikes. They’re also very durable, breathable, and stretchy to keep you cool, comfortable, and moving quickly.

2) Protective gloves 

Gloves are another piece of gear that women (and really any player) won’t want to miss out on. Not only do gloves provide protection against paintball impact, they’re also great for getting a better grip on your market in cold weather and wet weather. Some paintball gloves, like the HK Army Hardline, have a hard plastic exoskeleton to help protect from paintballs and other impacts. 

3) Elbow and Knee Pads

For more protection on the extremities, we also recommend that female paintball players look at elbow and knee pads. Great elbow pads like the Carbon SC Elbow Sleeves not only have elbow protection but also offer protection for the forearms. Carbon also makes high quality knee pads (the Carbon CC Knee Pads) with impact resistant foam. As with anything that carbon makes, the materials can take a beating while also being lightweight and breathable. 

4) Padded Chest Protector 

One of the most important pieces of paintball gear for women is a padded chest protector. Getting hit with a paintball anywhere can hurt. However, women should take extra measures to protect their chests from the impact of a paintball because of how sensitive the area is. A good chest protector will have padding that covers the entire abdomen, but with a special focus on the chest area. We recommend the Gen X Global Deluxe Chest Protector since it has the greatest amount of protection and comes with elastic straps to fit as snugly as comfortable.

5) Thermal Goggles

One problem that many female paintball players run into with frequency are foggy goggles. Fogging is common with women because their hair can block the vents and cause heat and humidity to build up in the goggles. This not only makes the game less fun, but it can also be dangerous when some players try to remove the goggles while still in the line of fire. The two goggles that we can recommend to help avoid fogging are the Virtue VIO series of goggles and the Carbon Zero series of goggles. The VIO has the Virtue Stealth Visor Fan attachment and the Carbon Zero has the Carbon Zero Storm Fan. Both of these fans, along with the thermal lens attachments, do an excellent job of keeping fogging to a minimum within the goggles.

Other Essential Protective Gear

When it comes to paintball attire, comfort and protection are crucial. Women's paintball clothing should be lightweight, breathable, and durable. Here are some essential clothing items to consider:

Pants

Look for paintball pants designed for women with a tailored fit and adjustable waistbands to ensure comfort and mobility. These pants should have reinforced knee and hip padding for added protection.

Jerseys

Choose a paintball jersey specifically designed for women, featuring moisture-wicking fabric and a contoured fit. It should provide ample ventilation and have padding in the shoulder and elbow areas for added protection.

Sports bras

A high-impact sports bra is essential for providing proper support during intense paintball action. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics and adjustable straps for the best fit.

Base layers

Moisture-wicking base layers, such as compression shirts and leggings, can help regulate body temperature and wick away sweat, keeping you comfortable throughout the game.

Conclusion

Woodsball paintball is an exciting and strategic outdoor team sport that takes the adrenaline rush of paintball to a whole new level. The advantage of Woodsball is that it can be played nearly anywhere there are large swathes of uninhabited woods. The natural terrain and setting of the game require quick thinking, teamwork, strategy, and the best paintball equipment. Anyone from brand new players to seasoned professionals can enjoy the game of woodsball. Whether you’re a pro or just getting started in your paintball journey, we put together this guide to help you strategize and win your next woodsball engagement.

What is Woodsball?

Woodsball is one of the most popular versions of paintball which is played in (you guessed it) the woods! Players face off on two or more teams to use their woodsball paintball guns to eliminate players on the other team by marking them with paint. There are many different types of mini-games that can be played in a woodsball scenario such as capture the flag, simple elimination, capture and defend, zombie survival, and more. 

There are a few requirements to play woodsball. First, the woodsball field can’t be close to any structures or roads that might get hit by a stray paintball. Occasionally, woodsball fields will have netting surrounding the field to stop any paintballs. Woodsball fields may also have man made structures or they may be entirely natural, depending on the location and the style of gameplay. In regards to the field size, they can range anywhere from a few acres to a few square miles. Woodsball games on larger fields tend to attract thousands of different players.

Rules of Woodsball

The rules of woodsball paintball are straightforward. First, all players must wear proper safety gear, including masks, and use paintball markers that adhere to field regulations. The game begins with a signal from the referee. Before the referee begins the match, players must stay within certain boundaries at opposite ends of the field. During gameplay, players must remain within the designated play area or they risk getting lost or disqualified by a referee. A player is eliminated if they are hit by a paintball that breaks on their body or equipment. Paintballs can bounce and, while it stings, the player is not out unless the paintball breaks and leaves a mark with paint. Once eliminated, the player must raise their hand, call "out," and promptly leave the playing area. Each field may have additional rules to promote fun and fair sportsmanship among all players.

Paintball Gear

Choosing the right paintball marker for woodsball is crucial to winning the match. For beginners, a reliable and easy-to-use marker like the Empire Mini GS or the Planet Eclipse EMEK is recommended. Other woodsball games are run as military simulation (MilSim) events. The best markers for these events are MilSim markers like Tippmann TMC Elite. Experienced players may opt for more advanced markers with features like electronic triggers and adjustable firing modes. Each player must consider their own playing style and budget when selecting their marker.

Camouflage and Clothing

Wearing the appropriate clothing is essential in woodsball. Players will wear different types of clothing and concealment based on how large the game and field are. This frequently ranges anywhere from shorts and a t-shirt (not recommended) to full ghillie suits. As a general rule of thumb, using dark and earthy colors is better than using light colors as it helps players blend into the mottled forest shadows. In addition, we recommend wearing comfortable boots with good ankle support and using gloves and knee pads for additional protection.

Tactical Equipment

Carrying tactical equipment can enhance any player’s performance. For small fields, a good-quality paintball harness or vest will allow players to carry extra paint. For longer games with bigger fields, players may also want to carry a radio, a sidearm, food, water, and other essential items. For games that last hours, we recommend carrying a hydration pack.

Protective Equipment

Protective equipment like goggles and body armor are also necessary to avoid serious injury. While paintballs are not lethal, they can still damage the eyes, ears, and nose which is why players must use goggles. Other protective equipment such as knee pads and forearm guards aren’t required but are still recommended to avoid injury when diving and sliding. 

Essential Woodsball Strategies

There is no single strategy to win all paintball games. However, approaching the game with precision, forethought, and tactics can mean the difference between winning and losing.

Communication

Effective communication is the foundation of any successful woodsball team. Using radios or designated hand signals to relay information about enemy positions, movements, and strategies can be an effective way of communicating with teammates. Players should always be aware of their teammates' locations, and work together to coordinate attacks and defensive maneuvers.

Stealth and Movement

In woodsball, remaining unseen and unheard is crucial. While it can be difficult with extra equipment and a marker, try to move quietly and carefully through the terrain, using trees and bushes for natural coverage. Many fields have man-made bunkers and obstacles for players to hide behind. These can be as beneficial and act as cover, but they can also trap players in a corner. Constant movement and advancement are also key to winning the match. However, when moving, avoid creating a silhouette against the skyline. Keep in mind that slow and deliberate movement is often more effective than running and making noise.

Flanking and Cover Fire

The two most important strategies/concepts within paintball are flanking and cover fire. Frequently these two are often used in conjunction with each other. Flanking is where the team splits into two or more groups. One group engages with the other team as a distraction as the other group goes around and attacks them from the side or from behind. Cover fire is often used in conjunction with a more direct “leapfrog” strategy where two or more people run from cover to cover while their other teammates shoot to keep the opposing team down.

Conclusion

Paintball gives players hours of fun, entertainment, and team building. While even losing is fun (a bad day in the field is better than a good day in the office), winning gives players a sense of accomplishment not found in other areas of life. To help equip players for victory, Lone Wolf Paintball offers the best selection of paintball equipment like markers, protective equipment, paintballs, and more. We’ve even put together Woodsball beginner packages to help you get started. For the best selection of beginner and professional paintball equipment, take a look at Lone Wolf’s online paintball store.

Crushing the competition requires professional paintball guns that perform time and time again. This type of paintball gun does come with a higher price tag, but it’s often paired with unparalleled quality that players can depend on. The longevity, performance, and durability of professional paintball guns far exceed the quality of markers more suited to recreational use. Professionals choose particular markers to dominate the field and complement their skills. 

Factors to Consider when Buying Professional Paintball Guns

Choosing the right professional paintball gun requires taking a good look at several aspects. Price is probably one of the bigger factors, next to performance and serviceability. In addition, professional players carefully consider quality and the manufacturer’s warranty before choosing their marker.

Performance

Almost all paintball guns have a certain stylized look, but it’s more important for professionals to determine how well they perform on the field. Professional paintballers will want to evaluate how reliable the internal components are and what issues owners run into. Many of these questions can be answered by reading and watching reviews of the different markers.

Serviceability

Performing reliably in gameplay is one thing, but cleaning and servicing are another. Professional paintball players look for markers that are easy to service and require minimal maintenance. This includes cleaning external and internal parts, as well as replacing any damaged parts. 

Quality

Nine times out of ten, paintball players will pay a bit more for quality. This is especially true for professionals, who know that quality markers are durable and are often a prerequisite for any tournament. With such a large investment, professionals are more willing to trust a quality brand, even if it means paying more. 

Warranty

Though warranties are more of a side note for most professional paintball players, it’s always a good idea to have this guarantee. Warranties speak to the quality of the company as well as the marker being purchased. Ideally, professionals invest in a marker that doesn’t require using the warranty. 

DLX TM40

The DLX TM40 contains the aesthetics of the Luxe brand combined with optimized internals to give every player an edge in competition. The marker itself is simple in design yet stunning in performance. With countless drivetrain redesigns aimed at improving shot quality and efficiency, nothing handles a paintball quite like the DLX TM40. The new mechanical conversion doesn’t require a single tool either. 

Truly a competition-grade paintball marker, the Luxe TM40 has proven itself time and again in competition. Compared to other markers, the TM40 prioritizes ergonomics to improve any player’s game. The DLX TM40 does command a higher price tag, but it holds all the potential a player needs to rise to the top and win the game. 

Planet Eclipse CS3

The world has yet to see the full potential of the Planet Eclipse CS3 paintball marker. This particular gun is available in several color schemes with plenty of slick internal components to keep players on the cutting edge. Plus, it builds on the reliability that Planet Eclipse is known for. 

In addition to a Fully Double Decoupled drive and auto dwell dynamics, the CS3 incorporates a longer grip that allows for more ergonomic contact. This paintball gun is extremely efficient, actuating each shot with less than 100 PSI. An adjustable trigger gives players customizability. The Planet Eclipse CS3 does require a bit of technical knowledge to understand the interior electronics, but seasoned players shouldn’t have too much trouble learning the platform.

Dye M3+

With a stunning metallic color scheme and potent internals to match, the Dye M3+ makes a statement that’s hard to ignore, both on and off the field. This particular marker features the latest in design and advancements to give players a leg up in any competition. It even comes in a hard case players can use to protect the marker during travel. 

The Dye M3+ is based on the DM series platform. Combining superior performance with the convenience and confidence that players need results in a platform that reduces recoil, allows for multiple player profiles, and features some of the best ergonomics found in a paintball marker. The FL-21 Bolt System incorporates a two-stage flex bolt tip in an all-aluminum frame. 

Compared to other professional paintball guns on the market, the Dye M3+ is a platform built to dominate with fully optimized internal components. The higher price tag reflects hours of research and development spent refining this professional marker for a better experience right out of the box. 

Planet Eclipse LV2

The all-new Planet Eclipse LV2 seamlessly combines proven components with cutting-edge technology. Increased ergonomic maneuverability characterizes the toolless rear grips, which house sealed pushbuttons. An increased internal volume aids the new Cure FT bolt design in delivering a powerful punch with barely the sound of a whisper.

Planet Eclipse tunes this marker to be competitive straight out of the box. However, players can micro-tune this marker to their heart’s content. This can seem overwhelming for players not comfortable with tuning, but it’s an additional feature that serious players are sure to appreciate. Plus, Planet Eclipse includes a two-year manufacturer warranty to protect such an investment. 

Field One Force

The compact frame of the Field One Force hides a deceptively capable marker beneath the surface. This affordable option combines an industry-leading warranty with solid components proven to help players improve their game on any field. It may not be the most expensive or sophisticated marker on the market, but it certainly holds its own against the competition. 

Through extensive research, Field One developed the Force Nucleus engine. This drivetrain meshes efficiency and performance for a reliable marker ready for action. GripShift technology allows players to customize the fit of their marker and the AccuLock Barrel System ensures accuracy. In addition, the Field One Force runs on either AA batteries or a LiPo battery to bring an element of versatility to the mix. 

Conclusion

Paintball players wanting to step up their game should consider investing in professional equipment for next-level performance and quality. These professional paintball guns bring with them a certain value and prestige, which can take any skill set to the next level. The best markers and other equipment are currently in stock right now at the Lone Wolf Paintball online store. Check out our wide selection of professional paintball markers and accessories to dominate the field.

Playing paintball can help you destress, recharge, and have fun with your friends and family all year round. However, you’ll need a few critical pieces of gear to get started, namely a paintball gun. If you’re looking for an entry-level paintball gear without the hefty price tag, you’ve come to the right place. 

Our list of the best paintball guns you can purchase as a novice will help point you in the right direction. When you start your journey off right, upgrading your gear and learning more about the sport comes as second nature. Start yourself off with one of the six paintball guns we’ve chosen below to dominate the field and live to paintball another day. 

Top 6 Starter Paintball guns

1) Planet Eclipse Etha 3

This electronic marker does require a battery, but you couldn’t tell where it installs in the sleek and ergonomic body lines. The Planet Eclipse Etha 3 features a quick-release bolt assembly with a toolless grip removal so you can maintain your new paintball marker with ease. In addition, the aluminum low-rise feedneck and aluminum blade trigger shed pounds without sacrificing accuracy. 

The composite framework of the Etha 3 features a single-piece frame and foregrip. The POPS ASA assembly, DefTek offset feed, and ambidextrous LED status indicator give it plenty in the functionality department. Plus, you can rely on the Gamma Core spool valve drivetrain for accurate and reliable results, every time. 

2) Empire Mini GS

The Empire Mini GS features a Mini engine, hose-less design, clamping feedneck, and on/off ASA. This next-gen platform incorporates a wrap-around rubber foregrip that allows you to drop in the Redline OLED board without switching the foregrip out. Anti-chop break-beam eyes help this marker respond accurately and efficiently while the two-piece barrel features porting and are micro-honed for pinpoint results. 

3) HK Army SABR 

If you’re looking for a paintball gun that’s entry-level in price but an enjoyable experience nonetheless, check out the HK Army SABR. Use the included Allen keys to adjust the velocity to fit your paintball field’s regulations and double-finger trigger to ensure you’re making the best hits. There’s an easily-adjustable chronograph on the rear of this HK paintball marker, which runs off either compressed air or C02. 

The HK Army SABR requires little in the way of maintenance. This marker features a high-grade aluminum body with a ported barrel and internal gas-through grip. The adjustable clamping feedneck ensures the safe transfer of your paintballs. You can also easily remove the Delrin bolt for cleaning and repair. 

4) Planet Eclipse Emek 100

Entry level as the price may be, the Planet Eclipse Emek 100 features the performance and technology associated with the brand, in addition to reliability and overall quality. The Gamma Core spool valve drivetrain acts as the main engine, housed by the GRN composite body and aluminum inner body core. This paintball marker is PAL enabled so you can use a PAL Loader System if you desire. Planet Eclipse also configured this paintball marker with a DefTek offset feed, a hose-less air transfer system, and mechanical components that don’t require a battery.

5) Tippmann Cronus 

Not all entry-level paintball markers have to be black and bulky. Instead, you can purchase a military simulation (or mil-sim) style marker from Tippmann. The Tippmann Cronus features both black and tan color schemes that easily distinguish this marker as similar to a military issue. The in-line bolt system complements a ported barrel with front and rear sights atop it. There are four Picatinny rails to accessorize upon. If you find yourself bored with the basic look of the Tippmann Cronus, simply add on optional upgrade materials for a customized look. 

6) Dye Rize CZR

Dye Rize CZR has an entry-level price for a high-end capable paintball marker. Complete with a Precision True Bore barrel and Dye Cam Lever feedneck, this paintball marker is both accurate and comfortable to use in the field. The internal anti-chop eyes and patented Rize Fusion bolt provide seamless operation of the marker, in addition to the RAMP solenoid. With a low operating pressure of about 135 PSI, this marker will have you playing for hours with friends, family, and fellow paintball enthusiasts. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Starter Paintball Gun

When choosing a beginner paintball gun, you should think about how much you want to spend in addition to how easy to use, durable, and upgradeable that marker is. You can easily find a starter paintball gun that costs under $100. However, you may want to look more around the $150-$200 mark to get the most for your money. 

More expensive paintball markers, however, are not always easier to use. Instead, you’ll want to find a platform that makes sense to you, especially in terms of how it works and how to maintain it. Durability is key if you’re going to be playing a lot of paintball and want something that will take as many shots as you do. 

Plus, it’s easier to justify spending a lot of money on a starter paintball gun if you can upgrade it later. The availability of upgrade parts will determine which paintball markers are worth the upfront investment. 

Tips for Beginner Paintball Players

Knowing how to play paintball is one thing, but learning the game is another. When you first step out onto the field, make sure you’ve got all the necessary safety gear you need. Most fields will require players to wear specific gear, such as goggles and face masks. Pay attention to and abide by these rules to have a good time, rather than focusing on avoiding injury or getting kicked off the field. 

Choosing a good paintball field and team can also help you make the most of your investment. Teams should be supportive and play by the rules for the enjoyment of all. The best paintball fields allow for dynamic situations where ground cover varies from run-down buildings and broken-down vehicles to stripped helicopters and hollowed-out airplanes. The more immersive an experience you can have, the better.  

Conclusion

Investing in a paintball marker does take a bit of cash, though it can be worth it if you find you like playing paintball games with friends. At the same time, that doesn’t mean you have to fork over a chunk of change to find a reliable, durable, and worthy paintball marker to start out with. Instead, you should check out the beginner markers we’ve highlighted above to get the most out of your gameplay. 

If you’re looking for more paintball gear and accessories for beginners, check out Lone Wolf Paintball online store for the best selection in all things paintball. Our affordable prices give you the chance to get into paintball without a large upfront investment. We offer some of the best beginner gear to help start your paintball journey off on the right foot.

Paintball vests help protect you during gameplay and carry the necessary ammunition and accessories for ultimate victory. Many players customize their paintball vests with color and the number of pouches. Some of the best paintball vests include the Valken Bravo Tactical, the Planet Eclipse Load Vest, and the Tippmann Sport Vest. 

Why Use Paintball Vests

Different paintball vests have different purposes. A paintball army vest could imitate the gear worn by U.S. soldiers, for example, and come in handy during military simulation scenarios. On the flip side, players may invest in general paintball vests, such as a paintball tactical vest, for games of various scenarios. No matter what type of paintball game you play, a paintball vest can mean the difference between painful hits and running out of critical gear at the worst time. 

Protection

Paintballs can sting, especially at close range. Your center mass must absorb the majority of the shots you take, so having a paintball vest you can rely on can reduce those impacts significantly. Even the slightest amount of padding can make a difference. 

In addition, a paintball vest can cover more of your body than most other types of gear. At the same time, these vests present the best opportunity for carrying gear into the field. Most players consider a paintball vest as a versatile accessory that’s well worth the additional weight.  

Carrying

Friendly matches don’t often require the use of full gear. However, when it comes time to load out your gear and prepare for a simulated battle, a paintball tactical vest earns its keep. A paintball pod vest, for instance, can carry all the necessary ammunition for a prolonged game. Players who tether their markers require a paintball vest with a tank pouch to carry their air supply.  

Long woodsball games often require a durable and versatile paintball vest to make the most of your time. Paintball vests also allow players to carry additional accessories. This could include items such as a water bottle, extra magazines or pods, a radio, grenades, or even a map. The more usable storage you can achieve with a paintball vest, the better experience you’ll have. 

Our Top 3 Paintball Vests

Choosing the right paintball vest for you can present a challenge. To help you find the best paintball vest for you, we’ve compiled a list of our top tactical vests you can choose from. These vests include the Valken Bravo Tactical vest, the Planet Eclipse Load Vest, and the Tippmann Sport & Pro Vest.

Valken Bravo Tactical

Sometimes the most basic setup works the best. That’s why we’ve included the Valken Bravo Tactical paintball vest on our list. Don’t let the basic features fool you. Players can dominate the field with ease with a paintball vest like this one. 

Sturdy buckles and a variety of pockets characterize this paintball tactical vest. Four pouches up front carry magazines or pods of your choosing. A single pocket on the left side can carry smaller accessories. The smooth back allows you to easily strap a backpack on without worrying about creating a large profile. In addition, each of the buckling straps adjusts to fit your personal contouring. 

Planet Eclipse Load Vest

Fans of camouflage should definitely check out the Planet Eclipse Tactical Load Vest. This paintball vest blends a dynamic pattern with plenty of pouches and pockets to carry all the essentials. Velcro patches on the mag pouches and upper pockets even allow for morale patches. In addition, the vest incorporates a drag loop on the back for a more authentic look.  

Tippmann Sport & Pro Vest

Wearing a padded paintball vest can quickly drench you in sweat. The Tippmann Sport & Pro Vest incorporates a mesh base with digital camo for the best of both worlds. This vest zips in the front, allowing players to quickly move in and out of it if necessary. The different types of pouches and their corresponding sizes accommodate a variety of accessories. This includes mags, grenades, and whatever else players may need in the field. Across the back, you’ll find a pouch specifically designed for carrying an air tank horizontally as well.  

Paintball Vest Accessories

One of the easiest ways to pick out the best paintball vest for you requires taking stock of what you want to carry. A paintball tactical vest can carry several different accessories. It all depends on what type of paintball game you’re engaging in and your playing style. For example, a paintball vest with a tank pouch works well for those who require an extra air supply during gameplay. 

Pod Packs

Players may also want to carry extra paintballs within their tactical vests. Paintball pod packs within close reach can speed up reloading at critical points during the game. They can also help protect players from painful torso hits. Search for a paintball pod vest, specifically if having ammunition at the ready ranks at the top of your list. 

Water Bottle and Canteen

A paintball army vest with the capacity for a water bottle can keep you hydrated without weighing you down. Fierce competition can quickly sap your strength and leave you drenched in sweat. Depending on what type of water bottle or canteen you choose, you can hydrate on the go without having to worry about digging through a backpack. 

In addition, players can also customize their water bottles or canteens. Staying hydrated becomes easier when you’re reminded of why you play and even who you play with. Whichever paintball tactical vest you choose, don’t overlook the importance of a water bottle. 

Magazines

A paintball pod vest can easily hold paintball magazines as well. These paintball mag vests store extra paintballs until go time. Woodsball players find these tactical vests especially useful, considering a magazine could mean the difference between conquering the enemy and falling prey to their fire. 

Conclusion

Anyone who has ever played paintball before has wondered what it would be like to use a paintball gun as a self-defense weapon. Getting hit with a paintball hurts, so obviously, there’s some merit to using a paintball gun as an instrument of self-defense, right? Well, it may seem that way during a game of paintball. However in a real-life situation where quick, decisive, and robust defense is needed, a paintball gun may not be the best option. Anyone who is willing to break and enter a house or vehicle could reasonably be assumed to not be in a rational state of mind and therefore, the rules of rationality do not apply. In other words, it’s likely that a paintball gun with paintball will worsen the situation by making the attacker angrier.

In situations where human life is on the line, someone defending his or her house will want to have the highest possible force multiplier–usually, this comes in the form of a firearm. However, there are a number of reasons why people may be unable or unwilling to carry the responsibility of firearm ownership. In some areas of the country and world, it can be prohibitively difficult and expensive to obtain a firearm or just plain illegal. In other cases, a person's legal history may prevent him or her from owning firearms. In either of these cases, obtaining a firearm is essentially not an option. There are, however, less lethal and non-lethal options that may be used for self defense.

While a paintball gun may not be the best option for self-defense, First Strike and Tippmann both manufacture a paintball-style marker that shoots .68 capsules that contain OC powder, also known as pepper powder. In a defense scenario, these “pepper guns” may be a viable option to repel a threat to life and limb.

Why Choose A Paintball Gun For Self Defense

A paintball gun is likely inadequate for any serious defense scenario. However, a pepper ball gun may be sufficient to repel an attacker. Apart from being legally ineligible for firearm ownership, some may understandably decide they don’t want the potential liability of firearm ownership. In this case, non-lethal and less-than-lethal options are ideal as they reduce or eliminate the loss of human life while maximizing the capacity to repel an attacker. There are still certain risks associated with using these types of defensive weapons, just as there are risks with using real firearms. At the end of the day, risk cannot be eliminated in defensive situations; individuals must decide for themselves what sort of risk they are willing to tolerate.

Non-Lethal

One of the best things about paintball guns is that they are non-lethal. Paintball has never been directly responsible for any sort of mortality, though some argue that paintball can be deadly by causing heart attacks in unhealthy players. However, the paintballs themselves are not lethal. A direct shot to the face or eye can maim and cause permanent damage to a would-be attacker. However, a lethal situation is almost impossible. When paintballs with OC powder (pepper balls) are added to the mix, the effectiveness of the paintball gun as a self-defense weapon increases dramatically.

Concealment

One thing to consider when thinking about a paintball gun is concealment. Attacks don’t just happen at home, they can happen anywhere and at any time. The bulk and ostentatious nature of a paintball gun is simply not practical for using it as a portable defense weapon. In fact, someone seen walking around with a paintball gun is likely to have more negative interactions with other people than if they were unarmed. Any sort of defensive weapon that’s carried on someone’s body should be inconspicuous enough to blend in and not cause problems. Even pepperball guns are not an exception since they generally tend to be bulky and appear similar to real firearms. In a state that restricts carrying, this could be a real problem if there’s a run-in with law enforcement, even though technically no laws have been broken. At the end of the day, the carrier would be less safe carrying a pepperball gun.

Pepper Ball Guns For Self Defense

Because of the difficulties of portability, neither paintball guns nor pepperball guns are good pieces of hardware for mobile defense. However, pepperball guns might be just the solution for someone looking to protect his or her family. These guns have paintballs filled with a powder-version of pepper spray. On impact, the balls break and release the powder around the assailant, causing a similar reaction to pepper spray.

Advantages

Pepper ball guns have the advantages of nearly universal legality. There are almost no scenarios where a background check is necessary to purchase one and they’re legal in most jurisdictions (but check your local laws to make sure). Additionally, these pepper ball guns are non lethal and are unlikely to cause any loss of human life. They are also one of the most effective ways of repelling a threat. Of course, there is a possibility that the attacker doesn’t respond to the OC powder, but this is unlikely. If the goal is to get the attacker to retreat without causing serious injury or loss of life, a pepper ball gun is the perfect option.

Disadvantages

Pepper ball guns do have a handful of disadvantages. First, some people are resistant to OC powder or may be too inebriated to have normal physical reactions to it. Second, just like paintball guns, pepper ball guns are not rifled and therefore are inaccurate at long distances. To effectively deploy a pepper ball, the shooter must be close to the attacker which opens the door to two possibilities: 1. Defender gets attacked directly or 2. The OC powder can affect both the attacker and defender. Finally, the powder diffuses rapidly, so any use in an outdoor space may be ineffective and any use indoors may affect everyone in the room.

Conclusion

The answer to the question “who invented paintball” is twofold. The paintball gun was created in the 1960s as a way for loggers to mark trees to cut down, and cattle farmers to mark cattle from afar on horseback. But the game of paintball, well that’s a different story, one that we’ll dive into to uncover the rich history of paintball. 

What Was Paintball Originally Used For?

Originally invented to mark trees and cattle, the marker itself was invented in the 1960s by Charles Nelson. The gun was never intended to be used on people, and was created to be a much more accurate and easier way to mark trees and livestock from afar by park rangers and cattle farmers.

In 1972, the Nelson Paint Company tried to sell their marker, the Crosman 707, but it was a commercial failure. Charles Nelson decided to partner with Daisy, the company famous for making the iconic Red Ryder BB Gun. Nelson was able to turn his idea into the iconic Nel-Spot 007 marker, ushering in a new era of paintball as a survival sport. 

It would take twenty years after the creation of the paintball marker for twelve friends to use them in a game of capture the flag. 

From Tagging Trees to Tagging Friends

The game itself started as a bet. Who would win in a survival contest, the country-raised woodsman or city-born Wall Street stockbroker? Would the city-dweller’s instinct to survive rise above the knowledge of a man who spent his youth hunting, fishing and building cabins? From an argument that started over a round of drinks, Bob Gurnsey (a sporting goods retailer,) Hayes Noel (the Wall Street stockbroker,) Charles Gaines (an outdoorsman and writer) were about to begin the world’s first game of paintball. 

In June of 1981 in the New Hampshire countryside, twelve players with Nel-Spot 007 paintball markers got ready to settle the bet, once and for all. The first game was a capture-the-flag format, with six woodsmen and six city men battling it out to collect all flags without being eliminated to be crowned the winner. 

It’s reported that the game was won by the woodsmen, more specifically by a forester Ritchie White. White chose stealth as his strategy. He quietly moved to each flag station, collecting all of his flags, winning the game without firing a shot. 

The Evolution of Paintball

One of the twelve players, Bob Jones, wrote an article about his experience in the first-ever game of paintball that was published in the 1981 October issue of Sports Illustrated. Readers were fascinated by the bet and the idea of a contest for survival. The article launched a nationwide interest in what was eventually trademarked the “National Survival Game,” the game of paintball. 

After the success of the article, Bob Gurnsey (one of the original players) began selling a $150 “Survival Game” package, including a paintball marker, paintballs, goggles, and a rule book. Gurnsey made a deal with the Nelson Paint Company and turned a considerable profit setting up paintball fields and distributing paintball gear. In 1982, he opened the world’s first commercial paintball field in New Hampshire.

In 1983, Gurnsey would host the first major paintball tournament, the National Survival Game National Championship with a grand prize of $3,000. From then on, paintball would spread as an international sensation. 

What Paintball Looks Like Today

From its humble beginnings in the woods, paintball has become a beloved sport with worldwide recognition. Today, the sport is played for recreation and competitively with formal sporting events that involve professional teams and players. In 1995, paintball had its TV debut as ESPN screened the World Championship Games.

It’s a multimillion-dollar industry that’s ever-evolving. With major tournaments, customized outdoor tactical fields and stadiums with artificial terrain, paintball has officially become a recognized sport and an international phenomenon. 

It’s no longer just a competition game, paintball is also used by military forces, law enforcement, and security organizations to supplement training. There’s a wide range of games available, from capture the flag to elimination to even zombie paintball shooting games. 

In terms of paintball gear, there’s more variety than ever before. After Bob Gurnsey founded the first paintball company, rival paintball companies sprang up and paintball technology quickly developed. Paintball technology developed to create state-of-the-art equipment, from high-quality Tippmann markers and Spyder markers to the creation of biodegradable, water-soluble, non-toxic paintballs. 

Paintballs also developed from being oil-based in the ‘80s to being the vegetable oil and gelatin mix that we are familiar with today. Players are no longer stuck shooting single-shot pistols; modern paintball equipment might include fully-automatic speedball games with markers that cost over $1,000. 

The Future of Paintball

From its roots as a survival game, many players have tried to face the decades-old question: who would win in a contest of wilderness survival? For modern players, the game has evolved from a trial of trying to survive in the woods. With a range of guns and gear available from masks to markers, there’s plenty of variety in modern paintball equipment. While it is true that the game is more about a player’s skill and daring than the price of their marker, it’s clear that technological improvements have had a tremendous impact on the way the sport is played. 

At Lone Wolf Paintball, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of paintball technology. 

We specialize in retail sales, game-play, special events and multimedia entertainment. Check out our range of products and get the best combination of quality, performance and price anywhere in the game of paintball!