Paintball markers are becoming more and more upgradeable with Smart Parts, Tippman, Dye, Proto and other paintball marker companies designing to become more customized to you.  With the number of paintball markers out there you ask yourself what is right for me?  The player that is traveling to tournaments, playing every weekend, or in some type of league is probably going to spend more on the paintball marker than the person looking to go out for a weekend once a month.  Paintball markers all have one thing in common they all shoot paint. The differences are weight, marker speed (bps), and style.  Most paintball markers can be changed with various upgrades such as body kits, boards, barrels, bolts, grips and other parts depending on what you are looking for. Any paintball marker can be upgraded, so it is not necessary to get a top of the line paintball marker when you are just starting out. Even small upgrades to your paintball marker can make a huge difference when you are playing.

     Once you have your paintball marker you’ll need to find a place to play. Paintball fields vary depending where you are located. Most places have centers set up where you can play. Things will be organized and there will be referees to help make sure that the games start and stop when they are supposed to. Some people prefer to play woodsball. This is for people who like the feeling of being out in the wilderness and having to find the rest of the players. Make sure to check local municipalities before running out in the woods to start playing.

No matter where you play protective gear is a necessity. Your paintball mask should allow for max air flow as well as provide for a wide line of vision. You’ll want to keep a rag on hand to wipe paint off of your mask as needed.  Clothing should be worn loose to help dent the impact from the paintball hitting your body. Even if you choose to wear layers of clothes, wear baggy layers. No matter how good you get at playing you will still occasionally get hit by a paintball.  Shoes should be worn that are functional as well as durable… sneakers, cleats, or boots are all acceptable forms of foot wear.  You also have neck protectors, knee pads, elbow pads, chest protectors and gloves. All can be purchased to suit the look that you desire. Another item that you will find that you will need is a bag large enough to put all you’re gear in. Remember when you go to play you will have your marker, helmet, pads, paintballs, and rags to wipe off your helmet, along with other items that you have discovered along the way that you feel you wouldn’t want to be without during play time. You will find it is much more convenient to carry everything in a bag as opposed to trying to carry everything in your hands.

So now you have everything that you need to go out and start playing paintball.  As you play work on your shooting and moving skills and figure out exactly your style of play.  Have fun and shoot straight!