Boys with toys (Paintball in General)

Member Name: s.gould

Product:	Paintball in General
Date:	14/08/02 (95 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Fun, Team building, Extreme version of cops and robbers

Disadvantages: Can hurt, Can be expensive if you get carried away, Once hooked you don't want to stop

Those who play it consider Paintball an extreme sport.

There are many different types of games that can be played in paintball. The first being "pure" elimination, where when you are hit and the ball burst onto you, you are eliminated from the game. If one entire team gets eliminated, then the other team wins.
Next you have "Capture The Flag" There are a few versions of this and it is a game based on elimination. There is either a flag in the centre of the field, which you must bring back to your own base or the oppositions base (depending on the game) or a 2 flag format with one flag at each starting base, the object is to get the opposing team's flag to your base.
Another newer popular one is, ?protect the base? where one team is inside an old building, barracks etc and they must stop the opposition stealing their flag.
You can have other varying game formats, most based around the ones said above, but often organisers have their own special game,

It is a great way to relieve stress, increase communication skills, plus bonding with family, co-workers or friends (new and old). Since paintball is the only true team sport where everyone playing, whether female or male, fat or skinny, young or old everyone needs to work together to win. Plus if you are normally fast that can help but it doesn't make you the best player.

You often find the women or shy ones to be the more aggressive players and really come out of their shell. Don?t be afraid if the other team has more professional or regular players, it?s not all about skill; it?s more about teamwork. Remember, you can?t win with one person.

Do not be afraid of the person playing with his or her own gear. That doesn't mean they are better than you. Just watch and learn, if they are a good player ask them questions, get help. More experienced players I find are very willing to help new players in this sport, all you need to do is as
k.

I would recommend anyone to go out to your local playing field and get a few games booked. You don't necessarily have to find enough people willing to play to book a game, find out if your field has open days or walk on days. Usually these days are cheaper plus you can just show up and play with whoever is playing at the time. It?s a great way to learn because many experienced players play those days.


What to take and wear:
Always take extra money for more paintballs. If paying by card make sure you set yourself a limit and stick to it, it?s so easy to get carried away.
Wear your oldest, scruffiest clothes, the paint does wash out but sometimes leaves a small mark and you can tear your clothes while crawling around. Wear greens, browns, and hiking boots are recommended, because of the uneven ground (you are outside).
Most places will supply you with army style jump suits and head covers. These are recommended.

Does it hurt?
Yes and no, it depends from how far away you are getting hit from, but many times you are getting struck from far away so it doesn't hurt.
It is near the end of a game, when everyone is much closer together, when the shoots may hit areas like the groin when it may hurt more, but it?s more of a sting.
Other times may include moments of brave heroics like running for the flag or kamikaze runs.
You may ache that evening and the next day, but it?s worth it.

The paintballs travel at just under 280 fps and you must always obey ALL the safety rules of any field you visit. Always keep your goggles on until in the marked safety areas, which will be pointed out to you before each game.

Do I need to have a lot of cash with me?
Most places accept cash, VISA, MasterCard, and Debit cards, but check before.

What is supplied?
Masks, goggles and overalls are supplied and usually lunch is included.

Summary: