So, you’re wondering how old you have to be to play paintball? You’ve come to the right place. In this epic growing guide, we will answer all of your questions and give you some useful tips about paintball for beginners. Whether you’re a youngin’ just starting out or an experienced player looking for some new information, this guide has something for everyone! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about playing paintball at any age.
How Is Paintball Played?
Paintball is a sport in which players compete, individually or in teams, to eliminate opponents by tagging them with capsules containing water-soluble dye and gelatin fired from paintball guns. Paintballs are spherical gelatin capsules filled with non-toxic, biodegradable, water-soluble dye. The game is regularly played at a sporting level with organized competition involving major tournaments, professional teams, and players. Paintball technology is also used by military forces, law enforcement agencies and security firms to mark targets for detection and identification.
A paintball gun is used to shoot the paintballs. Most paintball guns are powered by either CO_₂ or compressed air (HPA). The gun’s barrel is connected to a hopper, where the paintballs are stored. The hopper is mounted on top of the gun, and it feeds paintballs into the gun’s breech. When the trigger is pulled, a small amount of CO_₂ or compressed air is released, propelling the paintball through the barrel and out towards the target.
Paintball games can be played on either indoor or outdoor fields. Outdoor fields are generally larger and more open than indoor fields, which are smaller and have more obstacles. [1]
Can Children Play Paintball?
Some parents may be concerned about letting their child play paintball because of the potential for injury. However, it is important to remember that paintball is a relatively safe sport. Injuries are rare, and most are minor (such as bruises or scratches). The vast majority of injuries can be prevented by using proper safety gear, such as a mask and gloves.
But very young children (under the age of ten) may not be ready for the physicality and mental challenges of paintball. The sport requires a certain amount of coordination and hand-eye coordination, as well as the ability to think strategically.
So, while there is no definitive answer to the question “How old do you have to be to play paintball?,” it is generally best for children under the age of ten to participate in other activities. For older children and adults, however, paintball can be a fun and exhilarating way to spend an afternoon.
One way to help reduce the likelihood of overreacting is to make sure that everyone understands the rules of the game before beginning to play. It’s also important to create an environment in which players feel comfortable with each other. For example, you might want to consider playing with friends or family members rather than strangers.
Another thing to keep in mind is that paintball guns can be loud. This may startle some young children, so it’s important to let them know what to expect before the game begins. [2], [3]
What Are the Age Requirements for Paintball Games?
There is no definitive answer to this question as to the official age limit for playing paintball. In the United States, there is no federal law that governs the minimum age for playing paintball but rules do vary from place to place.
Check the facility’s policy
Before you can play paintball, you will need to find a facility that is willing to allow you to play. Most facilities have their own policies regarding the minimum age for playing paintball.The minimum age for playing at some facilities may be as young as 10 years old, while other facilities may not allow anyone under the age of sixteen or eighteen to play.
It is always best to check with your local paintball field or shop to find out their specific age requirements too. You will need to buy some equipment for paintball too, including a mask to protect your face, goggles, gloves, and clothing that will cover as much of your skin as possible. [2], [3]
Alternatives for Paintball for Children
If you have a child who is interested in playing paintball but is too young to meet the age requirements, there are a few alternatives.
Low impact paintball
One alternative is low impact paintball. Low impact paintball is perfect for younger players, those new to the sport, or anyone looking to have a ton of fun without feeling the pain that comes from being hit by a paintball traveling at high velocity. Low impact paintballs are smaller in diameter than traditional paintballs and are filled with less paint, meaning they break upon impact but don’t leave as large of a welt.
This type of paintball is typically played on a smaller field with shorter distances between players, making it perfect for close-quarters combat and fast-paced games. Many indoor fields offer low impact play, as do some outdoor fields that cater to families and beginners.
Most low impact paintball fields will have an age limit of around eight years old, although some may be as young as six. [3], [4]
JT Splatmaster
JT Splatmasters is a type of paintball designed specifically for children. It uses a pump-action marker that fires biodegradable paintballs, which are significantly smaller than traditional paintballs. The smaller size of the balls makes them easier to handle and less likely to cause injury.
Guns used in the game are also spring-loaded, meaning they don’t require compressed air or CO₂ to operate. This makes them much safer for children to use, as there is no risk of the gun malfunctioning and causing injury.
JT Splatmaster games are typically played on smaller indoor and outdoor fields with shorter distances between players, making them perfect for younger children. There is no minimum age limit for this game – although most players are between the ages of eight and twelve. [5]
Safety Tips During a Paintball Game
Don’t be afraid of getting hit
The first thing you need to do is not be afraid of getting hit. It hurts less than you think and after a while, you’ll get used to it. Just remember to keep your mask on at all times and follow the safety rules that your paintball field has set.
If you or your child are playing with friends, make sure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to safety rules. Once everyone is wearing their masks and understands the basic safety rules, you can start playing.
Be confident during the game
One of the best things you can do to stay safe is to be confident. If you’re not confident, you’re more likely to make mistakes. When you make a mistake in paintball, it could cost you the game – or worse, your safety. So make sure that you’re always staying calm and collected, and that you know what you’re doing before stepping onto the field.
Don’t take the mask and goggles off
One of the most important safety rules in paintball is to never take the mask off, even for a second. The paintballs are designed to break upon impact and can cause serious injury if they hit you in the face. Most commercial paintball fields will require players to wear a mask at all times while on the playing field, so don’t forget about this requirement.
Many masks also come with built-in visors, which can help keep sunlight out of your eyes and make it easier to see opponents in low-light conditions. Some players even opt to wear full-face masks, which offer additional protection for the teeth, nose and ears.
FAQ
Can a 9 year old go paintball?
Paintball is a sport that is open to people of all ages. There are many different types of paintball, from backyard balling to professional competitions. The age limit for playing paintball is typically around 10 years old, but this can vary depending on the type of paintball you want to play and the facility in your area. 9-years old can try other paintball variations more suitable for their age.
Do lower-impact paintballs hurt?
No, they don’t. In fact, many people who play paintball say it doesn’t hurt at all – or at least not as much as you would think. The reason for this is that the impact of a paintball is spread over a larger area than, say, a BB gun pellet.
So, if you’re worried about your kid getting hit with a paintball, don’t be. It’s not nearly as bad as you might think.
Useful Video: How old to Play Paintball Minimum Age to Play at Lone Wolf Paintball Michigan
Conclusion
So, how old do you have to be to play paintball? Officially, the sport has no age restrictions. However, given that the game is so action-packed and fast paced, it’s not suitable for very young children. Most paintball facilities will recommend players be at least 10 or 12 years old before playing in a public arena. Ultimately, it’s up to parents to decide if their child is ready for this type of physical and mental challenge. However there are variations of paintball for younger children, but typically these games are less intense and involve easier-to-hit targets. If you’re not sure what the age requirement is for your local paintball facility, give them a call or check out their website. Have fun and be safe playing this popular sport!
References:
- https://www.paintballskirmish.co.uk/about-paintball
- https://www.liveabout.com/age-to-play-paintball-2565726
- https://www.velocitypaintball.com/2015/12/what-is-the-age-requirement-for-paintballairsoft
- https://www.splatball.com/low-impact-paintball-2/
- https://www.lonewolfpaintball.com/pages/jt-splatmaster