It doesn’t matter whether you’ve played in 10 paintball matches or 100 - or even if you’re waiting to try it for the first time - there are a lot of ways to approach each game. You’ll see a lot of different advice about what to do, what not to do, how to play and more, but no matter how experienced you are, there are some universal paintball tips that can help you find victory.

From the best paintball gear to tips on the field, keep these tips in mind and you’ll be in a great position to help your team win. It might take a bit of time to work out how everything fits together and works, so don’t be afraid to try new strategies and ideas that work for you and your team, but don’t forget the basics while you’re at it.

Part of the reason paintball is so exciting is because every game is different and you don’t know what’ll happen. Being able to adapt is key to coming out on top.

10 Paintball Tips To Keep You On Top Of Every Game

Preparation is a big part of winning. Having the paintball supplies, accessories and equipment you need for any situation can quickly turn the tide or give you the edge over the other team. That’s not to say you have to go and spend a fortune after the first day, but investing in good camo gear, a paintball marker that suits your style, and more can really make a difference.

Whatever level of interest you have doesn’t have to be the deciding factor, though, and our paintball tips cover a range of preparation and on-field tactics that will help everyone get the most out of the experience.

1. Put Safety First

Regardless of how many paintball matches you’re involved in, the safety briefing and checks are essential. No one is allowed to skip them, and for good reason. When everything is done properly, the risks are small but they do exist.

This includes wearing a paintball mask or goggles at all times unless away from the arena and keeping the barrel guards on paintball guns on until the game begins, as well as a host of other rules.

If you notice another player struggling during the game, make it clear to a marshall and the game can be stopped until the issue is resolved. The potential consequences are not worth the risk, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If anything concerning catches your attention, it’s best to notify someone right away.

2. Take Care Of Your Paintball Equipment

There’s a vast array of paintball equipment available, from paintball guns to tactical vests, knee pads, gloves and much more. While newer players will often be fine with the equipment to rent at their arena, players who are more invested in the sport will eventually want to own their own paintball gear.

The kind of arena and the conditions they bring will determine what gear to use, but it does mean you’re responsible for cleaning and looking after everything, too. Combat shirts and combat trousers are great options and will help you blend in to the environment - especially in outdoor arenas. Camo gear like this can really make a big difference to any paintball player.

3. Don’t Use  Stray Paintballs

Paintballs are an essential part of your kit - without them you won’t be able to hit other players and help your team win. Whether you play fast and loose with your shots or look for more precise, targeted firing, you’re going to need a healthy supply for each match. That’s why the right size paintball hopper, as well as paintball pods you can carry with you into the arena, will make sure you’re fully stocked.

While it might be tempting, only use paintballs you bring with you into the arena or that are given to you by another player (if they’re the right size). You’ll come across plenty on the ground as you move, but these will be soft from moisture or covered in dirt. This will jam your paintball marker and stop you from playing, especially if they burst and spread paint inside. It’s not worth the risk.

4. Check Your Paintball Gun’s Gas

Before the start of every game, make sure you check your paintball marker’s gas levels. If this drops too low, you’ll see a huge drop in performance and this will not only be stressful, it could even ruin your whole match.

Be vigilant and check gas levels after each match to keep your paintball gun performing at its best. If you notice gas levels dropping faster than they should, it might mean a loose connection or damaged part. If you’re unsure, speak to an expert to help you identify the problem. Proper cleaning and maintenance can help prevent this from happening.

5. Don’t Forget To Reload

It might sound silly, but given how fast a paintball match can be, it’s easy to forget that you can - and probably will - run out of paintballs at some point. If you’re out in the open and unable to fire, you’ll make for an easy and appealing target for players on the opposing team.

We’re not saying you should try and count every shot, but when you’re in cover, a quick check of your hopper can make sure you always have enough ammo for what’s coming up. Take these times to reload from your pods and you won’t be left in the lurch at any time.

6. Focus On The Game’s Objectives

Each paintball match has different rules and objectives. This depends on the arena, the format and the number of players taking part. It’s common for arenas to have different games throughout the day for variety and to keep players guessing.

Before getting started, make sure you’re clear on what the objectives of your next match are, and the rules players have to abide by. Marshalls will be watching and will keep competition fair, so it’s in everyone’s interests to stick to the rules as you aim for victory. It’ll also make sure you’ve got a goal in mind, giving you something to focus on.

7. Work And Communicate With Your Team

A lot of paintball games involve teamwork. In fact, they rely on them. A team of players who don’t work together will find themselves torn apart by a more organised team. If you want to win, basic teamwork will help. From a plan of action at the start to the best ways at communicating with others, you’ll find these essential skills on your path to victory.

You might think this is simple, but in the heat of the moment, people can often do things you don’t expect - both teammates and opponents. It’s also not always as simple as talking to your team, either, as you might be separated from them, or speaking too loudly can give away your plans. Find creative ways to get around this.

8. Find Cover But Don’t Stay Still

While you want to hit others with your paintballs, you don’t want to be hit. While new plates might worry about the pain and bruising, this is not as a big an issue as you might think. Once you’re in the arena with your protective gear, and the adrenaline starts to flow, you might not even notice the impact much.

Cover can help you avoid being hit, but the longer you stay in one place, the more likely you’ll be found. Once you’re in the sights of an opposing player, it’ll be hard for you to move on without being hit - and more opponents could move into position to take you out of the game.

9. Be Aware Of The Whole Arena

On a similar note, be aware of the arena. Know what the goal of the game is and how to get there as there will be more than one route. You’ll pass pieces of cover, open spaces, areas where you can set up ambushes and be ambushed. While you can’t predict everything, an idea of what’s around you can help you stay in the game longer.

However, some objects can - and will - change between games or visits, so while it’s a good idea to know what’s around you, don’t rely on this to be the same each time. This works to your advantage, too, as there will always be opportunities to use the terrain to your advantage.

10. Enjoy Yourself

Most importantly, over everything else (other than staying safe, of course), you should have fun!

Paintball is an adrenaline rush unlike anything else, and it keeps players coming back for me. It’s a great way to have fun, meet new people, develop skills and get involved in an activity different from any other sport.

Dive in, do your best, and have an amazing time. You’ll soon find yourself wanting to get back in the arena for another match before you know it.

Make Sure You’re Ready For Every Match With The Right Paintball Equipment

It’s a good idea to make sure you’re ready for any paintball game when the opportunity arises, and that includes having the right paintball gear. From masks and camo gear to the best paintball guns, the right paintball equipment will keep you safe and ready to go no matter what the arena presents.

If you’d like to know more about any of the paintball gear we have available, or would like to know more about the sport itself, get in touch with a member of our team and we’ll be happy to help. Whether you’re new to the sport or have been playing for years, there’s always more to learn.