Hooked On Paintball

Hooked On Paintball

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As the sport of paintball has grown so have the big name manufacturers who supply the equipment for participants. Names like Tippmann, Kingman, and Angel Paintball have become highly respected and recognized brands. Paintball has become big business as more and more people have become hooked on paintball.

Passion for the game/sport is growing at a level not unlike traditional competitive endeavors like soccer, rugby, or basketball. There are now leagues, teams, colorful uniforms, tournaments, pro stars, and devoted fans.

When a group of locals gather together for a baseball game it's called "sandlot baseball." When several buddies congregate to play basketball it's called a "pickup game." Although there may not yet be a name for it is not uncommon for a bunch of guys (and gals) to get together in a secluded wooded area for a throw-down game of paintball.

In these lower level fun versions of paintball there are few rules, equipment is generally low end, and uniforms are a mix of old jeans, t-shirts, and camo. On the field is a mix of experienced and beginner players giving their all in the name of good fun and camaraderie. That is not to say that cool heads always prevail because it is, after all, a field of battle where only the strong, most able, and most cunning survive.

In reality, paintball is a new sport. So the story goes, the first guns/markers used were developed for forestry purposes about 1970, to quickly mark trees. It wasn't until 1981 when somebody decided it would be fun to use the guns in a game. Even then the game was slow to catch on as markers and gear were yet undeveloped.

In the early 80s, if you were to have been one of the fortunate few to play the game you would have probably played with a Nelspot 007. The Nelspot was conceived in the 1960s by the Nelson Paint Company. They solicited the services of Crossman Air Guns to build the 007. However, sales didn't live up to the dream and the idea was turned over to the makers of Daisy Air Guns. Oh yeah, and the original paint was oil based, not water soluble. And you thought today's paintball games were messy.

It wasn't until the 1990's when paintball kicked into full gear, became popular with the masses, and turned into big business. A number of companies popped up trying to get their piece of the growing money making pie.

Just as paintball guns grew in sophistication so did the gear and accessories. Now, many teams and players are equipped as well as a military platoon or NFL team. In addition to paintball guns, you will find a full line of coordinated clothing including pants, jerseys, gloves, masks, and vests emblazoned with high profile brand logos.

If you want to get an argument started among paintball enthusiasts, just ask them to give their opinion on which paintball gun is the best. Then they will want further clarification like: best beginner gun, best single shot, best automatic, most accurate, most durable, etc.

Overall, there is a consensus that Angel paintball guns by Angel Sports are the cream of the crop. Of course, at about a $1,000 per marker these guns are more of a dream than a reality for many who love the sport. But, if you can come up with the money, you won't be disappointed. After all, when you get hooked on paintball, owning the best marker and equipment that money can buy is worth the sacrifice.

About the Author:
Richard Weirich is an expert on outdoor sports. To find out more about Angel paintball guns and gear visit http://angelpaintball.org/ .



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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