How Much Does It Cost to Play Paintball

Paintball games are recreational activities enjoyed by gamers of all ages. While the thrill of shooting opponents with paintball guns is electric, there is a hidden cost that comes with playing paintball. In this article, we will explore the various factors that affect how much it costs to play paintball.

Costs of Guns and Safety Gear

The main component of playing paintball is having a reliable paintball gun. Paintball guns come in various sizes and shapes and can range from simple to advanced. On average, a basic paintball gun will cost between $80 to $180. High-end paintball guns such as those used for tournament play can cost up to several hundred dollars. In addition to purchasing a gun, safety gear such as masks, vests, and gloves are also necessary to prevent players from getting hurt. The cost of safety gear can vary, but the average cost for an entire set of safety gear is typically around $90.

Paintball Ammunition

Though the guns used for paintball are expensive, the cost of paintball ammunition is low. A single paintball marker can shoot anywhere from 200 to 800 paintballs per game. Paintballs cost about $0.15 each, meaning that the cost of ammunition for each game will cost no more than $120.

Fields and Fees

The biggest cost for a paintball game is the cost of renting a field to play in. Most paintball fields typically charge an hourly rate of around $20 per hour for the use of their field. This cost is usually based on the size of the group that is playing and can range from $15 to $30 an hour.

Equipment Upgrades and Maintenance

For paintball enthusiasts, purchasing additional equipment such as upgrades to the gun or extra safety gear can make a big difference in the overall cost of playing paintball. Many players also choose to purchase additional upgrades to their paintball guns such as an enhanced trigger, a better scope, or even a new paintball loader. All of these upgrades can add up quickly, making the cost of playing paintball much higher.

In addition, those who are serious about paintball may also need to invest in maintenance for their guns. Paintball markers typically require regular maintenance in order to remain in working condition. Regular maintenance such as cleaning and lubricating the gun can cost up to $50 each year.

Travel Expenses

For those who travel to different fields to play paintball, there are additional travel expenses to consider. These can include gas expenses, food expenses, and lodging expenses. Depending on the distance traveled, these costs can add up very quickly and can easily surpass the cost of a single game.

Final Word

Most experienced paintball players will tell you that the cost of playing paintball adds up very quickly. While the cost of purchasing the necessary safety gear and ammunition is relatively low, the cost of renting fields and upgrading equipment makes paintball an expensive hobby. While it is true that paintball can be an expensive hobby, the thrill and excitement of the game is well worth the cost for many players.

For anyone looking to play paintball, it is important to take all of these costs into consideration in order to determine what their total expenses will be. By weighing all of the costs involved in playing paintball, players can ensure that they are getting the most out of their experience.