Ah, the joy of playing paintball! For kids, it is an exciting and thrilling experience that is filled with adventure and fun. It is a game, sport, hobby, and expertise that some youth strive for. But choosing the best paintball gun for kids can be a challenge for parents. We have compiled a list of the top picks for the best paintball gun for kids that will make their playing experience safer and more enjoyable.
This is why we have selected some of the best paintball guns that have safety features like low-impact and lightweight designs that are perfect for young players. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you through our top picks for the best paintball gun for kids that will make your young player’s paintball experience one they will never forget!
Table of Contents
Does It Hurt?
Thought we could just address the elephant in the room. If you are one of the chosen few adults who are bringing the paintball sport into your family, you are making a great decision to do your research first and with us! Kids and beginners, especially.
So, do paintballs hurt? We hate to break it to you, but yes. Paintballs are the ultimate upgrade to our childhood spitballs. It’s kind of the point of the sport, though. If you can’t handle your preteen getting some bruises, you can look into laser tag.
Low-Impact Paintball
This is a great way to introduce the sport to a kid. It is a game-changer for families with young children who want to experience the excitement of paintball without the pain. By using smaller paintballs, the gear is lighter and more manageable for younger players to hold and shoot while also reducing the sting when they get hit.
With Low Impact Paintballs being 50 caliber, compared to the standard 68 caliber paintballs, you can enjoy the thrill of paintball without the intensity of the pain caused by regular paintballs.
The best option is to invest in protective gear, which we will touch on later in this article.
Finding the Best Paintball Gun for Kid
This is a straightforward and surefire way to get a better idea of what paintball gun is going to be the best for your kid. Go to your local paintball field and take advantage of their rentals. It is more than likely they will have protective gear for rent as well. If this is looking like a sport that your kid wants to stick with, they will be dreaming about their own getup. You’re starting out great by checking our recommendations!
Considerations for All Young Player Paintball Guns
- Choose the right size and weight for your child
- Age and strength can help determine the level of ease
- Look for durable and reliable models that can withstand rough play
- Opt for models with easy-to-use features and minimal recoil
- Consider the power and accuracy needed for their skill level
- Paintball guns need to be cleaned and maintained, some can be more detailed than others
Tip for Young Players Picking a Paintball Gun
Let’s have a chat with the youngin’ who is about to delve into this world of fun. Hey! We know that it can be exciting to get all of your own gear, uniform, and marker. Just know that the “coolest-looking” doesn’t mean it will be the “coolest-acting” come showtime. Remember that you can always customize it and make it your awesome rig. Can’t wait to see you on the field!
Now back to business…
3 Best Paintball Guns for Kids
You can think of your options as if you’re choosing between the Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC of paintball guns. There are, of course, the Mercedes, Audi, and Cadillac options, but is that really going to be your kid’s first car? Paintball guns get more advanced, like your Lambo’s and Bentley’s, with all of their bells and whistles. This sport can become an investment, and a good chunk of it is for your kid’s safety.
Ask your local paintball community what paintball guns their kids use. It’s very likely that they will mention one of the following.
JT SplatMaster Z200
If you’re looking for paintball guns that are designed for children, you might want to check out Paintball Soft and Splatmaster. These guns are smaller and lighter than standard paintball markers, with a .50 caliber size that’s only half the size of a standard .68 caliber paintball. This means that they have less impact upon breakage, making them a safer option for kids over six years old who want to try out the sport.
Splatmaster air guns are an excellent option for the youngest first-time players. Unlike other paintball guns, they don’t require a compressed air tank. Instead, they use a pump action spring firing mechanism to propel the paintball with less velocity. This means that they have the most minor impact of any air gun on the market today.
Drawbacks
- These really aren’t built to last and most likely won’t make it past a year of use
- The thrill can be underwhelming due to inaccuracy. Depending on the manufacturer, the point of contact is less than 50 feet.
- When it comes down to it, you are essentially buying a plastic toy. This makes it affordable and super lightweight but not durable at all.
Tippmann Cronus
The Tippmann brand can honestly do no wrong. Their extensive lineup of beginner-friendly paintball guns is a significant wow factor. But many experienced players will agree that they are all very comparable, aside from some cosmetic changes.
Paintball guns are ranked according to their ease of use, recoil, and affordability. In addition to that, it can be modified with additional rails, and it is compatible with both liquid CO2 and compressed air. It can also be customized with additional rails and works with both liquid CO2 and compressed air.
Drawbacks
- The accuracy is sub-par and will most likely need an upgraded stock
- These upgrades add extra weight
- Accessories tend to be lower quality compared to other brands
- Another drawback that takes us back to having the “coolest-looking”, it looks tactical and awesome, but that doesn’t make it the absolute best pick for you!
Quick Specs
- Mechanical
- Shrouds
- Stocks
- Adjustable slide
- More “hunter” like style
- Super comfortable grip
HK Army Sabr
This beginner’s gun is packed with features that will give you an edge on the field. The SABR boasts a quick-release Delrin bolt, aluminum construction, and internal air transfer, making it a great entry-level option.
What sets the SABR apart from its competitors is its unique air transfer system. Unlike other guns that require a braided hose or macroline, the SABR’s air transfer is within the front ergonomic grip frame. This not only makes it more comfortable to hold but also more efficient.
Another advantage of the SABR is that it’s completely mechanical, which means you can use either CO2 or compressed air tanks to power it. The gun features an aluminum double-finger trigger and a 12-inch Autococker threaded barrel with porting for accurate and quiet firing. The adjustable feedneck allows you to secure your paintball loader onto the top of this marker, while dual breech detents ensure that double firing won’t occur.
Unfortunately, the air inefficiency cannot be overcome, making it difficult to use in big games with long hours of gameplay requiring 800 to 1000 shots.
Drawbacks
- Paintball breakage and chopping issues
- Needs adjustment to perform its best
- Not the best for a kid that wants those bells and whistles
- Becomes loose quickly and needs the bolts tightened
Quick Specs
- Mechanical
- Same price point as Tippmann Cronus
- Very lightweight
- Velocity adjustment
- Super easy clean
- Sleek and stylish over the Cronus.
Final Thoughts on the Best Paintball Gun for Kids
We mentioned our top picks for paintball guns that prioritize safety, ease of use, durability, and affordability. With features like low-impact and lightweight designs, these guns ensure a safe and exciting paintball experience for young players.
Let your kids embark on unforgettable paintball adventures with peace of mind. Watch as they create vibrant masterpieces on the battlefield, forming lifelong memories and strengthening bonds. With our top picks, their paintball journey is set to be an exhilarating and joy-filled ride they’ll never forget. Get ready for laughter, camaraderie, and endless fun!
Best Paintball Guns for Kids FAQ
Do paintballs stain clothing?
If you’re worried about paintball stains, don’t be. As long as you wash your clothes properly, they should come out clean. Most paintball fields use paintballs that won’t stain clothing and are easy to wash out. However, it’s still a good idea to wear darker clothes just in case.
What’s the difference between mechanical and electric?
The main differences between the two types of paintball guns are their firing mechanisms and level of complexity. Electric guns offer more control and precision, while mechanical guns may be more straightforward and reliable.
What’s the best beginner paintball gun?
The best beginner paintball guns are lightweight, easy to carry, accurate, powerful, sturdy, and easy to clean.
