• Paintball Markers for Beginners

    Beginning anything new is exciting, however, it can also be overwhelming. You have a lot of knowledge to gain, skills to master, and muscles to train. This is especially true for paintball. When starting to play paintball at AC Paintball, one of the first decisions you have to make is which marker you want to use.

    AC Paintball Options

    With dozens to hundreds of options, this task can seem difficult. Luckily, AC Paintball in southern New Jersey has made it easy for you by only offering two options. This includes the Tippmann Custom 98 and the Valken V-Tac SW-1. Both of these paintball guns are great options for beginners. They are reliable and can do what you need them to do without being too complex.

    What to Consider When Buying Your Own Gun

    If you prefer to buy your own paintball gun to play at AC Paintball near Atlantic City, New Jersey here are some important aspects to think about.

    How Often You Will Play

    Even if you are new to paintball, you probably have some idea about how often you intend on playing. If your friend who plays often asked you to join their team, you will likely play often. In this case, you will likely want to invest in a higher-end paintball marker. This way you can keep up with other experienced players that you may be facing.

    On the other hand, if you only plan on playing a couple times, you may want to settle for a marker that is just good enough for you to keep up with everyone else. A fairly simple marker can also allow you to focus primarily on your AC Paintball game rather than worrying about how to use your gun.

    Your Budget

    When making any sort of purchase, it is always a good idea to set a budget. Doing so can help you stay focused on your goal. It can be fairly easy to get caught up in fancy paintball guns and end up spending more than you wanted. If you have a budget in mind, you can narrow your options and make the paintball gun buying process simpler.

    Types

    There are three different types of paintball guns. These include pump, mechanically operated, and electro-pneumatic. Pumps require manual operation and have a slower firing rate.  Mechanically operated guns are the most common as they are simple to use and fairly effective. Electro-pneumatic markers are the most effective but are more tricky to operate. For the most part, you will likely want to use the same type that your teammates and opponents are using to keep your AC Paintball game fair and even.

    Your Paintball Interests

    As a beginner, you will likely want to try out different roles and games to figure out what you like. However, you may also already have an idea what role you want to play and what games you prefer. If this is your case, you should get a gun that can help you excel at what you need to do. For example, if you want to be a sniper, you should get a marker that can shoot far accurately. If you like playing in the woods, consider a camouflaged gun. By choosing a marker that complements your role, you can be more successful during your AC Paintball game.

    AC Paintball Regulations

    If you are going to buy your own paintball marker, you want to ensure that you are going to be able to use it during your AC Paintball game. At AC Paintball our marker limit is 280fps. The maker also cannot be fully automatic.

    Reputation

    Finally, you will want to consider the marker’s reputation. Do some research and find out what markers experienced paintball player recommend. If many players like a certain gun, there is a good chance that you would like it a lot too.

    Safety Tips

    One of the most important aspects to know when playing paintball is how to play safely. It is important to follow the rules to ensure that no one gets hurt. Here are some brief tips.

    • Never point your marker at someone’s face who doesn’t have a mask on.
    • Never point your gun at anyone that is not part of the game.
    • If it is raining, keep your gun dry.
    • Test your maker before your AC Paintball game to make sure it is working.
    • If you have your own gun, make sure it is clean and properly maintained.
    • If you have any questions or concerns about your marker, ask them before the game.

    Before your AC Paintball game, you will watch a safety video with more information. Be sure to follow the rule and have a fun time.

    Tips for Playing

    Finally, once you have chosen your marker and learned how to use it safely, it is time to use it effectively. Here are some tips on how to do so.

    • Test your marker before your game. Learn how it shoots so you can adjust your aim during your game.
    • Take your time to aim. While it can be fun to fire rapidly at random, taking an extra second or two to aim more accurately will be more effective.
    • Work on building up your arm muscles so your arms don’t get tired and affect your game.
    • Keep your gun as dry as possible when it’s raining to keep a good grip.
    • Make sure you have enough paintballs before the game begins.
    • Continue to learn and adapt to your marker.

    Being a beginner can be intimidating, but once you learn the basics you are sure to have a great time playing at AC Paintball in southern New Jersey.

  • Best Paintball Games For Beginners

    When you visit AC Paintball near Atlantic City, New Jersey there are a variety of games you can play. If you heard a list of all the different ways you can play paintball, you might get overwhelmed. On top of that, learning all the rules and techniques can make things even more complicated. That is why it is a good idea to start out with a simple game if you are a beginner.

    If you are looking for a simple game to start out with, AC Paintball is here to help. Below you will find five different paintball games that are great for beginners. Keeping it simple allows you to learn the basics of paintball before you get into complicated rules.

    Speedball

    Speedball is one of the most common and simple game types for paintball. It is the style used in paintball tournaments and the style most people think of when they think of paintball. The rules are fairly simple. If you get hit with a paintball, you are out of the game. Then whichever team’s player is left remaining at the end, wins the game.

    AC Paintball’s Speedball tournament field is the best place for a speedball game. It meets tournament standards and has a variety of different bunkers. It is a great spot to learn how to play paintball for the first time.

    Capture-The-Flag

    Capture-the-Flag is slightly more complicated than speedball, but it is also a common game people have played, even if it wasn’t in a paintball setting. The elimination rules are the same as speedball unless you choose to get creative and change the rules. However, there is an extra factor in this game. Your team has to claim a flag set up in the middle of the AC Paintball field and make it back to your home base safely to win the game.

    AC Paintball’s Black Ops Pentagon Woods field, Blue Thunder Woods field or Ultimate Battlezone field are the best choices for a Capture-the-Flag game.

    Center-Flag-Push

    Center-Flag-Push is just like Capture-the-Flag, but with a twist. Instead of bringing the flag back to your home base, you have to take the flag to your opponent’s home base instead. The rules are simple to remember, but the goal is more difficult to meet.

    When you play Capture-the-Flag, you are coming back to an area where your teammates will defend you.  However, in Center-Flag-Push, you have to go into your opponents’ area where you will become a target. If you want more of a challenge after getting a game or two under your belt, this is a good game to move on to.  

    Defend-the-Castle

    Defend-the-Castle also has the same elimination rules as speedball, but instead of being scattered across the AC Paintball field, the action is focused on one specific area. In this game, one team must defend the fort or castle while the other team tries to attack it. If the defenders eliminate all of the attacks, then the castle is saved and the defenders win. On the other hand, if the attackers eliminate all of the defenders, then the attack was successful and that team wins.

    AC Paintball’s Black Ops Pentagon field is one of the best field choices for a Defend-the-Castle game type as the focus of the field is a pentagon of military drop tank bunkers.

    Games with Medics

    If you bring a group to AC Paintball that has both beginners and experienced players, you will likely want to look for ways to even the playing field. Otherwise, the experienced players will eliminate the beginners quickly and the game won’t be as fun for everyone.

    One way to even the playing field is to play a game with medics. Medics can be used in almost any type of paintball game. Medics can “heal” players who have been hit by their opponent. This way players don’t have to leave the game. Instead, they just stay in the place where they got hit and wait for a medic. Using medics is a great way to make sure everyone gets a chance to play despite their skill level.

    Schedule a Game at AC Paintball Now!

    Ready to try out your first paintball game? Schedule a session at AC Paintball now! You can do so on AC Paintball’s website here: https://acpaintball.com/schedule-paintball-game/. Alternatively, you can call 609-561-3883. We hope to see you soon!

  • 9 Paintball Tips For Kids

    paintball birthday eventPaintball isn’t just for adults. Kids can be talented and skilled players too. At AC Paintball in southern New Jersey, our player age limit is 10 and up. We also host many children’s birthday parties throughout the year. Whether you or your child has been invited to an AC Paintball party or has just become interested in paintball, AC Paintball has some great tips for you.

    Dress Appropriately

    When you play paintball, it is important that you dress appropriately. Before you even leave your home, you will want to make sure you have an appropriate outfit for your day at AC Paintball. Make sure your clothing is easy to move in. You may also want to consider some padding to soften the blow when you get hit by a paintball. You will also need footwear that is easy to run in. You will be doing plenty of running during your day at AC Paintball.

    Don’t forget to check the weather forecast as well. If it rains you may want dry clothing to change into afterward. Being prepared for the weather will help you be comfortable so you can play better.

    Check Your Gear and Equipment

    Once you choose your gear at AC Paintball, you will want to check your gear. Make sure your mask is securely on your face, but not too tight. Make sure any padding you are using is secure as well. Bringing gloves can help you grip your gun and also protect your hands.

    You will also want to test your marker to make sure it is functioning properly. Testing it will also help you determine where a paintball will go when you shoot it and allow you to adjust your aim. Just make sure you are testing your marker in a safe area of the AC Paintball field and not aiming at anyone without protective gear.

    Warm Up

    You may be eager to jump right into your AC Paintball game, but it is important to warm up first. Stretch and jog a few laps before the game starts to help make sure you don’t hurt yourself. Also, make sure you have a healthy snack for fuel and drink enough water to stay hydrated.

    Be Aware of Your Surroundings

    When playing paintball, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. By being aware of your surroundings, you can more easily sneak up on your opponent’s and avoid getting hit. You should both look around and listen for movement. When looking, try to keep your vision lower to the ground, about knee level. This will improve your chances of spotting an opponent as some may be crawling on the ground. Then listen for rustling foliage, footsteps or people talking.

    The more aware you are of your surroundings, the more time you have to react and create a plan to avoid harm or surprise your opponents.

    Communicate, But Know When To Be Quiet

    Paintball is a team sport. If your team struggles to communicate about plans of action, it can be difficult to win the AC Paintball game. Your team should have a plan before going into the game. Then, if you have to adjust that plan based on your opponent’s plan, you should tell your teammates what you plan on doing. Then you can figure out how to pull off this plan together.

    However, it is also important to be quiet. If you yell across the AC Paintball field to your teammates, you will give away your position on the field as well as your plan. Instead, you can use hand signals, Walkie-Talkies, codewords, and other communication techniques. If the timing isn’t right, stay completely quiet.

    new jersey speedball paintball fieldKnow How To Use the Bunkers

    There are many bunkers available to use around all of AC Paintball fields. If you think strategically, you can use them to your advantage. Before the game figure out how you can use the bunkers to get from one place to another safely.

    Also, know how to shoot at someone from behind a bunker without getting hit back. Try to keep as much of your body behind the bunker as possible, and only poke your head out from behind for a few seconds at a time. This will decrease your chances of getting hit.

    Don’t Be Afraid, Take Some Chances

    If you are new to paintball, the game can seem pretty intimidating. Paintballs fly at you at high speeds, and everything is fast-paced. Don’t be afraid, though. Yes, getting hit with a paintball may sting quite a bit, but it will heal and you will get more used to the impact. You may be tempted to play things safe at first and that is okay, but you may find that you can be more successful when you take more chances. Keep trying and trust in your abilities and you will improve.

    Don’t Tire Yourself Out Too Quickly

    It can be easy to get excited about playing paintball with your friends and family. You may want to run as fast as you can and shoot as much as you can right away. This can tire you out quickly, though. AC Paintball sessions are 4 hours long and your equipment will begin to feel heavy if you use all of your energy too early. Pace yourself and take a few breaks to help ensure you still have some energy by the end of your AC Paintball session.

    Be Friendly and Have Fun!

    Finally, the most important tip is to have fun! Your day at AC Paintball should be an exciting and enjoyable experience. Try to relax, be yourself, and make some good memories with your friends and family.

  • Tips for Looking More Like a Pro When You Are a Beginner

    texture2When you first start out with any new activity, you likely won’t be as good as the professionals the first time you try. Paintball is no exception. Professionals have had years of practice and have learned dozens or even hundreds of tips and tricks. They know what aspects to pay attention to and how to look out for trouble.

    If you are a beginner among experienced players, however, you will likely want to play up to your teammates and opponents level. To do this, you have to do some research and learn some tips, tricks, and lessons beforehand. To help you accomplish this, AC Paintball in southern New Jersey has compiled this list of helpful tips.

    Choose Your Gear Carefully

    The first aspect you should understand is that your equipment can make a big difference. The first piece of equipment you should focus on is your marker. You will want one that is accurate so you are able to successfully eliminate your opponents. Next, you will want to find the right goggles. If the weather is rainy on the day you visit AC Paintball, rain can start to seep into your goggles if they are not tight to your head. This will affect your game by making it difficult to see. You may also want to consider a pair of goggles that are fog resistant.

    Also worth mentioning is clothing. Camouflage will help you hide while you are playing on AC Paintball’s wooded courses. Lightweight clothing will allow you to more easily throughout the day. Also, be sure to wear proper footwear. Sneakers typically work best.

    Aim Properly

    paintball-1278901_960_720If you can’t hit your target, you won’t be able to eliminate your opponents. This is why aiming properly is so important. When shooting, you should center your marker with your body. Look along the top of the barrel to see approximately where the paintball you are about to fire will go. It will also help you stay focused on your target while firing. If you change your focus, you may also change the direction of your aim.

    Also, be sure to test your marker before your AC Paintball game even starts. This way you can learn how to adjust your aim to help ensure you hit your target.

    Don’t Go Crazy with Rapid Fire

    When you are new to paintball, it is easy to get excited with your marker and want to fire rapidly at every opponent that comes your way. However, this is not always the best way to ensure you hit your target. Many markers recoil after you shoot them. This can throw off your aim. It is better to ensure that your first shot hits your target, rather than firing multiple shots that miss. Your supply of paintballs will also last longer this way.

    Be Aware

    The next aspect that can make a difference is your awareness. If you can sense opponents nearby and think ahead of how to deal with them, you can gain the upper hand. It is important to avoid tunnel vision. If you only focus on one thing, you may miss out on opponents nearby who are preparing to shoot at you.

    During your AC Paintball game, you should try to be aware of where your teammates, opponents and even the marshall is at all times. Marshalls typically move toward where they expect firing to happen so they can judge the event more accurately. If you see a marshall move to a certain spot, expect a battle to occur there and use the information to your advantage.

    Use Cover

    south jersey paintball fieldsIf you are standing out in the open, chances are, you won’t be in the AC Paintball game long. Be sure to use the bunkers. Don’t just stay behind the same bunker though. This will make it easier for your opponents to corner you. Try to keep moving from bunker to bunker. If you get stuck and can’t find a hiding space, run. It will be more difficult for your opponents to hit a moving target.

    Communicate

    One paintball aspect you will definitely want to research before you visit AC Paintball is the terminology. There are many different terms paintball players use to refer to different aspects of the game. If you don’t know what your teammates are talking about, you may struggle to help your team be successful.

    Once you know the terminology, be sure to use it and continually communicate throughout your AC Paintball game. Doing so will help your team work together well so you can win the game.

    Be Confident

    Finally, it is important to be confident. If you are timid, you will likely become an easy target. On the other hand, if you are confident, you will likely play better. You will also have to be a bit aggressive and daring. If you don’t take chances, your opponents will be able to predict your moves and use that information against you. Try to think out of the box and be unpredictable. Doing so will help you gain the upper hand in your AC Paintball game.

    Schedule an AC Paintball Game Now!

    Once you feel confident and ready to play, schedule a game at AC Paintball. You can test your skills and learn even more tips and tricks from the other players. Follow this link to schedule a game: https://acpaintball.com/schedule-paintball-game/.

  • Tips for Introducing Your Friend to Paintball

    pokemon-1553995_960_720Introducing another friend or family is a great way to bond with them. You can get away from your electronic devices, get a good workout, and blow off some steam from daily stresses. Some of your friends may get nervous when they hear you ask them to join you though. However, if you can persuade them to give it a try, they may find out that they love it!

    The key is to make their first time playing as fun and enjoyable as possible. Try to make it even better than your first time. AC Paintball in southern New Jersey is here to help with these tips to help you accomplish this task.

    Explain What They Can Expect Their First Time

    Think about times in your life when you have had to do something completely new that you knew little to nothing about. You may have been nervous about unexpected problems popping up or making a big mistake. If your friend is a beginner, it is a good idea to let them know what to expect. Tell them about your first time playing, what you learned, and how they can avoid common mistakes.

    You can even choose an AC Paintball field and game type ahead of time. Show them the field and explain the specific of the game. By getting them into the right mindset, they will be more confident to give paintball a try.

    Attend to Their Concerns

    Your friend may have other concerns other than not knowing what to expect. Be sure to let them vent and help them quell any fears by being supportive. If they are nervous about the pain of getting hit, tell them to wear thick clothing or padding. AC Paintball also has rules and regulations in place to help ensure player’s safety.  You can also let them that they will get used to it.  Paintball may look dangerous, but it actually sees fewer injuries than other popular sports.

    If they are concerned about not being good their first time, let them know that many players make mistakes their first time. That is how you learn and get better. You can also give them some of your tips so they feel like they are ahead of the game. People tend to like doing things they are good at so if your tips make them play well, they may end up liking paintball more.

    Show Them Why You Think Paintball is Fun

    Think about why you like paintball so much. What aspects make it fun to you? Chances are if someone is your friend, you probably have similar tastes and interests. So if you show them what you like about playing at AC Paintball, they may learn to like it as well.

    paintball bacheloretteAlso, almost any experience is more fun when you are with someone who is enjoying themselves. Moods can be contagious, so if you smile and laugh, your good mood may rub off on them. Then they will associate that fun with playing paintball and want to play with you more often.

    Include Things They Like

    Think about your friend’s other interests and try to incorporate those interests into their first AC Paintball game. For example, if they are competitive, give them a challenge during the game. You can even add prizes or bets. If you have a little money to spare have the loser buy the winner dinner or ice cream after the game. If not, just play for titles such as MVP, Best Sniper, or something silly like a largest welt award.

    If they are stylish, let them design or choose a uniform to play in. If they like capture-the-flag or certain scenarios, try to work it into your game. Make up crazy rules to follow and personalize the AC Paintball game to their tastes.

    Bring Other Friends They Are Comfortable With

    One of the reasons you may be trying to get your friend involved is because you want someone familiar to play with. Likewise, adding other people your friend is familiar with will also help them feel more comfortable.

    Playing with people you don’t know can be intimidating for some, especially if they have to play against professional players. Try to play with others on your friend’s level. If you can’t find anyone else to join you and your friend, you can always make friends with other players and staff. The more friends you make, the more fun you can have playing at AC Paintball in Williamstown, New Jersey.