For the uninitiated in the realm of paintballing, you may find that you hear the weapon of choice called different things from different players. The main point of confusion comes with deciphering the difference between paintball markers and paintball guns. You have heard those terms used but not know the real difference between them.
Ready for the answer?
Simply put: there is none.
That’s right. None. There is no difference at all between paintball markers and guns beyond the verbiage.
This, of course, begs the question of just why there is one to begin with. Why use more than one term to describe the same thing? That just seems counterproductive and more likely to engender confusion for newcomers.
The reasoning behind the terms is based on the connotations associated with each. If you hear someone say “paintball markers”, you’re more likely to think of someone getting marked with paint. Harmless enough. Hear “paintball guns” and you immediately think of bruising, shooting, and pain. Not exactly the funniest words in the dictionary. So more professionally minded paintball players have shifted their vocabulary to reflect a greater awareness and sensitivity to those unfamiliar with the sport.
Many people unfamiliar with the equipment involved have the misconception that paintball is more dangerous than other popular sports. The most serious injury that it’s been vilified for is eye injury. Studies have produced some conflicting results on this; while some argue that paintball markers account for 20 percent of all sport eye injuries, others have pointed to traditional sports like basketball, baseball, hockey, and racquetball as being the main sources. While eye injuries sustained in paintball are usually very serious, studies have shown that those typically happened in games where the player was not wearing the protective head mask required in all tournaments.
The fact of the matter is that any inherent dangers involving paintball markers are no greater than any other professional sport. Injuries to football players, hockey players, and basketball players are all normal and expected. The only difference for paintball has been the use of the word “gun” and nothing more. Paintball markers can be used for fun or for injury, just like a hockey stick or baseball bat can be. There’s no real difference in terms of risk of injury in paintball than in other sports.
The term itself is derived from the origin of paintball guns, which was to mark trees and wandering cattle. Gaming enthusiasts found this and discovered a way to use them for a fun pastime. The goal of the game is not to injure or harm the other player by any means. The aim from its creation was to create an adrenaline pumping sport that everyone could enjoy. Paintball markers allow players to enjoy the chance to use teamwork, cooperation, and strategy in a safe framework, just like any other team sport.
Tags: basketball baseball, eye injuries, head mask, paintball guns, paintball markers, paintball players, traditional sports