If you’re new to the world of paintball, you’ve probably heard people refer to the colorful ammunition as pellets, bullets, or even balls. But what is the correct term?
In paintball, accuracy in terminology is important—not just for sounding like a pro, but also for understanding the sport better. So, what are paintball pellets really called? Let’s clear up the confusion.
The Correct Term: Paintballs
The proper name for paintball ammunition is “paintballs.” They are small, spherical capsules filled with a water-soluble dye and covered by a thin gelatin shell. The most common size is .68 caliber, though there are also smaller versions like .50 caliber used in low-impact games.
The term “paintball” comes directly from the sport itself, and it’s what players, fields, and equipment manufacturers universally recognize. Unlike pellets used in air rifles, paintballs are designed to burst on impact and mark an opponent with paint.
Common Misconceptions
Many beginners mistakenly call paintballs pellets or bullets. This makes sense, since the word “pellet” is often used for ammunition in air guns and BB guns. However, there are key differences:
- Paintballs are not solid—they are fragile, gelatin capsules that break on impact.
- They are non-lethal—designed for sport, not for hunting or defense.
- They are larger than typical pellets used in firearms or air rifles.
Using the correct term avoids confusion and helps new players quickly learn the language of the game.
What Are Paintballs Made Of?
Paintballs are carefully designed to be safe, eco-friendly, and easy to clean. They consist of:
- Outer shell—Made from gelatin (similar to what’s used in medicine capsules), which is safe to ingest in small amounts.
- Filling—A mixture of non-toxic, water-soluble dye that washes out of clothing and off skin.
- Eco-friendly materials—Most paintballs are biodegradable so that they won’t harm the environment after a match.
This makes them very different from traditional pellets or bullets, which are often metal-based and harmful if misused.
Variations of Paintballs
While standard paintballs are the most widely used, there are a few variations:
- Standard paintballs—gelatin shell with dye filling, used in most recreational and competitive games.
- Reusable rubber paintballs—Solid rubber balls that don’t break; often used for training or target practice.
- Powder balls—Instead of liquid dye, they release a puff of powder on impact.
These variations are still referred to as “paintballs,” not pellets.
Why Terminology Matters
Using the correct terminology has several benefits:
- Clear communication—you’ll understand instructions better when playing or renting gear.
- Avoiding confusion—beginners won’t mistake paintball for other shooting sports like airsoft or BB guns.
- Safety and rules—Proper language ensures everyone is on the same page regarding equipment and gameplay.
Conclusion:
So, what are paintball pellets called? The answer is simple—they’re called paintballs.
While many beginners use the word “pellets,” the official and widely accepted term is “paintballs.” They’re soft, biodegradable, and designed for safe, thrilling gameplay.
Next time you step onto the field, remember: it’s not about shooting pellets or bullets—it’s about launching paintballs and having fun while playing responsibly.
