Beginners frequently wonder what paintball ammo is, whether they’re getting ready for their first match or simply curious about the sport.
In this post, we’ll look at what paintball ammo is, how it works, what it’s made of, and the different types you could find. If you’re new to the game, this breakdown will help you make smarter decisions and play more confidently.
What is paintball ammo?
Paintball ammo refers to the round projectiles used in paintball markers (also known as paintball guns).
These are commonly called paintballs, and they’re the core of every game. Unlike traditional bullets or metal pellets, paintballs are designed to be soft and safe for recreational use.
They’re filled with brightly colored dye and are made to burst on impact, marking your opponent without causing serious harm.
What are paintballs made of?
Paintballs may appear to be straightforward capsules, but their design is carefully thought out for both safety and performance.
A. Outer shell
The shell is usually made of gelatin or biodegradable materials. It’s soft enough to break on impact but strong enough to survive being loaded and fired from the gun.
B. Inner filling
Inside the shell is a non-toxic, water-soluble dye. This dye comes in bright colors and washes out easily from clothing and gear.
C. Eco-friendly and safe
Modern paintballs are designed to be environmentally safe and biodegradable. They won’t harm the field, the players, or your gear, as long as they’re appropriately stored and used within their shelf life.
Types of paintball ammo
Not all paintballs are the same. Here are the most common types you’ll find:
1. Standard paintballs (.68 caliber)
These are the most widely used paintballs in recreational and tournament play. They work with most paintball markers and deliver a solid, visible splatter.
2. Low-impact paintballs (.50 caliber)
Slightly smaller and gentler, these are perfect for kids, beginners, or indoor fields. They hurt less on impact and reduce the risk of bruising.
3. Reusable paintballs (rubber or foam)
Made for training or specialized fields, these don’t break on impact. They can be picked up and reused, which makes them cost-effective for certain scenarios.
4. Specialty rounds (First strike, glow-in-the-dark, etc.)
Some fields or advanced players use high-performance rounds like First Strike (for long-range accuracy) or glow-in-the-dark paintballs for night games.
How does paintball ammo work during the game?
When you load your paintballs into the hopper or magazine of your paintball marker, they’re fed into the firing chamber one at a time.
When you pull the trigger:
- Compressed air or CO₂ is released
- The paintball is pushed forward
- It exits the barrel at high speed, ideally hitting your target and bursting on impact
Your ammo’s quality directly affects your accuracy, reliability, and even how often your marker jams—so it’s more important than many beginners think.
Choosing the right paintball ammo
Not all paintballs are created equal. Here’s how to make the right choice:
A. Match the ammo to your marker
Check your marker’s specifications. Most standard markers use .68 caliber, but low-impact markers need .50 caliber rounds.
B. Consider the playing environment
- Indoor fields may require low-impact ammo
- Some outdoor fields allow specialty rounds
- Always check with the field beforehand
C. Price vs. quality
Cheap paintballs often have thinner shells or inconsistent shapes, which leads to misfires or barrel breaks. Spending a little more on mid-to-high-quality paintballs is usually worth it.
How to store paintball ammo properly?
Paintballs are sensitive to heat, moisture, and rough handling. Here’s how to keep them in good condition:
- Store at room temperature (around 50–70°F or 10–21°C)
- Avoid humidity—keep them dry and sealed
- Rotate them occasionally to prevent flat spots
For the best benefits, use them within three to six months.
- If paintballs become damaged, fragile, or sticky, it’s time to get rid of them.
Conclusion
So, what is paintball ammo? Simply put, it’s the soft, dye-filled ammunition used in paintball guns. From standard .68 caliber rounds to low-impact and specialty paintballs, there’s a wide variety to choose from depending on your skill level, equipment, and style of play.
Choosing the right ammo and taking care of it properly can dramatically improve your paintball experience. Whether you’re playing casually with friends or competing seriously, it all starts with understanding your gear—and that includes your paintballs.