Which Hurts More Airsoft Or Paintball: A Side By Side Comparison

Paintball and airsoft have grown in popularity over the past few decades, offering intense action and plenty of options for different types of play. While the two sports share many similarities, there are plenty of differences too and one of the most important is how much they hurt. If you've ever been curious to find out which one hurts more, read on to discover the answers for yourself.

Pain Differences

Paintball and airsoft may be similar in many respects, but when it comes to the levels of pain they can cause, they're starkly different. Paintball, typically played with a .68 caliber marker, usually results in welts or bruises with each hit, and generally rates an 8 on the pain scale. Airsoft, on the other hand, is played with pellets that a 4.5mm or 6mm in diameter and usually causes stinging sensations rather than direct pain - usually rating around a 3 or 4 on the pain scale.

Safety Differences

The pain levels experienced by players in either sport also have implications for safety. Because airsoft guns use plastic or resin pellets, the impact of shots is far less likely to cause major injury than paintball shots. That means that while there is still a risk of injury with airsoft, it can be enjoyed in a far more peaceful and secure way than paintball as long as players are rigorously following safety protocols of course!

The Gear

In addition to different levels of pain and safety, the types of gear used for airsoft and paintball can also have a big impact. Paintball guns are much larger and heavier than airsoft guns, making them more difficult and tiring to carry. Paintball guns need to be loaded with paintballs while airsoft guns usually come with a magazine meaning you don't have to worry about re-loading during a game.

Essentials to Minimize Pain

No-one wants to get hurt while playing any sport, and there are several ways that both paintball and airsoft players can protect themselves from too much pain. Wearing appropriate safety gear is absolutely essential for both sports. Paintball players should make sure to wear long-sleeved jumpers and trousers, as well as masks and full-body padding, while airsoft players should opt for T-shirts and headgear made of Kevlar or other strong materials.

Different Uses for the Two Sports

In addition to thinking about how much pain each sport will cause, it's also important to think about the different uses for each one. Paintball is typically played in an arena-style environment, but airsoft is often used for military training simulation and video game-style scenarios. So if you'd rather be shooting your way through realistic military scenarios, airsoft is a better option.

Brief Recap

There are plenty of differences between airsoft and paintball, and it's important for players to think about them before they play. Paintball usually results in bruises and can hurt more than airsoft, but that's not necessarily true for everyone. Both sports involve similar safety protocols, so players should make sure to follow tagged safety gear for both. Airsoft can be used in a more realistic way for military simulations, while paintball is more suited to arena-style play. Knowing the differences can help you to enjoy the sport safely and avoid any unnecessary pain.