Differences Between Paintball and Airsoft

On the surface, airsoft and paintball look very similar. But if you pay close attention to the sports, you will find a lot of differences between the two. The differences include the types of guns, cost to play and other equipment used in the sports.

Guns

Airsoft guns look like real weapons while paintball weapons are just markers. In airsoft, guns are powered by rechargeable batteries. In paintball, to load the ammunition into the gun, a large hopper is used. But in airsoft, realistic guns and magazines are used. Magazines are easier to store, carry and reload. On the other hand, paintball uses rather bulky hoppers.

Cost

Airsoft is less expensive because the guns require less maintenance. The batteries that power the guns are rechargeable. You will save money in airsoft when it comes to purchasing the attire, gear and accessories. To purchase the same type of accessories in paintball, you may end up spending 3 times the amount. Paintball guns use co2. If you run out of co2 and want to continue playing, you need to purchase more co2.

Usability

In airsoft, you have to constantly wind the magazines. As a result, you may find it a bit difficult to load the magazines. Airsoft uses smaller guns and they are easy to maneuver with. For different scenarios, different types of airsoft guns are available. In paintball, it is easy to load through pods that are carried by pod packs. Larger paintballs require a large hopper.

Team playing

Airsoft is a sport in which individual playing is encouraged. You can do just fine if you are not a good team player. On the other hand, you will do better in paintball if you work in a team. You are encouraged to work as a team. But keep in mind that you can play either sport in either way.

Realism

In airsoft, players can either rent or buy their guns, BBs and camo jackets. The sport uses realistic equipment and clothing. Game scenarios are realistic. In paintball, game scenarios are realistic, but you can choose any type of paintball. The targets are marked with paintballs when particular targets are hit. You can use similar tactics in both sports because the scenarios are almost similar. The pace of paintball is faster than that of airsoft.

Both airsoft and paintball can be fun and both sports pose great challenges. Some people prefer airsoft while some prefer the other. The best way know which sport is a better fit for you is to try them both. Go out, play the sports and you will be able to know the differences.