Paintballs differ in shell thickness, fill and roundness. Field and practice grades are cheaper with thicker shells; tournament grades are rounder with thinner shells that break more reliably on target. Casual players often shoot several hundred to a few thousand paintballs in a day depending on game style. Store paint cool, dry and sealed, and use it within a season.
Paint quality affects accuracy, breakage and how reliably you mark opponents.
Grades compared
| Grade | Shell | Roundness | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Field | Thicker | Good | Rental and recreational |
| Practice | Medium | Good | Regular play, practice |
| Tournament | Thinner, brittle | Excellent | Competitive play |
How much paint?
| Style | Typical day (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Casual recreational | 500 to 1,000 |
| Woodsball | 1,000 to 2,000 |
| Speedball practice | 2,000 or more |
Storage
- Keep sealed in the bag and box.
- Store at moderate room temperature, away from humidity.
- Rotate the box occasionally.
- Avoid freezing and heat.
Keep your marker clean with our maintenance guide. Browse loaders and paint.
Common questions
Why does paint break in my barrel?
Swollen or misshapen paint, a mismatched barrel bore, or a dirty breech. Store paint properly and match bore to paint size.
Can I use last season's paint?
Old paint can dimple or swell. Check that balls are round and bounce consistently before using.
Do fields require field paint?
Many do. Check before you buy your own.