Getting your own paintball gear depends, as with all indulgences, on your available budget. Much like with a car, your paintball equipment will depend on how often you play, the type of field you choose for your battles, and the reloads you'll want (ranging from 100 to 1800)...
If your paintball "fanaticism" doesn't go beyond an occasional game with friends once a month, for example, the most advisable approach is to start at a paintball field near you. Here, they'll provide all the equipment, organise games, and offer advice if you wish to continue your journey in this sport. Here you'll find all the paintball fields and games available in Spain.
However, if you regularly attend paintball battles (always legally organised), start by acquiring a protective mask. This is the first essential item for safe play - preventing shocks or accidents - and the one piece of equipment you must absolutely never play without. Again, which mask you buy depends on your budget, but it should always be anti-fog (to prevent steaming up), easy to disassemble and reassemble (particularly for cleaning), and comfortable enough for unrestricted movement.
One of the best paintball mask brands on the market is Empire. These models are comfortable, lightweight, with thermal anti-fog lenses that can even be swapped for different lens types. They're reasonably priced with excellent quality, though there are many other models like Dye or Angel which feature JT or Proto helmets that also deliver outstanding results.
Regarding which paintball marker to buy, it's best to first practice and observe the types of games played across the country, where you can also get advice before committing to a particular model. It's a considerable investment after all - if you won't use it as much as such an indulgence deserves, you're better off renting equipment when you play.
If you're determined to buy your own gear, also consider all the extras you'll want/need to add to the marker. From electronic loaders to Kevlar bottles... not to mention the licences required for independent paintball play. If playing outside official fields, you'll need authorisation from the Guardia Civil, and must always play in clearly marked, legally approved areas with proper insurance.
Additionally, your marker must pass a chrono/radar test and shouldn't exceed 300 FPS (feet per second), as masks can't withstand impacts above this limit. Furthermore, paintball markers must be legalised as they're considered Category 4 weapons, requiring a firearms certificate.
Compressed air bottles can only be refilled at paintball fields, as transporting pressurised containers is illegal. Typically when you play at a field, your entry fee and/or paintballs include "unlimited air" so you can play without restraint. This is another crucial factor when considering owning paintball equipment.
Remember that for every game, your paintball kit should include:
- Protective mask and lenses.
- Compressed air bottles.
- Marker.
- Loader.
- Squeegee (barrel cleaner).
- Tools: Allen keys and oil.
- PODS (reloaders).
- Game clothing.
- Spare clothing.
In summary: buying your own paintball gear is cost-effective only if you play very, very frequently. If you mainly want fun sessions with friends (even monthly), you're better off booking games at your preferred paintball field whenever the mood strikes. Spain has incredible venues, some with themed settings like the Wild West, guaranteeing endless entertainment.
