What is in Paintballs?

Have you ever wondered what exactly is inside the small, colorful balls used in paintball? The answer may be surprising, especially when you think about the intense color stains they leave behind. In this article, we take a closer look at the composition of paintball pellets, dispel some myths and give you a few practical tips for your next game.

The shell - what are paintball pellets made of?

Paintball pellets look and feel like small gelatine capsules. In fact, the shell of these balls is made of a layer of gelatine, similar to capsules used for medicines. Gelatin is biodegradable and environmentally friendly, making it the perfect choice for an outdoor game like paintball. This gelatin shell is designed to be strong enough not to break during transportation, but at the same time will burst upon impact with a target.

However, this casing is sensitive to moisture and heat, which is why paintball pellets should be stored in a cool, dry place. A simple tip: store your paintball pellets in a cool place, especially in summer, to maximize their shelf life.

The filling - what's inside?

Inside the paintball is a colored liquid that leaves a clear mark when it hits a target. This liquid usually consists of polyethylene glycol (PEG), a non-toxic substance that is also found in cosmetics and food. This means that paintball pellets are neither harmful nor toxic - so you don't have to worry if the paint lands on your clothes or skin.

The coloring itself is created with food coloring, which is also harmless. The aim is to create a liquid that washes off easily and leaves no permanent stains. Nevertheless, you should wear old or dark clothing to be on the safe side, as the coloring is sometimes difficult to remove from light-colored fabrics.

Environmental aspects - Are paintball pellets environmentally friendly?

A common myth is that paintball pellets are harmful to the environment. The truth is that high-quality paintball pellets are completely biodegradable. The gelatine shell and the non-toxic PEG in the filling decompose in the open air and leave no harmful residue. Nevertheless, it is advisable to rinse off larger paint stains on plants or floors with water after a paintball game in order to protect nature as much as possible.

Tips for the correct handling of paintball pellets

Now that you know more about the composition of paintball pellets, here are a few practical tips for handling them:

• Storage: make sure to store your balls in a dry and cool place to prevent them from deforming or cracking.
• Avoid pressure points: Paintball pellets are sensitive to pressure. If you transport them in your backpack, make sure they are not squashed.
• Check balls after each game: Paintballs can lose their shape or dry out due to the effects of temperature. Check them before each game to make sure they are in good condition.

Conclusion: Enjoy paintball without worry

Paintball is an exciting sport, and now you know you don't have to worry about the balls. The materials are environmentally friendly, non-toxic and designed to leave no marks after the game. If you follow the storage instructions and pay a little attention to care, you can enjoy every paintball game to the fullest.

So, put on your protective mask, grab your marker and get ready for the next game - now with the knowledge that the little balls are safe and environmentally friendly!