Airsoft vs Paintball: What Hurts More & Why?

We take a deep dive to compare airsoft and paintball and determine which hurts more. Today, airsoft and paintball are two of the most popular combat simulating activities, and this debate is often brought up.

Background on Airsoft and Paintball

Both airsoft and paintball are team-based outdoor combat games. Airsoft is often referred to as the more realistic version of paintball, and utilizes weapons that fire 6mm plastic pellets, whereas paintball uses a compressed air to fire a water soluble paint. In terms of armor, airsoft typically uses protective facial masks or full head protection, while the armor used in paintball is usually more militaristic.

Pain Level or "Hurt-Factor"

The general consensus is that airsoft generally hurts more than paintball. This is because paintball projectiles are much larger and therefore spread the impact across a larger surface area. Paintball markers also tend to fire at a lower velocity than airsoft, so the projectiles reach are lower speeds and also lessen the overall impact. The key factor at play here is the size of the projectile - Paintballs are almost double the size of the 6mm plastic pellets from airsoft.

Airsoft:

When fired at close range, airsoft can be quite painful as small plastic BBs deliver a sharper impact than paintball. Airsoft typically uses a longer ranged marker than Paintball, meaning the projectiles cover more ground before hitting their target.

Paintball:

The main difference between paintball and airsoft is the size of the projectile, as paintball uses larger projectiles that spread out the impact. This means that paintball hurts less than airsoft overall, due to the larger surface area impact. Paintball is also generally played at a much closer range, so the impact is usually cushioned with the clothing and armor.

Safety Equipment Used for each Sport

Safety equipment is an important factor when considering the overall hurt-factor. Airsoft usually requires the use of face masks or full face protection to prevent injury from the projectiles. In Paintball, face masks are also used, as well as more militaristic body armor.

Final Word

Airsoft generally hurts more than paintball and is often considered to be more "realistic" as it uses a more accurate weapon. It is important to consider the type of safety equipment that is used when further discussing the hurt-factor of each sport. Both airsoft and paintball are popular low-impact combat simulation activities, and with the right safety equipment they can be enjoyed safely.