The History of Paintball

Introduction

Paintball, a relatively new extreme sport, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1960s. Originally, paintballs weren’t used for sport at all. The Nelson Paint Company created paint-filled balls to mark objects like cattle or trees from a distance, coining the term “paintball markers” rather than guns. Let’s explore how this unique tool evolved into the competitive, adrenaline-packed sport we know today.

History of Paintball

The Birth of Paintballs and Paintball Markers

The first paintballs were created by the Nelson Paint Company, filled with paint encased in a gelatin shell. To fire these paintballs, the company developed custom CO₂ pistols, which ranchers and foresters used to mark livestock and trees, respectively. This is why, even today, paintball guns are often called “markers.”

Key Milestone: 1987

In paintball history, 1987 was a pivotal year. During this time, new products and innovations reshaped the sport. Barrel blocking devices, like the paintball muzzle plug, were introduced, along with the first paintball grenades. This period marked a transition as paintball equipment evolved from a small cottage industry to a larger, more organized sport.

The First Paintball Gun: The Nel-Spot 007

Charles Nelson, the co-founder of the Nelson Paint Company, developed the first paintball gun in the mid-1960s to mark trees and cattle. Originally manufactured by Crosman and later by Daisy, this paintball gun, known as the Nel-Spot 007, played a critical role in paintball’s early days. Players would have to recock the gun after each shot, limiting the gun to dozens of shots before refilling, but its sturdy design allowed for strategic gameplay. This “pump paintball” style emphasized skill over speed, a style still appreciated by some players today.

The First Game of Paintball: 1981

The first paintball game took place in 1981, set up by Charles Gaines, Hayes Noel, and Bob Gurnsey. The game’s goal was simple: capture the flag. Twelve players, including a surgeon, an amateur boxer, and a venture capitalist, took to an 80-acre cross-country field with four flag stations and 48 flags. Ritchie White, a forester, won the game without firing a single paintball, relying solely on stealth and strategy. This historic game, documented by a magazine reporter, helped spark national and international interest in paintball.

The Rise of National Paintball Organizations

Bob Gurnsey went on to form the National Survival Game (NSG), the first paintball organization. Working with the Nelson Paint Company, Gurnsey marketed paintball equipment and set up organized fields, leading to the rise of other paintball companies and a rapid expansion of the sport. The initial 12-gram air cylinders on the markers were soon upgraded to larger tanks with more air capacity, allowing for longer play.

Paintballs evolved as well. The oil-based paintballs of the 1980s gave way to the modern, eco-friendly, water-based paintballs made from a mixture of vegetable oil and silicone.

The Official Term “Paintball” Takes Hold

Originally referred to as the “National Survival Game,” the sport quickly became popular. By 1984, the name had evolved to “paintball.” New innovations, such as water-based paintballs and mass-produced paintball markers, allowed for a more accessible, refined experience for players.

The Popularity Boom in the 1980s

The 1980s marked paintball’s true boom. With equipment improvements and organized tournaments, paintball rapidly gained a following. By 1987, the sport was well-established, with specialized gear like masks, guns, and protective clothing readily available, allowing enthusiasts of all ages to play.

Why Paintball Guns Are Called “Markers”

The term “marker” is rooted in paintball’s origins. Charles Nelson’s paint-filled balls were initially used to mark trees for cutting. The U.S. Forestry Department commissioned Nelson to develop a marking system for foresters, who needed to label trees from a distance. This historical purpose lives on in the name “marker,” which remains in use today.

Conclusion

Since its humble beginnings in the 1960s, paintball has transformed from a practical marking tool into an internationally recognized sport. Today, paintball is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with equipment ranging from high-tech guns and protective gear to custom-built paintball fields. With options for both outdoor and indoor gameplay, paintball continues to offer players a unique blend of strategy, skill, and thrill.

Additional Reading

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