ISU Bengal

Issue date: 2/21/07 Section: Outdoor

Media Credit: Samantha Evans P.A.S.S. Paintball located on South 5th just past Century High School

Media Credit: Samantha Evans A view of the indoor arena at P.A.S.S. Paintball.

Who hasn't tried paintball? While active paintballers may voice this question, there are many people who have never played. Sure paintballing can leave a guy with a few welts at the end of the day, but what a fun way to relieve stress caused by endless nights studying for that horrendous mid-term!

Paintball games are played by millions of people worldwide. There are people at levels of competition from novice to professional. Played primarily outdoors, there are dozens of types of games that paintballers regularly participate in, depending on the number of players and type of terrain they are playing in. Some of the most common games played are free-for-all, capture the flag, and team elimination.

While paintballers most often use paintball guns, there are at least a couple of less expensive alternatives for paintball markers. You can get a blowgun that shoots paintballs for less than $20. A slingshot will also work, and cost you less than the blowgun. In addition to the initial savings, you will likely save a lot on paint because most people go through a bunch of paintballs in a hurry with the readily available automatic paintball guns. Many people also enjoy the added challenge of using a blowgun or slingshot, although you won't likely be much of a match for opponents using the automatic markers.

If you want to give paintball a try, I recommend you start out by renting a gun (you can rent one pretty cheap from several local places), or going with a blowgun or slingshot to begin. Be sure to use protective wear! (Paintball masks are often provided when you rent a gun.)

Locals in and around Pocatello have access to a paintball experience and opportunity that few people in Idaho have. That is the opportunity to play in an indoor paintball arena. P.A.S.S. (Paintball and Airsoft Super Store) opened its doors last fall, and comes complete with a large indoor arena as well as two outdoor fields. You'll be amazed at their inventory of guns, gear and accessories. They offer family discounts and cater to all kinds of groups. P.A.S.S. may not be the only place in town to buy or rent paintball and airsoft equipment, but it surely is the most comprehensive.

You can get there by taking south 5th in Pocatello, just past Century High School, you can't miss it. If you are even interested in learning more or watching, you should definitely pay a visit! You can also visit them on the web at http://www.gotadrenalin.com or give them a call at (208) 232-6900.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools