Airsoft and Paintball Guns

Hi - My sons had both and had several friends that had them. You really do need all of the protective gear and lay down the law as far as rules and safety. We lived in a totally different environment then - we had woods all around us and it was at the height of the popularity.

They had a lot of fun going to the courses - it can be expensive to rent gear (not sure if they provide protective or just basic) but could be a good test.

Airsoft are not nearly as painful - but still need to be careful! Education is the key! Good luck

I'm with you when it comes to guns. My older boys (15 & 12) would really like them also. We have no place close/safe for them to be used in our neighborhood. Although there are facilities where the guns and safety equipment can be rent and this satisfies my boys to an extent. I'm not saying this will fix their "want" but it might satisfy it enough to keep the guns out of your household.

I wouldnt allow my kids to have those and I'll tell ya why. My husband and I had one. (long story) Let me tell ya somethin' sister, you get shot with one of those without any protective gear on, THAT HURTS!!! I know first hand. I had a bruise on me that looked like Mike Tyson put it there. I would think if they are interested, just take them once in a while to one of those paintball places. OR, if you do decide to get one, make sure they have all the gear. Pads, helmets, GOGGLES!!! Even getting shot within about 10 feet STINGS LIKE THE DICKENS!!!! Even then, I would supervise and lay down some really BIG RULES!!!
Good Luck to ya!!!
Margaret:)
P.S. If all else fails, just tell them "No, you'll shoot your eye out kid!!!" (Christmas Story)

I have 3 boys, 2 that are in there 20's and 1 that just turned 14. One of my oldest started the paintball thing years ago and went as far as competing in the World Cup Paintball tournament.(Didn't know there was such a thing) One day our whole family went and played. It is quite fun, but you must have all the protective gear. I'm 46 right now and took my son to a paintball party at a paintball field, accidentally got shot in the leg from about 5 feet away and had a huge bruise for 3 weeks. All that said - I would much rather my boys play "anything" outdoors than sit in front of a tv or video game for hours. My 14 yr old has paintball and airsoft. Eye protection is a must! We've had no problems with either one.
L. L.

We have the airsoft guns and they hurt. They are fun, but it hurts. If you get them make your kids wear goggles and a cup. In high school we played paintball alot and it was so much fun. That was back before it is like it is now. I think you should let them play, but have them rent or borrow guns. The paintball thing has gotten a little crazy with how much money people spend and I think your boys would feel pressured to buy the best stuff out there and the price adds up.