This is for the assholes who think I'm posting out of line by asking
questions about equipment capability and behavior...

(pay attention especially to section 3.1)

Contents:

1. About REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Where Can I Get This FAQ?
1.3 What is REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL?
1.4 The R.S.P. Charter

2. All About paintball
2.1 What is Paintball?
2.2 Is Paintball Safe?
2.3 What is the History of Paintball?
2.4 What Resources (books, websites, etc.) Are There To Find Out
More About Paintball?

3. Posting to R.S.P.
3.1 What Topics Can I cover in my Posts?
3.2 Can IPost Ads For Gear I'd Like to Sell?
3.3 Can I Post Advertisements for myPaintball Business?
3.4 How Do I Post A Message Requesting to Buy Paintball Gear?

4. Commonly Asked Questions on R.S.P.
4.1 Which Gun should I Buy?
4.2 What's Better - A 'Mag or a 'Cocker?
4.3 Where Can I Buy Paintball Gear Online?
4.4 What's the Difference between C02 and Nitrogen/Compressed Air?
4.5 What is Team Internet?
4.6 What Are The Abbreviations (TIP#3326) in Everyone's Signature?

5. Miscellaneous
5.1 Acknowledgements
5.2 Disclaimer
5.3 Copyright


1. About REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL
=============================

1.1 Introduction

Paintball is one of the fastest growing sports in America. With such an
influx of new players, many people will discover REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL is
a great resource to share information. This FAQ is an effort to make the
group as efficient as possible by answering the most commonly asked
questions and providing guidelines for postings. Hopefully, with input
from the members of R.S.P., this FAQ will help make REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL
attractive to both the "newbie" and the "veteran".

This FAQ is considered a work in progress and will continue to evolve
with the newsgroup itself. Comments and suggestions are welcome and
should sent to the maintainer.

The orginal FAQ for this group, written by Steven Mitchell, has been
incorporated into this version with his permission.


1.2 Where Can I Get This FAQ?

This FAQ is will be posted to REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL twice a month. It is
also available via anonymous FTP at ftp.pwb.com/mac/misc/pballfaq.txt.
The FAQ can also be received via email by sending a request to
stryder@pwb.com. In the future, there will also be a hyperlinked version
available via the WWW.


1.3 What is REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL?

REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL was originally created in 1992 as an alternative to
ALT.SPORT.PAINTBALL for UseNet enthusiasts who were unable to
participate because of its ALT.* status. It is a newsgroup devoted to
all things Paintball. Anything even remotely having to do with paintball
is considered a valid topic of discussion. Threads about events,
equipment, tactics, tournaments and personalities are all welcome.
Postings for the selling of items and advertisements are also acceptable
if some general guidelines are followed (See Section 3).

PLEASE NOTE: REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL is *not* a moderated newsgroup. Never
has been, and hopefully never will be. No one can control what is posted
and there are no rules. *Whenever* someone posts racist remarks or
offers to build you your very own paintball web page please do NOT
respond. It only makes the guy stay longer. Just ignore him totally or
-- if you must -- answer via private email. Also, please avoid
responding to folks asking "Which gun should I buy?," etc. Just point
them to the FAQ (that's what it's here for!) or one of the many
paintball Web pages.


1.4 The R.S.P. Charter

The following charter was included in a post to NEWS.ANNOUNCE.NEWGROUPS
approving the creation R.S.P as a newsgroup. The first draft of the
charter was submitted by Geoff Bronner and refined during during the
discussion period to produce the final result.

--------------Begin Charter-----------------
This newsgroup is for
discussions of paintball (also known as Pursuit, Splatball, Speedball).
The discussion is not limited to any single part of the sport and can
include topics ranging from the technology used to develop equipment to
game strategies. Other acceptable subjects would include efforts to sell
used equipment and to set up games between readers of the group.

It is the goal of this group to provide a source of information for
players new to the game and promote responsible and safe paintball
activities for players at all levels of ability. In keeping with this
goal, this charter encourages reviews of playing fields and paintball
related products by patrons, owners, sales staff, and any one else
involved with the sport. It is believed that the readers of the group
are better served if the discussion includes all points of view from
within the industry surrounding the sport of paintball. Posters who do
post reviews are encouraged to include a disclaimer which explains any
conflict of interest they may have.
--------------EndCharter-------------------



2. All About Paintball
========================

2.1 What is Paintball?

Paintball is a combination of the childhood games "tag" and "hide &
seek", but is much more challenging and sophisticated. Although there
are many different game formats, most are based on versions of "Capture
the Flag". The object is to capture the opposing team's flag and bring
it back to your team's home base. While you are trying to capture a
flag, you also try to eliminate opposing players by tagging them with a
gelatin capsule filled with water-soluble paint expelled from a special
air gun called a "paintgun". If you're hit and marked, you are out for
the remainder of the game and have to wait until the next one starts.
Most games are timed and last between 15-30 minutes. Most games are
played on commercial fields and are refereed to keep the game fair and
controlled.


2.2 Is Paintball Safe?

Like most sports paintball has the potential to be very dangerous unless
adequate protection is worn and safety rules are followed. According to
insurance company statistics, more people are hurt bowling and fishing
than playing paintball. When on the field players must *ALWAYS* wear
protective goggles which are usually part of a special mask to protect
the eyes and face. When not on the field barrel plugs are inserted into
the paintball gun to prevent paintballs from leaving the barrel. Safety
is highly stressed at most fields with orientations given at the
beginning of each session and referees/staff members on hand oversee the
players. Finally, commercial paintball fields limit the velocity of a
fired paintball to less than 300 feet per second. Players who disregard
safety instructions are usually removed from the game and sit out the
next. Fields which don't enforce safety requirements should be avoided.


2.3 What Is the History of Paintball? (Excerpted from the SmartParts
Website)

May, 1981 - Paintball began in New Hampshire. The principal creators
were Bob Gurnsey, a sporting goods retailer; Hayes Noel, a stockbroker,
and Charles Gaines, a writer.

June 27, 1981 - The first game played: 12 players competing against each
other with Nel-spot 007s pistols. The game was capture the flag. The
winner captured all the flags without firing a shot.

April 1982 - The first outdoor playing field was opened in Rochester,
NY, by Caleb Strong.

1982 - Charles Gaines marketed paintball as the National Survival Game
(NSG). PMI (Pursuit Marketing Inc.), was founded to market and
distribute paintball products.

1983 - The first NSG National Championship was held with a $14,000 cash
purse. The first outdoor paintball fields opened in Toronto, Canada.

1984 - Paintball started in Australia under the name of Skirmish Games.

November, 1984 - The first indoor playing field is opened in Buffalo,
NY, by Caleb Strong.

1985 - The first outdoor playing field was opened in England.

1988 - IPPA (International Paintball Players Association) was founded as
a non-profit association dedicated to the education, growth and safety
of the sport of paintball.

1991 - Paintball begins in France, Denmark and other countries in
Europe.

April 15, 1992 - REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL passes its vote for creation on a
vote of 195 to 43 and is announced as an official newsgroup.

June - July, 1992 - Team Internet is formed as players prepared for the
World Record Game at Jack Frost Mountain, PA.

1995 - Paintball fields are open all across Europe as well as Asia and
South America.



2.4 What Resources (Books, Websites, etc.) Are There To Find Out More
About Paintball?

There are several resources one can use to follow the sport of Paintball
or find out more information.

IRC - #Paintball on Internet Relay Chat (IRC) provides a real time chat
forum for paintball players.

Websites - Warpig (http://www.warpig.com) is the most complete paintball
web site on the Net. It contains technical articles, tips for beginners,
and tournament news. The site is also a good jumping off point for other
paintball related websites. The authors, Bill and Dawn Mills, are well
know in the paintball community and update the page frequently.

Magazines - There are several magazines dedicated to the sport and are
available both at the newsstand and via subscriptions. These include
Action Pursuit Games, Paintball 2Xtremes, and Action Sports
International. All three include equipment reviews, tournament news, and
columns about tips and tactics. Subscription Information is available on
Warpig. Paintball News is a free monthly tabloid which covers Rec and
tournament events. It is available at most paintball fields and stores.

Books - "Paintball! Strategies and Tactics" by Bill Barnes with Peter
Wrenn. Written in 1989 and revised in 1993, this book predates the
popularity of semiautomatic paintball guns. However, it provides and
interesting look at the history of the sport and has some great advice
on strategy and tactics for the beginning player.

"Paintball, the Wizard's Way: The Authoritative Book on Paintball
Equipment, Strategy, and Tactics" by Rnald E. Elbe. Written in 1994,
this book is supposedly aimed at the intermediate to advanced player.
Most of the subjects covered relate to individual sniper type tactics
instead of teamwork and cooperation.


3. Posting to R.S.P.
=====================

3.1 What Topics Can I cover In My Posts?

R.S.P. invites the discussion of virtually any topic related to the
sport of paintball. Subjects include (but are not limited to) equipment
questions, event notifications, tips, tactics, reviews, "editorials",
humor and announcements. Posts regarding the promotion of the sport to
new players in the form of answers to questions or helpful advice are
especially encouraged.


3.2 Can I Post Ads for Gear I'd Like to Sell?

It is acceptable for people to post "classified ad" type messages in an
effort to sell personal paintball gear. However it is requested the
prefix FS: be added to the subject header (FS = For Sale). For example,
SUBJECT: FS: Tricked Automag + Nitro indicates the poster is trying to
sell an upgraded Automag with a Nitro system. The FS:allows people to
either skip over the message or even use a filter to automatically
delete the message or file it in a specific location. The use of such
prefixes is a generally accepted practice on all newsgroups.


3.3 Can I Post Advertisements For My Paintball Business?

The posting of commercial advertisements for a company has been a much
debated topic. Nearly everyone dislikes "SPAM" and many people consider
commercial advertisements, even paintball related ads, junk mail. But
since the group is unmoderated it is nearly impossible to police such
posts. Therefore is strongly suggested that if you must post an
advertisement for your commercial organization that the prefix AD: be
added to the subject header (AD = Advertisement). For example SUBJECT:
AD: Good Deals on Paint!. This allows people to either skip the message
or invoke a filter.


3.4 How Do I Post A Message Requesting to Buy Paintball Gear?

People who would like to buy used gear should post a message with the
prefix WTB: in the subject header (WTB = Wanting to Buy). For example,
SUBJECT: WTB: Nitro System indicates the poster is looking to purchase a
nitro system from someone. Be sure to include your contact information
in the body of your message so sellers can contact you directly.


4. Commonly Asked Questions On R.S.P. (Which Should NOT Be Asked)
================================================== ================

As in all newsgroups there are certain threads that keep reapearring.
Usually they are brought back by "newbies" who do not follow proper
netiquette. They refuse to read the FAQs or lurk on the group for a
short period before posting. If you even THINK it might be an old
question then it probably is. Most of players in the group will
patiently skip over the post with a shrug and a shake of the head, but a
few are pretty close to the edge. So to avoid being "lit up a close
range" please check here first for the answer.


4.1 Which Gun Should I Buy?

Buying that first paintball gun is a subjective decision that only you
can make for yourself. No single gun is going to please everyone. One
needs to become aware of features that are liked or disliked before a
purchase is made. Posting a message asking which gun to buy will give
you a plethora of answers - none of which you can use. You need to find
the gun that is best for you. The answers you will receive are the guns
that are best for them.

The recommendations most commonly given are to shoot as many different
guns as possible and ask other players why they chose their gun. Most
experienced players will let you take a couple of shots on the target
range or even play a game with their marker. Make a list of features you
want, then do some research to find the gun that has those features and
is still in your price range. For example, I want a semi automatic gun
with an upgradeable barrel, built in vertical adapter, and a reputation
for durability for $275.

You can even use R.S.P. as a resource. But instead of asking "Which gun
should I buy?" ask the question "How is the X-1 Paintblaster as a
starter gun?" Such a question will give you both the pros and the cons
of a gun and be much more informative.


4.2 What's Better - A Mag or a Cocker?

The 'Mag vs.'Cocker debate has been raging throughout the paintball
community for as long as both guns have existed. Again, this issue is
purely subjective and can only be decided by the individual. Both are
tournament level guns that can be tricked out extensively.

Each gun has its own reputation. In a nutshell, the Automag has very few
moving parts and is very simple to maintain and troubleshoot. Its main
caveat is that it does not handle liquid CO2 very well. It is reputed to
have one of the fastest rates of fire. The Autococker is know as the gun
that is owned by players who like to "tinker with their gun". It has
many moving parts and is one of the most modifiable guns on the market.


4.3 Where Can I Buy Paintball Equipment Online?

Most paintballers advocate buying equipment from a local paintball
dealer. However, everyone knows paintball is an expensive sport and
wants to get the best deal possible. There are several sites which
specialize in selling paintball gear over the Web. Here are some of the
most visible:

http://www.paintball-online.com http://www.skanline.com
http://www.paintballcommand.com http://www.iisports.com
http://www.888paintball.com


4.4 What's the difference between C02 and Nitrogen/Compressed Air?

There are two main power sources used to propel a paintball out of a
paintball gun - Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Nitrogen/High Pressure Air
(N2/HPA). Both are very common and each has its pros and cons.

Carbon Dioxide, more commonly know as CO2, is the most commonly used
propellant due mainly to the fact that it has been around since the
beginning of the sport and is fairly inexpensive. Its main disadvantage
is its sensitivity to temperature. As a CO2 tank warms up or cools down
the available pressure either rises or falls. For a paintgun,
differences in pressure mean inconsistent velocities.

This sensitivity to temperature is due to the fact that CO2 is stored as
a liquid. The gaseous form of CO2 used by the paintgun is formed when
some it "boils off". The higher the temperature of the tank, the more
gaseous CO2 is formed which causes higher pressure. The lower the
temperature of the tank the harder it is for gaseous CO2 to form causing
lower pressure.

CO2 can also enter the gun in its liquid state under certain conditions
like sustained rapid firing. On some guns, the sub-zero temperature of
the liquid CO2 causes O-rings and air seals to freeze which disrupts
normal operation. Equipment such as expansion chambers, anti-siphon
tanks, and remotes help negate this occuring.

Nitrogen and High Pressure Air systems, commonly called Nitro and HPA,
are the most prevalent alternatives to CO2. While any other inert gas
(like Argon) will work, Nitrogen and HPA are the cheapest and most
readily available. Since Nitrogen and HPA are stored in their natural
gaseous state and not liquid,they are not susceptible to the thermal
problems described above. A Nitrogen/HPA equipped paintball gun will
perform consistently regardless of temperature and weather conditions.
Nitrogen/HPA has almost completely eliminated velocity fluctuations. The
only drawback is that a Nitrogen systems costs more and some fields do
not have the capability to refill the tanks.


4.5 What Is Team Internet?

Formed in 1992, Team Internet is an informal organization of paintball
players that have access to R.S.P. More of a club than a team, members
rarely play together and then only in small groups. Team Internet has
three "requirements" for membership: the candidate must have played at
least once, must be able to read R.S.P. and must be a good sportsman (no
cheating, helpful to newbies, etc).

Information on how to join Team Internet and the Team Internet FAQ are
available at http://www.warpig.com/paintball/net_resources/tip.html


4.6 What Are the Abbreviations (TIP#3326) in Everyone's Signature?

There are several paintball related groups on the Internet. The most
common is Team Internet (TIP). Once accepted into such a group (which is
usually accomplished by sending email to the Keeper of the List) the
player is assigned a membership number. That number can then be included
in one's signature. Other groups include: Mag Owner's Group (MOG),
Spyder Owner's Group (SOG), Palmers Owner's Group (POG), etc. The
correct form of the abbreviation contains no spaces and at least three
decimal numbers, as in TIP#3326 for the author.


5. Miscellaneous
=================

5.1 Acknowledgements

This FAQ is maintained by Paul "Stryder" Kloehn (stryder@pwb.com) with
help and/or suggestions from:
Steve Mitchell (steve@cati.csufresno.edu) - Maintainer of the original
FAQ.
Erika Kloehn (ekloehn@pwb.com) - My wife and proof reader.


5.2 Disclaimer

This article is provided as is without any express or implied
warranties. While every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of
the information contained in this article, the
author/maintainer/contributors assume(s) no responsibility for errors or
omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information
contained herein.


5.3 Copyright

Copyright (c) 1998 by Paul "Stryder" Kloehn, all rights reserved. This
FAQ may be posted as appropriate to any USENET newsgroup, on-line
service, web site, or BBS as long as it is posted in its entirety and
includes this copyright statement. It is requested that the author be
notified. This FAQ may be distributed as class material on diskette or
CD-ROM as long as there is no charge (except to cover materials). This
FAQ may not be distributed for financial gain. This FAQ may not be
included in commercial collections or compilations without express
permission from the author.

I'm here to piss you off Kristen... I'm here to piss you off till yoiu cant
stand me anymore.


Kristan Roberge <kroberge@ca.inter.net> wrote in message
news:3FE3BFB9.D06EE35F@ca.inter.net...
> Then why are you here if its pointless, except to be a troll?
>
> "Sgt.Major" wrote:
>
> > Then I guess that means that this newsgroup is pointless.
> >
> > Kristan Roberge <kroberge@ca.inter.net> wrote in message
> > news:3FE31EFE.95526F5@ca.inter.net...
> > > We know what the FAQ says but this is an UNMODERATED newsgroup so
anything
> > > in the FAQ is a suggestion, not a rule.
> > >
> > > SgtMajor wrote:
> > >
> > > > This is for the assholes who think I'm posting out of line by asking
> > > > questions about equipment capability and behavior...
> > > >
> > > > (pay attention especially to section 3.1)
> > > >
> > > > Contents:
> > > >
> > > > 1. About REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL
> > > > 1.1 Introduction
> > > > 1.2 Where Can I Get This FAQ?
> > > > 1.3 What is REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL?
> > > > 1.4 The R.S.P. Charter
> > > >
> > > > 2. All About paintball
> > > > 2.1 What is Paintball?
> > > > 2.2 Is Paintball Safe?
> > > > 2.3 What is the History of Paintball?
> > > > 2.4 What Resources (books, websites, etc.) Are There To Find Out
> > > > More About Paintball?
> > > >
> > > > 3. Posting to R.S.P.
> > > > 3.1 What Topics Can I cover in my Posts?
> > > > 3.2 Can IPost Ads For Gear I'd Like to Sell?
> > > > 3.3 Can I Post Advertisements for myPaintball Business?
> > > > 3.4 How Do I Post A Message Requesting to Buy Paintball Gear?
> > > >
> > > > 4. Commonly Asked Questions on R.S.P.
> > > > 4.1 Which Gun should I Buy?
> > > > 4.2 What's Better - A 'Mag or a 'Cocker?
> > > > 4.3 Where Can I Buy Paintball Gear Online?
> > > > 4.4 What's the Difference between C02 and Nitrogen/Compressed Air?
> > > > 4.5 What is Team Internet?
> > > > 4.6 What Are The Abbreviations (TIP#3326) in Everyone's Signature?
> > > >
> > > > 5. Miscellaneous
> > > > 5.1 Acknowledgements
> > > > 5.2 Disclaimer
> > > > 5.3 Copyright
> > > >
> > > > 1. About REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL
> > > > =============================
> > > >
> > > > 1.1 Introduction
> > > >
> > > > Paintball is one of the fastest growing sports in America. With such
an
> > > > influx of new players, many people will discover REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL
is
> > > > a great resource to share information. This FAQ is an effort to make
the
> > > > group as efficient as possible by answering the most commonly asked
> > > > questions and providing guidelines for postings. Hopefully, with
input
> > > > from the members of R.S.P., this FAQ will help make
REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL
> > > > attractive to both the "newbie" and the "veteran".
> > > >
> > > > This FAQ is considered a work in progress and will continue to
evolve
> > > > with the newsgroup itself. Comments and suggestions are welcome and
> > > > should sent to the maintainer.
> > > >
> > > > The orginal FAQ for this group, written by Steven Mitchell, has been
> > > > incorporated into this version with his permission.
> > > >
> > > > 1.2 Where Can I Get This FAQ?
> > > >
> > > > This FAQ is will be posted to REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL twice a month. It
is
> > > > also available via anonymous FTP at
ftp.pwb.com/mac/misc/pballfaq.txt.
> > > > The FAQ can also be received via email by sending a request to
> > > > stryder@pwb.com. In the future, there will also be a hyperlinked
version
> > > > available via the WWW.
> > > >
> > > > 1.3 What is REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL?
> > > >
> > > > REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL was originally created in 1992 as an alternative
to
> > > > ALT.SPORT.PAINTBALL for UseNet enthusiasts who were unable to
> > > > participate because of its ALT.* status. It is a newsgroup devoted
to
> > > > all things Paintball. Anything even remotely having to do with
paintball
> > > > is considered a valid topic of discussion. Threads about events,
> > > > equipment, tactics, tournaments and personalities are all welcome.
> > > > Postings for the selling of items and advertisements are also
acceptable
> > > > if some general guidelines are followed (See Section 3).
> > > >
> > > > PLEASE NOTE: REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL is *not* a moderated newsgroup.
Never
> > > > has been, and hopefully never will be. No one can control what is
posted
> > > > and there are no rules. *Whenever* someone posts racist remarks or
> > > > offers to build you your very own paintball web page please do NOT
> > > > respond. It only makes the guy stay longer. Just ignore him totally
or
> > > > -- if you must -- answer via private email. Also, please avoid
> > > > responding to folks asking "Which gun should I buy?," etc. Just
point
> > > > them to the FAQ (that's what it's here for!) or one of the many
> > > > paintball Web pages.
> > > >
> > > > 1.4 The R.S.P. Charter
> > > >
> > > > The following charter was included in a post to
NEWS.ANNOUNCE.NEWGROUPS
> > > > approving the creation R.S.P as a newsgroup. The first draft of the
> > > > charter was submitted by Geoff Bronner and refined during during the
> > > > discussion period to produce the final result.
> > > >
> > > > --------------Begin Charter-----------------
> > > > This newsgroup is for
> > > > discussions of paintball (also known as Pursuit, Splatball,
Speedball).
> > > > The discussion is not limited to any single part of the sport and
can
> > > > include topics ranging from the technology used to develop equipment
to
> > > > game strategies. Other acceptable subjects would include efforts to
sell
> > > > used equipment and to set up games between readers of the group.
> > > >
> > > > It is the goal of this group to provide a source of information for
> > > > players new to the game and promote responsible and safe paintball
> > > > activities for players at all levels of ability. In keeping with
this
> > > > goal, this charter encourages reviews of playing fields and
paintball
> > > > related products by patrons, owners, sales staff, and any one else
> > > > involved with the sport. It is believed that the readers of the
group
> > > > are better served if the discussion includes all points of view from
> > > > within the industry surrounding the sport of paintball. Posters who
do
> > > > post reviews are encouraged to include a disclaimer which explains
any
> > > > conflict of interest they may have.
> > > > --------------EndCharter-------------------
> > > >
> > > > 2. All About Paintball
> > > > ========================
> > > >
> > > > 2.1 What is Paintball?
> > > >
> > > > Paintball is a combination of the childhood games "tag" and "hide &
> > > > seek", but is much more challenging and sophisticated. Although
there
> > > > are many different game formats, most are based on versions of
"Capture
> > > > the Flag". The object is to capture the opposing team's flag and
bring
> > > > it back to your team's home base. While you are trying to capture a
> > > > flag, you also try to eliminate opposing players by tagging them
with a
> > > > gelatin capsule filled with water-soluble paint expelled from a
special
> > > > air gun called a "paintgun". If you're hit and marked, you are out
for
> > > > the remainder of the game and have to wait until the next one
starts.
> > > > Most games are timed and last between 15-30 minutes. Most games are
> > > > played on commercial fields and are refereed to keep the game fair
and
> > > > controlled.
> > > >
> > > > 2.2 Is Paintball Safe?
> > > >
> > > > Like most sports paintball has the potential to be very dangerous
unless
> > > > adequate protection is worn and safety rules are followed. According
to
> > > > insurance company statistics, more people are hurt bowling and
fishing
> > > > than playing paintball. When on the field players must *ALWAYS* wear
> > > > protective goggles which are usually part of a special mask to
protect
> > > > the eyes and face. When not on the field barrel plugs are inserted
into
> > > > the paintball gun to prevent paintballs from leaving the barrel.
Safety
> > > > is highly stressed at most fields with orientations given at the
> > > > beginning of each session and referees/staff members on hand oversee
the
> > > > players. Finally, commercial paintball fields limit the velocity of
a
> > > > fired paintball to less than 300 feet per second. Players who
disregard
> > > > safety instructions are usually removed from the game and sit out
the
> > > > next. Fields which don't enforce safety requirements should be
avoided.
> > > >
> > > > 2.3 What Is the History of Paintball? (Excerpted from the SmartParts
> > > > Website)
> > > >
> > > > May, 1981 - Paintball began in New Hampshire. The principal creators
> > > > were Bob Gurnsey, a sporting goods retailer; Hayes Noel, a
stockbroker,
> > > > and Charles Gaines, a writer.
> > > >
> > > > June 27, 1981 - The first game played: 12 players competing against
each
> > > > other with Nel-spot 007s pistols. The game was capture the flag. The
> > > > winner captured all the flags without firing a shot.
> > > >
> > > > April 1982 - The first outdoor playing field was opened in
Rochester,
> > > > NY, by Caleb Strong.
> > > >
> > > > 1982 - Charles Gaines marketed paintball as the National Survival
Game
> > > > (NSG). PMI (Pursuit Marketing Inc.), was founded to market and
> > > > distribute paintball products.
> > > >
> > > > 1983 - The first NSG National Championship was held with a $14,000
cash
> > > > purse. The first outdoor paintball fields opened in Toronto, Canada.
> > > >
> > > > 1984 - Paintball started in Australia under the name of Skirmish
Games.
> > > >
> > > > November, 1984 - The first indoor playing field is opened in
Buffalo,
> > > > NY, by Caleb Strong.
> > > >
> > > > 1985 - The first outdoor playing field was opened in England.
> > > >
> > > > 1988 - IPPA (International Paintball Players Association) was
founded as
> > > > a non-profit association dedicated to the education, growth and
safety
> > > > of the sport of paintball.
> > > >
> > > > 1991 - Paintball begins in France, Denmark and other countries in
> > > > Europe.
> > > >
> > > > April 15, 1992 - REC.SPORT.PAINTBALL passes its vote for creation on
a
> > > > vote of 195 to 43 and is announced as an official newsgroup.
> > > >
> > > > June - July, 1992 - Team Internet is formed as players prepared for
the
> > > > World Record Game at Jack Frost Mountain, PA.
> > > >
> > > > 1995 - Paintball fields are open all across Europe as well as Asia
and
> > > > South America.
> > > >
> > > > 2.4 What Resources (Books, Websites, etc.) Are There To Find Out
More
> > > > About Paintball?
> > > >
> > > > There are several resources one can use to follow the sport of
Paintball
> > > > or find out more information.
> > > >
> > > > IRC - #Paintball on Internet Relay Chat (IRC) provides a real time
chat
> > > > forum for paintball players.
> > > >
> > > > Websites - Warpig (http://www.warpig.com) is the most complete
paintball
> > > > web site on the Net. It contains technical articles, tips for
beginners,
> > > > and tournament news. The site is also a good jumping off point for
other
> > > > paintball related websites. The authors, Bill and Dawn Mills, are
well
> > > > know in the paintball community and update the page frequently.
> > > >
> > > > Magazines - There are several magazines dedicated to the sport and
are
> > > > available both at the newsstand and via subscriptions. These include
> > > > Action Pursuit Games, Paintball 2Xtremes, and Action Sports
> > > > International. All three include equipment reviews, tournament news,
and
> > > > columns about tips and tactics. Subscription Information is
available on
> > > > Warpig. Paintball News is a free monthly tabloid which covers Rec
and
> > > > tournament events. It is available at most paintball fields and
stores.
> > > >
> > > > Books - "Paintball! Strategies and Tactics" by Bill Barnes with
Peter
> > > > Wrenn. Written in1989 and revised in 1993, this book predates the
> > > > popularity of semiautomatic paintball guns. However, it provides and
> > > > interesting look at the history of the sport and has some great
advice
> > > > on strategy and tactics for the beginning player.
> > > >
> > > > "Paintball, the Wizard's Way: The Authoritative Book on Paintball
> > > > Equipment, Strategy, and Tactics" by Ronald E. Elbe. Written in
1994,
> > > > this book is supposedly aimed at the intermediate to advanced
player.
> > > > Most of the subjects covered relate to individual sniper type
tactics
> > > > instead of teamwork and cooperation.
> > > >
> > > > 3. Posting to R.S.P.
> > > > =====================
> > > >
> > > > 3.1 What Topics Can I cover In My Posts?
> > > >
> > > > R.S.P. invites the discussion of virtually any topic related to the
> > > > sport of paintball. Subjects include (but are not limited to)
equipment
> > > > questions, event notifications, tips, tactics, reviews,
"editorials",
> > > > humor and announcements. Posts regarding the promotion of the sport
to
> > > > new players in the form of answers to questions or helpful advice
are
> > > > especially encouraged.
> > > >
> > > > 3.2 Can I Post Ads for Gear I'd Like to Sell?
> > > >
> > > > It is acceptable for people to post "classified ad" type messages in
an
> > > > effort to sell personal paintball gear. However it is requested the
> > > > prefix FS: be added to the subject header (FS = For Sale). For
example,
> > > > SUBJECT: FS: Tricked Automag + Nitro indicates the poster is trying
to
> > > > sell an upgraded Automag with a Nitro system. The FS:allows people
to
> > > > either skip over the message or even use a filter to automatically
> > > > delete the message or file it in a specific location. The use of
such
> > > > prefixes is a generally accepted practice on all newsgroups.
> > > >
> > > > 3.3 Can I Post Advertisements For My Paintball Business?
> > > >
> > > > The posting of commercial advertisements for a company has been a
much
> > > > debated topic. Nearly everyone dislikes "SPAM" and many people
consider
> > > > commercial advertisements, even paintball related ads, junk mail.
But
> > > > since the group is unmoderated it is nearly impossible to police
such
> > > > posts. Therefore is strongly suggested that if you must post an
> > > > advertisement for your commercial organization that the prefix AD:
be
> > > > added to the subject header (AD = Advertisement). For example
SUBJECT:
> > > > AD: Good Deals on Paint!. This allows people to either skip the
message
> > > > or invoke a filter.
> > > >
> > > > 3.4 How Do I Post A Message Requesting to Buy Paintball Gear?
> > > >
> > > > People who would like to buy used gear should post a message with
the
> > > > prefix WTB: in the subject header (WTB = Wanting to Buy). For
example,
> > > > SUBJECT: WTB: Nitro System indicates the poster is looking to
purchase a
> > > > nitro system from someone. Be sure to include your contact
information
> > > > in the body of your message so sellers can contact you directly.
> > > >
> > > > 4. Commonly Asked Questions On R.S.P. (Which Should NOT Be Asked)
> > > > ================================================== ================
> > > >
> > > > As in all newsgroups there are certain threads that keep
reapearring.
> > > > Usually they are brought back by "newbies" who do not follow proper
> > > > netiquette. They refuse to read the FAQs or lurk on the group for a
> > > > short period before posting. If you even THINK it might be an old
> > > > question then it probably is. Most of players in the group will
> > > > patiently skip over the post with a shrug and a shake of the head,
but a
> > > > few are pretty close to the edge. So to avoid being "lit up a close
> > > > range" please check here first for the answer.
> > > >
> > > > 4.1 Which Gun Should I Buy?
> > > >
> > > > Buying that first paintball gun is a subjective decision that only
you
> > > > can make for yourself. No single gun is going to please everyone.
One
> > > > needs to become aware of features that are liked or disliked before
a
> > > > purchase is made. Posting a message asking which gun to buy will
give
> > > > you a plethora of answers - none of which you can use. You need to
find
> > > > the gun that is best for you. The answers you will receive are the
guns
> > > > that are best for them.
> > > >
> > > > The recommendations most commonly given are to shoot as many
different
> > > > guns as possible and ask other players why they chose their gun.
Most
> > > > experienced players will let you take a couple of shots on the
target
> > > > range or even play a game with their marker. Make a list of features
you
> > > > want, then do some research to find the gun that has those features
and
> > > > is still in your price range. For example, I want a semi automatic
gun
> > > > with an upgradeable barrel, built in vertical adapter, and a
reputation
> > > > for durability for $275.
> > > >
> > > > You can even use R.S.P. as a resource. But instead of asking "Which
gun
> > > > should I buy?" ask the question "How is the X-1 Paintblaster as a
> > > > starter gun?" Such a question will give you both the pros and the
cons
> > > > of a gun and be much more informative.
> > > >
> > > > 4.2 What's Better - A Mag or a Cocker?
> > > >
> > > > The 'Mag vs.'Cocker debate has been raging throughout the paintball
> > > > community for as long as both guns have existed. Again, this issue
is
> > > > purely subjective and can only be decided by the individual. Both
are
> > > > tournament level guns that can be tricked out extensively.
> > > >
> > > > Each gun has its own reputation. In a nutshell, the Automag has very
few
> > > > moving parts and is very simple to maintain and troubleshoot. Its
main
> > > > caveat is that it does not handle liquid CO2 very well. It is
reputed to
> > > > have one of the fastest rates of fire. The Autococker is know as the
gun
> > > > that is owned by players who like to "tinker with their gun". It
has
> > > > many moving parts and is one of the most modifiable guns on the
market.
> > > >
> > > > 4.3 Where Can I Buy Paintball Equipment Online?
> > > >
> > > > Most paintballers advocate buying equipment from a local paintball
> > > > dealer. However, everyone knows paintball is an expensive sport and
> > > > wants to get the best deal possible. There are several sites which
> > > > specialize in selling paintball gear over the Web. Here are some of
the
> > > > most visible:
> > > >
> > > > http://www.paintball-online.com http://www.skanline.com
> > > > http://www.paintballcommand.com http://www.iisports.com
> > > > http://www.888paintball.com
> > > >
> > > > 4.4 What's the difference between C02 and Nitrogen/Compressed Air?
> > > >
> > > > There are two main power sources used to propel a paintball out of a
> > > > paintball gun - Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Nitrogen/High Pressure Air
> > > > (N2/HPA). Both are very common and each has its pros and cons.
> > > >
> > > > Carbon Dioxide, more commonly know as CO2, is the most commonly used
> > > > propellant due mainly to the fact that it has been around since the
> > > > beginning of the sport and is fairly inexpensive. Its main
disadvantage
> > > > is its sensitivity to temperature. As a CO2 tank warms up or cools
down
> > > > the available pressure either rises or falls. For a paintgun,
> > > > differences in pressure mean inconsistent velocities.
> > > >
> > > > This sensitivity to temperature is due to the fact that CO2 is
stored as
> > > > a liquid. The gaseous form of CO2 used by the paintgun is formed
when
> > > > some it "boils off". The higher the temperature of the tank, the
more
> > > > gaseous CO2 is formed which causes higher pressure. The lower the
> > > > temperature of the tank the harder it is for gaseous CO2 to form
causing
> > > > lower pressure.
> > > >
> > > > CO2 can also enter the gun in its liquid state under certain
conditions
> > > > like sustained rapid firing. On some guns, the sub-zero temperature
of
> > > > the liquid CO2 causes O-rings and air seals to freeze which disrupts
> > > > normal operation. Equipment such as expansion chambers, anti-siphon
> > > > tanks, and remotes help negate this occuring.
> > > >
> > > > Nitrogen and High Pressure Air systems, commonly called Nitro and
HPA,
> > > > are the most prevalent alternatives to CO2. While any other inert
gas
> > > > (like Argon) will work, Nitrogen and HPA are the cheapest and most
> > > > readily available. Since Nitrogen and HPA are stored in their
natural
> > > > gaseous state and not liquid,they are not susceptible to the thermal
> > > > problems described above. A Nitrogen/HPA equipped paintball gun will
> > > > perform consistently regardless of temperature and weather
conditions.
> > > > Nitrogen/HPA has almost completely eliminated velocity fluctuations.
The
> > > > only drawback is that a Nitrogen systems costs more and some fields
do
> > > > not have the capability to refill the tanks.
> > > >
> > > > 4.5 What Is Team Internet?
> > > >
> > > > Formed in 1992, Team Internet is an informal organization of
paintball
> > > > players that have access to R.S.P. More of a club than a team,
members
> > > > rarely play together and then only in small groups. Team Internet
has
> > > > three "requirements" for membership: the candidate must have played
at
> > > > least once, must be able to read R.S.P. and must be a good sportsman
(no
> > > > cheating, helpful to newbies, etc).
> > > >
> > > > Information on how to join Team Internet and the Team Internet FAQ
are
> > > > available at http://www.warpig.com/paintball/net_resources/tip.html
> > > >
> > > > 4.6 What Are the Abbreviations (TIP#3326) in Everyone's Signature?
> > > >
> > > > There are several paintball related groups on the Internet. The most
> > > > common is Team Internet (TIP). Once accepted into such a group
(which is
> > > > usually accomplished by sending email to the Keeper of the List) the
> > > > player is assigned a membership number. That number can then be
included
> >
> > > > in one's signature. Other groups include: Mag Owner's Group (MOG),
> > > > Spyder Owner's Group (SOG), Palmers Owner's Group (POG), etc. The
> > > > correct form of the abbreviation contains no spaces and at least
three
> > > > decimal numbers, as in TIP#3326 for the author.
> > > >
> > > > 5. Miscellaneous
> > > > =================
> > > >
> > > > 5.1 Acknowledgements
> > > >
> > > > This FAQ is maintained by Paul "Stryder" Kloehn (stryder@pwb.com)
with
> > > > help and/or suggestions from:
> > > > Steve Mitchell (steve@cati.csufresno.edu) - Maintainer of the
original
> > > > FAQ.
> > > > Erika Kloehn (ekloehn@pwb.com) - My wife and proof reader.
> > > >
> > > > 5.2 Disclaimer
> > > >
> > > > This article is provided as is without any express or implied
> > > > warranties. While every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy
of
> > > > the information contained in this article, the
> > > > author/maintainer/contributors assume(s) no responsibility for
errors or
> > > > omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information
> > > > contained herein.
> > > >
> > > > 5.3 Copyright
> > > >
> > > > Copyright (c) 1998 by Paul "Stryder" Kloehn, all rights reserved.
This
> > > > FAQ may be posted as appropriate to any USENET newsgroup, on-line
> > > > service, web site, or BBS as long as it is posted in its entirety
and
> > > > includes this copyright statement. It is requested that the author
be
> > > > notified. This FAQ may be distributed as class material on diskette
or
> > > > CD-ROM as long as there is no charge (except to cover materials).
This
> > > > FAQ may not be distributed for financial gain. This FAQ may not be
> > > > included in commercial collections or compilations without express
> > > > permission from the author.
> > >
>