Whether you are a paintball newbie or veteran, you probably already know about the importance of stealth. The word “stealth” has many varied definitions, but when talking about paintball, stealth refers to one’s ability to go undetected by others. By moving carefully and methodically, you can go unnoticed, bringing your team a definite advantage. Stealth can be difficult to master, but there are definitely a few tips and tricks you can use to up your paintball sniper game. With a little practice, you may be able to experience the joy that is taking out an opponent who has no idea where your shot is coming from!
First, let’s start with the preparation you can do to maximize your stealth before you ever step foot on the field. The clothing you pick is critical. Choose paintball gear made of fabrics that won’t rustle or otherwise make noise when you move. If you are familiar with the area where you’re going, plan your tactical outfit to blend in with your surroundings on the field. However, be careful not to wear too much of the same color or pattern. Remember that the field will have inconsistencies and a wide variety of colors, so your clothes should also include a range of tones. Also, go for rubber-soled shoes if you can – these will help minimize noise you make as you move across the playing field.
When you are selecting from sniper paintball markers or tactical paintball guns, make sure you choose one that you are comfortable moving around with and carrying for long periods of time. If you’re setting out to become a paintball sniper, test out the available sniper paintball markers, and be sure to choose one that has a quiet report. A quiet shot will increase the chances that your exact position will go undetected.
Remember, no matter what type of paintball gear you bring, you and your opponents will primarily use sight and sound to detect enemies. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the normal sounds of the playing field; this will make you that much more aware of an unusual sound – usually coming from an opponent! As soon as you hear something that might be an opponent, crouch as low as you can and get your sniper paintball marker ready. Keep your eyes and ears alert for more hints about your opponent’s location, and avoid excessive movement of your own. There’s no reason to give away your own position while trying to track down an enemy!
Speaking of taking position, if you can learn how to move with stealth, you will immensely improve your chances of being a pro paintball sniper. Even if you have the best of the best sniper paintball markers, if you fumble around and tear through the playing field like a noisy bear, you’ll get taken out every time. Some of the easiest ways to move with stealth are to move slowly, stay low, and stay off the trail. Moving slowly around 10-15 steps off the trail is the best way to try to travel undetected and without excessive noise. Try to step on rocks or dirt instead of branches and twigs, as these can be pretty loud when they snap or break. Should you need to move quickly, you can get back on the trail and run from there. But remember to stay low! If you can move in a crouch with your tactical paintball gun at the ready, you’ll be in an excellent position to pick off your opponents – since the majority of them will be looking at waist-height or higher. This is yet another reason to choose your paintball gear carefully: you want to make sure you avoid anything that would be in your way or make noise while you crouch or crawl.
And finally, don’t forget to be patient and as calm as possible. If you spot an enemy, you may immediately feel a burst of adrenaline. If you don’t control this, the adrenaline can cause you to rush, make noise unintentionally, or otherwise bungle your shot. A skilled paintball sniper remembers to take deep breaths, plan the shot or shots methodically, and move very carefully to take out your target!
[photo: Andres Aguiluz Rios]
