Having the right paintball markers, tanks, guns, vests and other equipment is essential to being able to play paintball well. But don't forget that it can be the little things that make all the difference even before the game begins. Sometimes the little accessories that are locked in a toolbox are all that are needed to decide whether you will win or lose your paintball match.

A toolbox is the "first aid kit" of the game; if anything goes wrong that is unexpected or unavoidable, there is no reason to fret, so long as you are prepared. This page is designed to let you know about some things that many paintball players, especially new ones, have a tendency to forget.

The gun’s manual: there are instances in the game when the gun has to undergo “intensive surgery”. Paintball guns do differ from each other regardless of the physical similarities they may have in their basic design. If the time comes when it needs to be disassembled or have a minor repair done, the manual can be the difference in you getting right back into the action, or sitting the game out and having to rent a gun for the rest of the day.

Reserve batteries: some guns require batteries to function. Nothing is more frustrating that not being able t play after you are already there because you didn't pack an extra set of batteries. Let's face it - let that happen once, and your teammates will never let you live it down!

Allen wrench set. Whether your paintball marker is new, or you have inherited it from your friends or bought it second-hand, a set of Allen wrenches can be your best friend on the field at times. If you did not get a set of Allen wrenches when you bought the gun, they are not that expensive. Go ahead and buy a set from a hardware store and be sure to keep them handy.

Oil! Make sure that there is a small can of oil for the paintball gun inside your tool as well. Sometimes weather dictates if the gun needs oiling, sometimes it depends on how extensively you are using it. Don't leave your oil at home, and just as important: be sure to get the exact oil type recommended for your specific gun.

If at all possible, have a spare mask lens. Lenses do become blurry or scratched. Don’t hesitate to replace them if your vision is impaired, as this can really affects how well you play on the field.

Squeegee anyone? Carrying one on the field is enough during a game, so why not bring a replacement if anything goes wrong? It saves time for playing rather than looking for a squeegee. I've dropped them on the field and not been able to track them down. It's too easy to carry an extra, so don't let anything stop you form firing your paintball gun, especially not having a squeegee.

Cupseals and reserved O-rings: O-rings and cup seals can be damaged easily and this will hurt the paintball gun. Not only is it crucial to the proper functioning of your paintball gun to have these replaced immediately, but it is also crucial to the play of your game.

Spare safety equipment, such as extra gloves or pads , is always a good idea, too, if you have room. It also is a good idea to have a basic personal first aid kit.

Not all of this extra gear and spare items need to be carried onto the field with you, but all of it definitely needs to be with you to at least get to during breaks or between games. If you do not have a good gear bag, we always have a lot of paintball marker bags and paintball gear bags to choose from.