Using Paintball As a Training Tool for Law Enforcement
Many law enforcement groups see paintball as a training tool, not as a game or a sport. It is a unique form of training because paintball guns and paintballs are used instead of regular guns, live bullets and other ammunition. The paintballer experience simulates a seek-and-eliminate scenario or perhaps a capture mission. For law enforcement personnel new to the sport, there are several tips that will help them gain experience without actually being on the job. Combat with paintball guns, paintballs and accessories is very competitive, but offers a creative outlet for practice, experimentation and teamwork.
Gear and Guns
Like regular munitions, paintball guns and launchers are available in different shapes, sizes and capabilities. Some offer rapid fire, while others are only good for a single blast. Paintball guns are heavy or light, and have different advantages and uses. Some shoot longer distances than others. They may carry large barrels or only a few shots. Paintball mines can be buried under leaves for a more interesting training game. The amount and types of paintball gear used affects strategy in training and in real life. Those with heavy equipment will move slower, but have a better firepower. With sparse equipment comes speed and agility.
Similar Terrain
It is helpful to use similar terrain in training for an assault mission. Finding a similar setting helps law enforcement and military teams try out simulations. For example, if they are going to be inside, an indoor paintball center may be more helpful than an outdoor venue in the woods. On the other hand, a playing field with trees, bunkers and camouflage might be ideal for an outside assault. Learning to run through wet grass without slipping while carrying a gun is critical. Perfecting reaction times and learning how to quickly dive beyond a barricade without being hit by paintballs is practical training for real-life scenarios.
Learn Something New
One reason that the sport is used in training simulations is that personnel can try new moves and strategies without serious consequences. At best, they may discover the ability to shoot well crouched in an odd position. At worst, they may find themselves covered in bright green or fluorescent orange paint at the end of the day. When working as a team, practicing with paintballs instead of live ammo gives personnel the chance to build up trust and understanding with new team members. It allows them time to get comfortable with each other and learn how to read each others' minds without risk of injury or life.
Gear and Guns
Like regular munitions, paintball guns and launchers are available in different shapes, sizes and capabilities. Some offer rapid fire, while others are only good for a single blast. Paintball guns are heavy or light, and have different advantages and uses. Some shoot longer distances than others. They may carry large barrels or only a few shots. Paintball mines can be buried under leaves for a more interesting training game. The amount and types of paintball gear used affects strategy in training and in real life. Those with heavy equipment will move slower, but have a better firepower. With sparse equipment comes speed and agility.
Similar Terrain
It is helpful to use similar terrain in training for an assault mission. Finding a similar setting helps law enforcement and military teams try out simulations. For example, if they are going to be inside, an indoor paintball center may be more helpful than an outdoor venue in the woods. On the other hand, a playing field with trees, bunkers and camouflage might be ideal for an outside assault. Learning to run through wet grass without slipping while carrying a gun is critical. Perfecting reaction times and learning how to quickly dive beyond a barricade without being hit by paintballs is practical training for real-life scenarios.
Learn Something New
One reason that the sport is used in training simulations is that personnel can try new moves and strategies without serious consequences. At best, they may discover the ability to shoot well crouched in an odd position. At worst, they may find themselves covered in bright green or fluorescent orange paint at the end of the day. When working as a team, practicing with paintballs instead of live ammo gives personnel the chance to build up trust and understanding with new team members. It allows them time to get comfortable with each other and learn how to read each others' minds without risk of injury or life.
