Paintball is a challenging and rather physical pastime that can quickly become the favorite recreational activity for preteens, teens and grown men and women. Getting started in the game will require some equipment, however. On the top of the list, once safety gear is taken care of, will be a paintball gun. It's simply not possible to play without one.

For the beginning player, buying a paintball gun can be a bit of a crapshoot. Without a feel for the sport, it can be a little difficult to say what make and model and even features will fit personal style of play. Before diving into a purchase, it's a good idea to:

* Budget. A paintball gun can be a rather big investment. With some guns running upwards in the $1,000 range, having a firm price range in mind can help guide purchases. Fortunately, there are many great guns in much, much lower pricing categories. Beginning players do not need to take out a loan to get started.

* Consider style of play. Most players start out on slower paced woods ball fields, but that doesn't mean they'll stay there. If you're typically the kind of athlete that likes speed and challenge, a gun designed for this might be in order.

* Talk to other players. Chances are if you're starting out, you have a friend or two that already plays. Get their input on what type of paintball gun should be considered. Veteran players can offer some sound advice and most of them love to talk about paintball guns any chance they can get.

* Read reviews. While friends can offer very solid advice, it doesn't hurt to see what other people have to say about particular makes and models, as well. Professional and player reviews can provide a lot of insight about guns in every price range.

The best way to get a feel for a particular paintball gun before buying one is to actually try it out. If it's at all possible, do just that. Other options for getting a feel for the game without buying a paintball gun right off the bat include:

* Borrow one. If friends have extra guns, this is a great way to check out the sport before making a big investment. Some friends might be loathe to loan out a spare paintball marker, but those who are trying to entice more buddies into playing likely will offer them up.

* Rentals. Most paintball fields offer a limited number of rentals. This is a fantastic way to check out a number of different guns before actually deciding on one to buy. These might not include top of the line choices, but rentals typically include some of the better beginner and even novice models.

Paintball is a fun sport for almost anyone who likes fast-paced action to get into. Although physical, this is also a game of cunning and wits. Getting started, however, will require a paintball gun. Whether one is purchased outright, borrowed or rented, it is important that a beginning player find a gun he or she is comfortable with. Understanding the basics of the gun can make all the difference in the world on the fields.