The last couple of games that I have played, I have noticed that many of the "newbies" should be aware of some general paintball rules of thumb:

- when you get shot, don't automatically "assume" that you are out.  Have somebody check to see if the paintball actually borke on you.  Many times, the paintballs "bounce" right off.  Other times, you might get hit with spray, splatter, or a partial paintball.  Most fields require that the paint spot mark the size of a "quarter" for the player to be eliminated. When in doubt, have a fellow team mate or the ref check you.  Don't be afraid to call a "paintcheck".

- if you know you are hit, don't intentially continue to return fire, run away, or wipe.  These factors usually enrage players (especially the experienced ones) who might continue to light you up if they see you doing any of these.  It's only a game, and you only have a short break till the next game.  It's not worth getting lit up over.

- communicate with other players!  If you are playing with a bunch of friends, at least know where your buddies are going.  This way you can help each other out and not leave anyone out to dry.  If the more experienced players are suggesting something, give it a try, afterall, they usually know what works and what doesn't.  Remember, if it doesn't work, it's only a game, nothing to get angry over.

- don't all bunch up behind the same bunkers.  Most bunkers, trees, shrubs, etc. that I have seen on fields are usually larger enough to accomodate one or maybe two players.  Anymore than that, and you are all sitting ducks. Remember, only break this rule if you have no where else to go without getting hit.

- this rule I cannot stress enough, but constantly see it.  NEVER, NEVER, NEVER take your goggles off when you see guns without barrell plugs. Whether you are off the field or not, if there are potential paintballs which can easily reach your body, KEEP YOUR GOGGLES/MASK ON!  I have seen some pretty nasty accidents which have resided from people not abiding by this most important rule.  If your goggles are fogging up, you have to blow chunks, whatever, let the ref know immediately for assistance.  Remember, the worst that can happen is that you can't see or maybe you throw up in your mask, at least you are not losing an eye.

- save your paint!  If you know you can't hit your opponent, don't waste your paint.  Many newbies only carry a few hundred rounds on the field with them, or maybe just their hopper.  If you can't hit your opponent, either wait for him/her to come to you, or try to position yourself so that you can get a better shot.

That's about it, can you think of anything else?  If so, please send them to me and I will be sure to give you full credit for your suggestions, tips, tricks, etc.
 

Dear Sean,
I have been looking for a used gun on the internet.  I have been looking through classifieds posted in the paintball newsgroups, as well as on Warpig.  What is a good way to find out how old the markers are?  Many sellers suggest that they have only played with the guns a few times, or
that they have shot very little paint through the guns, what is a good way to find out?  Finally, what is a good comparison test to find out if you are getting a good deal or not, at least, the best bang for the buck?

Thanks for any advice you can provide me.
Splatman

Dear Splatman,
        I have been buying and selling paintball stuff over the internet for sometime now.  Its often that you need to take the persons word for it when they tell you how good a condition the equipment, guns, etc are in.  One good way of finding out how old the markers are is by getting the serial number.  Many times you can call or write the manufacturer to have them cross reference the Serial Number.   This is also a good method to check and see if could be possibly stolen, never hurts to check, after all, once you buy its you they will take it away from.
        After you know how old the marker is, its basically using your judgement on how old of a gun you are willing to purchase.  Its also trusting that the seller is not lying to you, and is trying to sell you the marker "in good faith".  To be honest with you, most paintball guns last a very long time.  I'm still playing with my Autococker (s/n 6498, about 6-7 years old now).  As long as you take care of it (your paintball marker), perform routine maintenance, and feed it oil (everytime you play), the gun will treat you right.
        Finally, to answer your last quesion, comparison of prices.  This is actually something that you have to a little homework on.  The best way I would suggest is to compare with "like" guns and packages that others are selling.  It's really hard to compare against new item, because you generally cannot sell stuff at new prices.  A good key to compare to would be to take off about 25-35% off the new price.  If you can sell at a higher price (or buy at a lower price) thats fine.  People who respond will generally try to ask for a little more off anyways, so usually try to ask a little higher than you actually plan on selling it for.

Good Luck on your hunt!
Sean Takeda
President, The MPN