Paintball Journal

How does the size of a player affect his game? I’ve seen the question tossed around many times before, and I’d have to say that size really can make a difference, especially in certain conditions.

Strengths: Since they will most likely be playing back to begin with, their height can give them a better view of the field because they can see past some low or medium size bunkers whereas a front player will be blind as he is crouches into some small position up field. Big players can also have surprisingly good gun skills. Their size allows them to have a complete handle over their gun, and once they start shooting they might not stop.

Weaknesses: A big guy will naturally be slower, well, usually at least. Their greatest vulnerability will be the first three seconds off the break when they are getting to their bunkers, if they even leaving the break at all. They also fill out a bunker a lot more than a smaller player. If it’s a standup, his backside may already be exposed, or very close to being exposed. Always look for a big players pack.

Overall though, it just comes down to technical skill. I’ve seen many bigger players in my day, and I wouldn’t underestimate one for a second, especially when they’re usually better than me. But I firmly believe that a smaller team can out perform a heavier set team, assuming that both are at the same level of skill and experience. Is there even a comparison in the weaknesses? Do smaller players even have a weakness? The only thing I can think of is the ability to manhandle their gats, but that’s something a little bit of a workout can fix.

There are a lot of variables to consider, such as field size. A larger field will require more time in the open, more movement. A smaller field can negate the need for speed as the big guys will take just a few steps to get to their bunkers. But the entire compare and contrast was based around teams with equal skills and experience. A heavier team with ten years experience will out perform a smaller team with one year’s experience. When it comes down to it in the end, there’s little definitive proof of which is better.