BEGINNER MISTAKES TO AVOID WITH GEL BLASTERS

Getting into the world of Gel Blasters is exciting, especially as the sport gains popularity in the UK. But many new players run into the same issues that can reduce performance, damage their blaster, or lead to poor gameplay experiences.

Whether you're using a gel blaster sniper, a compact orby gun glock, or a powerful RPK gel blaster, avoiding these beginner mistakes will help you play smarter and get more out of your gear.

Common Mistakes New Players Make

1. Using Low-Quality Gel Balls

Low-grade gel balls are one of the most common causes of poor performance. They can swell, deform, or break mid-shot, leading to jams and inconsistent firing.

Best practice: Use high-quality, branded gel balls and hydrate them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Not Hydrating Gel Balls Properly

Over-soaked or under-hydrated gel balls can lead to damage, low accuracy, and feeding problems.

Fix: Soak gel balls in clean water for 3 to 4 hours (or as specified) until they reach full size. Never use them prematurely.

3. Skipping Maintenance

Regular cleaning and care are essential. Many beginners forget this and end up with blasters that jam or lose power.

Checklist:

• Clean the barrel after each session
• Remove and empty the magazine
• Dry the blaster before storing

4. Using the Wrong Battery or Overcharging

Using the wrong voltage or overcharging can cause battery failure or even permanent damage to your blaster.

Best practice: Use the recommended battery and a smart charger. If using LiPo batteries, avoid over-discharging or overcharging, and store at partial charge.

5. Storing with Gel Balls Inside

Storing your gel blaster with gel balls in the mag or chamber leads to swelling, feeding issues, and potential mould.

Fix: Always empty and dry your magazine before putting the blaster away.

6. Firing at Close Range Without Safety

While gel balls are soft, they can still sting at close distances, especially to sensitive areas like the eyes.

Tip: Always wear eye protection and follow a minimum shooting distance of at least 2 to 3 metres. Safety is essential for responsible play.

7. Upgrading Too Soon

Beginners often rush into upgrades without understanding how their blaster works, leading to damaged internals or voided warranties.

Advice: Use your blaster in its stock configuration until you're familiar with how it performs. Then, upgrade gradually based on your needs.

8. Using the Wrong Lubricants

Standard household oils like WD-40 can degrade plastic components and damage your blaster.

What to use instead: Only apply silicone-based lubricants made for gel blasters or airsoft equipment.

9. Improper Storage Conditions

Leaving your gel blaster in damp, hot, or sun-exposed areas can warp plastic or corrode metal parts.

Proper storage: Keep your blaster in a cool, dry place, ideally inside a tactical bag or hard case. Avoid garages, cars, and outdoor sheds.

10. Treating It Like Nerf or Airsoft

Gel blasters function differently from both Nerf and Airsoft. Expecting similar performance or maintenance requirements can lead to disappointment.

Solution: Learn the unique handling of gel blasters — especially hydration, cleaning, and proper loading.

Bonus Tip: Skipping the Manual

Most beginners ignore the manual — and then face problems that are easily preventable.

Suggestion: Take five minutes to read the manual for your specific model. It often includes setup tips, troubleshooting, and battery safety information.

Conclusion

Owning a Gel Blaster is simple and fun, but like any hobby, it comes with a learning curve. Avoiding beginner mistakes is the best way to enjoy reliable performance and keep your blaster in good condition.

Start by using quality gel balls, clean your blaster regularly, store it properly, and take your time with upgrades. These small habits will make a big difference in how long your blaster lasts and how much fun you have with it.

Whether you’re starting with an entry-level orby gun glock or moving up to a sniper or RPK gel blaster, mastering the basics will help you become a more confident and skilled gel blaster player.