HOW A HOP-UP IMPROVES YOUR GEL BLASTER'S ACCURACY AND RANGE
Looking to improve your gel blaster’s performance? A simple yet powerful upgrade is the Hop-Up — a small device that can significantly improve both range and accuracy. Whether you’re running a Briliantz tactical rifle, a sniper model, or an orby pistol, installing the right Hop-Up can give your shots the edge.
What is a hop-up and why does it matter?
Hop-Up explained
A Hop-Up is a device fitted to the end of your blaster’s barrel. It applies light backspin to the gel ball, helping it fly further and straighter. This effect is called the Magnus Effect and works similarly to spin in football — lifting the projectile mid-flight.
What it does for your blaster
• Increases shooting distance
• Keeps shots stable in the air
• Reduces dip from gravity
• Makes aiming more consistent, even over longer ranges
How a hop-up works with gel blasters
Gel balls are soft and lightweight, which makes them sensitive to drag and wind. Without a Hop-Up, they tend to dip or veer off after a few metres. By spinning them backwards slightly, a Hop-Up gives them lift, helping them travel straighter before falling.
What happens inside the barrel
- The gel exits the barrel
- The Hop-Up applies upward friction
- The gel spins back and flies more evenly
- You get extra range without extra power
Well-tuned setups often see a 10–30% increase in range depending on the blaster and ball quality.
Key benefits of using a Hop-Up
Improved range and reach
Target players at greater distances — especially helpful for outdoor or woodland matches.
Better accuracy
Backspin keeps your shot centred. Ideal for gel blaster snipers or players who rely on precision.
Flatter flight paths
Your gels will drop less and stay on line for longer.
Smoother performance
Combined with clean barrels and quality gel balls, a Hop-Up improves consistency in every shot.
Types of hop-up attachments available
External Hop-Ups
Attach to the outside of the barrel. Easy to install, making them ideal for beginners.
Internal Hop-Ups
Built inside the barrel — they offer better fine-tuning but need disassembly. Often found on advanced models like Briliantz snipers.
Adjustable Hop-Ups
Allow small tweaks to spin force. Useful if you play in different weather conditions or swap gel types regularly.
How to install a Hop-Up on your blaster
What you need
• A Hop-Up that fits your barrel size
• A small tool (hex key or screwdriver)
• Cleaning cloth and silicone lube
Installation steps
- Power off and unload your blaster
- Detach any barrel caps or tips
- Slide the Hop-Up into position
- Adjust the tension screw
- Fire a few shots and tweak for best flight path
Quick tip: If your shots go too high, reduce spin. If they dip too early, increase it slightly.
Mistakes to avoid with hop-up setups
Wrong sizing
Make sure the Hop-Up fits your model’s barrel — most fall between 9mm and 14mm.
Too much spin
Excess backspin can reduce accuracy. Turn the screw gently and test frequently.
Dirty internals
Keep your barrel and gel balls clean — grime ruins the spin effect.
Best gel blasters to upgrade with a Hop-Up
• Briliantz tactical rifles – already precise; a Hop-Up boosts long-distance play
• Sniper builds (MSR, M24) – perfect match for high-accuracy shooting
• RPK or support-style blasters – enhances mid-range control
• Compact orby pistols – improves aim despite shorter barrels
Maintenance tips for hop-ups
Routine care
• Clean every few sessions
• Use silicone lube — avoid petrol-based products
• Recalibrate when switching gel brands or playing in cold/humid weather
• Store your blaster in a dry bag or hard case
FAQ – using hop-ups on gel blasters
Do all blasters benefit from a Hop-Up?
Most do. Entry-level models see the biggest improvement.
Will it increase FPS?
No. Hop-Ups change the flight path, not the power output.
Are 3D-printed Hop-Ups safe?
Yes, if made from strong materials like ABS or nylon.
Can I install one myself?
External models are beginner-friendly. Internal ones may need experience.
Conclusion
If you want to get more out of your Gel Blaster — whether you’re playing in your garden or at a local UK skirmish site — a Hop-Up is a smart upgrade. It won’t boost your FPS, but it will make your shots fly further, straighter, and more predictably.
For players running a Briliantz rifle, sniper setup, or mid-range RPK, the difference can be game-changing. Just make sure to choose the right model, clean your barrel regularly, and test your settings until you find the sweet spot.