HOW TO HOST A GEL BLASTER MATCH AT HOME?

Hosting your first Gel Blaster match at home is a fast, fun way to get friends together and start gel blasting. This guide walks you through everything — planning, field layout, safety rules, game modes, gear checklists, and tips to run a smooth, safe, and memorable match.

Before you start: legal and neighbourhood check

1. Check local rules and council policies

Laws around imitation firearms, noise, and play areas differ across the UK. If unsure, contact your local council before setting up a match in your garden or property.

2. Inform your neighbours

Let nearby residents know your plans. Explain the nature of gel blasters and confirm the schedule to avoid confusion or complaints.

Pick the right location and time

1. Suggested locations

• Private garden or backyard: best for smaller groups.
• Open private land: ideal for larger, organised matches.
• Unused garages or barns: suitable for indoor CQB-style games (ensure permission).

2. Consider the weather

Daylight and calm conditions are best. Avoid rainy or windy days unless players are fully prepared.

Define the field layout

1. Field sizes

• Small: 10 × 6 m (33 × 20 ft) — up to 8 players.
• Medium: 20 × 10 m (66 × 33 ft) — team-based matches.
• Large: 30 × 20 m+ (98 × 66 ft+) — long-range roles.

2. Zones to plan

• Respawn/base zone
• Safe zone for breaks and charging
• Play area (clearly marked)
• Spectator zone

3. Obstacles and cover

Use crates, pallets, tyres, camo netting, or cardboard barriers. Keep certain angles open for longer sightlines and designate restricted areas.

Gear and supplies checklist

Mandatory for each player

• Eye protection
• Functional gel blaster
• Extra magazines and gel balls
• Fully charged battery
• Gloves (optional but recommended)

For organisers

• First aid kit and small extinguisher
• Toolkit (screwdrivers, cleaning rod, silicone spray)
• Markers or armbands for teams
• Rubbish bags, water, shade, table and chairs

Safety rules and technical limits

1. Safety rules

• Eye protection must always be worn
• No blind firing
• No physical contact
• No point-blank shots (2m minimum)
• Firing only allowed within the play zone

2. FPS limits

In the UK, standard gel blasters should stay between 200–300 FPS. Check each blaster with a chronograph. Detune or exclude blasters above the limit.

3. Battery handling

Only charge LiPo batteries on non-flammable surfaces. Never leave batteries charging unsupervised.

Game modes for your first match

1. Team deathmatch

• Simple two-team format
• 30-second respawns
• First to reach a kill target wins

2. Capture the flag

• Teams defend their own flag
• Capture the opposing flag and return it to base

3. VIP escort

• One player is the VIP
• Other team attempts to stop the escort

4. Last player standing

• No respawns
• Ideal for small groups or elimination rounds

How to run the match

1. Pre-match briefing

Cover safety, game rules, boundaries, and signals for pausing or emergencies. Assign marshals if needed.

2. Gear check

Test blasters, inspect goggles, hand out identifiers, confirm batteries are safe and full.

3. Run the matches

Use a timer or whistle to keep games on schedule. Monitor for rule violations.

4. Post-match

Debrief, gather feedback, and encourage players to help clean up the area.

Common problems and fixes

Quick fixes

• Jammed barrel: clear with a rod
• Dead battery: swap for charged one
• Stuck trigger: check safety selector or wiring

House rules template

• Goggles on at all times
• No contact
• Minimum firing distance: 2 m (1.5 m for pistols)
• Don’t aim at spectators
• Marshals make final decisions

Planning your setup

Budget options

Use cardboard boxes, plastic bins, and tarps for a DIY field. Cost: £40–£150

Full setup

Add signage, platforms, durable cover. Cost: £250–£900

Sample match schedule

1. 0:00–0:15 — Players arrive & safety briefing
2. 0:15–0:30 — Equipment check
3. 0:30–1:10 — Matches 1 & 2
4. 1:10–1:25 — Break
5. 1:25–1:55 — Matches 3 & 4
6. 1:55–2:00 — Debrief & pack up

Pre-match checklist

• Neighbours notified
• Rules reviewed
• FPS limit checked
• Safe zones marked
• Gear verified
• Water and bin bags on site

FAQ – hosting a home gel blaster game

Can kids play?

Yes, if supervised and using low-power blasters with full eye protection.

Can I charge a fee?

Only for private groups. If you invite the public or profit, check insurance and legal advice.

What if a neighbour complains?

Pause the game, explain the activity, and offer to adjust times or add barriers.

What if it rains?

Move to a sheltered space or reschedule.

Conclusion

Hosting a gel blaster match at home in the UK is both fun and achievable. By planning well, communicating clearly, and setting strong safety standards, you can enjoy great matches with friends and family — right in your own garden.