[z28dreams]

You -should- wear a cup, but I wouldn't worry about it. I'd say 90% of shots will hit you in your mask/extremity, since you'll typically get in firefights where you're hiding behind cover.

The most expensive part is the paintballs themselves for sure.... a case of 2000 online can be bought as cheap as $40..but some local fields will charge anywhere from $70 to $120 for that same case.

In short, find fields that let you 'BYOP' - bring your own paint.

If you plan on playing a lot, buying a gun/mask/etc will be a good idea (probably make up the cost in < 10 outings). Right now the Smart Parts ION for $200 is easily the best deal out there for a good gun.