Equipment Modification, Tampering & Legality

Overview

Rules governing player and team modifications to equipment, including the distinction between acceptable customization and prohibited tampering.

Key Points

• Cosmetic changes are generally permitted if they do not affect safety or function
• Performance modifications must remain within defined safety and rate-of-fire limits
• Any attempt to bypass safety systems or conceal illegal settings is treated as tampering
• Tampering may result in both equipment removal and formal penalties

Details

Players and teams frequently customize their equipment, but modifications must remain within the boundaries of published rules. Cosmetic changes, such as color, grips, or non-structural accessories, are typically allowed as long as they do not interfere with identification, safety markings, or visibility.

Performance-related modifications—such as changes to trigger mechanisms, regulators, or internal components—must comply with velocity caps, rate-of-fire limits, and mechanical classification rules. Any change that bypasses or disables built-in safety features, such as tournament locks or velocity adjusters, is generally considered prohibited tampering.

Attempts to conceal illegal modifications, including hidden modes, disguised controls, or removable lock devices, are treated as serious rule violations. Sanctions can include equipment disqualification, point penalties, match forfeiture, or event removal, depending on the severity and intent.

To avoid disputes, many events encourage players to disclose unusual configurations to officials before competition begins.

Related Topics

• marker-regulations
• Technical Maintenance & Compliance
• Penalties & Infractions in 1v1 Paintball
• Rules, Safety & Player Conduct