Unleash your imagination with splat guns, where joy and creativity know no bounds. Unlike airsoft and paintball guns, splat guns offer thrilling amusement without legal hindrances in most places. As an enthusiast of outdoor sports and games that emulate my favorite video game experiences, I eagerly acquired a splat ball gun upon learning of their legality in my state.
However, it’s crucial to note that laws governing splatter ball guns and similar imitation firearms differ from one location to another. Before indulging in the excitement, ensure their legality in your area. To assist you, I have researched the legality of Splat R Ball guns across various states, which I will now share. Embrace the freedom to play, where the possibilities are limitless with splatter guns.
Can You Play With Splat Guns Legally In The USA?
Don’t worry; splat guns are perfectly legal in the US. In fact, these guns were first produced as an alternative to airsoft guns in countries that have banned the latter. Unlike other toy guns, splatrball guns shoot harmless gel balls created by hydrating tiny polymer beads, which are soft and burst upon impact (similar to gel blasters and Orbeez guns). While eye injuries remain a concern, it is crucial to never shoot a splat gun at someone without proper eye protection.
No matter which state you are from, you can freely engage in splat gun games, following certain rules. However, it is important to note that certain restrictions exist regarding ownership, public display, and usage of these guns in some states. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in your area to ensure responsible and legal enjoyment of splatter guns.
Here are the splat gun laws in different US states:
1. Florida
Replica guns like splat guns are completely legal in Florida, with the only restriction being that minors under the age of 16 must be under adult supervision. As per the section 790.22, the adult in charge of the child’s welfare can be penalized in the event of a mishap.
2. Texas
The Texan law is even more relaxed, thanks to Texas being an open-carry state. Possession of a splatter ball gun is perfectly legal in Texas. Public display of an imitation gun won’t get you in trouble either, as long as you don’t go around pointing it at people. In case they believe it to be a real gun, you might find yourself charged with aggravated assault.
3. New York
New York is a bit stricter on this matter and requires all imitation guns to be clearly designed like toys. In other words, an imitation gun shouldn’t actually imitate a real firearm in NYC. You’re only allowed to buy and use splat guns of the following bright colors: purple, orange, red, yellow, blue, green, and pink. New York also allows imitation guns to have a transparent, translucent (stained or frosted glass) or white body with their internal content visible.
Thankfully, this isn’t an issue with any of the Splat R Ball models since they all are clearly designed to look like toys. Each of them features bright orange design elements.
I have bad news if you plan to integrate your splat gun with a laser pointer, though. The New York City laws do not allow imitation guns with laser scopes attached to them. Your splat gun should also carry a clear stamp to identify the manufacturer, and the barrel must be plugged for at least half an inch using the same material as the gun. Non-compliance with these regulations may lead to the confiscation of your splat gun.
4. California
California prohibits the display or use of an imitation firearm (including splat guns) in public places. Offenders may potentially be fined or even charged with a misdemeanor on multiple offenses. The reason behind this law in California is pretty simple – to prevent unnecessary panic due to people mistaking toy guns for real firearms.
5. Ohio
Like Texas, Ohio, too, is a more relaxed state. There are no restrictions on the possession and use of splat guns or other imitation guns. However, you’re not allowed to alter a replica firearm in a way that makes it impossible to distinguish it in public schools from a real weapon.
Apart from instances of self-defense, it’s also illegal to draw, brandish, or exhibit an imitation firearm in a threatening manner that might cause the victim to believe it to be a real and operable weapon.
6. New Jersey
Possession of a splatter ball gun isn’t illegal in New Jersey, but using it with the intention to cause fear and panic by portraying it as a real firearm is. Splatter ball guns and gel blasters are required to have an orange strip running the entire length of the gun. The strip should be at least half an inch wide and cannot be removable.
New Jersey also mandates for the barrel of splat guns to be at least an inch in diameter and to be closed at a distance of at least half an inch from the front end of the barrel. The barrel must be made of the same material as the rest of the gun. Like NYC, New Jersey enforces a restriction on the color of gel guns. They must be painted with any color apart from aluminum, silver, blue, or black.
7. Hawaii
While the possession and use of splatter ball guns are legal in Hawaii, it is illegal to carry or display them on any public road, alley, street, or public land unless it’s securely wrapped or enclosed properly in a case. Carrying or exhibiting replica firearms on public school premises is illegal, regardless of packaging. You’re also prohibited from drawing or displaying replica guns in the presence of a law enforcement officer performing official duties.
Key Points
Splat guns are manufactured solely for harmless recreational purposes. Regardless of location, no one should use them to create fear or panic.
Splat guns must have an orange tip at the end of the barrel to distinguish it from a real firearm.
While the design is similar to real firearms, splat guns should always be marked with bright colors (if not required to be bright-colored entirely). This is to make sure that no one mistakes them for real weapons.
The laws on possession, exhibit, and use of splat guns vary quite a bit across the states. Since these regulations vary in different local authorities, it would be best to check them out in your area before buying one.
Legality Of Splatter Ball Guns Across The Globe
You should be able to buy and play with splatter ball guns pretty much anywhere in the US, but what about in other places around the world? Well, I took a quick look at the splat ball gun regulations in other countries.
Australia
Unfortunately, splatter ball guns are classified as firearms almost throughout Australia. Besides Queensland, it’s illegal to buy or possess splat guns in all Australian states and territories without a Category A license, which also requires you to be at least 18 years old. Even Queensland has a concealed carry law regarding splatrball guns, which prohibits their public display.
UK
The UK is a lot more relaxed in this regard, and you may purchase and use splatter ball guns throughout the country. However, though younger kids can play with Orbeez guns under adult supervision, only those above the age of 18 are allowed to purchase these toy guns. However, there may be some restrictions on the public exhibit and carrying of splat guns in the UK.
Germany
In Germany, anyone aged 14 years and older can freely purchase and use splat guns as long as their muzzle velocity doesn’t exceed 230 FPS. However, Splat R Ball guns shooting at speeds above 230 FPS can be used only by those aged above 18 years as they are considered to be air rifles rather than toys. While this still sounds pretty relaxed, I do have some bad news for you in case you’re in Germany.
Besides, you aren’t allowed to mount a laser sight or flashlight on your splat gun. Even owning a light that can be mounted on a splatter ball gun is illegal. Secondly, these toy guns capable of automatic fire are illegal in Germany.
In addition to the conceal-carry laws in Germany, you’re also required to lock the splat gun in a box during transportation if it resembles a real firearm.
Brazil
Unfortunately, all imitation guns, including splatter ball guns, are illegal in Brazil. The country passed a law years ago prohibiting the possession of toy guns and replica guns in a move to promote non-violence. Shops selling toy guns in Brazil can be heavily penalized.
Sweden
Splat guns are legal and treated as limited-effect firearms in Sweden. Thus, although you must be at least 18 years old to purchase or possess a splatter ball gun, you do not need any special license or permission.
Japan
In Japan, too, splatter ball guns are completely legal as long as their muzzle velocities are under 330 FPS. This pretty much renders all Splat R Ball guns legal in the country since they are far below the FPS limit.
Related Article: Are Gel Blasters Legal?
Do You Have To Be 18 To Buy A Splatrball Gun?
Ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals is of utmost importance, and it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your local area when buying SplatRBall guns. It’s worth noting that different jurisdictions may have specific age restrictions in place.
In certain states within the USA and various countries, the minimum age requirement for buying these guns is typically set at 18 years old. Many states do not have any such requirements. In such cases, follow the recommendation of your specific splat gun manufacturer, which is usually 9-14 years.
However, it’s important to highlight that some regions may disallow the sale of splat guns and gel blasters to minors while allowing supervised play under the guidance of responsible adults. To ensure compliance and make informed decisions, I highly recommend verifying the age restrictions associated with splatter ball guns in your specific region.
Related: Age Limits for Gel Blasters And Splat Guns
Where Should You Never Play With Splat Guns?
Emphasizing the importance of responsible play, it’s crucial to adhere to certain guidelines when engaging in splatter ball gun activities. Local regulations may restrict playing with these guns in specific areas, including schools, parks, plazas, and other public spaces. Beyond legal considerations, it is essential to prioritize safety at all times.
So, where should you avoid playing with splatter ball guns? The answer is simple yet significant – refrain from playing in any location where you lack permission or where there is a risk of unintentionally harming bystanders who are not actively participating in the game. It’s crucial to recognize that those not engaged in the splat ball game may not be equipped with protective eyewear. Even a single stray Orbeez ball has the potential to cause severe eye injuries.
Consequently, it is imperative to avoid playing in areas such as streets, alleys, public parks, plazas, or any public space where non-participating individuals may be within the range of your splat gun. Remember, safety for others should always be the guiding principle when enjoying splatter ball games.
Also Read: Top 10 Splat Guns Available Legally
Where Can You Play With Splatter Guns Safely?
One of the most ideal places to unleash your splat ball frenzy is within the confines of a dedicated splat gun arena. These arenas not only provide a completely safe environment but also offer captivating themes and imaginative designs that enhance overall enjoyment. With strategically placed cover structures, these arenas create an immersive atmosphere that amplifies the excitement of the game.
If you prefer a more personal setting, your backyard, basement, or garage can serve as exciting playgrounds for splat ball battles, granted you have ample space. It’s essential, however, to ensure that stray gel balls do not escape beyond your property, as they might unintentionally hit unsuspecting passersby. Prioritize safety and avoid any potential risks to others.
If you are like me, seeking a unique and less crowded setting, open fields with minimal human activity can transform into captivating splat ball battlefields. These serene locations offer ample space to strategize, dive for cover, and engage in exhilarating skirmishes.
Tips To Comply With Splat Gun Laws
Nobody wants to get in legal trouble over a fun game of splatter ball. Here are some quick tips on complying with the splat gun laws while having a blast.
First and foremost, make sure playing splat ball is legal in your place and that you meet the relevant minimum age limit.
Check if your local authorities have any laws regarding the display or use of splat guns in public areas. You may have to pack the gun accordingly when carrying it from one place to another.
Never threaten anyone with a splat gun, causing them to believe it to be a real weapon. Besides the direct legal consequences, the other party might potentially panic and retaliate with lethal force.
So, there you have it – it’s legal to play with splat guns in the US and most other countries. However, do pay heed to other relevant regulations such as minimum age limits, FPS limits, restrictions on public display, etc.
With the splat gun laws being pretty relaxed in Mississippi, I have no trouble having plenty of fun playing gel blaster games at least once a week. I hope for the same for you, but even if the laws are more stringent in your locality, you can still have a blast at a good splat ball arena.
