Barrel Cover / Barrel Sock

A barrel cover, also known as a barrel sock, is a fabric or reinforced safety device that fits over the front of a paintball marker’s barrel. It is secured in place with an elastic or adjustable cord that loops around a part of the marker, preventing the cover from sliding off unintentionally. The inside of the cover is designed to catch and contain paintballs that may be fired accidentally when players are not on the active field.

Barrel covers are a standard safety requirement at most commercial paintball fields. Players are typically required to install a cover whenever they leave the playing area, enter staging zones, visit neutral spaces, or move near spectators. Even when a marker is powered down or the air system is off, keeping a barrel cover in place is a simple way to lower risk.

Compared to older barrel plug designs that inserted a rigid plug into the barrel, barrel socks offer improved security. Because the cover wraps over the muzzle and is tethered to the marker, it is less likely to be dislodged by impact or incidental contact. If a paintball is fired while the cover is installed, the ball ruptures inside the sock and is contained, rather than exiting the barrel.

Proper use of a barrel cover is part of a layered safety system. Players should still maintain trigger discipline, avoid pointing markers at people outside of play, and follow all field-specific procedures. Field staff often check barrel covers during entry and exit to ensure compliance.

Barrel covers should be inspected regularly. Frayed elastic, torn fabric, or damaged stitching can reduce their ability to stay secured and safely catch paint. Replacing worn covers and following field rules helps maintain a safe environment for players, staff, and spectators.