Whether you prefer the term Gel Blaster, Orbeez Gun, or Splat Ball Gun, these fun and exciting toys have exploded in popularity in recent years. The toy guns use colorful water beads called Orbeez for ammo and can provide hours of entertainment for children and adults alike. The guns come in varied shapes and sizes and are a favorite among kids and toy enthusiasts.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Orbeez guns, including how they work, how to use and maintain them, and some frequently asked questions about these toys. So, whether you’re new to Orbeez guns or a veteran Orbeez gun user looking for more information, this guide has got you covered.
How Orbeez Guns Work
Orbeez guns shoot small, colorful beads made of a super-absorbent polymer called sodium polyacrylate. When exposed to water, these beads can expand to as much as 100 times their original size. The result is small, squishy balls that are fun to play with.
Orbeez guns use a mechanism that loads these beads into a chamber. Compressed air provides the energy to propel the water beads from the toy at high speeds. While manual pumping is necessary to pump air into some guns, the most popular selections use batteries to power a motorized pump.
The trigger pull causes the compressed air to push the Orbeez down the barrel and out of the gun. Some models project the water beads as far as 60 feet away. Overall, Orbeez guns are a fascinating combination of science and fun, and they’re a great way to introduce kids to the wonders of physics and chemistry.
Buying Orbeez Guns
You should consider several factors once you decide to purchase an Orbeez Gun. First, decide whether you are interested in a toy that requires manual pumping or if an automatic motorized option is better suited for you.
A second important factor is the size of your toy gun. This includes the overall size of the gun as it relates to handling it, as well as, the chamber capacity possessed by the gun. Range and accuracy are also points you will want to consider.
Price is a final important factor when examining gel gun options. Orbeez gun prices vary greatly depending on the brand and model. To ensure you get the best value for your money, it’s recommended that you compare the features and prices of different models before making a purchase. Overall, when buying an Orbeez gun, it’s important to consider your preferences and needs, as well as the quality and safety of the product.
Using Your Gel Blaster
Using an Orbeez gun is a simple and enjoyable process that can provide hours of entertainment. To begin, you’ll need to load the Orbeez into the gun’s chamber by following the instructions that came with your specific model. Then, you’ll need to pump or power up your gel gun according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Once your Orbeez gun is loaded and ready to go, you can aim at your desired target and pull the trigger. The type of Orbeez gun you own will determine whether you can shoot a single Orbeez or a continuous stream of them.
It’s important to note that safety should always be a top priority when using an Orbeez gun:
- Wear protective eyewear: Always wear protective eyewear when using an Orbeez gun. This habit will prevent any Orbeez from accidentally getting into your eyes.
- Do not aim at anyone’s face or eyes: Never aim an Orbeez gun at someone’s face or eyes, even as a joke.
- Use in a designated area: You should search out a designated area to use your Orbeez guns. This area should be free of any breakable objects or other potential hazards.
- Keep out of reach of young children: Orbeez guns should be kept away from small children. The water beads can pose a choking hazard if ingested.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Always follow manufacturer instructions regarding loading, powering, and using your Orbeez Gun.
- Do not modify the gun: Modifying the original design of your Orbeez gun is unsafe. Also, never attempt to shoot anything other than Orbeez water beads with your toy.
Gel Blaster Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your Gel Blaster will ensure that it functions properly and provide fun for a long time. First, clean your Orbeez gun thoroughly after each use. This action will prevent any leftover Orbeez from drying out and clogging the gun’s mechanism. To clean the gun:
- Disassemble the Orbeez gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Remove any leftover Orbeez beads from the gun’s chamber and barrel.
- Rinse the gun’s chamber and barrel with warm water, making sure to flush out any remaining Orbeez beads.
- Use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub the inside of the chamber and barrel, especially if there are any stubborn Orbeez particles.
- Dry the gun thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- If there are any difficult-to-remove stains or marks on the gun, you can use a mild soap or cleaning solution to gently scrub them away.
- Once the gun is completely dry, reassemble according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
By following these cleaning instructions regularly after each use, you can ensure that your Gel Blaster remains clean and in good working condition.
A final note on maintenance: If your Orbeez gun is battery-powered, be sure to replace the batteries regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Orbeez Gun FAQs
1. Are Orbeez guns safe for kids? Orbeez guns can be safe for kids along with proper use and adult supervision. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines to avoid any accidents or injuries.
2. How do I load Orbeez beads into my Orbeez gun? To load Orbeez beads into your Orbeez gun, first, make sure to disassemble your gel blaster according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, pour the Orbeez beads into the gun’s chamber. Make sure not to overfill it. Reassemble the gun and you’re ready to go!
3. Can I reuse Orbeez beads that have been fired from my Orbeez gun? It’s not recommended to reuse Orbeez beads that have been fired from your Orbeez gun, as they may be damaged or contaminated from contact with the gun’s mechanism or the environment.
4. How far can Orbeez guns shoot? The range of Orbeez guns can vary depending on the model and type of gun. Some can shoot up to 70 feet, while others may have a shorter range.
5. How do I clean my Orbeez gun? Cleaning an Orbeez gun is a straightforward process. You should disassemble the gun first. Next, rinse out any leftover Orbeez beads. Finally, scrub the chamber and barrel with a brush or toothbrush. For a more detailed cleaning guide, refer to the “Orbeez Gun Maintenance” section
6. Can I use other materials besides Orbeez beads in my Orbeez gun? No, it’s not recommended to use any other materials besides Orbeez beads in your Orbeez gun, as other materials may damage the gun’s mechanism or pose a safety risk.
7. How do I store my Orbeez gun? To store your Orbeez gun, disassemble it and dry it thoroughly before storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or moisture.
8. Can I use my Orbeez gun in water? Some Orbeez guns are fine for use in water. But it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure your gun is water-resistant and safe for water use.
9. Do Orbeez guns require batteries? Some Orbeez guns run on battery power. Others require manual pumping action. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to see what type of gun you have and whether it requires batteries.
10. How do I know when my Gel Blaster needs new batteries? If your Orbeez gun is battery-powered and begins to lose power or slow down, it may be time to replace the batteries. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific battery recommendations and replacement instructions.
Final Thoughts
Orbeez guns are a fun and exciting way to engage in imaginative play while enjoying countless hours of entertainment. These toys can be safe and easy to operate. But following manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines are necessary to avoid accidents or injuries. It is also important to properly store and maintain your orbeez gun to promote the longevity of your purchase. Whether you’re looking to battle it out with friends or just enjoy some target practice, an Orbeez gun can be a great option for anyone who loves to have fun and play.