What is the Orbeez Gun?

An Orbeez gun, often referred to as a gel blaster, is a toy that shoots small, water-absorbing gel balls (commonly Orbeez) which burst on impact. These guns are designed for recreational use and are generally considered safe, as the gel balls are non-toxic and biodegradable. The impact is light and typically causes minimal discomfort. They are used in various games, resembling paintball or airsoft, but with less mess and lower risk of injury.

As for their safety, while Orbeez guns are generally safe, users should exercise caution. Wearing protective eyewear is recommended, especially when playing games involving shooting the gun. Being hit in the eye can cause discomfort or potentially lead to injury, so it’s important to avoid aiming at the face. Additionally, proper supervision is advised for younger children using these toys.

Regarding their legality, Orbeez guns are legal in many places, especially in the U.S., where they are classified as toys. However, laws can vary by state and locality, with some areas requiring the toy to have an orange tip to distinguish it from real firearms. In other countries, such as Australia, some regions have more stringent regulations. In New Zealand, they are generally legal, but regulations should be checked for specific details.

What is the Orbeez Gun?

Orbeez are made from a polymer that can absorb water, which makes them swell into soft, squishy balls. This is why they’re often used in stress-relieving toys, sensory activities, or as ammo in gel blasters. As for their environmental impact, while they are biodegradable, they still require proper disposal as they can cause problems in waterways if not disposed of responsibly.

Lastly, while Orbeez themselves don’t reproduce or “have babies,” they can grow when placed in water, but the original Orbeez balls remain unchanged once dried.

Here’s a breakdown of your questions:

1. What does an Orbeez gun do?

An Orbeez gun, also called a gel blaster, shoots small, water-absorbing gel balls (Orbeez) that are typically soft and squishy. These guns are used in outdoor play, where the balls are fired at targets or participants. They are often used for recreational purposes, resembling paintball or airsoft guns but with gel balls instead of pellets.

2. Is it legal to have an Orbeez gun?

The legality of owning an Orbeez gun depends on your location. In some places, they may be considered harmless toys, while in others, they may be subject to restrictions. For example, in the United States, the legality of gel blasters varies by state, and some areas have banned them due to concerns about safety or their resemblance to real firearms. Always check local laws before purchasing or using one.

grinch christmas tree

3. Are Gel Blaster guns safe?

Gel blasters, including Orbeez guns, are generally considered safe when used properly and with appropriate safety gear (like goggles). However, accidents can occur if the guns are misused, particularly if aimed at the face or eyes. Safety precautions should always be taken to minimize the risk of injury.

4. Are Gel Blasters legal in New Zealand?

As of now, gel blasters are not legally classified as firearms in New Zealand, but they may be subject to certain restrictions, especially if they resemble real firearms. Some areas have banned them or regulated their use, so it’s important to check local laws for current regulations.

5. Is an Orbeez gun safe?

An Orbeez gun is generally safe if used correctly. However, safety precautions like wearing eye protection and avoiding shooting at sensitive areas (like the eyes) are essential. The gel balls are soft, so they pose a lower risk than traditional airsoft or paintball pellets, but they can still cause injury if mishandled.

6. What do kids do with Orbeez?

Kids typically use Orbeez guns in recreational play, aiming to shoot or squirt the gel balls at friends or targets. Orbeez are also used for sensory play, as they absorb water and expand into squishy, colorful balls. Kids might enjoy playing with Orbeez in water tables or sensory bins for tactile experiences.

7. What is Orbeez made of?

Orbeez are made from a type of superabsorbent polymer called sodium polyacrylate. When exposed to water, these polymers absorb it and expand into small, soft, gel-like balls. They are non-toxic and safe to handle but should not be ingested.

8. What happens if you get hit in the eye with an Orbeez gun?

If you get hit in the eye with an Orbeez gun, it can cause discomfort, and there’s a risk of injury, especially if the gel ball hits the eye directly. It’s important to wear eye protection, such as safety goggles, to prevent potential damage like scratches or irritation to the eye.

9. Why do we use Orbeez?

Orbeez are used for a variety of purposes, including sensory play, decoration, and recreational games (like with Orbeez guns). They are also used in art and crafts, and in stress-relief toys due to their squishy, tactile nature.

10. Are Orbeez guns safe for the environment?

Orbeez and gel balls are biodegradable, but they can still contribute to litter if not disposed of properly. It’s important to clean up after using Orbeez guns to minimize their environmental impact. If they are left in the environment, they could potentially break down into smaller particles, which may still be harmful to wildlife.

11. What are gel balls made of?

Gel balls, often used in Orbeez guns, are typically made of superabsorbent polymers, such as sodium polyacrylate. These materials can absorb and retain a large amount of water, allowing the gel balls to expand into soft, squishy projectiles.

12. What happens to Orbeez?

Orbeez can shrink back to their original size if they dry out, but they return to their larger, gel-like form once soaked in water again. If left outdoors or in the open, they can degrade over time and break down into smaller bits, which should still be disposed of properly to avoid environmental impact.

13. Can Orbeez have babies?

Orbeez cannot have babies in the biological sense, as they are not living organisms. However, if Orbeez are soaked in water, they can “multiply” in a sense by absorbing more water and growing larger, which may look like the creation of more Orbeez. This is simply a physical process, not reproduction.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros, cons, pricing, lifespan, benefits, and where to buy Orbeez guns and gel blasters:

---

Pros of Orbeez Guns/Gel Blasters

1. Fun and Engaging: Great for outdoor recreational activities, similar to paintball or laser tag.
2. Safe for Kids (with Supervision): Gel balls are soft and non-toxic, reducing the risk of severe injuries compared to paintballs or airsoft pellets.
3. Environmentally Friendly: Most gel balls are biodegradable, meaning they break down over time when disposed of correctly.
4. Affordable Gameplay: Gel balls are inexpensive compared to other recreational ammunition like paintballs.
5. Low Mess: Gel balls shatter on impact and dissolve, leaving little to clean up after games.
6. Educational Uses: Orbeez are also used for sensory play and STEM activities, promoting hands-on learning.

---

Cons of Orbeez Guns/Gel Blasters

1. Potential for Misuse: Misfiring or shooting at close range can cause injuries, particularly to the eyes.
2. Legal Restrictions: Not all locations permit their use or sale due to resemblance to real firearms.
3. Limited Range and Accuracy: Compared to airsoft or paintball guns, Orbeez guns typically have a shorter range and less precise aim.
4. Battery Dependency: Many models are electric and require batteries or charging, which can limit playtime.
5. Environmental Concerns if Mismanaged: While biodegradable, improperly disposed gel balls can harm the environment.

---

Pricing

1. Orbeez Guns:

• Low-End: $10–$30 (small, manual models for kids).
• Mid-Range: $30–$60 (battery-operated guns with better performance).
• High-End: $60–$150+ (large-capacity or advanced models for enthusiasts).

1. Gel Balls/Orbeez Refills:

• Around $10–$20 for 10,000 to 20,000 gel balls, depending on brand and quantity.

---

Lifespan

1. Guns:

• Varies depending on quality and usage. Low-end models may last a few months, while high-end models can last years with proper maintenance.

1. Gel Balls:

• Last for hours to days once hydrated, depending on storage and environment (they shrink back as they dry).

---

Benefits

1. Safe Alternative: Compared to airsoft or paintball, they offer a less painful and safer option.
2. Promotes Outdoor Activity: Encourages physical play and teamwork.
3. Affordable Hobby: The cost of refills and equipment is relatively low.
4. Customizable Play: Many guns are compatible with accessories like scopes, upgraded batteries, or hoppers.

---

Where to Buy Orbeez Guns/Gel Blasters

1. Online Retailers:

• Amazon, Walmart, Target, eBay, AliExpress.
• Specialty gel blaster websites like GelBlaster or Tactical Gel Blasters.

1. Physical Stores:

• Toy stores (for kid-friendly models).
• Outdoor and hobby shops (for higher-end models).

1. Local Marketplaces:

• Some areas may sell them locally through Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or specialized stores.

---

Tips for Buying

• Check Local Laws: Ensure they’re legal in your area.
• Read Reviews: Look for models with good reviews to ensure quality.
• Safety Gear: Purchase goggles or face shields alongside the gun.
• Battery and Charger Compatibility: Ensure the gun you buy comes with the necessary charging equipment.

Would you like help choosing a specific model or learning more about brands?