How to pick the best paintball gun is a question that arises in every paintball lover.If you’re new to the adrenaline-filled sport of paintball, choosing the right marker or gun can feel daunting. With so many styles, features, and price points on the market, how do you determine which paintball gun is the best fit for your needs and budget? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider – from understanding the array of paintball gun types and playing styles available to analyzing your experience level, ideal specs, brands, and must-have accessories. With the inside information in this article, you can confidently pick out an ideal beginner, intermediate or advanced paintball marker perfect for your needs.
The Wide Range of Paintball Gun Types on the Market
The first step is getting familiar with the core types of paintball guns available so you can narrow your search. Here are the primary categories:
Pump Paintball Guns – Cocking Manually for Each Shot
Pump paintball guns require you to manually pull the pump handle back and then push it forward to cock the marker and load each individual paintball into the chamber. This cocking action also compresses the firing gas for the shot. While slower to operate than semi-autos, pump guns have very few moving parts, making them extremely reliable and low maintenance. They also train you to make every single shot count. Pump markers are best suited for more experienced players looking for a classic challenge.
Semi-Automatic Guns – One Shot Per Trigger Pull
Semi-auto paintball guns use a combination of mechanical and pneumatic components to fire just one shot each time you pull the trigger. Inside the marker, the electronic or mechanical system automatically loads the next paintball into the chamber and compresses the firing gas with each shot. More shots per second than pump guns, but at a limited rate set by field regulations.
Fully Automatic Paintball Guns – Continuous Firing
Full auto paintball guns utilize electronic firing systems that allow them to shoot continuously as long as you hold down the trigger, similar to a real machine gun. While exciting, fully automatic markers are banned at most commercial paintball fields due to massively high rates of fire that are considered overkill.
Mechanical Paintball Guns – Simple and Durable
Mechanical paintball guns use cocking handles, bolts, springs and other non-electronic parts to load, compress and fire each shot. Less complex internal design than electros. No circuit boards or programming. Because they have fewer moving parts and electronics, mechanical guns are typically more affordable, rugged and reliable but have a slower rate of fire. A great option for newer players and casual recreational games.
Electronic Guns – Advanced Circuit Boards for Faster Cycling
Electronic paintball guns use onboard computer processors and solenoid valves to precisely control the marker’s shot cycle. Electronic eyes track paintballs, circuits fire the solenoid valves, and sensors monitor regulators. Far faster cycling than mechanical designs, but naturally a bit pricier. Better suited for experienced players.
Woodsball Guns – Rugged and High Capacity for Outdoor Play
Woodsball paintball guns are designed for all-terrain outdoor play at fields with natural bunkers and cover. Often featuring camouflage, ruggedized exteriors and high-capacity ammo loaders, woodsball markers excel at scenario games with larger playing areas and higher ammo demands.
Speedball Guns – Compact and Hyper Accurate on Artificial Fields
Speedball paintball guns are smaller, extremely lightweight markers built for fast maneuvering and very high shooting rates on indoor artificial turf fields with inflatable bunkers. Excellent balance and ergonomics allow responsive snap shooting critical for the speedball format.
Magfed Paintball Guns – Magazine Fed Instead of Hopper Fed
Magfed paintball guns use realistic detachable magazines that hold 10-20 paintballs rather than a large 200-300 ball hopper feed system. While this lower ammo capacity mimics real-world military simulation, it demands more frequent reloading.
Key Factors to Consider When Picking the Right Paintball Gun
With a grasp on the different types of paintball guns available, next carefully consider these important criteria as you select the model best suited to your needs:
Match the Gun to Your Experience Level
As a newer player, it’s smart to start out with a durable, field-ready entry-level mechanical gun that’s very affordable and easy to maintain. Tippmann, Spyder and GOG all make reliable low cost beginner markers under $200. Intermediate players seeking improved accuracy and faster cycle rates can step up to electropneumatic guns like the Planet Eclipse EMEK 100 or Empire Mini GS. For advanced tournament action, high-end guns like the Dye M3+ or DLX Luxe X offer professional speed, precision and consistency.
Factor Your Budget into the Decision
You can snag a quality entry-level mechanical paintball gun for around $100-$200 new. This class of gun offers solid recreational performance on a beginner’s budget. Stepping up to mid-range electropneumatic guns in the $300-$800 range brings noticeable improvements in shot-to-shot consistency, firing speed, precision and ergonomics. Top-tier high-end tournament electros run $1000+ but deliver unrivaled rates of fire exceeding 20 balls per second with feather-light triggers and aircraft grade aluminum construction.
Consider Your Primary Type of Play and Paintball Format
Think about what game formats you plan to play most as you narrow your search. For big outdoor woodsball fields and scenario games with natural bunkers, look for rugged milsim-styled guns with high ammo capacity like the Tippmann TMC MAGFED or First Strike T15. For fast and furious speedball matches on inflated indoor fields, you’ll want a smooth-shooting and hyper-accurate electropneumatic gun designed for snap shooting like the Planet Eclipse CS2. Of course you can use most guns in any format, but some handle specific games better.
Gauge How Easy the Gun Will Be to Use and Maintain
If you’re brand new to paintball, look for the most newbie-friendly basic mechanical guns that are simple to understand, disassemble and clean after use. As you get into more advanced electropneumatic guns with more moving parts, higher maintenance and tuning know-how becomes essential.
Consider Accuracy, Range and Shot Consistency
Entry-level beginner guns under $200 do sacrifice some accuracy and range for affordability. By spending more on mid-range and high-end models you gain noticeable bumps in shot quality, distance, precision and consistency from higher-grade barrels and internals.
Account for Ongoing Maintenance and Upgrades
Simple mechanical guns with minimal moving parts require less frequent cleaning, lubrication and basic upkeep. Advanced electropneumatic rigs with precision fittings and gaskets need more TLC and tuning to stay in peak shape. Make sure you have the technical skills and time.
Researching and Comparing Specific Paintball Gun Models
Once you have playing style, must-have features, and budget in mind, start researching specific gun makes and models. Check out paintball forums and reviews while comparing various designs, capabilities and requirements to find options that fit the bill:
Newbie-Friendly Brands Offer Quality Beginner Guns
For entry-level gear that is both affordable but also durable, target proven brands with economical recreational markers like Tippmann, Spyder, Azodin and GOG. The legendary Tippmann 98 has been a top choice for decades thanks to its simplicity, reliability, and heavy-duty construction. The GOG eNMEy packs excellent mid-range electropneumatic performance into a starter priced package. And the Azodin KP3 pump gun provides premium accuracy on a budget.
Intermediate and Pro Guns for Competitive Play
When ready to move up from beginner gear, check out mid-tier brands like Empire, Dangerous Power and Proto painting the field with moderate price but strong performance electropneumatic designs. For top-tier professional and tournament-grade equipment, leading names include Dye, Planet Eclipse, DLX Luxe, and PE. Models like the Dye M3+ represent the pinnacle of speed, precision and consistency but demand a premium price tag.
Try Before You Buy If Possible
While not always easy to arrange, your absolute best bet is trying out different paintball guns hands-on before buying. Ask your local pro shop if they have a test fire shooting range on site. And experienced players at your home field may let you test drive their personal guns so you can get a feel for different markers in action.
Outfitting Your Gun With Quality Accessories and Upgrades
Beyond choosing the base marker itself, also factor in must-have accessories and potential upgrades down the road:
Quality Masks and Loaders Are Essential Add-Ons
A thermal mask for eye protection and loader to hold your ammo supply are key add-ons to any new gun purchase. Many beginner packages include both at a discounted combo price. You’ll likely swap out entry-level loaders for faster, higher-capacity models as your skills progress.
Barrel Upgrades Can Enhance Performance
While beginner guns ship with basic barrels, upgrading to aftermarket barrels with enhanced porting, length and bore size allows you to customize range, accuracy and consistency.
Accessorize and Customize Your Gun Over Time
From tactical stocks and foregrips to advanced trigger shoes, precision sights and Picatinny rails, a vast range of accessories let you modify your marker over time. But start out simple with just essentials, adding upgrades as needs evolve.
Consider Internal Improvements For Optimized Efficiency
As you advance in the sport, methodically upgrading internal components like bolts, springs and regulators allows experienced players to meticulously tune their guns for ideal air efficiency, shot consistency, reduced kick and more.
Conclusion – Making the Perfect Paintball Gun Choice For You
Finding the ideal beginner or advanced paintball marker tailored to your experience, budget and playing style doesn’t have to be intimidating. Follow the tips above, talk to fellow players, weigh all the characteristics and features that matter most to your personal needs and playing type. Don’t overbuy right away – building up your skills with entry level gear and upgrading over time is part of the player progression. With research and hands-on testing, you’ll land the perfect paintball gun to start dominating the battlefield.
FAQs
What is the best beginner paintball gun for new players on a budget?
The Tippmann 98, GOG eNMEy and Spyder Victor offer great recreational performance under $150-$200 for new players starting out.
What features make for a good woodsball/scenario paintball gun?
Look for camo finish, rugged build, high ammo capacity, remote coils, accuracy and reliability for woodsball and scenario fields.
What makes a top tournament-level speedball gun different?
Advanced tournament electropneumatic guns have extreme speed, with rates over 20 balls per second. Ultra lightweight design, competition triggers and premium accuracy.
Should I buy the most expensive pro paintball gun as my first?
No, start more affordable and upgrade over time. High-end guns can be overwhelming for beginners.
Why is cleaning and maintenance important for paintball guns?
Regular cleaning keeps all guns shooting smoothly and consistently. Higher end electros need more frequent tuning and care.
