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HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD, CHEAP PAINTBALL GUN?
As a beginner it can be overwhelming and confusing when looking
for a paintball gun. Not all of us can afford a good high-end paintball marker
or play frequently enough for it to even be worthwhile. So that leaves the challenge
of finding a good entry level paintball marker that will be functional to your game.
It is also important to consider the expenses of all the
other required equipment as costs can add up quickly. Paintball goggles can be
as cheap as $15 and as expensive as $150 and up. Paintballs are also on average
$40 for 2000 balls. Air systems must also be considered. A 20oz bottle of CO2
is usually around $30, however compressed air which is necessary for fast
shooting (15+ balls per second) will cost $80 and up on average.
Our recommended beginner paintball guns are listed below and come from well established paintball companies that make both entry-level and high-end paintball markers. As you may have noticed the Tippmann 98 is the most popular and heavily recommended because of a strong fan base, but is also disliked for that exact same reason. Nevertheless, the following paintball guns listed are all great for any beginner and you're decision ultimately comes down to budget and personal taste.
Tippmann 98 Custom
BT-4 Combat
Spyder MR1
Tippmann A-5*
*Although a bit pricier, the Tippmann A-5 is arguably the
best mid-ranged gun on the market because of its superior upgradability and
stock performance. If you can save up a little more money, the A-5 is a very
good choice.
Tippmann 98 Custom
Strengths
Along with our other recommendations, a great
benefit is that there are lots of parts available in case a repair is needed
for these paintball guns
The 98 Custom also works great on CO2,
and has a very reliable CVX valve
Non-the less the design of this paintball gun is
great. The sights work great and when opening it up everything is easily
accessible and visible. At first it may be a bit tricky to get the gun apart
but the learning curve is very low and user friendly
There are also lots of modification parts and kits available at almost all paintball vendors
Weaknesses
The stock barrel is fairly rough on the inside and many
users find it fairly inaccurate. However, it is only an 8” barrel and is more
accurate than most entry level paintball markers
Tippmann also decided to change the
thread pattern making older model Tippmann incapable with newer models. A great
alternative to the stock barrel is a J&J 14” barrel which retails for about
$30
BT-4 Combat
Strengths
Very durable paintball gun that can stand up to a lot of abuse and is well balanced; great for woodsball
Like the Tippmann 98 it does not require high maintenance and when it does it is very easy to work on
Lots of modifications and parts available. The full length rail also lets users position there attachments comfortably
Also efficient with use of CO2
Weaknesses
Although this is a very sturdy marker it is fairly heavy as result. However, some players prefer the feeling of a heavier marker for a more authentic feeling
The stock barrel is also not that great but can easily be replaced
It is also loud
Spyder MR1
Strengths
The MR1 is a great looking and durable paintball gun
It is also lighter then the predecessors on our recommended list
Accuracy is fair but much approved with an aftermarket barrel
Plenty of internal upgrades
Weaknesses
Is not as upgradable as other paintball markers in its class
Short rail and bolt hinders the ability to mount a scope without a raise or the MR series handle
This gun likes a lot of oil, but if maintaned well will prove to be very reliable
Tippmann A-5
The A-5 is one of the most reliable and best performing mechanical marker available.
Providing lots of upgrading options, durability, and great looks, the A-5 is a favorite among many paintball beginners and enthusiasts.
It also features a cyclone feeder which consistently feeds paint without electronic assistance and can shoot up to 17 balls per second!
