The Tippmann name brand is one of the leading name brands in the paintball world. When a new paintball player starts out they are usually introduced early on to the Tippmann or the Spyder paintball brands. This is because these two brands have been around for over twenty years. The Tippmann paintball guns are unquestionably the most durable and rugged paintball markers ever made. They specialize in tactical styles and looks while allowing features such as red dots, scopes, angled for grips and adjustable stocks to be added to most of their paintball gun models. Tippmanns have always been used for paintball field rental guns for as long as we can remember, even now the Tippmann markers are available in the 50 caliber models. This allows for a lighter paintball gun to be available for the younger paintball players that are new to paintball.
History
In the 1980s Tippmann was known as Tippmann Arms Company. As such, they produced scaled down .22 cal replicas of military machine guns.
In 1986 gun laws changed, and the owner of Tippmann Arms Company, Dennis Tippmann Sr., was looking for new business. Dennis noticed the growing popularity of paintball and started to develop paintball markers with his knowledge from developing machine guns.
Early Paintball Markers
The first Tippmann paintball marker on the market was the SMG60. The SMG60 fired .62 cal as a full automatic. The SMG60 used a side feed system using a stripper clip and a screw on constant air (CA) tank now known as a threaded CO2 tank. As paintball calibers became standardized, Tippmann developed the SMG68 which used .68 cal paintballs and only produced a few of them. The SMG68 is now worth more than $800 USD.
The next Tippmann marker was the Tippmann 68-Special, which was semi-automatic and used a hopper, then called the Ammo Box, that could contain up to 40 paintballs. Tippmann also released a product which converted the SMG68 into the 68-Special.
Tippmann went on to produce other notable markers, such as the semi-auto Pro-Am which used a solid machined aluminum receiver proceeded by the well known Pro-Lite (widely used as a rental gun because of its durability), and the SL-68, a pump marker that was based on the Nelson Nel-Spot action. Tippmann also released the Factory F/A, which used the first force-feed system and a fire rate limiter to shoot semi and full automatic, and the Model 98 which used a cast aluminum design to retain the requisite dimensional accuracy while permitting their products to be offered at lower prices.
Current Paintball Markers
Alpha Black / Bravo One
The Alpha Black, also called U.S. Army Alpha Black, or Bravo One, is the newest addition to the Tippmann family. The most popular version of this marker is called Tactical and looks like M16 rifle. The marker comes in four versions:
- basic that comes with a marker and barrel
- e-basic that comes with an electronic firing mode
- most popular version, the tactical, that also includes a stock and handle and looks like M16 rifle / M4 Carbine|M4A1 Carbine
- tactical electric that comes with the tactical version and the electric firing mode
These markers are designed in partnership with the U.S. Army and are used by soldiers in the Army trainings. Army also created an downloadable guide and website for this marker.
98 Custom
The 98 Custom is known for its ease of use, durability and reliability. It was originally the 98 Model, until Tippmann added improved modifications. The simple inline blowback design is very reliable and easy to maintain. Originally a black sheep in its overall design, it has become known as one of the most upgradeable markers for the new player.
It is important to note that most of the upgrades are of cosmetic nature only. And many so called “performance” upgrades have been shown to provide minor, if any benefits.
By pressing down on the front sight, the player can swing-down the feedneck, allowing for easy access to the chamber and thus allowing for fast in-game swapping of the feedneck. Many players have found that an occasional few drops of marker oil in the air input (ASA) is all this marker needs to function reliably. It is because of this low level of maintenance that this is the number one marker used for field rental at commercial paintball fields.
Another feature of the 98 series of guns is their clam-shell design. By removing the six bolts on the left side of the marker you can dismantle the marker into two halves or shells. This allows users a very easy method of cleaning and maintaining the internals of the marker. It is cumbersome, and not advisable to do out in the field as there are small parts that may be lost. The clamshell design was updated with a more modular design in the A-5. The only part not easily accessed nor easily cleaned is the valve, but this part is generally low maintenance and rarely, if ever, needs to be cleaned or taken apart.
One feature incorporated in later iterations of the 98 Custom is the inclusion of Anti-Chop Technology. This simple system prevents the front bolt from chopping the paintball if it does not find its way completely into the firing chamber when the trigger is pulled.
In early 2008, the 98 Custom product line underwent a refresh, simultaneously yielding the 98 Custom Platinum and termination of manufacture of the older 98 Custom non-A.C.T. models.
Custom Pro
The Tippmann Custom Pro is an upgraded version of the 98 Custom.
It comes stock with:
- double trigger (two-finger trigger)
- drop-forward which moves the tank down and forward, changing the center of gravity making the paintball marker more balanced
- 11-inch high-performance stone-honed barrel
- ACT
The powdercoat on the Custom Pro is also very scratch resistant. Although it is approximately $30 USD more expensive than the 98 Custom, all these accessories separately would cost a recreational player even more. There is a common misconception about the Tippmann Custom Pro’s electronic Trigger. The Custom Pro does not use the E-Grip, instead it uses the E-Trigger system shown here
A-5
The A-5 is a semi-automatic paintball marker. It utilizes a new loading concept called the “Cyclone Feed.” This enables the gun to have a high rate of fire without the addition of aftermarket loaders. It uses a larger surface area and a series of rotating arms to move paintballs into the firing chamber of the gun. The arms come together to make a star shape, holding a total of five balls between its arms. The arms push the paintball completely into the firing chamber, almost eliminating the chance a paintball will be chopped by the front bolt.
The stock Cyclone is rated for a maximum of 15 balls per second. While higher rates of fire are possible, the stock mechanics are not designed to deal with the stresses this will place on them. To achieve higher rates of fire there are several third party cyclone ratchets available. This limitation was addressed during the creation of the X-7.
In addition to the stock semi automatic function, the A-5 can be easily upgraded with either the Response Trigger or an electronic grip frame . The response trigger (r/t) uses a small pneumatic piston to create automatic fire and runs off excess blowback gasses. The E-Grip uses a 9-Volt battery, a microswitch, and a solenoid to trip the sear . The A-5 can often be purchased with these upgrades already installed.
In appearance the A-5 was modeled after the Heckler & Koch MP5K but can be modified to look like a number of different guns. It is one of the most upgradeable markers on the market, with many different cosmetic and performance parts.
The general paintball community sees this marker as one of the best basic utility markers of the woodsball crowd. However its lower general rate of fire, excess weight, and large profile make it an unpopular choice among serious and tourney paintball players. While this marker is a good starter marker and can be had for a small relative investment, the price of upgrades can quickly outstrip the costs of higher end base marker with identical or superior capabilities.
C-3
First Propane Marker
The C-3 with PEP technology is a paintball marker produced by Tippmann that is the first paintabll marker to run on propane. It is a hopper fed gun with a 16 ounce propane tank that has up to 50,000 shots per tank. The propane is safe and it does not change with temperature like CO2.It is a pump gun with a 13 inch mandrel wrapped composite barrel for increased accuracy and reduced weight. It is made for players looking for marksmanship and strategy, and it is also made for new paintball players. It has a standard trigger and a normal feed system. It is 17.5 inches long and it weighs about 3.75 pounds without the tank. Currently, there are no accessories. Tippmann says that the MSRP for this marker is about $229 USD.
The C-3 is a unique pump-action marker that utilizies propane combustion rather than the usual carbon dioxide or compressed air. The manufacturer claims that it is capable of approximately 50,000 shots per 16oz. tank. Propane has similar properties to other propellent gases, but is much more widely available than others, at hardware stores and other shops that stock the small disposable propane tanks, designed for use with a camp stove. This marker is especially enticing to those who live in remote areas that may not have CO2 filling stations available. According to Tippmann, propane is not as significantly affected by temperatures as CO2 is, and is more like nitrogen or compressed air (which is mostly nitrogen) in this respect.
X-7
On November 20, 2006, Tippmann launched their X-7 marker product line in cooperation with Special Ops Paintball.[1] Tippmann boasted that it is the most customizable marker on the market, claiming over 1000 different looks.
The X-7 is the next generation A-5. While similar in general design, the X-7 is different is a few subtle ways.
- It has a new soft paddle cyclone that can achieve up to 20 balls per second.
- The marker body has been modified to be sleeker and has more accessory rails.
- The X-7 is generally (5-16 ounces) heavier than the A-5 depending on configuration.
- Stock X-7 comes with the very popular “low profile” cyclone hopper
- The E-grip uses a Hall Effect Sensor (HES) trigger instead of a physical micro switch.
While the X-7 shares the same barrel threads as the A-5, its body design has been altered so most A-5 accessories (stocks, magazines, pneumatics) can not be used on the X-7.
The X-7 currently comes in three stock variations:
- Basic X-7
- Response Trigger
- E-Grip
The stock Basic X-7 includes:
- Magnesium receiver which is lightweight and durable
- Cyclone EP (Enhanced Performance) system feeds up to 20 BPS
- Air-thru stock compatible system eliminates gas line under the marker
- Low profile, offset hopper for clear sight line
- Modular shroud with four rails to add on sights and scopes
- AR15 style magazine with built in tool storage
- Picatinny top rail to easily add new risers, sights or handles
- Upgraded adjustable rear site helps with long range aiming
- Push pin design for easy field stripping and accessory add ons
- Maintenance pack, barrel sleeve, and gun oil
The Tippmann X-7 website can be found here.
Triumph
In 2006, Tippmann Pneumatics launched a line of (.68 cal) paintball markers called the “Triumph Series”.
The triumph series is aimed at capturing the “other half” of the entry level market of paintballers who favor a more compact and lighter marker and who have no desire for the classic MILSIM look that Tippmann is famous for.
The Triumph series consists of 3 markers:
- Triumph XL: Semi-Automatic
- Triumph XT: Semi-Automatic, Expansion Chamber included
- Triumph eXT: Electronic (Single-shot, 3-round burst, Full-Auto 12 BPS, Full-Auto 15 BPS), Expansion Chamber included
All Triumph markers include:
- High impact composite body
- Double trigger
- Center feed neck
- In-line bolt system
- 200 gravity feed round hopper
Triumph XL includes:
- 8½” basic barrel
Triumph XT and eXT includes:
- 11″ barrel
- In-line expansion chamber
- Front grip assembly
Triumph eXT includes:
- Electronic, 4 mode trigger
Very few aftermarket upgrades can be purchased for any of the Triumph Series, and are said to be available in October.
Previous Products
SMG60
The SMG 60 was one of the first fully automatic paintball markers on the market. Notable for its similarity to the British Sten of World War II, and for the clouds of CO2 produced when fired, because it ran on liquid CO2 through a siphon tank. Many players complained about its overpowered nature in game play. However, this is countered by the fact that it uses 3 stripper clips of 5 balls each (for 15 total), making its capacity quite limited. The entire magazine can be emptied in about 1.5 seconds. It was chambered in .62 caliber, instead of the now popular .68. Also the barrel is fixed, i.e. not removable, and steel, which had a tendency to rust. Quickly becoming a collector’s piece, they can sell for as much as $250, even though ammunition (paintballs) of a correct size are extremely hard to find. The SMG60 was also one of the first guns to standardize a constant air-source, while most of the paintball world was still relying on 12grams.
SMG68
The same as the SMG60, except it was chambered in .68, was configured for only semi-automatic operation, and the barrel was removable. Tippmann offered a trade-in system in which SMG68’s could be converted into 68 Specials, by adding a pront bolt, and external linkage arm. This factor has greatly contributed to the SMG68’s rareity.
SL-68
The SL-68 was a pump gun designed for improved durability over prior product designs. The body was constructed from a cast and machined magnesium aluminum alloy, and the hopper adapter was integrated into the body casting, reducing the overall number of parts. The pump handle was originally manufactured with a cast metal, but was later replaced with a fiber-reinforced plastic. A squeegee could be stored in the pump handle, and a breech port could be used to quickly clean the barrel.
68 Special
The 68 Special was an inline poppet valve design very similar to the SMG-60 in layout and design. One interesting feature about this gun is that the hammer can be moved out of position into a safety position preventing the gun from being able to fire, like the PMI-3/VM-68. It had a built in back bottle setup that ran on liquid CO2 and was very inefficient, partially because of the hammer weight (nearly 1 pound). It was one of the first semi-auto markers on the market, and cycled at 6 balls per second, which was very fast considering the loader technology at the time.
SL-68 II
- Main article: Tippmann SL-68 II
A pump marker, the Tippmann SL-68 II superseded the original SL-68, adding anti-double feed and modified breech features. Most importantly, the constant-air adapter was relocated to an ergonomic position in the base of the cast gripframe meaning that players could easily aim with a full mask on.
Pro-AM
The Pro-Am is an open bolt semi-automatic marker. Early models had cast metal foregrips and pistol grips (the Pro-Am), while later models had composite foregrips and grip frames (the Pro-Lite). The loader connection was built into the foregrip, and by clicking the foregrip forward with a sear at the front of the gun the paint was kept from feeding, and the breech became open to clean the gun with a pull through squeegee. This allowed a player to clean the gun really fast with a pull through squeegee, without removing the barrel, or removing the loader. Like all Tippmann markers the Pro-Am was nearly indestructible and extremely reliable gun. While the Pro-am was like the 68 Special in layout, being an inline poppet valve design, it was a major change in design, with a different body, valve, breech, hammer, hammer to bolt linkage, and sear arrangements. Also the tank was moved to below the grip frame for better balance and to allow different bottom line arrangements and stocks, instead of the Lone Star (M-16 style) grip that had been on the previous Tippmann Semi/Full Auto lines. Also it was the first Tippmann Semi-Auto that didn’t require a siphon tank to run liquid CO2, even though it could in colder weather without any problems. At one point in time, it was the gun used by the Ironmen, except for David Dehan (Youngblood) who used a PMI-3/VM-68.
Pro-Lite\Mini-Lite
The Pro-Lite is a semi-automatic open bolt marker. It is nearly identical to the Pro-am differing only in the materials used to make the foregrip and pistol grip. The Pro-lite used composite plastic while early Pro-Ams used cast metal foregrips and pistol grips(later Pro-Am models used composite foregrips). The difference in materials made the Pro-Lite considerably lighter than its predecessor. Like the Pro-Am the Pro-lite was designed for durability and is extremely reliable. Paintball Fields commonly used Pro-lites as rentals because of their ease of maintenance and ability to take extreme abuse. Tippmann Pro-Lite general technical gun modifications PaintballTipps. The Mini-Lite is essentially a Pro-lite with an extra CA adpter mounted just behind foregrip.
Factory F/A
The F/A was a select fire, force fed, blowback paintball gun based on the Pro-Am/Pro-lite body, with the Star feed apparatus on the side. It can be said that the F/A’s Star feed, which is close in function to the modern Cyclone feed, is the predecessor to the A-5. The F/A could be switched between safe, semi, and fully automatic firing via a fire selector lever. The full-auto setting changed the sear from a disconnecting version (used in semi-auto) to a full open sear. It used a hydraulic key/linkage/shock style system to slow the rate of fire by dragging 2 sets of keys on the top of the hammer. Although the rate of fire was adjustable from a few shots a second to 15+, the adjustments were seen as “tricky” by some users. Also, the Star feed required manual winding, and no other loaders on the market could feed a marker at that rate of fire. This feed system was prone to breaking paint, partially due to the spring tension, and partially due to the heavy action of older Tippmanns. The F/A, like the Pro-Lite and Carbine series, shares barrel threading and basic valve design with the A-5.
Model 98
The Tippmann model 98 is the original version of the 98 custom. One of the workhorses of the tippmann line, it has been superseded by the 98 Custom and the Custom Pro.
Special Note: New style thread 98 barrels will fit both the old thread and new thread guns.
Pro-Carbine and 68 Carbine
The Pro/Carbine is a popular rental gun for paintball fields. It is semi-automatic and is known for its durability and reliable function. The Pro/Carbine is also known for its “rifle-like” forearm grip and Thompson SMG Style Action (even though it’s only a Mechanical Semi Automatic). This gives the gun an appearance that is similar to that of a real-life rifle. It is a popular woodsball/scenario marker due to its focused upgradability toward Mil Sim, but is less popular in speedball or Tourney games due to its handling, weight characteristics and slower rate of fire. The Pro/Carbine is also known for being hard to upgrade but nevertheless, it remains revered by many paintball players and is known for being the most reliable on the field.
Special Note: Pro-Carbine Barrels will fit 68 Carbine and A-5 Models.
Additional equipment
A.C.T.
Tippmann recently introduced a feature known as A.C.T. (Anti-Chop Technology), which is a mechanical system integrated into the bolt system to reduce the chance of jams due to mis-fed paintballs in the 98 Custom and Custom Pro paintball marker products. The new system does not affect the velocity of the paintballs. Also, unlike competitive anti-chop systems, no blowback occurs with the Tippmann system.
It works by not having the bolt linked to the hammer during the first half of the forward bolt stroke, it is instead pushed against the hammer by a spring. When the bolt reaches the halfway mark in its forward stroke, a bend in the linkage arm forces it down into a depression in the hammer, locking it to the hammer. By this point in the bolt stroke, a paintball would have either been chambered correctly or pushed out of the breech, so there is no chance of a chop at this point. The bolt closes locked to the hammer, which ensures a good seal between the bolt and the chamber wall. If a paintball is incorrectly fed into the breech when the bolt is closing, the bolt stops on the paintball with little pressure from the ACT spring, while the hammer continues on its stroke unlinked to the bolt. It hits the valve and is blown back open, where it re-engages the linkage arm and retracts the bolt, letting the paintball fall into the breech correctly. The marker is now ready to fire again.
An alternative to purchasing the Tippmann A.C.T. can be found here. This is a home modification requiring only the purchase of an inexpensive (approximately $5) spring. This mod has been tested many times, yielding good results 90% of the time. This modification, however, will not work with markers with Low Pressure Kits, or ebolts (older style 98 customs are compatible with the discontinued ebolt).
The Tippmann A.C.T feature is very similar to Spyder’s ACS bolt.
Cyclone Feed System
Much like the Response Trigger System, the Cyclone Feed System uses the excess gas from firing your marker to cycle a feeding mechanism providing up to 15 b.p.s. (Some have tested the unit at 20+ Balls Per Second with some commercially available modifications). In comparison with conventional hoppers, the Cyclone has a much wider mouth, holding multiple paintballs in the feeding mechanism even without a hopper.
As a shot is fired, excess (normally waste) gas from the shot is scavenged through the side of the marker via a banjo fitting (a T-type fitting is required for use with the response trigger system). The gas is utilized to rotate the cyclone as the marker re-cocks, force feeding a paintball into the chamber. The Cyclone Feed System comes standard on the Tippmann A-5 and an enhanced version comes on the X-7. Tippmann offers Cyclone upgrades for 98 Custom and Custom Pro users. The advent of the Cyclone Feed System marks the first widely used, non-electronic, agitated hopper. The lack of electronics means the user can expose the system to moisture (rain, snow, etc) which would interfere or destroy other, mechanical systems.
The Cyclone feed concept first appeared on the Tippmann F/A as a spring operated system that required manual rewinding.
E-Trigger
The E-Trigger is an electronic means of firing the marker. Utilizing battery operated components, the E-Trigger replaces the trigger function, to where the trigger simply closes a micro switch. The switch sends a signal to a small circuit board, activating a solenoid. The solenoid uses a push rod to actuate the sear in this system. The board has multiple firing modes, allowing semi-automatic, burst, automatic and other modes. A few models of boards are available from different manufacturers, with different features, but the same dimensions to fit into the guides in the grip.
The term E-Trigger is usually applied to the system in the 98 Custom and Alpha Black, while the term E-Grip is applied to the A-5 and X-7 markers, because they use a removable grip frame that contains all the electronics.
Flatline Barrel System
The Flatline barrel is the first curved paintball barrel. The slight bend or arch, in addition to a roughly honed surface texture in the barrel, creates |backspin on the ball which increases its range to upwards of 250+ feet (100ft over a standard barrel) and creates a flat trajectory. With a regular paintball barrel, a player will often have to raise the angle at which he/she is shooting in order to reach the opposing player. The accuracy of this barrel system is dependent on more factors than a standard barrel. With backspin being put on the paintball, inconsistency in the shape of a paintball will create unusual trajectories. Another disadvantage is its tendency to break thin shelled paintballs more easily. However, this can be remedied by avoiding the use of low-grade paintballs. The Flatline barrel shroud, on the 98 Custom, looks somewhat like that of a rifle and allows one to hold it as such. The 98 Custom Flatline shroud can be removed but is necessary to hide the unusual shape of the barrel. The standard shroud for the 98custom flatline system is made of dense plastic and comes as part of the system. The 98 Custom Flatline must be re-adjusted for accuracy whenever it is removed and reinstalled. Therefore it’s a good idea to “mark” where the barrel is aligned for reinstallment. Also the flatline barrel curves above the markers normal sight system, which is replaced by the sight system integrated with the barrel shroud. The A-5 Flatline, which resembles a large suppressor (though it does not operate as one), only extends the length of the barrel, so the normal sight rail system is not changed. The A-5 Flatline system can be removed and installed to the same position, making it unnecessary to adjust unlike its predecessor the 98 Custom. Also the barrel system does not have any porting and is therefore louder than a typical paintball barrel.
It is also important to keep the marker adjusted to no more than 300 f/s for higher velocities cause paintballs to curve upwards before reaching its maximum distance, which in turn decreases the barrel’s normally high effective range. Tilting the barrel to the left or right will also cause the trajectory to be altered in that direction.
MilSim Kits
Tippmanns are among the most popular paintball markers to transform into a “MILSIM” model. MilSim is an acronym meaning Military Simulation, an element of realism extremely popular in scenario paintball. MilSim markers generally are upgraded with the purpose of looking like a real gun, to make the battles played in some scenarios seem more war-like. There are a variety of websites specializing in external modifications to enhance the MilSim look such as Opsgear.com.
Learn about the Tippmann 98 paintball gun.
The Tippmann 98 Custom is Tippmann’s flagship gun used by almost everyone at least once in their paintball career. The Tippmann 98 is the standard for reliability for any paintball gun out there. The Tippmann 98 custom has a full metal body, steel braided line and a solid bolt system. The Tippmann 98 is the definition of tough and reliable. Used by most fields for rental guns, this gun is the most popular of the entry level paintball guns.
The 98 Custom comes with Allen keys to take apart the gun, barrel sock for safety, barrel cleaner to clean any dirt or paint out of the barrel, and a small O-ring kit with lubricate in the box for any cleaning. Check out the other Tippmann paintball guns if you are shopping around. The Tippmann 98 comes with a for grip, barrel, and sling mount on the back of the gun. Tippmann’s 98 custom also has picatinny rails on top that allows you to add any attachments you want for example, red dot or sniper scope for better accuracy.
Tippmann 98 Upgrades
This gun also has multiple modifications from electronic frames to response triggers to help improve the rate of fire. In addition, multiple upgrades are available. Such as, Stocks for better control, barrel attachments for better accuracy, fake mags, cyclone hopper system to help feed the paintballs faster, flatline barrels, and more . The Tippmann 98 Custom has its own barrel threading called “98 thread”. The 98 is one of the most modifiable guns available on the market.
Having the ability to make as custom as you see fit. From adding more picatinny railing to adding a folding stock, installation is not very difficult. Inside the gun there are not many parts to maintain or keep clean. Taking apart this gun isn’t the simplest, but with a minimal number of parts they’re a breeze to clean and service.
Learn About the Tippmann A5 Below!
Tippmann Upgrades
The A5 is one of the most upgradable markers Tippmann has to offer, from it looking like a MP5 to a M4 Tippmann has all the upgrades covered! Not to mention the E-Grip that can shoot 15+Balls per second or the response trigger if you don’t like to deal with batteries dying mid game! With the Cyclone hopper already included there’s no reason to look into any electronic hoppers! There are many other upgrades the Tippmann A5 has and the list is long but a few of the popular are; Barrels like the Flat Line Barrel sold by and for Tippmann, Shrouds to make that MP5 or M4 come to life, Stocks of all sorts from folding to collapsible and many more parts to make it one of a kind!Learn How to Install a Stock onto the Tippmann A5
Cyclone Feed Hopper System
The Cyclone System works based on the air the marker is already using. It does not take away from the efficiency The marker can achieve and best part… NO BATTERIES!!! Who doesn’t like the fact that all you need to do is screw in your air tank and go shoot! Simplicity and reliability is what Tippmann goes for when making paintball markers.
The A5 Durability and Cleaning
Tippmann has always been known for the durability of their markers. We joke at the shop but you could build a house with this and use it the same day to play no issues. We have seen some A5’s that look like they need to be retired but they will keep going for years to come! Cleaning is so easy on the Tippmann A5 with the push pins to dissemble the marker to slide out the bolt system for cleaning and maintenance. One thing we love is how the many O-rings are in the bolt system! For us the more O-rings there are the harder it can be to track down that issue. The A5 has a total of 4 O-rings ( Even including the bolt tip O-ring ) that you have to clean and oil once every few times you play. That’s what makes the Tippmann A5 one of the most popular woodsball style markers on earth!
Learn About the Tippmann Cronus
The Tippmann Cronus paintball marker is a fabulous gun for players just starting out in paintball. The gun is made by Tippmann so you know it has that same Tippmann reliability that you have come to expect from all of their guns.
Tippmann Reliability and Function
The Cronus is nigh on indestructible, it can take a beating and just keep going like nothing happened at all. There is a reason that even paintball fields will use the Cronus as their rental equipment because they know it will just work. Not needing a lot of regular maintenance this gun is ideal for the beginning player or someone who just does not like working on their paintball gun all the time. All you need to do for routine maintenance is drop a couple of drops of oil, some is included when you purchase the gun in the included parts kit, into where you screw the tank in, fire it a couple of times and you are off to the races, or paintball field in this case. The inline hammer and valve design allow for the Tippmann Cronus to be a low profile marker and be lightweight as well, who wants to lug around a heavy paintball gun on the field right? The Tippmann Cronus can run just fine on CO2 or Compressed air, getting around 800 shots from a 20 ounce CO2 tank or almost 700 from a Tippmann 48ci 3000 psi compressed air tank.
The Cronus Style
The gun comes in two colors for the 68 caliber version, a nice tan or olive. It comes in a Dark Earth color for the 50 caliber version. The body is covered in durable composite plastic material to provide rugged durability and good looks. The Cronus just looks cool and ready for the field of the get go and there is not really anything a player needs to do other than put on a loader and tank to go play. The Cronus comes in two styles, the basic and the tactical version, both guns work the same but the Tactical version comes with a stock, barrel shroud, and carrying handle included. This is a great value added on the Cronus for low cost, but if you already have a Cronus and want those parts later they are available in the Tippmann Cronus Mod Kit. The extras included with the Tippmann Cronus Tactical make the gun look awesome and ready for battle.
Cronus Upgradability
Picatinny rails on the gun are standard sized picatinny railing offering you a wide array of options for addons and other gear to attach to it. Anything that will fit picatinny railing can be attached from sights to grips and everything in between. The new hose-less design is a leap forward no longer having that hose be in the way of grabbing the gun or switching hands. The foregrip is slim and comfortable being easily installed with just a single screw you are able to place it anywhere along the picatinny railing. If a straight foregrip is not your thing angled foregrips or bipods can be installed easily onto the Cronus. Any sight can be put on the Cronus from scopes to red dots to even different iron sights. With all the options you can make your Tippmann Cronus like no one else’s Cronus. The Tippmann Cronus is an amazing starter gun for anyone. People are drawn to its looks because it does not look like a regular paintball gun. It is reliable and rugged so you do not have to worry if your gun is going to work between the times you play whether you go every weekend or only a few times a year. Being able to run on either compressed air or CO2 makes it an ideal gun for going to the paintball field or if you are looking for something to play out in the woods with your friends or on your own property.
Learn About the Tippmann Cronus
Tippmann Cronus Tactical is a great starter paintball marker! It’s light weight for a tactical style marker, making it great for all sizes and ages. You can even break it down to be small and compact like a pistol or keep all the attachments on for that mil-sim look! The Cronus Tactical paintball marker shares a similar bolt system that is in all the other Tippmann style markers, you will get the Tippmann durability and reliability like all of their markers they produce! It has picatinny rails for all your accessories; flash lights, lasers or even a red dot or scope! The customization is endless with the Tippmann Cronus Tactical!
Tippmann Cronus is Light Weight
The Tippmann Cronus Tactical is a light weight paintball marker coming in at 3.7 pounds. When you compare this to other tactical style paintball markers with the same attachments, like the Tippmann TMC which weighs in at 6.7 pounds, it comes in at a huge weight savings when you think about running around all day! The weight savings does not take away from Tippmann’s classic durability, the Cronus Tactical is built on the same mindset as the rest of their markers. Like we say at the shop, you could build a house with it and play paintball the same day, not recommended but it shows what the Tippmann brand stands for. This marker uses the same bolt system used in a lot of other Tippmann made markers. Just like the other Tippmann markers there are only 4 O-rings in the entire markers bolt system, this makes it easier when trying to find that potential leak or when it’s time to replace seals.
Customization and Upgrades
Customization of the Cronus Tactical can be lost of fun. The marker comes in the box with a stock, carrying handle, fore grip and mock suppressor/barrel shroud. Most players will put everything on and use it as you see in the photos above but you do not have to have all the parts on. That is what makes this marker so great, is you can customize it to your liking! If you just want the carrying handle and mock suppressor, nothing will stop the marker from working if you wish to use it like this. Want it to look just like a pistol? Take everything off but you barrel and BOOM you now have many different ways you use your marker without having to go out and buy a new marker! I almost forgot about the picatinny rails on the front and top of the marker for all your attachments! Red dots, lasers, flash lights or even bi-pods are able to be put on the marker due to it offering the railing!
If you are looking for an all in one package of durability, customization, and lightweight form factor… look no further you have found the marker you are looking for! The Tippmann Cronus Tactical is a work horse that never gives up on the field.
Learn All About the Tippmann Stormers Below!
The all new Tippmann Stormer tactical line is the latest release from the leading tactical gun producer. The Stormer line includes 3 different levels to cover all of your tactical paintball needs.
Tippmann Stormer
The Tippmann Stormer is the newest marker in Tippmann’s entry level paintball gun lineup. The Stormer comes in three different setups, the Stormer Basic, the Stormer Tactical, and the Stormer Elite. All offering different variations they are at their core the same gun. Being made by Tippmann the Stormer is backed with Tippmann’s legendary reputation of durability and reliability.
Bolt System
Featuring the tested and proven Tippmann inline bolt system this gun will deliver shot after shot with no problems. This is the same bolt system that you will find in Tippmann’s other markers like the 98 Custom, Tippmann A5, and Tippmann TMC. There is a reason that even the paintball fields use Tippmann guns as rental equipment and that is because no matter what you throw at it the paintball marker is just going to work. The Tippmann Stormer is fully able to use either compressed air or CO2 to run the gun. Capable of getting over 800 shots from a 20 ounce CO2 bottle, the Tippmann Stormer is as efficient as it is reliable.
The Grips
The Stormer in all of its models come with a pistol grip and movable foregrip. The foregrip uses two screws to attach it to the picatinny railing found on the gun. It is textures to provide a good grip without any slipping enabling you to always have a good grip on the gun and to be able to wield it well. The Stormer also features a comfortable pistol grip that fits nicely in the hand that does not cramp or over stretch the fingers. With the design of both grips you are able to aim the gun well and pull the trigger with ease. You will definitely like having the Stormer in your hands.
Tippmann Stormer Basic
See the Stormer Basic Shooting video Here
The Basic model of the Stormer is only what you need in a paintball gun. The top and bottom of the body has standard picatinny railing capable of holding any sight and or foregrip. The gun comes ready to get out on the field and play a game right out of the box. The gun is light and points very well, the feed neck for the hopper is out of the way and unobtrusive. The gun does come with a set of easy to install iron sights but those can be replaced with any other sight that fits on picatinny railing.
Tippmann Stormer Tactical
Watch our Stormer Tactical Shooting Video Here
The Tactical version of the Stormer comes with an adjustable stock, barrel shroud for looks, and pop up sights. This version of the gun looks extremely cool. Installing the stock is easy just needing a single screw to install. The barrel shroud extends the picatinny railing all the way down the gun on top and bottom to the barrel tip. The pop up sights are cool and fun, when laid down the work as a low profile sight and when popped up they work as an over the top sight.
Tippmann Stormer Elite
Check out our Stormer Elite Shooting Video Here
The Stormer Elite is the cream of the crop for the Tippmann Stormer platform. This package comes with the adjustable stock, barrel shroud, and pop up sights that come with the Stormer Tactical, but the Elite also comes ready for magazine fed paintball. The mag well is situated right in front of the trigger and features an easy to use magazine release button. The magazines the Elite takes are the same as the Tippmann TMC Magazine, now which come with the speed loader add on already installed. This version of the Stormer is a great entry point in to magazine fed paintball for someone looking to try out that style of paintball without breaking the bank. The Stormer Elite can accept a hopper though with a quick conversion with the tools and parts that come with Stormer Elite standard.
The Tippmann Stormer in any of its package models is a great gun for those just starting out in paintball or for those coming back to the game and want something that just looks cool. The gun is reliable and should not give any player any issues regardless of their technical experience level, the gun is easy to work should the need ever arise. With Tippmann behind you you know that the Stormer is going to be a fun gun to use.
Learn About the Tippmann TMC
Tippmann TMC is a great way to get your feet wet with mag-fed paintball! This marker will allow you to have so much fun while being easy on the wallet. This is designed after the M4 style firearm and shares a lot of the same features the real deal has! From the charging handle, magazine release and picatinny rails on the handguard this marker has it all to complete the realistic look! It is interchangeable from mag-fed to hopper fed in under 60 seconds and in classic Tippmann fashion it is reliable and durable just like the Tippmann 98’s and A5’s!
The TMC is Hopper and Mag-Fed
The Tippmann TMC has two types of uses, you can use the supplied mags ( Comes with 2 20-Round Magazines ) See How to Clean the Tippmann TMC Mags Here or you can attach the supplied elbow and dummy mag to run a normal hopper for those days where the competition is just a bit too fierce. It is easy to switch between the two and can be done in under 60 seconds to get you back out there and playing!! If you want to solely play mag-fed additional mags are sold in a 2-pack so you can always have an extra reload!
Tippmann Upgrades
Tippmann, as always, gives all their markers the upgrades needed to have you ready for any style of play needed! Are you looking to put your tank in the stock to keep it in one package and not have a big tank or line hanging off? Check out the Tippmann TMC Air Thru Stock, this makes the marker an all in one package that is great if you are trying to get into the mag-fed paintball events! The Picatinny rails go the entire length of the top of the marker and on all 44 sides of the handguard. This allows you to attach all your flashlights, red dots/scopes, lasers and foregrips right to it! It is standard picatinny railing just like the real firearms! Thinking of another handguard, maybe something all metal and has M-LOK like the real firearms of today? Tippmann makes a 8.25″ &10.25″ Shroud to fit the TMC! This also gives it a more realistic weight, if you are after it being 1 to 1 replica.
Durability and Reliability
In classic Tippmann fashion the TMC is a workhorse. A marker you can abuse over and over each weekend and it still is going to perform for you that day. Tippmann always makes sure their markers will not just last you for the time you own it but the next person too once you sell it or give it to a friend/family member. Tippmann is proven and built tough, one of the big reasons they have been around for so many years and still produce some of the best mechanical markers you can get your hands on!
Interested in getting into Mag fed paintball? Check out our other mag fed paintball guns.
Tippmann TMC is a marker that will stand the test of time like its big brothers the Tippman 98 and A5, while being different to stand out in a new emerging style of paintball!
Learn about the Tippmann TiPX paintball pistol
The TIPX is a pistol style paintball gun that is as fun as it is small. One of the original mag-fed style guns used a magazine-like loading system. Used by many around the world. One of the best pistols out there with the reliability of Tippmann products and the ease of use. Powered by a 12g C02 cartridge, this gun can shoot up to 14 shots on a single cartridge. Out of the box the pistol will come with 2 (7round) mags and a plastic carrying case for the pistol lined in foam. A barrel blocker to cover the barrel. A set of Allen keys for the pistol and some lubricant. Although the TIPX doesn’t come with much, the pistol is super modifiable.
Tippmann TiPX Modifications
The TIPX can be modified to use remote which allows you to shoot more paintballs without the hassle of changing out co2 cartridges. it also has the ability to shoot first strike rounds which gives the player a chance to shoot at a longer distance then a normal paintball. not only are there modifications but tons of add Ons as well. Such as, larger capacity mags to hold more paintballs without having to change magazines as often, stocks that give more stability, different barrels to increase accuracy and looks, and even conversion kits to give your TIPX a whole new look and feeling. Also, able to add a laser for accuracy, flashlight for clearing dark buildings, or even a foregrip for added stability.
Tactical Paintball Pistol
The TIPX has a picatinny rail under the barrel for any other attachments or accessories. Tippmann is notorious for their durable guns and products and this pistol is no exception to that rule. This gun is used by not only paintball players, but also used for home defense with pepper balls. If this pistol isn’t all you’re looking for check out the FSC from First strike.
BT Paintball (Ben Tippmann) has been around now for years and has brought some of the best and most innovative paintball products to the market. Now a division of Kore Sports known as Empire Battle Tested, BT Paintball Guns have always been about serious woodsball. BT Paintball now specializes in paintball guns, paintball vests, paintball clothing, paintball harnesses, and paintball MOLLE vests. BT Paintball will make you change your standards for both scenario and tactical paintball products. Check out all of the BT paintball gear now.
Battle Tested Paintball Markers are built for the heaviest paintball combat!
If you’re looking for a solidly built beginner paintball gun that is easy to take care of then check out the BT-4 Slice. This marker has a hinged body to make maintenance quick and simple, with plenty of room for upgrades. There are several enhanced versions of this marker, including the G36, designed to look like the Heckler & Koch battle rifle used by the modern German Army. The BT Omega is essentially a Slice designed to look like an M16, and comes at a price point perfect for beginners.
The Delta series’ look is based around the HK MP5, for those looking for a paintball gun with that realistic feel. The TM series are high performance powerhouses of the lineup. Utilizing the same proven engine of the Empire Mini, the TM series are blazing fast, quiet and built to dominate. Of course, if you’re more of the sneaky one shot/ one kill type then the Trracer pump gun is right up your alley. This reliable pump marker is the perfect base to build the paintball sniper rifle of your dreams.
How BT Paintball got started
BT actually has its roots with Tippmann. Dennis Tippmann Sr, owner of Tippmann made a fateful decision back in 2004. He negotiated a deal with Summit Partners to recapitalize the company. This effectively transferred control of the company to Summit, but it allowed for both Dennis Tippman Sr and Dennis Tippmann Jr to remain on the companyâs Board of Directors.
However, there was one family member who was not so keen on this move. Ben Tippmann, Dennis Tippmann Sr’s nephew, who was the actual designer of the legendary 98 Custom and A5, decided he was not going to be a part of this transfer of power and decided to leave the company.
So, what did Ben do? He started BT paintball. At first, he simply formed the company under his own name Ben Tippmann. However, Summit Partners believed this was a play on their intellectual property and sued Ben.
When the litigation dust settled, Ben agreed to change the name to BT, standing for Battle Tested. He was able to continue to use design elements from his previous gun creations so long as he did not sell any new guns under his own name. This was essentially how BT came to be.
BT is, depending upon who you ask, the top manufacturer in the woodsball niche. They have produced stellar guns and gear for the serious woodsball player from day one and continue to be on the cutting edge of product design and performance.
Not finding what you want? You can see all of our BT kits
Learn About Spyder Paintball Guns
Kingman Spyder Brand
The Kingman Spyder line of markers has been around in paintball for a long time. Their paintball guns reach back over twenty years and have managed to stand the test of time and still be one of the most popular paintball guns around. Every older player looks back fondly on their days with their first Spyder, and owning one was almost like a rite of passage; like if you did not own one it was as if you missed out on a crucial part of the paintball experience sort of like if you skipped your high school prom. These guns came in tons of colors and could be flashy as all get out. Everyone dreamed of getting their Spyder and putting an eighteen-inch barrel on it to make it a sniper paintball gun. Spyders came in mechanical or Electronic and they all pretty much worked the same, cock the bolt, turn the safety off, and go have fun. That is still true today, these guns are phenomenal starter guns for people just getting into playing paintball regularly.
They are easily disassembled and even easier to work on only having to focus on three O-rings to keep the guns up and running, through in a little paintball gun oil just for good measure. True they may need more attention than your average Tippmann paintball gun like the 98 Custom but they are designed to be easy to maintain so that more than makes up for it. Even the electronic Spyders are easy to use only needing to hold down a button to turn it on and hitting another to turn the safety off and you are good to go. Spyders are also extremely lightweight make them perfect choices to start younger players off with ensuring that everything is not too heavy and giving them a positive experience on the playing field.
Spyder Fenix
The Spyder Fenix is an electronic entry in the Spyder line and is a great gun to get into electronic paintball with. The Fenix is capable of shooting up to twenty balls per second making it super fast especially for its price tag. The Fenix electronic system comes with three firing modes; Semi Auto, PSP Ramp which is a fast three shot burst, and Millennium Ramp which is a slow three shot burst. Pair those firing modes with the double trigger that comes stock on the Fenix and you have a recipe for very fast rates of fire. Another part of the electronics included in the Fenix package is a set of break beam eyes, what those are is a set of sensors inside the paintball gun looking to make sure that a paintball is fully loaded into the gun before firing.
This feature helps you not chop paintballs in half because you are shooting faster than your loader can load the paintballs into your gun. The ASA, where you screw the air tank in at, is colored to match the gun, is sturdy and well built, accepting all air tanks for paintball use. The grip frame is a composite material that is resilient and light weight which houses your electronics and the fang style double trigger, the fang shape is very popular among paintball players, which feels really good to use.
The foregrip is all metal, two toned, and discreetly hides the air line at the very bottom of the gun keeping out of the way of the player. The body comes in three color options Black, Blue, and Red and these colors are either a matte finish or a gloss finish depending on what color you pick. The feed neck is adjustable making sure it fits all paintball loaders out there snugly preventing them from falling out or turning around while playing. The barrel is an all-black 12-inch one-piece barrel with decent porting to help quiet down the marker. This barrel is a great starting size being able to fit most paintballs made on the market right now. Shoots fast, light weight, and looks cool; what else do you need in your first electronic paintball gun?
Spyder Victor
The Spyder Victor is Kingman’s entry point into paintball. This low cost marker delivers high quality, its nimble frame, ease of use, and low maintenance cost make this gun a sure winner for your first marker. The Victor accepts paintball tanks easily with its right off the frame port that has good strong threading. The grip frame made of composite components help make the gun light and strong. Its double trigger is smooth and comfortable helping the player shoot as fast as they can.
Markers
Kingman is best known for their Spyder line of markers. A stacked tube body style, the Spyder line of markers is one of the major names in the paintball world.
Clones
The Stacked-tubed blowback system was first created by PMI for their PMI-III, later renamed as the VM-68. Its simplicity and reliability meant is was copied and improved upon by many other manufacturers.
Due to the popularity of the Spyders and the availability of their parts many manufacturers have produced products similar to the Spyders. These use practically the same internals and parts of the Spyders. Some of these clones may even be of higher quality/performance to the Spyder, while some may be cheaper or of less quality.
This mechanism is used by most low-end mechanical and electronic markers and can be easily identified by the double stacked tube body.
Current Models
Classic Series
New Gen Electra & Pilot The new generation Electra and Pilot electric markers were introduced into the Spyder community in 2008. They were designed with a shorter body reverting back to the old style valve and striker system of the past, replacing the gen II balance valve system used in the RS & VS markers. They are equipped with a regulator and run at a relative 300psi low pressure from the box. This generation Spyder is a streamlined version that is short and comfortable, light, fast with advanced electronics and has about every upgrade of the past including a metal locking feedneck.
- Spyder Xtra: The Xtra is an entry level mechanical marker that featured a two-finger trigger,an expansion chamber, and a top cocking Delrin Bolt.
- Spyder Sonix: Another low end marker. Featured two-finger trigger, gas-thru foregrip, and a top cocking Delrin Bolt.
- Spyder Victor: Spyder’s most basic marker. Features two-finger trigger, and Pull Pin Top Cocking Delrin Bolt.
Spyder MR series
The MR series markers are geared towards woodsball or scenario players, and feature mil-sim style bodies with a choice of matte black or a matte olive green finish. The Spyder MR1 is the basic MR marker and features a detachable stock and completely mechanical (although there is an electronic version) action similar to most mechanical Spyders.
The Spyder MR2 is a electronic marker, and is the first military-style electronic marker designed by Kingman Group.[1] Much like the mechanical Spyder MR1, it has an offset feed neck for rifle-like sighting, a 12 inch muzzle brake barrel, an anti-double feed detent to prevent misloading and a matte black finish. Unlike the MR1, however, the MR2 has a raised sight rail for easing mounting of a scope or sight, an ACS 2.0 second generation anti-chop bolt and a snap grip bolt that eliminates the outside movement of the bolt during firing.
Being an electronic paintball marker, the MR2 uses a 9.6 V rechargeable battery that is included with purchase. It features automatic, semi-automatic, and burst fire modes that can easily be changed at any time using a rate of fire activator in the back of the pistol grip. It can fire at 25 balls per second in semi-automatic firing mode. It also has a two finger trigger (or double trigger) for fast firing in semi-automatic.
Older markers
The Spyder VS series was released in 2006 and was geared towards new tournament speedball players or intermediate recreational players. The Spyder VS1 is an electronic marker with eyes, featuring semi-automatic and 3-round burst modes as standard.
The Spyder VS2 is a stacked tube blowback marker – featuring a 12 inch ported Spyder barrel, an infinity trigger system with Spyder’s “3G” technology,[2] and a valve that allows the marker to operate as a LP (low pressure) system. In addition, it includes anti-chop eyes, an on/off, and a membrane pad mode selector on the grip frame of the marker. The marker is capable of firing 25 balls per second. Body kits are available for the VS2 in red, blue, green, and yellow. Scenario Dreams, Tadao, and Virtue all make boards compatible with the VS2, the latter being a universal Spyder board.
The Spyder VS3 improves on the VS2 with a “Rocking Trigger”. The Spyder VS series is available in many colors, and allows the user to purchase body kits that are interchangeable between the VS2 and VS3.
The Spyder RS line, used their “SE Technology” (Synergy Engineered Technology), which they claim can reduce barrel breaks. There are were two models, the RS, and the RSX. The RS is the less expensive of the two and can operate on CO2 or HPA at approximately 300 PSI. The RSX is the higher end of the two, and according to Kingman’s claims, it can only operate on HPA at a pressure of 250 PSI. In addition, they both include membrane buttons, and the RSX contains a Tadao Technologies circuit board which is normally an aftermarket upgrade for other markers.
- Spyder Flash: A Spyder marker equipped with an electronic trigger frame which uses an electro-magnet to trip the sear and release the striker to fire the marker. The Flash was capable of shooting in a variety of firing modes via a dip-switch set firing modes. Electronics were powered by a single 9.6-volt NiMH rechargeable battery. The charger plugs into a charger port located at the back of the trigger handle. It also used an innovative insert barrel and rear cocking with an oft-maligned aluminum bolt guard.
- Spyder Electra /w ACS: An electro-mechanical marker that features an Anti-Chop (ACS) Bolt, electronic trigger frame (CAMD v3.0), shooting 30 bps (balls per second) and a rocking trigger.
- Spyder Imagine: Low-end electro mechanical with IPI System (Intelligent Push-Button Indicator)
- Spyder Fenix ACS: Features a regulator with gauge, an electronic trigger frame (CAMD v2.0), and a top-cocking Anti-Chop bolt (ACS) that helps prevent chopping.
- Spyder Pilot ACS: A low-end electro mechanical marker features an electronic trigger frame (CAMD) with Semi-Auto up to 20 bps in 3 Bursts, 6 bursts, and Full Auto modes. It also has a top-cocking venturi bolt. The gun has a lub-less bolt, Vertical Spyder pilot, but featuring a different body and Anti-Chop bolt (ACS) that helps prevent chopping and a different trigger frame (CAMD v2.0). Has semi up to 20 bps, 3 burst, 6-burst, or full auto up to 13 bps.
- Spyder Rodeo: The Rodeo is a mechanical semi-auto marker that features a Regulator that improves consistency, two-finger trigger and rear cocking. It also featured a milled aluminum body.
- Spyder TL and TL Plus: The Spyder TL and TL Plus are semi-auto mechanical markers that featured a new, for its time, sleek body, two-finger trigger, and Rear-Cocking, leaving the older side cocking mechanism behind.
- Spyder Aggressor: One of the earlier markers, featured a quick-strip pin, rear cocking, vertical feed and two-finger trigger.
- Spyder ONE/Classic: The earliest versions of the spyder. Came with single-finger trigger and side-cocking. Characterized by their silver bodies with black trigger frame and powerfeed tube.
- Spyder Compact 2 in 1: Same popular Compact 2000 paintball gun with a removable bottomline. Length with barrel: 17″; Weight: 1.8lbs. Features include: Semi-auto action, Powerfeed, 45 grip with rubber grip cover, Second-generation venturi bolt, anti-double feed, JAVA edition anodizing, double trigger, raised mini sight rail, low pressure chamber, vertical ASA or bottomline setup, external velocity adjuster, aluminum barrel with muzzle break, filter system, composite trigger frame, quick disconnect, field strippable T-pin.
- Raven Nexion: A low-end electronic marker. Features a regulator, vertical feed, electronic LCD trigger frame with 4 firing modes, and can operate on either CO2 or HPA
- Raven Primal: A high-end electronic marker. Features SDE (Solenoid Direct Electro) system, reactive response trigger, inline regulator with gauge, and low pressure regulator.
Kingman Spyder Fenix is a great entry level electronic paintball marker. It offers every thing you need just like the mid and higher end style markers. From the eye sensors to the adjustable board giving you 3 different firing modes to pick from. The Spyder Fenix is a great marker for the new guys getting in to the sport!
Entry Level Price – Great Performance
The Spyder Fenix has been dominating the entry level paintball marker world for some time now. Being under 200$ you can get in to the electronic world of paintball affordably! No spending 400-600$ for the marker alone, it’s more like 400$ for the entire set up, marker, air tank, loader and goggle! The marker comes with a regulator already set to the operating pressure the marker works best with, this is a feature you see in markers selling for 400$+.
The electronic board that comes with the Spyder Fenix offers 3 different modes. The modes offered are Semi Automatic, Ramp P and Ramp M. Ramp P is also known as Ramp PSP, this a older tournament series that used a three round burst mode that shot as fast as 12 balls per second. Ramp M is the mode we all use now for tournaments, it is also knowns as Ramp Millennium this mode shoots 10 balls per second. When using the three round burst style modes, you run a higher chance on breaking paintballs in the marker but the Spyder Fenix has that part covered with the break beam eye system. The break beam eye system is what sees the paintball as it is falling in to the breach. A similar brand and leading competitor of the Spyder Fenix is the Azodin Blitz 4, check out the Azodin paintball guns here. This stop unwanted breaks in the marker when shooting high rates of fire. This is a feature that makes a huge difference when playing those aggressive speedball matches or shooting in a high rate of fire mode. Nothing is worse then a broken ball mid game which is why Spyder makes sure this is a factory feature!
Reliability and Ease of Cleaning
The Spyder Fenix is one of those markers that is insanely easy to clean and maintain. The bolt design is the same as the previous Kingman Spyder markers. The bolt is easily taken out to be cleaned and serviced with in minuets, the eyes have one screw to take out so you can keep them clean from dirt and potential broken paint to keep the marker feeding and shooting you high rates of fire. The marker comes with all the tools needed to take the entire marker apart as well as extra o’rings and seals just in case one goes bad you have extras you do not need to source. Reliability of the Spyder Fenix is just like any Kingman Spyder marker, proven and last a life time. The Kingman brand has been around longer then most of the paintballers currently playing and still making great gear for the new guys jumping head first in to their first or maybe second electronic marker. Check one out for your self, it won’t disappoint!
Kingman Spyder Victor
The Spyder Victor is the newest iteration of the Spyder Paintball Guns and it carries on their tradition. The Spyder Victor is the ultimate entry level paintball gun. Featuring quick disassembly, ease of use, and a no nonsense functionality this gun is sure to bring a smile to your face when you hit the paintball field. This gun is fantastic to use no matter the kind of paintball you play being at home anywhere on the field this gun is even great for playing with friends and family on your private land. The gun is light weight featuring a stack tube design that is still small enough to keep weight down. The double trigger of the Spyder Victor is smooth and easy to pull not needing incredible effort to pull. The gun shoots great too, when you pull that trigger and feel the marker go off you know you are shooting and that is a great feeling. It is efficient too, able to get over 1000 shots off of a 20 ounce CO2 tank. Definitely cannot go wrong picking the Spyder Victor as your first paintball marker!
Spyder Victor Setup
Setting up your Spyder Victor is a snap. Running great on either CO2 or Compressed Air, the air tank screws easily into the ASA located at the bottom of the grip frame and gases up effortlessly. After you have aired up your gun your next step is to pull the bolt back cocking the gun, this is achieved by grabbing the pin sticking out of the top of the gun and pulling it back until it clicks into the firing position. Once you have your air tank situated on the marker next up is installing your hopper. The Spyder Victor with its double trigger can shoot pretty quick but a 200 Round Hopper from GenX will get the job. The Victor comes standard with a clamping feed neck capable of gripping any hopper you choose to put on it from a Dye Primo Loader to a Dye R2 hopper. With a simple tightening of the screw located on the feed neck you can adjust so that your Spyder Victor will hold tight any hopper you choose to use on it. Once the tank and hopper are on the gun all you have left to do is take the safety off, which is located conveniently above the trigger on the grip frame. Adjusting the velocity of your Spyder Victor is a piece of cake, located at the back of the gun in the small black cap located on the bottom tube of the gun is a screw, turn the screw in speed goes up, turn the screw out and the speed goes down, simple right? Always set the speed of your Spyder Victor to whatever the paintball field you play at allows. After all of this has been accomplished you’re ready to play some paintball!
What’s Included With the Victor?
The Spyder Victor comes from the factory with everything you need to make the gun work. Barrel is already attached in the packaging. You will also find a small parts kit in the package with enough O-rings to rebuild the whole gun once. You will also find a barrel plug which is a safety device that you put in the end of your barrel to catch any paintballs you might accidentally fire when you are not playing. Last up will be the manual for the gun, it covers most of the basics you need to know to operate your Spyder Victor.
Learn About Azodin Paintball Guns
Watch our Azodin Kaos 3 Shooting Video!
The Azodin paintball brand is best known for it’s entry level paintball guns. In the paintball industry, the entry level paintball guns don’t get a lot of attention. Most companies focus on the upgraded paintball markers for the flashy colors and large product selection. Azodin paintball guns are one of the few line of paintball guns that as a newer player, you have the choice to get the color that matches your style without paying a huge price.
The Azodin paintball company is full of an experienced staff who were from the very well known company, Kingman. This company is who made the famous Spyder paintball guns that so many of us grew up playing with. Azodin paintball guns are the new age Kingman Spyder paintball guns with more flash than ever before.
A few years ago, when Azodin released the original Kaos and Blitz paintball markers, their journey started out rough with the Blitz having quite a few issues and losing a lot of support from the paintball community. The Azodin company did what any legitimate and reliable paintball company did and improved their marker lineup and fixed all of the issues the older style guns hard. Now, we are thankful to have the Azodin Kaos 2, the Blitz 3 and the KP3 Pump just to name a couple of their most popular guns.
Below you can read a little about each of their popular recent releases and what we think about each level marker they have. If you have any questions, Pro Edge Paintball staff is always here to answer any of your questions.
Azodin Kaos 2
The Azodin Kaos 2 is by for the best entry level paintball gun for the price in the opinion of Pro Edge Paintball. The Kaos 2 is a very light well, well built marker that is reliable and durable for those newer paintball players who won’t be extremely familiar with cleaning and taking care of their gear just yet. With an all metal body and feedneck system, the Kaos 2 also features tool less disassembly to make it very easy for servicing while at the paintball park. The parts for repair are extremely affordable in case of an issue after your warranty expires of course.
The Kaos 2 does not require a lot of upgrades as it is an entry level, mechanical paintball gun meant to give a player a step into paintball without going too crazy and spending too much. The most important skill in paintball is accuracy and the Kaos 2 barrel is upgrade able to ensure you can upgrade your barrel system to help you be more accurate on the playing field.
Azodin Blitz 3
As each player plays more, they will ask, “What paintball gun should I upgrade to next”. If you owned the Azodin Kaos or Azodin Kaos 2 the natural next step would be the Blitz 3. The Blitz 3 is an ugprade from the original Blitz and is the electronic version of the Kaos 2. What this means is if you are looking for an electronic paintball gun that offers faster rates of fire and modes, reliability and ease of cleaning for a low price, the Azodin Blitz 3 would be our recommendation. The Blitz 3 is the best paintball gun under $200 if you are not looking for a tactical style marker.
The Blitz 3 offers the same barrel system as the Kaos 2 allowing any upgraded barrels purchased for the Kaos 2 to be used on the Blitz 3 as well. The bolt system in the Blitz is also tool less and can be removed quickly at the field if you get the firing system dirty or break paintballs inside of your gun. When you purchase the Blitz 3 new, it will come with a small tool and o ring kit that gives you the tool needed to replace the standard 9 volt battery that is needed for the Blitz to operate. One drawback to this marker is the need or recommendation to use high pressure air on it. CO2 can be used on the Blitz but if you want the smallest chance of trouble with your gun setup, high pressure air is answer for you. The cleaner air allows the o rings inside of the gun to operate longer, with less wear and tear giving you a better experience. CO2 also likes to freeze the o rings in the cold temperatures where high pressure air doesn’t tend to do this as bad.
KP3 Pump
One other extremely popular paintball gun from Azodin is the KP3 pump gun. As the title says, this marker is a pump style paintball gun that requires the player to pump like a shotgun each time to fire a paintball. This style marker is similar to some of the very first paintball guns ever made and has a historical place in paintball. Some players like to challenge themselves by making it harder to shoot an opponent with only one ball at a time instead of hundreds. Some players like to shoot pump guns as it is much more affordable to play a day of pump paintball than it is semi auto or ramping.
The KPS Pump is the 3rd generation of the KP series pump guns and offers a 14 inch barrel which is standard on most higher end paintball guns. This helps offset the cost as you do not need to upgrade your barrel because the KP3 already comes with a nice, upgraded barrel. With a clamping feedneck coming standard and an on/off asa air system, the KP3 comes with all of the bells and whistles most $250-$350 paintball guns should come with.
Just like all other Azodin paintball guns, the KP3 comes in multiple colors giving you, the player the choice to match your gear to your style or preference for a reasonable price. If you are in the market for a new paintball gun and like to keep your cost in mind, consider the Azodin Paintball line of guns and markers.
General Description
The Azodin Kaos is a great low end marker that, while lacking a bit in terms of accuracy and firing rate, makes up for its medium-low weight and unique sound when fired. The Azodin Kaos is also quite recommended for those on a small budget but looking for a good solid marker.
About Dye Paintball Guns
Dye Precision, once labeled the Apple of the paintball world has been around for over 20 years. Dye paintball guns really made their mark in 2003 with the launch of the Dye DM4 at the Paintball World Cup and Pro Edge was there to witness it! This was the beginning of the huge hit of the matrix line and the beginning of Dye Precision’s 10+ year run of launching high end paintball guns.
With the evolution of technology and the paintball world keeping up, Dye paintball guns have evolved so much over the years becoming lighter, more efficient, streamlined and just all together , incredibly better.
Now with the latest released from Dye including the DAM, Rize, DSR and the M3+, Dye Paintball has a marker available for every single style paintball player out there in price ranges across the board.
Dye Rize
The Dye Rize and the Rize Maxxed line of guns are the entry level line of markers but are far from entry level for new players. The features available on the Rize rival those of the $1000 paintball guns available only 10 years ago. With the upgraded Rize, the Rize Maxxed having a clamping feedneck, a 14 inch barrel an advanced asa on/off system and self cleaning eyes to keep you from breaking paintballs inside of the gun this line from Dye is a top contender in the $200 to $300 range.
If you are a new paintball player or shopping for a new player, the Rize has something to offer. The Rize and Rize Maxxed markers are durable and don’t require a ton of maintenance to keep them in working order. The battery is easily removable and takes a standard 9 volt battery so no worries of charging the night before. The firing system is completely enclosed so if you or your new player like to play in the woods and risk getting their gear dirty, no worries, the enclosed bolt system helps keep debris and dirty from entering the gun.
If you purchase your Rize or any paintball gun for that matter from Pro Edge Paintball, we service your gun for free for life. This means you can bring your new paintball gun to us before you play and we will clean it up and test everything to make sure it is ready to go for your day out, completely free!
The Rize and Rize maxxed are extremely light weight, easy to maintenance and very efficient with the battery life. They both also offer different firing modes that will compete with any high end paintball gun. What is the best paintball gun under three hundred dollars? Pro Edge Paintball would recommend considering the Dye Rize paintball guns in this price range.
Dye DSR
From the very beginning Dye has always been known for their high end markers. The DSR however is that new age Dye poking it’s head out while hovering right around that thousand dollar mark. The DSR offers increased efficiency, light weight, tool less bolt removal, a very simple battery removal and a digital screen for adjusting your firing modes and settings. You receive all of this while staying just around or under the thousand dollar mark. If you’re open to options other than the DSR be sure to check out the Gtek 170R as it is a little less expensive and has a few perks and options and features the DSR doesn’t offer.
As players become more money conscious, the DSR becomes more appealing to players not looking for a talking paintball gun but more importantly a gun that is simple, reliable and going to perform to the top of it’s ability for a fair and reasonable price. The Dye DSR comes in multiple color ways allowing you to add a personal touch to your setup. The DSR has not been out that long but if we at Pro Edge had to guess, this marker will be seen for years to come as it get’s sold used and bought by someone else only to continue using it and abusing it. The DSR seems to be a work horse for the price. If you are in the marker for a high end paintball gun without spending more than a thousand dollars ,be sure to check out the Dye DSR.
Dye DAM
As paintball has evolved, so have the players. In the current state of paintball, magazine and tactical paintball has really blown up and has become main stream in the paintball world. One of the first big launches in the tactical or scenario game world was the Dye Assault Matrix or what is now called, the Dye DAM. The Dye Dam is the tactical mag fed gun launched by Dye to cater to a marker they haven’t ever been apart of.
Their tactical gun features 10 and 20 round magazines with the ability to shoot First Strike rounds or “sniper rounds” with ease. Another marker that uses the Dye Dam 20 round mags is one made by Planet Eclipse. The MF100 paintball gun is a mid level tactical style gun that offers one of the most reliable bolt systems and designs to date.
In comparison the DAM is a bit heavier to some but for most tactical players, this makes the marker just that much more enjoyable and realistic. One realistic and mid priced mag fed gun is the Tippmann TMC that offers 20 round mags as well for but a fraction of the cost of both the MF100 and the Dye DAM.
The tactical features on the DAM include a modular shroud system letting you add or take off different shroud rails and grips to customize your rig. Standard sites and scopes will also fit on the Dye DAM rail systems. One of the best features of this gun is the ability to change from semi automatic to burst and full auto with one press of a button that is easily accessible right above the trigger. From playing with this marker before, if you are rolling up on a group of players and need some extra fire power, switch this bad boy over to burst or full auto and roll in hot!
Dye Paintball Guns
As you can see, Dye has something to offer every level paintball player. If you are looking for an entry level speed ball marker or a high end tactical mag fed paintball gun you can find it under the Dye Precision name.
