Paintball is quite possibly the most exciting amateur competitive competition in the world. The best part is that anyone can play with a minimum investment in equipment. In the past, there were not many choices when it came to buying paintball guns, now known officially as paintball markers. Today, markers are more numerous and specialized, requiring some knowledge and little guidance before purchasing.

Skill Level

The first step in buying a paintball marker is determining the skill level of the player. A beginner does not need the same caliber of marker as a tournament player. Beginners can look at less expensive options until they decide how if they are going to continue with the sport.

Serious players will want to look at markers with more features, such as the automatic firing or electronic controls. Tournament players may need a specialized paintball marker, depending on their position or role during team play.

Position

Those who are seriously into the sport will undoubtedly play in team competitions with more structured positions. The most common positions are as follows:

• Front positions – These positions require speed and accuracy. Front positions are usually used to draw fire rather than fire themselves. This means the weight and size of the marker are very important. Markers must be small, lightweight and fire accurately. One type that meets this description uses a remote pressure system. While the pressure systems are attached to most markers, a remote pressure system connected by pneumatic lines makes for a lightweight and unobtrusive marker. Some of these markers have a pressure system that doubles as a stock.

• Cover positions – Cover positions protect the fronts. This means they need to fire a lot of rounds as quickly as possible. Fully automatic paintball markers with large hoppers are best for these positions. The marker must also have a large pressure system that can be reloaded quickly.

• Utility positions – Utility players require a paintball marker somewhere between the types used by front and cover positions. They must be light enough for fast movement, but have a high pressure capacity and firepower to meet any situation.

Pressure System

Pressure systems are what create the propulsion behind the paintball. They consist of a fixed tank that must be refilled, or removable tanks that can be quickly replaced. The most common type of pressure system uses carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is inexpensive but its state fluctuates by temperature, making it unreliable at times.

High-pressure air and nitrogen systems always operate as a gas, so they are more reliable. The problem with them is that not every facility is equipped to recharge them.