Gun info for noobs

[Vinadil]

Ok, so it has been 3 years since I have played, and at least 9 since I have seriously looked at purchasing a paintball gun... so I have no idea what the market is like or what to look for.

I am not interested in being a hard-core paintwarrior... I just don't want to spend money no a piece of crap. So, any suggestions on a "starter" set that would be ok if I play say 5-10 times a year?

[spyderman]

Originally Posted by Vinadil

Ok, so it has been 3 years since I have played, and at least 9 since I have seriously looked at purchasing a paintball gun... so I have no idea what the market is like or what to look for.

I am not interested in being a hard-core paintwarrior... I just don't want to spend money no a piece of crap. So, any suggestions on a "starter" set that would be ok if I play say 5-10 times a year?

well you will probably get several different responses to this but personally I like tippmans or spyders,both are cheap but very reliable guns.But if you are wanting to play speedball I would go with an ion from smart parts,fast and at a great price

[MysticDjinn]

Originally Posted by Vinadil

Ok, so it has been 3 years since I have played, and at least 9 since I have seriously looked at purchasing a paintball gun... so I have no idea what the market is like or what to look for.

I am not interested in being a hard-core paintwarrior... I just don't want to spend money no a piece of crap. So, any suggestions on a "starter" set that would be ok if I play say 5-10 times a year?

The biggest thing to consider when your looking for a new marker is your budget. Not only the budget for the new gun, but also for the loader, barrels, and other accessories the gun needs - AND what it costs to play this new marker on a daily basis. the newer electronic guns may look sweet, and being able to throw 15+ balls per second may sound great, but remember, a case of paint is about $40. At 15bps, thats a case gone every 2.2 minutes. Now granted that NO ONE is gonna shoot like that all the time, it still goes to the point. Can you afford to buy 3 or 4 cases of paint every time you go play? If so, then get an electronic marker. Several companies make really good ones for under $300. The SmartParts ION, several Spyders, Piranhas, and many others. Remember that you will need a hopper that is fast enough for these guns. I would budget about $80+ for the hopper.

If your budget is more like mine, then consider a high quality semi-auto. You should still expect to pay in the $200 to $300 range ( less than that and you get crap) but the hopper will be less (around $50) and you will shoot alot less paint.

I have played actively since the early '90s and still have not upgraded to an electronic gun (though my first one is in the mail now) I have owned several semi's and I still play with a Spyder Shutter that I bought about 4 years ago. Granted I have modified it a little, I still have no trouble shooting a couple of cases of paint and having a great time.

I will be putting my Shutter up for sale soon. If you are interested, I will get you the particulars on it. It has been very well cared for, and has just gotten back from the factory for an overhual. I will sell it with ALL the stock equipment, plus a new 14" Razzor barrel, cocker to spyder thread adapter, 2-20oz tanks, a 12v VLRevolution with x-board, multiple feed necks, a barrel condom, and JT Elite mask with original and thermal lenses for $150.

Let me know if you want to talk more about it. You can call me at 803-233-6771.

Shon

[drewcif]

Tippman 98 C, or A5. most anything electronic will want N2, and that gets expensive fast

Drew

[Dracula53]

Tippmann 98..custom, so if you want to play more later, you csn upgrade.

[madden]

SNIPER 2 or PHANTOM

i personally have a phantom and it is a pump like the sniper 2 it will pay for itself. i used to go through a case of paint a day now i go through 1 bag. playing w/ my phantom has made me a considerably bretter and more patient player. if your budget is low or mid then go for pump so youcan play and save for a semi.

prices-
Phantom 150-400(depends wat u get w/ it,pm me for details)
Sniper 2-100-350 +all the fancy upgrades that are optional.only thing is the sniper 2s like the nitrogen. but will take co2

[scrappy]

phantom or 98 custom, both will serve u good for there price

[drewcif]

scrappy
phantoms are pretty pricey. but if stock class is your thing its probably the best.

Drew

[Grendel]

My suggestions make friends at the field and ask to borrow/test out their guns and figure out what you like and do not like. Your paintball gun is like any other tool it has to fit you and your style of play. If I'm at the field I definitely let you use whatever guns I bring with me. There are only a few really important things in paintball.

1) get good goggles that fit, are comfortable and do not fog.
2) get a gun that fits you, your budget and your style of play
3) always be a good sport
4) remember it is a GAME it does not effect putting food on the table, save starving children or prove or disprove your manliness or womanliness.

Starting guns to try:
1) Tippman anything (they are reliable, effective and there are worth while upgrades available)
2) Automag (you can not get much more bang for your buck)
3) Autococker/Sniper (right now you can get an awsome used/new guns for little money)
4) Phantom (If you like pumps this is a proven design from a great company)
5) Spyder/Clone ( be picky there are a lot of good ones out there but also a lot of crap)

Try guys at the local field many are upgrading and will be willing to sell you a broken in good gun. I'd go used until I really found my groove then decide what the ultimate gun for me was.

[Vinadil]

Thanks for all the info. This will definitely help as I browse the web etc. for guns and parts.