12 Best Paintball Guns – [Exploring Best Markers in 2023]

Paintball is an exciting sport that people of all ages enjoy. If you are a newbie and play this game once or twice a year, you might prefer renting some Paintball Gear. It could be daunting for you if you want to avoid the rental fees and purchase your equipment. Many paintball models with unique designs and price ranges may leave you breathless, and the only question that may leave you confused is “how to pick the best paintball guns?”

We have reviewed dozens of paintball guns and tested them in various conditions. Considering various factors, including Price, Reliability, Weight, Maintenance, and overall aiming capabilities, we have selected the Top 12 Best Paintball Guns for Pros, Intermediate, and Entry Level players. Here is a list of all of them.

List of Best Paintball Guns

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Rating	PRICE
	Planet Eclipse Etha 2	10	Check on Amazon
	Tippmann A5	9.9	Check on Amazon
	Empire Axe	9.8	Check on Amazon
	Empire Sniper	9.7	Check on Amazon
	Empire Mini GS	9.6	Check on Amazon
	Tippmann X7	9.5	Check on Amazon
	Dye M2	9.4	Check on Amazon
	Tippmann 98 Custom	9.3	Check on Amazon
	Tippmann TMC	9.2	Check on Amazon
	US Army Project Salvo	9.1	Check on Amazon
	Tippmann Cronus	9.0	Check on Amazon
	Spyder MR100	8.9	Check on Amazon

1. Planet Eclipse Etha 2 – Best Paintball Guns

Un-Biased Review

Planet Eclipse Etha 2 is our list’s most reliable and advanced paintball gun. With the .68 Caliber, you can shoot targets with accuracy. Moreover, the POPs On/Off ASA assembly enables this gun to load ammunition smoothly.
This High-End war machine performs equally in harsh and normal weather conditions. Surprisingly, Planet Eclipse Etha 2 can use this gun at below-freezing temperatures.

Etha 2 is a little bit more expensive than other paintball guns. It should be noted, however, that other paintball guns didn’t come close to covering even half of its features

Guide

• Weight: 3.5 Pounds
• Preferable for: Newbie’s / Intermediate
• Review Rating: 4.9/5.0

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2. Tippmann A5 - Game-Changer

Un-Biased Review

Tippmann A5 is a highly-refined and great paintball gun that offers the most sophisticated and professional features at a competitive price. It is a suitable match for beginner players, and you can use this beast in all kinds of shooting tournaments.

Built-In Cyclone Loader enables this gun to feed balls mechanically instead of pulling a ball into the chamber. You can also Upgrade and Customize this gun according to your preferred game type through several accessories.

Tippmann A5 can fire more than 15 balls per second and works efficiently in most conditions. Moreover, this gun features five firing modes with the same shooting speed.

Guide

• Weight: 3.0 Pounds
• Preferable for: Newbie'sNewbie's / Intermediate
• Review Rating: 4.7/5.0

 

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3. Empire Axe - Tournament-Grade Paintball Gun

Un-Biased Review

We scrutinized this gun because of its Durable Design and ability to cover reasonable ranges. Empire Axe is engineered with a 2-piece barrel and is still very lightweight. Moreover, you can use a built-in push-button system for bolt removal.

The shock-wave board of this gun allows you to switch to multiple firing modes. You can easily adjust your shooting modes from semi-auto to full-auto and even burst.

For comfortable and secure handling, the gun comes with a wrap-around fore-grip. No doubt, the markers of this game have evolved this beast in each possible way. Here is the detailed review of Empire Axe. You can have a look.

Guide

• Weight: 3.2 Pounds
• Preferable for: Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 4.6/5.0

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4. Empire Sniper - Gold Standard Paintball Marker

Un-Biased Review

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Empire Sniper is an ideal tournament-level paintball gun that offers top-notch performance. This gun has all the built-in options and features that a professional paintballer would expect.

The interior body of Empire Sniper paintball guns is derived from high-quality aluminum and is light enough to carry around on the field. Unlike other tournament markers, this gun is extremely quiet and the best way to surprise your opponent.

Powered by an advanced Electric Loader, Empire Sniper enables you to fire-off paintballs at a rapid pace. Thanks to its built-in Plug and Play system, this marker is super easy to use.

Powered with an advanced Electric Loader, Empire Sniper enables you to fire-off paintballs at a rapid pace. This marker is super easy to operate, and all thanks to the installed Plug and Play unit.

Guide

• Weight: 3.52 Pounds
• Preferable for: Newbie’s / Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 4.5/5.0

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5. Empire Mini GS - Elite Marker

Un-Biased Review

Empire Mini GS is probably the hottest name if you are looking for the best paintball gun under 300$. Due to High-Tech interior parts, this gun always remains one step above its competitors due to its reliability and high-quality performance.

It is powered by a MINI Engine and Micro-Switch trigger and comes with a fully wrap-around GS that ensures a secure grip while protecting your gun from the elements.

Moreover, an automatic On/Off ASA setting enables you to remove the tank regulator smoothly. Without a doubt, this 2nd generation of paintball markers is the best paintball marker for intermediate players.

Guide

• Weight: 2 Pounds
• Preferable for: Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 4.4/5.0

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6. Tippmann X7 Phenom Assault - Ideal Automated Marker

Un-Biased Review

Tippmann X7 is the only paintball marker that offers a wide range of Customization and Up-gradation options. The gun features three firing modes, making it a real game-changer for players from any circuit.

The gun features Safety Mode and offers Internal Integrated Circuit to save battery power. Even if your battery dies in the middle of the game, you can easily switch over to the propellant-supported Single Shooting mode.

Moreover, the marker comes out with an extended grip wrapped around the frame. It performs equally well in all conditions due to its robust construction.

Guide

• Weight: 3.92 Pounds
• Preferable for: Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 4.1/5.0

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7. Dye M2 - Extreme Professional

Un-Biased Review

If you are a big fan of Dye Products, you should put this beast on your preference list. With the production of high-end paintball guns, the brand has earned its reputation in the market.

Although Dye M2 is a bit expensive paintball marker but worth your investment and decision, Dye M2 is outfitted with advanced Features and Specs to ensure stable and efficient performance on the playing field.

The marker operates at low PSI yet offers high-velocity shots. It is almost a Noise-Less Marker. Furthermore, a 5-way joystick helps you navigate more quickly on the battlefield.

Guide

• Weight: 1.15 Pounds
• Preferable for: Newbie’s / Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 4.3/5.0

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8. Tippmann 98 Custom - Solid Performer

Un-Biased Review

Tippmann 98 Custom is one of the most versatile paintball guns on the market. The gun ensures reliability and Durability with a wide range of Customization Options. To some extent, this gun comes with military-style features and design.

This marker is perfect for beginners as it offers extremely accurate shots and helps you to shoot eight rounds per second. Moreover, the Anti-chop system makes this gun super easy to use and doesn't need to be cleaned frequently.

The marker offers Vertical Front Grip for comfortable and secure handling, whereas the Aluminum receiver and Metal body make this marker unbeatable in all conditions.

Guide

• Weight: 2.9 Pounds
• Preferable for: Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 4.0/5.0

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9. Tippmann TMC Mag Fed - Realistic Marker

Un-Biased Review

Tippmann TMC Mag Fed offers a quality package for a fair price. The gun is suitable for players of all skill levels and ideal for tactical games. The 12-Inch Barrel Stock ensures the authenticity of your aim even at large distances.

The TMC is a mag-fed version of the Cronus but a way better performer than its successor. Operated with two magazines and a TMC, often used in military simulation battles. The 98 threaded barrel and Rail system offers many upgrades and customization options.

This marker maintains perfect accuracy within 40 feet range. Materials of the highest quality made this maker unbreakable in all rough conditions. Last, this marker requires very little maintenance even after hours and gameplay.

Guide

• Weight: 7.5 Pounds
• Preferable for: Newbie’s / Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 3.9/5.0

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10. Tippmann US Army Project Salvo - Military-Grade Marker

Un-Biased Review

Mimicking the style of an AR-15, Tippmann Project Salvo is licensed through US Army. The marker is counted among the coolest-looking guns and is considered the premier marker for tournament-level matches. However, this machine is not designed for speedball as it offers a lower firing rate.

Engineered with an 11-inch ported barrel, Project Salvo offers excellent accuracy up to 150 feet. Military-grade aluminum interior ensures the Durability of this marker in heated battles.

Further, this gun offers a massive range of customization options. Equipped with four Picatinny rails, you can attach anything you desire. For the assistance of paintballers, this marker features an onboard tool kit for quick repairs.

Guide

• Weight: 4.3 Pounds
• Preferable for: Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 3.7/5.0

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11. Tippmann Cronus - Best All-Rounder

Un-Biased Review

T

Tippmann Cronus is the top-notch addition to the Tippmann paintball marker family. Cronus holds a special place in our list of Top Paintball Guns due to various reasons.

The marker resembles the design of the famous Tippmann 98 Custom. However, it differs in features and performance on each platform. 

Equipped with a .68 Barrel, Cronus serves as a Semi-Automatic beast and allows you to fire eight rounds per second. The gun has molded rubber grips for stable and comfortable handling during quick movements.

Guide

• Weight: 3.7 Pounds
• Preferable for: Intermediate / Pros
• Review Rating: 3.6/5.0

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12. Spyder MR 100 - Super Efficient Marker

Un-Biased Review

Spyder MR 100 is a realistic marker that features an extra-long barrel with a sturdy stock to ensure accuracy. The gun is engineered with high-quality materials to avoid malfunctioning and accidental claims during rapid actions.

It is a Military-Style weapon that offers a semi-auto firing mode. The installed Picatinny rails provide you with complete customization options. Moreover, the gun uses both CO2 and air to operate.

The dominating features of MR 100 include Velocity Adjuster, Vertical Aluminum Trigger, and Spring guide anti-double steel plaited hose to provide exceptional performances during tournament-grade matches.

Guide

• Weight: 4.0 Pounds
• Preferable for: Newbie’s / Intermediate
• Review Rating: 3.5/5.0

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Buying Guide for the Best Paintball Guns

Beginners To Pro

As experts, we must say various things contribute to the foundation of the Ideal Paintball Marker. However, most players ignore these "Key Features" during their selection process and pick a marker that fails to meet their needs.

Many people are worried about the Quality and Reliability of their Paintball guns. Unmaintained and abused firearms can cause serious problems for you. People complain about ammunition and Firing failures, which all happen due to your poor selection of Paintball Gun.

So, we have decided to highlight some of the most significant features of the Best Paintball Guns that you should consider before making your final decision. This procedure might seem overwhelming for beginners, but don't get confused and read our instructions.

Fix your Budget:

The initial step in purchasing a paintball marker is determining the amount of money you are willing to invest. Without a doubt, High-End guns can cost up to hundreds of dollars, and if you are planning to buy your first marker, you must pick an average price marker.

Weight:

In my view, weight is among the key attributes of an ideal marker. For many players, weight can be an issue, and if you are serious paintballers, you should go for a lightweight gun. In the current era, modern lightweight guns can weigh around 2 pounds or so.

Warranty:

You should skip this feature if you are willing to buy a cheap paintball gun. However, most markers offer a one-year warranty. Indeed, you should discuss Warranty Tag and Repair Fees with your manufacturer.

 

Technical Specifications

Upper Receiver:

The upper receiver is used to replace the Hopper and connects to a paintball magazine. You must consider this feature if you are looking for a realistic marker.

ASTM International

ASTM International is a global company that looks after safety standards and approves new technologies in various industries, including paintball. Your security and safety are uncompromising, and an ideal marker must have an ASTM certificate. So, you should look for an ASTM certificate before buying the marker.

Caliber

It refers to the inside diameter of the marker. Using this plays a crucial role in determining the accuracy of your shots. If you want 100% accuracy and perfection in shots, you should pick stainless steel barrel markers.  

Striker

A striker is a long cylinder that attaches to the gun and acts as a cannon to launch the paintball gun. Striker is crucial to maintain the pace of rounds you fire per second. To ensure the longevity of your marker, use a high-quality striker.

Striker Pin

A metal or plastic cylinder usually joins the striker to the lower receiver. Paintball players typically complain about the low quality of striker pins, so you should look for a marker that uses metal pins.

First Strike

The first strike refers to the Accuracy and Range of your Marker. A paintball gun with this feature will be 25 times more accurate than ordinary markers. 

Charging Handle

It is a Release Button that opens up to the inner side of your maker. All kinds of paintball guns offer this feature. The quality of the charging handle varies depending on the model and the brand. 

Velocity

Your performance on the playing field highly depends on the shooting velocity of your marker. Most markers have a Velocity Adjuster, so you can manually set your shooting velocity. So, look for a marker that has a built-in Velocity Adjuster.

Handguard

The handguard protects your hand from the barrel during shooting. This protective cover usually comes with realistic markers. Moreover, you can also customize your gun with this feature.

Hopper

Hopper is used for housing paintballs. Players generally complain about the low quality of Hoppers. You should always buy a high-quality plastic hopper for your gun.

Electropneumatic

It refers to an electrically powered striker used to propel your ball from the chamber. No doubt, this feature is noticeable for Pro-Champs.

Vertical Feed

To ensure the Durability of your paintball gun, inspect this feature personally. A vertical feed is a nozzle that controls the ratio of paintballs passing into the shooting chamber.

Stock

Stock is essential for tournament markers. This component ensures the Stability of your shot and holds CO2.

Barrel

Most of your firing accuracy is directly proportional to the barrel. This tube stabilizes the ball during shooting. In our opinion, you should try to buy guns made with Military Grade Barrels.

Semi-Automatic

Semi-Automatic markers save you time and effort during hard times. Such markers are capable of reloading themselves. No doubt, these markers are highly valuable for victory seekers.

Automatic

We do not recommend this feature as you sometimes lose your bullets in this mode.

Firing Chamber

The firing chamber is the area where bullets settle before being fired. Make sure this chamber is durable and reliable before paying your bill.

Valuable Components

I have written down this section after noticing complaints from different paintball players. They complain about the malfunctioning or damaging three basic parts of their Paintball Markers. So, we have decided to highlight and guide you in the proper way to subtract your repair charges.

Barrels

The barrel is the most critical part of any paintball marker. The component is located at the end of the marker. The barrel is responsible for the accurate and consistent shots from your gun. Low-quality or anti-game barrels are directly linked to malfunctioning after a few games. You buy barrels that are of the following types.

Aluminum

It is the preferred barrel for players of all classes. This barrel is super-lightweight and durable due to the superior manufacturing material.

Stainless Steel

Most players select this barrel for their marker. No doubt, the composition of this component is solid. However, this barrel is slightly heavier and more expensive than aluminum barrels.

Ceramic

These barrels are for specific popular paintball markers. When players demand shock resistance and easy cracking in their guns, this barrel is not for normal paintball gamers.

Titanium

It is a super-light barrel with no durability record. As it is much more expensive than other barrels, it gives your marker a realistic appearance.

Carbon Fiber

Carbon Fiber is one of the latest materials used for barrel construction. No doubt, this barrel performs better on battlefields but still costs more.

Triggers

The component is placed below your marker mainframe and allows you to fire. When you pull the trigger, your force is converted into a shot through the chamber. There are two basic types of triggers, and gamers can choose according to their style.

Mechanical Triggers

As the name suggests, this type of trigger operates through a mechanical operation. However, the firing process activates after pulling the trigger. These triggers store energy in the springs and work with compressed air to boost the shot.

The fact is that Mechanical Triggers are not fast as they usually fire 10-12 shots per second. The only advantage you get is additional time for Adjustable during shot intervals. Still, these triggers are durable and budget-friendly.

Electro-Pneumatic

These triggers work on electromechanical actuators. Unlike springs, the firing power is supplied by an electronic pulse as soon as you pull the trigger. These triggers require a battery.

Moreover, weather conditions can affect the performance of these triggers. Nonetheless, these triggers are much faster than their counterparts, allowing you to fire more than 20 rounds per second.

Propellant

First of all, let me clear you the concept of Propellant. It is a fuel that enables your marker to shoot powerfully. The Propellant gives your paintball its force when you pull the trigger. In addition to the other fuels, pro-gamers often favor two-three propellants.

CO2

Most marker manufacturers use this gas because it is cheap and widely available. No doubt, CO2 is the most suitable option for both Beginner and Intermediate players. The CO2 tanks require a little maintenance and work effectively in all weather conditions.

Guns engineered with CO2 tanks are lightweight and durable during consistent games. The overall performance of this Propellant is commendable, and you can refill your tank easily and without breaking the bank.

Nitrogen

Nitrogen is another fuel available in the market. However, this gas is considered dangerous for high-end markers. Nitrogen comes with zero contaminants like water and can easily cause trouble inside your gun.

Moreover, nitrogen is way more expensive than its counterpart, and sometimes it is unavailable due to extreme shortages.

HPA

It is an abbreviation for High-Pressure Air, and you can replace Nitrogen with HPA. HPA is the most expensive material currently available for guns on the market, and this mixture provides super-high power to your marker.

HPA is a gas used in the current generation of markers, and most professional players prefer it. However, the replacement of HPA could be a bit difficult for beginners.

Picking the Best Model Suits to your Play Style

Your favorite Paintball Gun Game type is the cornerstone of your buying decision. Here your playing experience matters. You shouldn't try to opt for Pro-Markers if you are a newbie because it will ruin your money.

Keep in mind your favorite game mode when making your purchase decision. However, if you are in a Pro-Circle, your considerations might change, and you might opt for a Suitable Marker instead of focusing on color and design.

Woodsball

Woodsball refers to the combat field. This mode involves gameplay that looks like Gorilla War. You are running between trees, hiding, and getting low visibility so that you can locate your enemy and shoot at it. Fewer boundaries and a larger playing field are ideal for woodball guns competition.

Now, you should buy a Marker with maximum accuracy and range. Shooting while running is not an easy task for any player. You can take down your opponent in the same position if you have a high-quality marker. I believe Tippmann Series Markers are well-designed for this sort of tournament.

Speedball Markers

Speedball has a different gaming mode from the one discussed above. However, both game modes have one thing in common: accuracy. Yet Quick Shooting is necessary for speedball matches.

You should have a quick marker to appear in these competitions. Speedball matches take place in small arenas, and all you have to do is shoot your enemy faster than he does. For this mode, markers need to be Fast, Accurate, and Semi-Automated.

I prefer Empire Series for such competitions as these markers are designed to perform during fast paintball games. You can easily adjust your firing modes without thinking about the range and accuracy of your gun.

call and Milsim Paintball Gun

You should choose Compact and Stable paintball markers if you like Recall and Milsim games. It is an indoor competition with structures and bunkers. You have lots of time to trace and hit your opponent.

Players interact with Military-Style scenarios, and your paintball gear is significant in defining your victory. It is difficult to move through tight corners, wait for your enemy to move, and then shoot them.

So, what kind of markers do you prefer in such situations? Indeed, tactical and realistic paintball guns with all necessary equipment. Therefore, we recommend you go through the Planet Eclipse Etha 2 Marker as it is a beast that is affordable in price but not negotiable in performance.

Types of Paintball Marker

Paintball guns have evolved. Initially, there were only Pump markers available in the market. Now, you can choose between three types of paintball guns. For your help, we will explore them step by step.

Pump

Pump markers are the oldest type of paintball gun. They are also known as Manual or Stock Class Pumps. You have to reload them manually. It indicates that they offer low firing speeds and are only recommended for beginners.

However, the real fact is that Pump markers are better and more reliable than their counterparts. They always ensure accuracy and quality during big competitions. Only skillful and experienced players choose these types of markers.

Mechanical

Woodsball players use these types of markers. You can always count on them for pure Durability and reliability. Instead of working on electronic parts, these markers work on manual mechanical paintball gun parts.

They are easy to use and require almost no maintenance. You can use an automatic paintball gun in all kinds of weather conditions. The accuracy and firing range of such markers is incredible. However, the shooting rate of these markers is a bit lower than the graph.

Electric

With the progress of technology, paintball guns have been involved. You can now use Markers that work on electricity. These markers are super-fast, highly reliable, and provide accuracy for long-range and hidden targets.

However, if you use Electronic paintball guns, you must keep some extra money in your pocket. They need repairs and maintenance from time to time. Their batteries need to be changed, and an electric paintball gun must be used under recommended conditions.

Models of Paintball Marker

Don't confuse yourself with Models and Types of Paintball Guns. These are two different things. Models are a specific variety of guns, while Types describe the general categories of guns. Let'sLet's talk about the different types of popular Paintball Markers.

Paintball Pistols

The Paintball Pistols cost around $300, but this small firearm can dodge and surprise your enemy in no time. If you are running out of paintballs in the center of the field and your enemy is ready to approach you. You just need to pull out your paintball pistol and shoot your opponent.

Paintball Sniper Rifle

A paintball sniper rifle plays a silent but vital role during any paintball competition. You can stay hidden from your enemy and wait for the decisive shot. Long-range, ensured accuracy and stable support are the dominating features of an ideal sniper rifle. An Ideal Sniper ranges from $300 to $500.

Handgun

A handgun is a type of sidearm, similar to a paintball pistol. However, this kind of marker is too dangerous for close encounters. You can surprise your enemy with quick shots and 100% accuracy from some distance.

Machine Gun

Machine Gun is a marker that features different accessories on the same platform. You can consider a semi-automatic gun a machine gun. However, these guns look realistic and are known for their deadly accuracy.

AK47

AK47 is a prime example of a Realistic Paintball Marker. Some people consider this gun to be a light machine gun. The looks of such markers are similar to the original ones due to their sleek wooden finishing and metal body. Quick reloads, point zero accuracies and long-range shots are dominating features of this marker.

Customization

We believe customization is the key to any paintball player's success. Imagine running short of money and can afford your favorite marker. What would be the best option for you? You should buy a highly-customizable gun and customize it according to your desire.

Indeed, you can turn your ordinary paintball marker into a killing machine by upgrading its power and other features. However, guns under $60 cannot be upgraded. You should go for the Average Marker if you plan for future modifications.

Eventually, high-priced guns give you complete freedom of modification. You only need to pick a pocket-friendly gun and upgrade it occasionally. Upgrades are based on your playing experience.

You can add a wide range of accessories and gadgets to your gun. Commonly upgraded parts are below.

• Stocks
• Fore grips
• Shrouds
• Rails
• Mounts
• Intimidators
• Sights
• Slings
• Bipod and Tripods

Repairing

Before making your final choice about best paintball guns, keep one thing in mind. "Your Marker always requires repairs and maintenance, no matter how expensive and reliable it is." However, Minor or Major Repairs depend on your choice and usage.

Luckily, most markers come with extra items and accessories so that you can make small repairs on your own. Things like ball latches, screwdrivers, rings, fill nipple, and Allen keys are shipped together with your parcel.

But if you are a newbie or beginner, avoid repairing your marker alone. It can put you in deep trouble. Get help from an expert or send it for repairs.

Popular Brands

There are many famous Paintball gun brands. Some brands are more popular than their counterparts as they provide high-end guns at reasonable prices. So, I have decided to discuss and share my view about popular paintball brands.

Tippmann

As a pioneer in the paintball industry, this company has been offering its services since 1986. Tippmann is among the leading developers of a paintball gun. The Tippmann 98 Custom and A5 are the company company's top-selling markers.

Dye

Dye is a paintball gun manufacturer based in the United States, known for its Best Tournament Markers. Founded in 1994, they continue to dominate this industry because of their reliable products.

Spyder

SKI, also known as Spyder, is a famous paintball brand. The company was established in 1978. After years of learning, the industry is now capable of providing High-Quality Paintball Markers at low prices.

Empire

Empire is the oldest paintball marker, manufacturer. Over the past two decades, the company has provided truly versatile and premium markers. Mostly, pro-gamers prefer the guns of this brand.

FAQs