Tips for choosing paintball guns

When choosing a paintball gun, you're likely to be faced with a lot of decisions. There are a number of paintball guns on the market and for rent, each with different features and characteristics.

If the choices seem overwhelming, consider the following tips for choosing a paintball gun.

• Know what you want to look for. Before you choose a paintball gun, it's a good idea to have at least an idea of what you're looking for. This can be determined by trying out as many different guns as you can. Borrow your friend's guns and rent different ones each time you play. By the time you're ready to buy one of your own, you should have a good idea of what you want.
• Set a budget. You can't very well choose a paintball gun without having an idea of what you want to spend. Lower-quality paintball guns are about $150, with professional and enthusiast-level ones over $800. As a general rule, beginners should spend less on a gun they will be learning on and can upgrade at a later time as their technique improves.
  
• Ask for recommendations. Plenty of paintball players will be more than happy to share with you their opinions on how to choose paintball guns. Ask around at the paintball fields you visit, supply stores, and fellow teammates and opponents which guns they recommend.
  
• Know the air supply you want. There are two different types of air supply for paintball guns. You can choose constant air from a carbon dioxide tank, which lasts longer but requires a place for you to stop and fill it up while playing. Your other option is a quick-changer for CO2 cartridges. These tend to run out every 20-30 shots, but you can stock up on them for playing.
  

• Determine the type of loader you want. Several things will go into account when it comes to deciding what loader you want for your paintball gun. You will want to consider your shooting style - for example, if you prefer to take few shots or instead shoot a pretty steady stream of paintballs at your opponents. Bigger loaders hold more paintballs, but they are heavier to carry around. However, if you shoot a lot of paintballs, it might be worth the tradeoff.
  
• Know the length of the barrel you want. Generally speaking, a longer barrel will produce more accurate shots. They are also heavier and more cumbersome to lug around. Rifled barrels are more expensive, but they are accurate as well. Keep in mind that the longer the barrel does not necessarily guarantee accuracy. Many experts say after 14 inches, the length of the barrel doesn't matter.
  
• Go shopping. Once you know these things, go to your local paintball supply store and ask them to help you find a gun that has your requirements and is in your price range. Try the guns out, and inspect them closely. Make sure they are of good quality and won't fall apart after a game or two. Also, know the manufacturer's warranty as well as the store's policy.

Choosing a paintball gun may seem daunting, but with the right amount of research and testing, you can choose the perfect paintball gun for your needs and playing. Ask experts and other players for recommendations and test different guns before purchasing one.