Choosing the Best Paintball Marker 2021
The future of paintball is bright. Interest in this remarkable extreme sport just keeps on growing. It has survived the pandemic and will continue to thrive as more and more people are drawn to its unique pleasures. It’s a team game of skills, judgment, determination and stamina that can be enjoyed at every level, from the most casual player to the highest professional leagues and international competitions. Of course, it’s a sport that requires the right equipment - clothes, helmets, masks, goggles and all kinds of accessories - but central to the whole show is the piece of gear you use to fire on your opponents. Here is a look at some of the best paintball markers on the market in 2021.
Planet Eclipse GTEK 170R
This is a great choice for beginners from the mid-price Gtek range. Because it is made from aluminum with glass-reinforced nylon for the battery mount, it is lightweight yet robust. It is also easy to use, consistent, accurate and incorporates Gamma Core technology to control the release of air when firing. It has an adjustable trigger and can be taken apart for cleaning and reassembled without using any tools.
Empire Paintball Axe 2.0
The Empire Axe has one of the fastest firing rates of any marker and has an extended grip to give you a broad choice of firing positions. With its multiple firing modes, it is amazingly versatile and is well-designed to resist the ravages of the worst of the weather. Empire’s reputation is only enhanced by this new generation marker.
Planet Eclipse Emek 100
This is an excellent entry-level marker from the always-reliable team at Planet Eclipse. Like so many markers, it can boast a lightweight, durable design and promises exceptional efficiency. One thing that makes the Emek 100 stand out is its Gamma Core technology, which preserves gas reserves so that they will last all day - and longer.
Tippmann Cronus Tactical
Another great marker from the well-respected Tippmann stable, the Cronus Tactical is perfect for both beginners and intermediate level players. It’s a little heavier than some on the market, but it’s virtually indestructible in addition to being reliable and accurate. It’s simple to maintain even if you have little or no experience and is specially enabled for maximum customization.
Kingman Spyder Victor
Although this is one of Kingman’s more basic models, it is a superb choice for beginners. It represents great value and is both easy to use and supremely upgradable. You can expect years of good service from the Spyder Victor.
Tippmann A5 Sniper
This semi-automatic marker has everything going for it. Its range is up to 250 feet, each fill gives about 500 shots, it has a feed rate of 17bps and a state-of-the-art cyclone feed system, and it can be easily dismantled for cleaning and storage and then reassembled in less than a minute. Despite the disagreements over whether sniper guns really exist, the performance level of this weapon is pretty conclusive. It’s not surprising that the A5 Sniper is one of the most popular markers currently available.
Azodin K3.5 KAOS
Pump-action markers may not be to everyone’s tastes, especially if your strategy is to spray your opponents with as many paintballs as possible. The K3.5 KAOS demands a more subtle touch and is particularly effective in a more tactical game. It’s ideal for the more advanced player who has the experience to know when a more measured approach is called for on the field. It may also suit a beginner who might find a rapid-firing marker a bit much to handle.
Empire Paintball Mini GS
This marker brings many of the features of high-end guns to the intermediate market with outstanding accuracy. That makes it one of the very best markers in its price range. It has multiple firing modes, low kickback and friction reduction on the trigger. It is extremely lightweight, and although it is appropriate for players of all builds, it is particularly suitable for smaller players.
Tippmann 98 Custom
This is another great entry-level marker. Not only does it look great, but it is a semi-automatic with a good firing rate, strength, consistency and an impressive range of upgrades and accessories. Lightweight and comfortable to use, it remains one of the best companions on the field.
Planet Eclipse Etha 2
Made of composite and nylon that will last for years, the Etha 2 is a lightweight, high-performance marker with an extra-spacious, extendable grip, a flexible trigger, reduced recoil and a maximum firing speed of 20 balls per second. It's another winner from Planet Eclipse.