You probably don’t know that the first paintball guns were used by farmers to mark cattle and trees. The device was invented in the early 1970s by James Hale. But it wasn’t long before people realized that this device could be used for other purposes, such as recreation. Nowadays, paintball is one of the most popular outdoor activities, enjoyed by people of all ages.
We reviewed dozens of models and chose 8 best paintball guns under $200 because they are the most reliable, accurate, and easy to use. Our top pick Tippmann Cronus Tactical Marker is a great inexpensive choice for both beginners and experienced players. The type of gun is the first thing to think about as each type is designed with different purposes. For example, some are better for close-range combat while others are more effective at long range. We also considered weight as one element to check for with all guns you consider buying. You want something lightweight as you may be carrying it for a long time. Other factors to look out for include velocity and caliber. These two tend to affect the effectiveness of the gun and as a result, your gameplay.
Extra features: vertical grip, in-line bolt design, internal gas line, fixed front, and rear sights, 150 ft shooting distance, semi-automatic
Looking at the paintball gun pictured above it, you can tell that it is meant to look like an actual gun. It even includes a mock silencer in the design. This creates a rather aesthetic look to the gun, and thus, you will be proud to show this off at your next paintball game.
Given that this is a rifle, it is only fair that it is semi-automatic. It will thus allow you to dispatch many shots in quick succession. If you know how to use it well, you will be able to make light work of your opponents as soon as you have them in your sights.
Speaking of sights, the device has fixed front and rear sights. This should allow you to accurately aim at anyone that is not on the same team as you.
When it comes to storage, you will be glad to note that the tool features a collapsible stock. This means that you can fold it for more compact storage and carry.
Also, rather than buy a new gun, you can purchase extra accessories to fit on the body of the Tippmann Cronus Tactical Marker. These may include laser aiming modules, reflex sights, tactical lights, and more. The fact that four Picatinny rails are included in the design means that you will have an easier time mounting these accessories.
The shooting distance of the product is also very impressive at 150 ft. This is made possible by the inline gas line. If you are new to paintball guns, you should know that they use air pressure to propel the paintballs towards your target.
Also worth noting is the two-year warranty that comes with the purchase. Another thing to note is that if you compare this model to other devices on the list, you will find the pricing quite reasonable.
Extra features: semi-automatic, 400 psi, 355 fps, 8-round magazine, adjustable rear sight, fixed front sight, Picatinny accessory rail, single-action trigger
Another tool that can be mistaken for the genuine article is the Umarex T4E Walther paintball gun. However, this is only for people who don’t know the difference between real guns and paintball ones. Nevertheless, it does give you some bragging points during your paintball meet-up
The device is one of the more lightweight options in the market, and that is probably due to its size and shape. Nevertheless, it does include a few essential components.
Among them, you can find the rear and front sights just as exhibited by the editor’s choice. With enough practice, you can aim and get off your shots quickly. The rear one is adjustable while the front one stays in a fixed position.
You should probably use this as a back up to your main paintball gun. Switching to this gun will save you valuable reload time whenever you have the target in front of you.
Nevertheless, you shouldn’t use this as your primary gun as the magazine size is somewhat limited. The most you can get out of it is eight rounds without having to reload.
Concerning construction, the durability of the device is quite impressive. This is because it incorporates both metal and polymer in its design. The device also uses CO2 to power the shots.
Perhaps one of the more vital factors of having this gun is that it can also be used for self-defense. This is because you can use paint, powder, and rubber balls, and all will be released with similar velocity levels of 355 fps.
The fact that it can also fit in a holster should also be reason for praise. There are as well a few different color finishes to choose from.
Extra features: semi-automatic, 300 fps, durable powder-coated receiver, removable 8” ported barrel, replaceable barrel thread adapter, 150+ feet
The .68 caliber Valken Blackhawk Paintball Gun should be quite the purchase for paintball enthusiasts. It weighs a little more than some counterparts. However, you may find yourself not minding the weight, especially if the benefits of the device appeal to you.
A range of 150+ feet for your shots is plenty impressive. As such, with a little bit of practice in the aiming department and this tool in your hands, you may become unstoppable.
The removable 8” port barrel can also be replaced with different barrels, so you cater to different scenarios. Construction-wise, the aluminum and polymer components, are good enough to withstand impact without breakage.
Also, the manufacturer gives a clear idea in terms of what to expect with regard to velocity.
The fact that it can use two different sources of power also makes it a better purchase than some competitors. As such, it is hard to go wrong if you pick this model.
Extra features: 500 psi, electronic, semi-automatic, AR-style collapsible stock, additional 9 round magazine, quick release bolt, 14” barrel with muzzle brake
Looking at the Kingman Spyder MR6 Paintball Gun, it is hard not to be impressed by the military simulation design of the product. Also, it is similar to our first pick in that it features a collapsible stock.
The weight of the gun may turn out to be a bit much in comparison to other devices on the list. However, some of the positives may end up outweighing the negatives of the gun.
One positive attribute is the 500 psi pressure capacity of the gun. As such, the shot velocity, while not specified, is bound to be just as impressive.
The fact that it comes with an additional 9-round magazine may be the tipping point that encourages some users to buy the gun. Additionally, being semi-automatic may help sway the scales in the device’s favor.
As to the power source, you can pick one of two options. Both CO2 and HPA will work just fine. You can even cycle between the two options depending on availability.
If you decide that this is the paintball gun to buy, you will have to part with close to 150 dollars. However, that is only if you buy the tool on Amazon since different vendors feature different prices.
Extra features: 25 bps, Dual Air Source System, three operation modes, LEAP II circuit board, recessed dual texture grip panels, standard thread CA vertical adapter, external velocity adjuster, 11” barrel
Another impressive paintball gun is the Spyder Fenix Electronic Paintball Marker. The tool weighs only 2 lbs, which is a major positive.
Another impressive aspect of the gun is its construction. Given that aluminum and polymer are the major components, you will find it hard to damage the device. This is important since, with all the running and hiding incorporated into the sport, you are likely to subject the gun to a few knocks here and there.
One major positive with purchasing this unit is that it is compatible with both CO2 and pressurized air. As such, you shouldn’t have problems finding either one for a refill. This is made possible by the low-pressure dual air source system.
Of course, you will also appreciate the external velocity adjuster. This way, you can tweak your shots to fit the need at hand.
You should also know that this is an electrical piece of equipment. As such, you may need to purchase a battery. This is because it is not included in the initial purchase.
As well you should know that the gun incorporates three shooting modes, namely semi-auto, ramp millennium and ramp PSP. You can cycle between these three on a few practice rounds, so you know which to use for various occasions and scenarios.
Another reason for you to go ahead and buy the gun is the EKO valve system. This aspect allows you a maximum of 1600 shots from a single 20 oz carbon dioxide tank. To put this as merely impressive is an understatement.
Extra features: semi-automatic, 160 psi, light pneumatic trigger, Anti-Chop technology, Max-Flo R vertical regulator, GOG/LUXE/Ion barrel threads, 12” barrel
Another lightweight paintball gun is the GOG eNMEy Paintball Marker – Black. If you compare it with the Spyder Fenix Electronic Paintball Marker, you will find that the overall design is similar. Both options also come in a combination of metal and polymer finishes.
This is a .68 caliber gun, which is one of the primary factors you should take into account if you are thinking about bringing it home. The light pneumatic trigger should also make it easier for you to get your shots off.
This marker incorporates multi-gas operation. That translates into the ability to use both CO2 and HPA to project the balls.
Also, pressure maxes out at 160 psi, which is not to say much if you compare it with other guns such as Kingman Spyder MR6 Paintball Gun. Nevertheless, most beginners and even experienced paintball enthusiasts may enjoy using this gun.
Extra features: rigid ergonomically designed front grip, center feed design, 10-inch ported barrel, blade trigger with a smooth trigger pull
One awe-inspiring aspect of this gun is the trigger. You can thus expect the pulling motion to be smooth and easy.
As to the design, most people will appreciate the front grip that may help stabilize your shots. It is both rigid and designed for easy handling.
You can also not fault the construction of the other parts of the gun. This is because the composite and metal components included in the tool are meant to last long.
As well if you pay attention to the name, you will note that the same manufacturer makes this product as well as the editor’s choice. As to the power source, you only get one option, which is CO2.
The fact that warranty terms are not indicated may be problematic for a few people. However, given that it comes in at less than 100 dollars, not many people will complain.
Extra features: all-in-one package, semi-automatic gun, 250-325 fps, screw-Lock feedneck, slim dovetail ASA, 12″ multiphase honed Autococker barrel; 45 degrees, gas-thru grip
Some of the other tools mentioned on the list will need you to buy extra accessories so you can make full use of them. With the Maddog Azodin KAOS 2 Silver Paintball Gun Package, you don’t need to worry about additional purchases for a long time to come.
The package includes the following accessories: a 200 round loader, four paintball pods, an anti-fog mask, a CO2 tank, a barrel squeegee, and a 4+1 paintball harness. As such, you can go paintballing as soon as you receive the package.
Given that the package includes a CO2 tank, it implies that the gun is powered by carbon dioxide gas. You may have to refill the tank from time to time if you use the gun regularly.
Similar to the first two guns featured on the list, this is a semi-automatic gun. As such, given that paintballs are quickly loaded into the chamber after shooting, you will be able to shoot multiple shoots continuously.
The weight listed above is for the whole package, inclusive of the box and accessories. However, the gun is likely to be much lighter and thus shouldn’t be a hassle to carry around.
Also, the device uses .68 caliber paintballs due to the diameter of the barrel. These should be easy to find and purchase.
You may as well appreciate the adjustable velocity of the pellets. The speed in question varies from 250-325 FPS. Of course, the faster the paintballs are, the farther they will travel.
If you want to dominate your next paintball game, you need the right gear. That means setting up a budget and, most importantly, knowing what to look for in your next paintball marker. The buying guide below helps you with the latter.
While some paintball markers look like actual guns, you would do well to note that they operate in different ways. Just as the name suggests, the devices tend to shoot out paintballs from the barrel.
They achieve this feat by using bursts of gas. As you have seen from the guns above, common gases used are HPA and carbon dioxide. Of course, for the air to be available small canisters have to be incorporated into the design of the marker.
Also, when you pull the trigger, a bolt or piston is flung forward and that helps fling the projectile towards your target.
Paintball guns under $200 are not the most expensive in the bunch. However, they do have their positives. These include solid but lightweight construction. Some as well feature multi-gas operation.
In a few cases, you find military simulation devices that look like actual guns. An example of such is the Kingman Spyder MR6 Paintball Gun. Also, some options like the Maddog Azodin KAOS 2 Silver Paintball Gun Package will come with a whole bunch of accessories.
There is a wide range of options in this budget range and you can select the options that most appeal to you.
You as well have a few factors to take into account before going into the market. This will, in the end, help you make a better purchase. Some of these are listed below.
If you are going to use it frequently, you want a device that is resistant to wear and tear. This means even checking the material composition of the gun. A sidearm like the Umarex T4E Walther may not need to be all that durable since it won’t be your primary gun.
Are you working with a budget of below or above 100 dollars? If the answer is below, that severely limits your options. However, there are paintball guns like the Tippmann Gryphon FX Skull Basic Gun that fit into that budget.
Nevertheless, always remember the fact that more expensive guns tend to be more durable and have more features. There are, however, exceptions to this rule.
This is in relation to the type of paintball game that you play. With woodsball, you get the natural surroundings as your cover. You are more likely to play this game where there is a dense growth of trees and thicket, and these components provide cover.
In contrast, speedball utilizes artificially made elements as cover and hurdles. The gun you choose will as well have a bearing on how you perform in each of these two scenarios.
There are, of course, different ways to play the paintball game. Some people dash into enemy territory, and for these, being able to shoot rapid-fire is essential.
Others sit quietly and pick out enemies from a distance. With this group, a gun that shoots the farthest may be a valued possession.
As you can tell, different guns perform in a variety of ways in the same situations. Being prepared means being aware of your style of play and, as such, choosing the right equipment for it.
Also, paintball is often a team sport. Consequently, you can discuss with your teammates and figure out which type of gun would be most useful to you and to the team.
The features are another area to look into carefully. These differentiate the various markers and what they can do. As such, pay close attention if you are a beginner. Also, if you are an experienced paintball player, you may learn something new with regards to your equipment.
Different paintball guns will, of course, work in different ways. Take, for instance, the electronic paintball marker. Pulling the trigger sends electronic signals through the installed circuits. Consequently, a solenoid is activated, and the gun is fired. Of course, the solenoid is responsible for converting electrical energy provided by the battery into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is thus what is used to propel the paintballs towards your target. Electronic paintball markers tend to be faster and more efficient at shooting rapid shots. You also have mechanical guns.For you to understand how mechanical paintball guns work, you would need a basic understanding of the internal components.
The essential elements include a bolt, spring, valve, a pin and of course, the barrel.
Another example is the autococker option. These are basically pump guns, but they use a self-pumping mechanism to make this whole process faster.
To win in a game of paintball, you might need to be prepared with a lot of equipment. However, the mass might weigh you down and make you an easy target. As such, you want a light gadget that helps you move quickly while still being effective.
The size of the barrel affects the caliber of paintballs that you use. If you see a paintball marker being described as a .68 caliber device, it is probably because that is the diameter of the barrel in terms of inches.
Also, you have other features associated with the barrel. An example is where some have removable and replaceable barrels that may affect the accuracy of shots.
As to the trigger, you want one that is easy to press. This will likely allow you to shoot faster and easier. However, you may not know how to classify triggers until you have tried out a few different types. If possible, you can rent out a few different models before getting the one that you like the most.
However, most of them are classified as double triggers, response triggers, or electronic triggers. One benefit of a double trigger is reduced tension when pulling.
An additional pro is that you are allowed to alternate the fingers you use while pulling. You can use this to get the fastest fire rate possible with your gun.
A response trigger may also strike your fancy. The trigger is kicked back to its original position by a piston after each shot.
One major advantage of this type of trigger is that you can easily alternate between single-shot, semi, and fully automatic modes of fire.
Electronic triggers are, of course, the last type. They convert your input to shots depending on how many times you pull. One thing to note is that most electronic and response trigger mechanisms can get improved performance from double trigger incoroporation.
The propellant is the gas that the gun uses to shoot out the paintball. In some cases, you find CO2 to be the propellant. In other instances, you find it to be HPA. In yet another scenario, you find that you have the option to choose between the two.
Again these two will have their advantages and disadvantages. One example is that CO2 is cheaper and more compact. On the other hand, compressed air has a reputation for producing more accurate shots.
We have already touched a bit on the accuracy of the guns in the section above. However, you may not know precisely how well a device performs accuracy-wise until you have it in your hands.
If you have other users who are experienced in paintball as friends, then you could always ask them for their opinions. This might provide valuable insight, mainly if they’ve already used the gadgets that you are thinking of buying.
This is in regard to the makeup of the gun. In some cases, you find aluminum and polymer as the main ingredients, such as with the Valken Blackhawk Paintball Gun. In other markers, composite and metal are used. The vital thing to look for is durability so that your gun lasts a long time, even when subjected to elongated use.
Once you find a paintball gun that is easy to handle, you will have an easier time hitting your targets. Grips also need to be comfortable, so you don’t get tired of handling the gun.
Products with warranties are always better purchases than other counterparts. They guarantee quality and make it easier for you to repair and replace broken markers. As such, you should always choose a more extended warranty if you get the chance.
When you encounter paintball injuries, they mostly come by as a result of a fall or running into an obstacle. However, taking off your mask mid-game may be quite dangerous. This is because the paint may get in your eyes and cause significant problems. Nevertheless, if you follow the rules, this is not likely to occur.
In tournaments, you can expect games to last between three to ten minutes. However, where you are only playing the game for fun, you can play for longer periods.
Out of the eight listed above, we have picked out some of our favorites. They include the Tippmann Cronus Tactical Marker, the Umarex T4E Walther and lastly, Valken Blackhawk Paintball Gun.
The Tippmann has superior military simulation design, a great warranty and impressive shooting distance. As to the Umarex, the fact that you can use it for self-defense in addition to paintball games is a crucial selling point.
Also, if you are starting out and looking to save on costs the marker to pick is the Maddog. With all the accessories it comes with most people would consider this a bargain.
A wise thing to do would be to take a page from our book and also select three favorites based on merit. This is so that even if you can’t find one model, you can easily switch it out for another.
The next time you play the game and you are eliminated, your gear should not be to blame.
