For tournament play, you will find some of the most expensive paintball guns on the market costing upwards of $2000. For Woodsball, by far the most expensive markers are the magazine-fed ones. The high price is due to the different internal parts of these weapons, but mainly due to the external details. For some players, the fun is in the details of using only the most realistic paintball guns and equipment possible. These players are usually ex-military, police, and scenario enthusiasts who love to get lost in the game and fully immerse themselves in their mission. Magazine-fed paintball rifles and guns have real use other than recreational play. Conflict simulations are important for military and police training to prepare these peacekeepers for real life situations. These exercises should use the most realistic equipment possible to mimic actual potential events and these realistic markers definitely fit the bill. However, for recreational gamers, the added realism comes at a cost that extends beyond the expensive initial investment. Using a magazine fed paintball gun requires changing the way you play and also requires other accessories at extra cost.
While they may look much cooler and more realistic, magazine-fed paintball guns are lucky enough to hold a tenth of what standard markers do. While most standard markers use hoppers that hold up to 200 rounds, typical magazines typically hold around 20. This is a significant reduction in ammo capacity that leaves the mag-fed player at a distinct disadvantage. This means that players fed with magnetic magazines must have good shooting accuracy for each shot to count. Beginners who are itching to fire their guns often use up all their ammo in the first few minutes of action and end up hiding behind cover until the game is over. Magazine fed paintball guns are best for experienced players who are better at shooting and have more patience to last through a game. The reduced ammo capacity may also have to be taken into account for the role you play in the field. If your job is to provide a lot of covering fire for forward players to maneuver, this type of marker may not be the best tool.
Since magazines only hold up to 20 rounds, this also means that players will have to carry numerous full clips during a game. These accessories are bulky and must be transported in such a way that they are easily accessible for quick recharging when empty. The best way to carry these rounds of ammo is with a custom tactical paintball vest with as many clips as possible. This is an added expense but a must if you choose this type of realistic marker. Specialized leg harnesses are also available for carrying chargers; however, they only hold 2-4 but offer another option to pack as many ammo to extend the game. Standard hopper-fed paintball guns are easily reloaded by tossing out a casing of balls for quick reloading; this can usually be done in the middle of a game with no problem. Magazine-fed pistols are just as easily reloaded by simply placing another loaded magazine, however they must be loaded one ball at a time and must be done before the game begins.
Another expense to consider before purchasing a magazine fed paintball rifle is the type of ammunition it requires. These weapons are particularly harsh on paintballs and must use a certain grade. Paintball ammunition comes in different grades separated/classified by the hardness of their shell. The premium grade is used for tournament play and has very brittle casings so they break more easily on impact. This grade of paintball tends to break inside the magazines causing a mess in your marker which leads to more maintenance procedures. Recreational grade paintballs are the lowest class of paint and have the firmer shells. This is the best grade for use with magazine-fed pistols; however, some brands work better than others. Valken’s Graffiti and Redemption brands work well; Rap4 also makes a specific paintball for this type of weapon that is also very consistent. While most commercial courses sell recreational-grade balls, it’s smart to call ahead to find out first if they allow mag guns at your course, and second, to find out if they have the right type of ammo for your marker.
You can also expect a bit more maintenance with magazine based paintball guns. While each type of paint-firing marker will require a certain amount of cleaning and maintenance, these guns do have a few additional parts that need attention. Not only are the internals a bit different, but the chargers themselves sometimes require cleaning or parts that need to be replaced. Fortunately, fed magazine paintball markers have been available for over ten years and prototypes have come and gone. When they were first introduced, most of the models were plagued with problems and it seemed like the movement would never take off. There are only a few brands of federal magazines now, but they all have very finished and reliable products that shoot accurately and are fun to use. Despite this, it’s smart to read product reviews, check the company’s history, and study their guarantees/return policies before purchasing any new paintball gun.