DFW Paintball "DFWPB"
The cost for a new marker could range anywhere from $99 - $1,500 or more. Some are designed for the beginner player with "capping the investment" as the primary goal. Basic sets combining the marker, goggles, CO2 tank and minor accessories can usually be found in the $99-$199 range. These are usually reliable markers, but will still need regular and, potentially, frequent maintenance. The advantage is "price", but if you get "serious" about the sport you will find it next to impossible to upgrade to higher performing markers. Tip: it is highly recommended to upgrade to compressed air vs. CO2 in terms of safety and performance. Additionally, many paintball fields are increasingly charging a premium for CO2 since it requires higher labor costs to refill.
Higher-end markers with electrical components and "boards" which enable enhanced performance usually begin in the $200-$300 range. Make sure that any marker you buy in this range is easily upgradeable with new barrels, triggers, boards and design components. Otherwise, you may end up with another marker unable to grow with your interest in the sport.
PAINTBALL STORES: There are many advantages to purchasing your marker from a store whose primary focus in paintball. 1. Fit. You will work with trained professionals who understand the sort and can help you match the right marker to your goals and budget. 2. Repair and Maintenance. It has been said that "all markers will break or need repair." Most paintball stores offer free repair and/or help with marker orientation. 3. Wide selection. Compared to discount stores or sporting goods stores, paintball stores are specialized in the sport of paintball. You will find a wider variety of markers and gear to go with it! a
You might be able to save around 10-15% on the marker going to a discount, mega-sporting goods store or online. However, this saving will quickly disappear the first time the marker needs repair or maintenance as most stores charge in 15 minute increments. In addition, you will buy whatever the company was able to buy in "bulk" and may need to be shipped overseas for repair or be complicated to take apart and put together.
Important Tip: Make sure that the Paintball Store also has a field in the area. You can usually save BIG with buying the equipment at the store and playing at the field.
DISCOUNT STORES AND MEGA SPORTING GOODS STORES: Price and convenience is the primary reason to buy from a mega store. They are typically located throughout any city near large population areas. And, it is somewhat convenient to buy your equipment while shopping for groceries or other items. Since mega-stores buy in bulk, mega-stores primarily carry limited choice on types of markers, but might be able to save you $20-30 on your purchase. However, the first time your marker needs repair, that savings will disappear. Be sure to ask how easy the gun is to service (how many parts) and what the policy is for repair and maintenance in the short and long term.
ONLINE: After lots of online research, you have many choices for places to order your marker online. In addition, you might be able to save that $20-$30 online as you do with mega-stores, but you will have the option of choosing from a wide array of markers. Many online stores wait until several orders are placed on the same marker before shipping, so you may have to wait for a bit before you receive it in the mail. You will usually save on sales tax, but pay extra for shipping. Once again, the first time the marker needs repair, you might have to pay a paintball store to fix it or ship it back in the mail - losing more time and money..
Also, beware of buying a used marker online. Look for those sellers with high number of transactions and good service feedback scores. Recently, a high-end marker worth over a thousand dollars came into a paintball store because it didn't work. After the technician opened the marker, he noticed it was filled with duct tape and wires. A rip-off and huge disappointment.
Lastly, the biggest disadvantage to buying online is the inability to touch and feel the marker before you purchase. Accessories, like pod packs and jerseys are additionally challenging to purchase online. But, a well-informed shopper might be able to save 10-20% if they are willing to wait and pay a nearby paintball store to maintain their marker.
BE SAFE: Make sure that anyone who receives a paintball marker or equipment is well-versed in the safety of using it. Players should be at least 10 years of age to play and should ALWAYS have their goggles on when using it (as well as any bystanders).
You primarily have three options to buy a new paintball marker: a paintball store, a mega-discount or sporting goods store or online. Each have their advantages and disadvantages. Here is what you need to know before you go buy!