Paintball Guns Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Marker

Paintball guns come in a wide range of calibres, power sources and firing styles, so choosing the right one depends on how and where you plan to play. This guide is for players who know the basics but want a clearer picture before they buy, covering the main types, sensible comparisons and the questions we get asked most often.

Why Buy Your Paintball Markers From Us

We stock a good range of paintball markers alongside our airsoft guns and BB guns, so you can source everything in one place. Every order is backed by our price match guarantee and fast UK shipping, with free UK shipping on qualifying orders. If you get stuck choosing, our customer support team plays paintball and can point you in the right direction.

Reliable Paintball Brands

Our shelves feature trusted names such as Umarex T4E, APS, and Concorde markers. These are the same brands used at training days and recreational paintball sites across the UK, so you are buying paintball kit with a track record rather than an unknown marker.

Types of Paintball Guns

Understanding the format helps you match a paintball marker to your needs and budget. Broadly, the range splits into pistols, shotguns and revolver-style markers, in either .43, .50 or .68 calibre.

Paintball Pistols

Paintball pistols are compact, Co2-powered sidearms ideal for casual play, home defence roleplay and self-training. Models like the Umarex T4E TPM1 .43 Cal, the H&K VP9 T4E and the APS TTP50 .50 cal pistol give you a realistic weight and trigger feel. Smaller .43 and .50 calibres are lighter on ammo cost, while .68 delivers a bigger hit.

Paintball Shotguns

Paintball shotguns are pump-action markers that reward deliberate, well-placed shots over rapid fire. The APS Pump Action Shotgun (available in 14" and 16") and the Umarex T4E HDB TB68 are popular choices for players who enjoy a slower, tactical style. The satisfying pump cycle makes them a favourite for scenario and skirmish play.

Revolvers and Markers

Revolver markers such as the Umarex T4E TR 68 Gen2 sit between a pistol and a rifle for capacity, using speed-loader style cylinders. These paintball markers suit players who want a distinctive platform with quick reloads.

Paintball Guns: Calibre and Ammunition Comparisons

Calibre is the single biggest decision. Here is how the common options compare in plain terms.

.43 Cal vs .50 Cal

The .43 calibre is favoured for training pistols like the Glock G17 and Walther PPQ T4E, offering a realistic size with lower recoil. The .50 calibre is the most economical to run and delivers a softer impact, making it a sensible entry point for newcomers and younger players supervised by adults.

.50 Cal vs .68 Cal

Step up to .68 calibre and you get the classic paintball experience with more noticeable impact and larger fill. The trade-off is higher ammo cost and slightly more felt recoil. If you play at established sites, .68 is the standard; if you mostly plink and train at home, .50 keeps costs down. Rubber balls (such as the APS and Vesta options) are a reusable alternative for backyard target work.

Pistol vs Shotgun

A pistol is fast to draw and easy to carry as a backup. A shotgun offers a longer sight line and a more committed shooting style. Many players own both: a shotgun as a primary and a pistol as a sidearm.

Practical Buying Advice

Before you buy a paintball gun, factor in the ongoing costs. You will need Co2 capsules, paintballs in your chosen calibre and spare magazines. Protection is non-negotiable — pair any marker with a full-face mask; we stock several, including the Full Face dye and JT Proflex masks. Choose a calibre paintball you can source affordably, and start with a model that matches your playing environment rather than the most powerful option on the page.

Budget-Friendly Choices

If you are searching for cheaper paintball guns Umarex pistols give reliable performance without overspending. You can always upgrade later once you know your preferred style.

Paintball FAQ's

What is the difference between paintball guns and paintball markers?

They are the same thing. "Marker" is the traditional term because paintball began as a way to mark trees and livestock. All the paintball markers in this category fire paint or rubber rounds (only to be used in target shooting) and are used interchangeably in the sport.

Which calibre paintball gun should a beginner choose?

For most beginners, .50 calibre is the easiest and most cost-effective place to start thanks to cheaper ammunition and a softer impact. Choose .68 if you plan to play at commercial sites that use standard-size paintballs.

Do paintball pistols hurt?

Any marker delivers an impact, which is why protective gear is essential. Smaller .43 and .50 paintball pistols hit less hard than .68 platforms, but you should always wear a full-face mask and sensible clothing.

Are pump-action paintball shotguns good for skirmishing?

Yes. Paintball shotguns reward accuracy and shot discipline. They are slower to fire than semi-auto markers, but many players enjoy the tactical, considered style they encourage.

Do you offer fast delivery and a price match?

We provide fast UK shipping, free UK shipping on qualifying orders and a price match guarantee. If you find the same marker cheaper elsewhere, get in touch with our support team. You can also browse our wider airsoft and BB gun range to complete your kit.