Hey there paintball fanatics, it’s your good old amigo Freddy again. I’m here to help you avoid the same gear mistakes I made back in the day.
Imagine the nightmare of choosing a low-quality paintball gun. You end up hunkered down in a pool of paint as your gun jams, sputters, and finally gives up entirely. Looking at your malfunctioning paintball gun, you wonder how things could have been if you had chosen better. I’ve been there.
But don’t worry. After 16 years of paintball experience, I now know better.
With my advice, you can step onto the battlefield with a high-quality paintball gun, pull off epic shots and effortlessly outmaneuver your opponents, resulting in glorious victories. Rumours of your skills will spread like wildfire through the local paintball community.
So heed my hard-earned wisdom, and choose your paintball gun wisely.
Today, we’re diving into the world of budget paintball guns in the mid-price range. I’ve handpicked for you the top 6 paintball guns under $500:
So tighten your straps, grab your balls (paintballs, of course), and let’s get rolling!
Top 3 Recommended
Empire Axe Pro 2.0
Best for Speedball
- Ideal for speedball
- Pressure controlled poppet engine
- Lightweight and accurate
- Customizable firing modes
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Empire Mini GS
Best Comfort & Versatility
- Versatile, comfortable choice
- On/Off ASA regulator
- Wrap-around foregrip
- Quickly adaptable firing modes
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Tippmann A-5
Best for Woodsball
- Rapid Cyclone Feed System
- Field strip in 60s
- Durable aluminum body/frame
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That was the summarized version. Let’s get into the details.
#1 Empire Axe Pro 2.0
Best paintball gun for speedball domination
Do you want to dominate in speedball? Then look no further than the Empire Axe Pro 2.0. This baby is designed with a pressure controlled poppet engine, providing you with lightning-fast firing and consistent accuracy. Imagine effortlessly taking opponents down with every shot — now that’s the Axe effect.
The Axe Pro 2.0 features an aluminum main body construction, Relay venting ASA regulator, and a button bolt removal system. Plus, the Shockwave board lets you adjust your firing modes to your heart’s content. And let’s not forget the comfy wrap-around handle with micro-texture, giving you an iron grip on victory.
When compared to the Empire Mini GS, the Axe Pro 2.0 shines brighter in the rough and tumble of speedball. Its performance enhancements and top-tier accuracy are unmatched.
So don’t just stand there! Unleash your full potential and pick up the Empire Axe Pro 2.0 before your opponents do.
Empire Axe Pro 2.0
#1 Best for speedball domination
- Ideal for speedball
- Pressure controlled poppet engine
- Lightweight and accurate
- Customizable firing modes
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#2 Empire Mini GS
Best Value
The Empire Mini GS Paintball Marker is your go-to choice if you’re after a gun that can adapt to any battlefield. Offering unmatched comfort and versatility, the Mini GS has you covered whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned warrior.
Boasting a wrap-around foregrip and an On/Off ASA with smooth tank removal, the Mini GS is designed with your comfort in mind. The venting ASA regulator and through-grip air transfer ensure you won’t have to deal with annoying external hoses ever again.
Accuracy and speed are the hallmarks of the Mini GS, and its pressure-controlled poppet engine and micro-honed ported aluminum barrel are perfect testaments to that.
When matched against the Dye Rize CZR, the Mini GS stands tall as a sleek, versatile option. While both guns offer fantastic features, the Mini GS’s comprehensive design and user-friendly ergonomics make it a better fit for most players.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your Empire Mini GS and become the versatile soldier you were born to be!
Empire Mini GS
Best Value
- Versatile, comfortable choice
- On/Off ASA regulator
- Wrap-around foregrip
- Quickly adaptable firing modes
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#3 Dye Rize CZR
Great high-end features at mid-range price
Step up your game with the Dye Rize CZR, packed with high-end features without breaking the bank. With its True Core two-piece 14′ barrel and Hyper3 regulator, you’ll be leaving your opponents in awe (and paint).
The Dye Rize CZR sports an Ultralite on/off Airport, lever lock adjustable clamping feed neck, and a patented self-cleaning 4th generation Eye Pipe. These features add up to impressive performance and lower maintenance time.
Comparing the Rize CZR to the Empire Mini GS, both provide excellent capabilities, but the Rize CZR takes the edge in high-end features. The CZR is the perfect option for players looking to maximize their paintball experience without spending too much.
Go ahead, up your game with the Dye Rize CZR and leave a trail of defeated opponents in your wake.
Dye Rize CZR
Great high-end features at mid-range price
- Budget-friendly high-end features
- True Core 14′ barrel
- Hyper3 regulator
- Self-cleaning Eye Pipe
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#4 Empire Axe
Speedball alternative at mid-range price
Yet another speedball contender, the Empire Axe is a force to be reckoned with. With its accurate, lightweight aluminum barrel and unique push button bolt removal system, you’ll be the terror of the paintball field.
The Empire Axe’s Relay Regulator/ASA with ON/OFF Lever, extended grip frame, and multiple adjustable firing modes make it a robust option in the speedball arena. And the best part? The Axe’s simple tool-less maintenance keeps you focused on the battlefield instead of fussing with your gun.
In comparison to its competitor, the Empire Axe Pro 2.0, the Empire Axe may have slightly fewer bells and whistles, but it offers many great features at an even more affordable price.
So wield your Empire Axe with pride and cut down all who stand in your way!
Empire Axe (1.0)
Speedball alternative at mid-range price
- Great for speedball
- Accurate, lightweight barrel
- Unique bolt removal system
- Adjustable firing modes
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#5 Tippmann A-5
Best for woodsball warriors
When you’re stalking through the woods or diving behind bunkers, the Tippmann A-5 is the perfect woodsball companion. With its Cyclone Feed System, which can fire 15 balls per second, you’ll become a force of nature on the battlefield.
The A-5 can be field stripped in less than 60 seconds, sports an 8.5-inch high-performance ported barrel, and has removable and low-profile sling mounts. Couple that with its lightweight aluminum body and all-aluminum die-cast receiver, and you’ve got yourself a trusty woodsball weapon.
In comparison to the Valken M17 Magfed, the A-5 thrives as a more traditional, reliable option for woodsball players. Both guns have their unique advantages, but the A-5’s proven performance is hard to beat.
Ready? Gear up with the Tippmann A-5 and dominate the woods with the perfect woodsball gun!
Tippmann A-5
Best for woodsball warriors
- Perfect woodsball companion
- Rapid Cyclone Feed System
- Field strip in 60s
- Durable aluminum body/frame
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#6 Valken M17 Magfed
Best mag-fed gun for tactical gameplay
Do you want an authentic, tactical paintball experience? Look no further — the Valken M17 Magfed is the answer to all of your mag-fed desires. Firing .68 caliber paintballs or First Strike projectiles, the M17 is ready for some serious action.
Equipped with semi or fully-automatic mechanical firing modes and no need for a battery, this beast is as reliable as they come. Plus, accessory rails allow for mounting lights, lasers, and foregrips to customize your weapon to your heart’s content.
Compared to the Tippmann A-5, the Valken M17 provides a more authentic, tactical experience for mag-fed paintball enthusiasts. While both are excellent options, the M17 is the clear choice for those craving mag-fed gameplay.
Deepen your paintball adventures with the Valken M17 Magfed and experience the intense thrill of mag-fed paintball.
Valken M17 Magfed
Best mag-fed gun for tactical gameplay
- Authentic mag-fed experience
- Fires .68 cal/First Strike
- Semi/fully-automatic mechanical modes
- Accessory rails for customization
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In conclusion, my paintball amigos, these are the top 6 paintball guns under $500 (500-ish… prices change and fluctuate, so make sure you check the latest price).
ake your time, consider your preferences, and choose the perfect paintball gun to dominate the battlefield!
Paintball Gun Buying Guide: Domination Starts with The Right Weapon
Here is an essential buying guide for all you paintball enthusiasts. Whether you’re a sniping master or a close-quarters combatant, having the right paintball gun in your arsenal will make all the difference. So let’s dive into the knowledge pool and learn how to pick the perfect paintball gun for your next epic battle!
Types of Games:
Paintball is an incredibly diverse sport, with two primary types of games on offer:
- Woodsball: Played in natural outdoor areas, woodsball requires a gun with solid accuracy, long range, and a stealthy approach.
- Speedball: Played in an artificial environment, speedball demands rapid-fire, lightweight guns that can keep up with the fast-paced action.
Qualities to Consider:
When choosing a paintball gun, keep these factors in mind:
- Accuracy and durability: A well-built paintball gun will give you consistent, precise shots and withstand the harsh environment of the battlefield.
- Non-slip rubber grips: Ensure your weapon stays firmly in hand during intense firefights.
- Easy maintenance and cleaning: Simple disassembly and cleaning will extend the life of your gun.
- Price of the paintball marker: Stick to your budget and still find an excellent gun with exceptional capabilities.
Features of an Ideal Paintball Gun:
A top-tier paintball gun should have:
- Better accuracy: Hit targets from far away and increase your odds of victory.
- Comfortable hold: Focus on your game, not on your uncomfortable grip.
- Easy to carry: Lightweight guns make it easier to maneuver on the battlefield.
- Upgradeable: Guns with upgrade options help you evolve and improve your skills.
Flaws to Avoid:
Stay away from paintball guns with these issues:
- Slippery grips: Lose control at a critical moment, and your victory may slip away.
- Air leakage issues: A leaking gun can leave you high and dry mid-battle.
- Sensitive parts: Fragile components can lead to a paintball gun’s early demise.
- Difficult maintenance: Complicated care can make owning a paintball gun more of a hassle than it’s worth.
- Low accuracy and shooting range: Struggle to hit targets and be left in the dust.
Importance of Accuracy:
A highly accurate paintball gun:
- Is essential for increasing your odds of hitting your targets.
- Minimizes recoil for better overall performance.
- Boosts your confidence during the game, helping you play at peak ability.
Durability and Design:
Pick a paintball gun that:
- Can withstand heavy use, offering you years of consistent gameplay.
- Boasts an aggressive and professional look to intimidate your foes.
- Is lightweight and easy to handle, helping you stay in motion.
Grips:
A high-quality grip should:
- Be made of anti-slip materials, helping your gun stay put during even the most frantic firefights.
- Be comfortable and easy to hold, allowing you to focus on your game.
- Offer better control, resulting in more accurate shooting.
Maintenance and Cleaning:
Choose a paintball gun that:
- Is low maintenance to ensure longevity.
- Has uncomplicated assembly and disassembly to save you time and frustration.
- Features simple markers that make cleaning and care a breeze.
Price Range:
Remember that:
- The price is a significant factor in your decision-making process.
- A vast range of options, upgrades, and prices are available.
- Exceptional paintball guns can be found at reasonable prices.
- Light-weighted markers are highly recommended by most professionals.
Did you know?:
- A good gun also needs to be loaded with high quality paintballs (read more)
- In recent years, paintballing has more popular than ever before, and the paintball fields industry alone is a $1.3bn industry (read more)
Armed with this comprehensive guide to selecting the perfect paintball gun, you’ll be able to find the ideal weapon to match your unique play style and bring victory to your team. Remember, my friends, conquering the paintball battlefield starts with the right gear. Now go forth and dominate!
