Paintball guns, also known as markers, are the main equipment used in the sport of paintball. One of the key elements that can affect your gameplay is the shooting speed of your paintball gun.
The speed of a paintball gun can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of paintball gun, tank, and internal components. It’s important to be familiar with the paintball gun’s shooting speed, as it can affect the accuracy and safety of the game.
In this guide, we will discuss the various factors that affect the shooting speed of a paintball gun and ways to adjust it for optimal performance.
How fast does a paintball gun shoot
The standard shooting speed for a paintball gun is around 90 m/s 280-300 feet, but some players prefer to increase the speed to gain an advantage on the paintball playing field. However, it is important to understand the importance of shooting speed and the potential hazards that come with shooting at high speeds.
Importance of paintball gun shooting speed
Shooting speed, also known as paintball velocity, is measured in feet per second (fps). It’s important to find the right balance between performance and safety when adjusting the shooting speed of your paintball gun. This can be done by understanding the standard shooting speed for different gun types and internal components.
The first and most obvious importance of a paintball gun’s shooting speed is accuracy. A higher shooting speed means the paintball will travel through the air faster, which makes it less affected by wind and other environmental factors. This, in turn, leads to higher accuracy when shooting at long distances.
A higher shooting speed allows players to shoot their paintballs at a flatter trajectory, making it harder for the opposing team to dodge or deflect the shots.
On the other hand, lower shooting speeds can decrease accuracy and make it easier for the opposing team to dodge or deflect the shots.
Shooting at high speeds can be dangerous, as it increases the risk of injury if a player is hit at close range.
Furthermore, a paintball gun’s shooting speed can also affect the overall durability of the gun. Shooting at high speeds can put extra stress on the internal components of the gun, which can lead to wear and tear over time. This can lead to costly repairs or replacements, which can ultimately affect the longevity of the gun.
Paintball fields have regulations on the maximum shooting speed allowed, usually around 300 fps. Exceeding this limit can result in disqualification or even expulsion from the paintball game. This is why it is essential to understand the fields’ regulations before adjusting your paintball gun’s shooting speed.
Factors affecting gun’s shooting speed
The shooting speed of a paintball marker velocity is affected by many factors. These factors include the type and design of the gun, the compressed air or co2 tanks, and the internal components of the gun.
Paintball gun’s type and design
The paintball gun’s type and design are among the most significant factors affecting its shooting speed. Mechanical paintball guns use mechanical parts to fire the paintballs, while electronic paintball guns use electronic components, such as circuit boards and solenoids, to control the paintball’s rate of fire.
Electro pneumatic guns tend to have higher shooting speeds than mechanical guns, but they are also more expensive and require more advanced maintenance.
The design of the gun, such as the size and weight, can also affect the shooting speed, as lighter guns tend to have higher shooting speeds than heavier guns.
Compressed air or cO2 tanks
Another important factor that affects the shooting speed of a paintball gun is the type of compressed gas or CO2 tank used. Compressed air tanks, also known as HPA tanks, are filled with compressed air and are considered the most consistent power source for paintball guns. They can provide a steady flow of air at a consistent pressure, which can lead to higher shooting speed,
On the other hand, CO2 tanks are filled with liquid CO2 and are known to be less consistent in terms of pressure, which can lead to fluctuation in shooting speed.
Upgraded internal parts
The internal components of a paintball gun can also affect its shooting speed. Some standard internal upgrades that can increase the shooting speed of a paintball gun include upgrading the valve and hammer and installing high-performance barrels and blot systems.
Installing a high-performance valve can increase the amount of air released from the gun, leading to higher shooting speed. Similarly, installing a high-performance barrel and bolt system can also increase the shooting speed by reducing the amount of drag and friction inside the gun.
But, it’s important to note that upgrading internal parts can also affect the gun’s durability and can lead to more frequent repairs and maintenance.
It’s important to find the right balance between performance and safety when adjusting the shooting speed of your paintball gun.
Standard shooting speed Of different paintball guns
There are two main types of paintball guns, mechanical and electronic. Mechanical paintball guns use mechanical parts to fire the paintballs. In comparison, electronic paintball guns use electronic components to control the paintball firing.
It is important to understand that different types of paintball guns have different standard shooting speeds; for example, mechanical paintball guns typically have a standard shooting speed of around 280-300 fps, while electronic paintball guns typically have a standard shooting speed of around 300-320 fps.
Additionally, some paintball guns, such as the pump paintball gun, have a lower standard shooting speed due to the manual pumping action required to fire the paintball.
This difference in shooting speed is due to the different types of internal components used in the two types of paintball guns. Electronic paintball guns use electronic components, such as solenoids, to control the firing of paintballs, while mechanical paintball guns use mechanical parts to fire the paintballs.
This allows electronic paintball guns to have a faster firing rate and a higher shooting speed. However, mechanical paintball guns are known for their durability and reliability and are considered to be a great option for beginners.
It is important to note that these are standard shooting speeds, and these may vary depending on the paintball gun model, manufacturer, and even the paintball field regulations.
Electronic guns tend to be more expensive and have more advanced features, such as adjustable firing modes, but mechanical guns are known for their durability and reliability.
The choice of which type to use will depend on the player’s preferences and budget.
Upgrading shooting speed
Upgrading the shooting speed of a paintball gun can be a great way to improve your performance on the field.
Upgrading internal parts
Upgrading internal parts is one of the most effective ways to increase shooting speed. This can include upgrading the trigger, sear, and sear spring, as well as the hammer and valve. These parts work together to control the flow of air and paintball through the gun.
Adjusting the valve and hammer
This is another way to increase shooting speed. By adjusting the hammer and valve, you can control the flow of air and paint through the gun. This can help to increase the speed at which the gun can shoot, as well as improve accuracy.
Installing high-performance barrels and bolt system
Installing high-performance barrels and bolt system is another way to increase shooting speed. These barrels and bolts are designed to reduce friction and increase the flow of air and paint through the gun. This can help to increase the speed at which the gun can shoot, as well as improve accuracy.
Overall, upgrading the shooting speed of a paintball gun can be a great way to improve your performance on the field. Whether you are looking to increase speed, improve accuracy, or both.
How to adjust the FPS on a paintball marker
Adjusting the fps on a paintball marker can be done in three simple steps. These steps to adjust fps will vary depending on the specific marker, but there is a general overview of the process:
- Adjust the hammer spring tension: The hammer spring is responsible for pushing the hammer forward, which in turn releases the valve to fire the paintball. By adjusting the tension on the hammer spring, you can control the velocity at which the paintball is fired.
- Adjust the valve spring tension: The valve spring controls the valve’s return speed, which in turn affects the pressure inside the marker. You can control the pressure inside the marker and fps by adjusting the valve spring tension.
- Adjust the regulator pressure: The regulator controls the pressure inside the marker, which in turn affects the fps.
- Chronograph your marker: A chronograph is a device used to measure the velocity of paintballs. It’s important to chronograph your marker after making adjustments to ensure that you have achieved the desired fps.
It’s a good idea to test the marker after making any adjustments, as the fps of the paintball marker may also affect the accuracy and consistency. It’s also important to consult the user manual of your specific marker for detailed instructions on how to adjust the fps.
Safety Concern
Importance of proper maintenance and safety checks
Safety is a crucial aspect to consider when using a paintball gun. Proper maintenance and safety checks are essential to ensure that the gun is in good working condition and that it is being used safely. This includes regular cleaning and lubrication to make sure that the gun is being used under the manufacturer’s instructions.
Click here to read the guide about How to clean Paintball gun.
Potential hazards of shooting at high speeds
Shooting at high speeds can be dangerous, as it increases the risk of injury if a player is hit at close range. Shooting at high speeds can also cause the paintball to break upon impact, which can result in more serious injuries.
Additionally, shooting at high speed can also increase the chances of the paintball break in the gun, which cause damage to the gun and result in costly repairs.
Regulations on shooting speed in paintball fields
Many paintball fields have regulations on the maximum shooting speed allowed, which is usually around 300 fps. Exceeding this limit can result in disqualification or even expulsion from the field. It’s important to check the field’s regulations before adjusting the shooting speed of your paintball gun.
FAQs
Conclusion
The shooting speed of a paintball gun, also known as the marker’s velocity, is an important factor that affects its performance and accuracy. The standard paintball travels around 280 fps-300 fps, but different types of paintball guns have different standard shooting speeds. Factors such as the type and design of the gun, the compressed air or co2 tanks, and the internal components of the gun can all affect the shooting speed.
