Paintball is a fun, action-oriented game that brings players to play thrilling matches together. But these matches can be more thrilling if a compressed air tank paintball is used.
Many players are still asking whether they can use compressed air tanks for paintball guns or can paintball guns use compressed air instead of CO2.
The answer is yes, compressed air offers a consistent performance, especially in different temperatures, making it an ideal choice among beginners or amateur players.
In this blog post, we’ll learn about what type of air system it has, how it uses the air, and how to select the high-pressure air compressor for paintballs. Let’s get started!
Understanding Paintball Air System
For every player, understanding the paintball air system is essential as it gives necessary information about the gun, whether it’s performing well or not. Besides this, there are two types of air systems, these are:
- CO2 Air System
The CO2 paintball guns have been a traditional option for many players because they are easily available and affordable in the market. The CO2 liquid becomes gas which gives the necessary pressure to shoot from a paintball. The CO2 air system is not constant, however, especially in extreme temperatures meaning that velocity and accuracy vary.
- HPA Air System
High-pressure paintball guns use compressed air stored in HPA paintball tanks. This system is actually a compressed air system. It provides stable and constant performance whatever the temperature is, making it a perfect choice for serious or professional competitive players.
Although the starting cost of HPA equipment is higher, its reliability and consistency among players make it a worthwhile investment.
Why Use Compressed Air for Paintball Guns?
- Compressed air paintball guns are one step higher than CO2 air gas, as they provide consistent shot velocity and accuracy.
- It offers reliability in every sort of weather condition. That’s why it’s the perfect choice for many players as compared to CO2 which fluctuates in such conditions.
- It also provides cleanliness as it doesn’t leave a residue over the marker, which reduces the need for frequent maintenance.
- It typically allows for more shots per fill, giving players more time on the field without compressed air tank paintball refill as often.
- Most of the highly functional paintball markers are specifically designed to operate optimally with a paintball compressor, that provides overall better performance and functionality.
Can All Paintball Guns Use Compressed Air?
Not all paintball guns use compressed air but many markers these days are made to use compressed air. High-pressure air (HPA) compressed air has consistent performance and is less affected by temperature changes compared to CO2.
Mostly, HPA is used in high-end electronic paintball markers because it is more efficient and reliable than CO2, whereas older or cheaper models might still be intended primarily for use with the latter.
Manufacturer’s requirements on your paintball gun are important before shifting to the idea of using compressed air since it may not cope with higher pressures associated with HPAs. If compatible, using compressed air can enhance your marker’s consistency and overall performance on the field.
How Does a Paintball Gun Use an Air Compressor?
To use an air compressor, most paintball guns are used it to refill their air tanks.
First of all, the air tank of a paintball marker is connected to an air compressor via a paintball compressed air tank fill station. A specific level of compressed air is pumped into the tank, usually between 3000 to 45000 PSI, to maintain its air level.
Once the air tank is filled through the paintball air compressor adapter it is stored until the time when it’s needed. Such tanks are high-pressure because of their ability to resist and hold that pressure.
Usually, the filled air tank attaches to the paintball gun at its rear end or bottom. A regulator helps manage how much paintball gun operating pressure enters into the gun to have a consistent performance at all times.
When you pull the trigger, this opens up a valve inside your marker and immediately releases pressurized gas from the containment vessel. This explosive release of gasses causes each paintball to fire through its barrel at an adequate pace.
Behind the paintball, high-pressure gas expands suddenly thereby shoving it out of a barrel toward its target. Thus, every time you pull this trigger; the process will be repeated again while ensuring that only a regulated amount of gas is used for one shot.
What Air Compressor Do I Need for Paintball?
To select an air compressor for paintballs, here are key features you must look for.
- Look out for compressors that can deliver at least 3000 PSI, with an ideal range of 4500 PSI for most paintball tanks.
- Search for a higher CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute) rating that makes the filling process faster.
- Make sure to prefer to have oil-free compressors so as not to contaminate air tanks with oil.
- The compressor should be well-equipped with a cooling system to prevent overheating during extended use.
- It includes moisture filters on the compressor which help keep the air dry and clean hence no corrosion or damage.
Higher-pressure paintball compressors are ideal such as Bauer Junior II and Coltri MCH6.
What is the Cost of a Compressed Air Tank for Paintball Guns?
The cost of compressed air tank paintball guns can vary. It depends on different factors such as size, material, and pressure rating. For instance, the cost of higher-pressure aluminum tanks can be from $30 to $70. These tanks are mostly affordable for any player.
However, carbon fiber tanks hold most of the pressure as compared to other tanks and are lighter in weight but it has a higher cost of $100 to $250 or more.
Furthermore, steel tanks are less common and heavier as compared to other tanks. It’s up to your personal preference which sort of tanks you want.
Conclusion
Using high-pressure compressed air for paintball guns is not only possible but also beneficial for players on the ground.
Although not all traditional guns support HPA air compressors, most modern electronic paintball guns use this mechanism in their systems.
So if you want a paintball gun, make sure to opt for an HPA air compressor for making more shots and increasing its productivity and efficiency during the game.