Shocker RSX Upgrades

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

The Shocker RSX is one of the most customizable Markers on the market, and there are accessories for the RSX Marker.

That being said, the Shocker marker will have parts that will help a player adjust feeder systems, grip frame and trigger mechanisms, bolt systems, regulator parts, and solenoid/bolt speed adjusters, and these are to name a half dozen for you.

Take a look online, via catalog, in-store, or however you shop. There will be parts or upgraded accessories available. Not even mentioned would be the sight upgrades, customizable stock options, pressure regulators, barrels, and inserts; the list goes on.

Person aiming with a paintball gun - Shocker RSX Upgrades.

What Types of Upgrades are There?

As mentioned in the section before, about a dozen more accessory upgrades can be made to the stock Shocker RSX. The more common changes and alterations will be to the caliber of paint, which will need pressurized systems and barrel modifications to make it work.

The types of upgrades will be as follows:

 

  • Feed Tube: From Hopper to Pressurized systems
  • Grip Frame: This includes a trigger mechanism; in some cases, the pressure systems also
  • Bolt System: Where most of the pressurized systems will be.
  • Regulator: This system will help with the adjustments in the firing rate
  • Barrel System: it will be here that inserts for caliber adjustments, mobility, and range adjustments.

 

Which Ones are the Most Popular?

Out of the box, the Shocker RSX will provide one of the best marker experiences available for purchase. When using the base model, there is little to complain about – the most popular upgrades will be ergonomically inclined accessories and modifications.

This will include stock modifications, grips changes or refitting, and hopper designs.

And through that, if a player wants to change between three thousand PSI and forty-five hundred PSI, the tanks acting like stock butt in some setups will need to have bolt system changes along with a new regulator set up.

 

Which Ones Cost the Most?

If you are a savvy shopper, you have gone through and done your research, or you have arrived here amid doing so. The costliest modifications, to start, for the RSX markers will be via the accent pieces for style, which can range into the mid to upper one hundred range.

Other more significant changes, such as a new trigger mechanism system, pressurized changes, or caliber adjustments, can cost up to hundreds of dollars depending on the scale of the upgrade to the marker.

 

Barrel upgrades for Shocker RSX

There will be about half a dozen reasons why a player would want to do anything to the barrel of their Shocker RSX, including accuracy, agility, balance, caliber change, and design accents.

All these upgrades can be found online or at the local Paintballing facility, which will provide materials and helpful information on acquiring the latest tech. In some cases, a player will find a good deal if they locate the right people within the paintball community.

In addition, longer barrels will provide a better range for the marker. In comparison, on the same point, shorter barrels can help with close-quarter combat situations providing mobility upgrades.

 

Upgrades that Aren’t so Good

There are, with anything, items or products that just do not cut it, and this is true with the Shocker brand marker. To be honest, there are not many accessories to mention, but a prominent warning about purchasing knock-off products.

The systems that are in place to maintain the pressure of the tank and firing mechanisms are under high levels of PSI, and we are talking three thousand to forty-five hundred pounds per square inch.

Suppose even one O-ring is out of place. In that case, the entire system could explode and, in effect, injure the player and possibly others within the vicinity of the blast.

 

Final thoughts on Shocker RSX Upgrades

The Shocker RSX is one of the most accessorial-friendly markers a player could ask for in allowing for customizations and modifications to every system within the RSX marker.

From the software to the firing mechanisms, to the pressure adapters, and out the insert within the barrel of the marker, this model of the marker allows it all.

It fires out of the box with a solid and smooth recoilless action and can efficiently unload down the field. You get the classic, tat-tat-tat sound from the stock market, but do it in style with the plethora of accents that can be attached for style.

CS2 Pro vs. CS2

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

If you are an avid paintballer or someone who’s just getting into the sport, you probably already know that many marker options are available.

However, finding just the right paintball marker for your needs and battle style is crucial to ensure you enjoy your time on the field.

Two of the markers you may come across, especially if you’re looking at any models from Planet Eclipse, are the CS2 and the CS2 Pro. The CS2 Pro is an upgraded version of the CS2, so many of the systems are the same, like the bolt system and the electronics.

However, the CS2 Pro has some extended features like a three-barrel back, two triggers, and an aluminum shaft tip. These differences, though, may not be enough to tip the scale in favor of one or the other.

That’s why we decided to make a head-to-head comparison to help you figure out which of these two amazing markers from Planet Eclipse could potentially find its way into your paintball kit.

So if you’ve been wondering which one is the right one for you, just keep reading, and we will break down the features, differences, and everything you need to know in order to make your final decision.

Which One is More Popular?

Planet eclipse markers are well known for their high-quality materials and build. That means that both of these markers are excellent options; it depends on what you’re looking for and the available budget.

When it comes to popularity, though, the CS2 Pro may be more popular simply because it has extra features.

Being crafted with a three-barrel break and an aluminum shaft tip elevated the base CS2 model.

That, coupled with the dual triggers and other amazing features, elevated the previous model’s performance capabilities and that, in turn, made the CS2 Pro more popular. However, the CS2 is still a very popular choice among many paintballers.

 

What Are the Differences?

Anytime you go from a standard design to an upgraded version, there are bound to be some differences. But, on the whole, Planet Eclipse kept many of the same features from the CS2 and just integrated them with higher-level technology in the CS2 Pro.

You will find the same bolt system, trigger frame, regulator, and electronics in the CS2 Pro as you had in the CS2.

Where the design differs is that not only has the marker been milled down into a lighter-weight body and more aesthetically pleasing design, but it also includes three other main features that elevate its performance.

When crafting this new marker, the designers opted to use three barrel backs, dual triggers (scythe and blade), and an aluminum shaft FL tip.

Even with these additional features, though, the price tag only jumps up a small amount. So this may be one of the reasons why the CS2 Pro is very popular.

 

Pros and Cons: CS2 Pro vs. CS2

In the end, the best way to determine whether the CS2 or the CS2 Pro is the right fit for you is to look at how they stack up against each other. That’s exactly what we’re doing in this quick review and one of the best ways to do that is to make the classic pros and cons list.

So here are the pros and cons of both the CS2 and the CS2 Pro:

 

CS2

Pros
 

  • Lightweight, compact body
  • A good distance in regards to shooting
  • More energy efficient
  • Maintenance and setup are simple
  • User-friendly navigation menu

 
Cons:

 

  • Shot quality could be better
  • It may be too noisy for some

 

CS2 Pro

Pros:

 

  • Multiple triggers elevate the experience
  • Extra barrel back improves shot quality
  • Comfortable to use
  • Gamma core allows for smoother shooting
  • High-quality electronics

 

Cons:

 

  • More pricey

 

Price Range: CS2 Pro vs CS2

Lastly, no matter how hard you try, you’re going to spend a little bit of money getting your paintball kit setup.

That is why when looking at the model you’re choosing to invest in, understanding the price differences could be one of the factors that helps move the process of deciding between the markers along.

When looking at these two guns, you get almost the same amount of features, with the pro bringing in some additional ones that elevate its performance.

The difference between the two equates to roughly $100. That means for the CS2, you’re looking at paying somewhere around $1500, and with the CS2 Pro, the price tag bumps up to $1600.

 

Final Verdict: CS2 Pro vs CS2

In the end, the biggest determining factor probably is going to be your budget. Both of these markers have very similar features, which could be a great thing.

But if you’re more dedicated to paintball as a weekly event, then you may want to spend the extra $100 and opt for the more advanced version.

If you are on a limited budget and can’t afford that extra $100, you can’t go wrong with simply investing in the stocks CS2 model. You’ll still get a high-performing marker that allows you to enjoy your time on the field.

But if you want our overall opinion, finding a way to invest in the CS2 pro could be the difference between utter defeat on the field and supreme victory.

Planet eclipse delivers high-quality markers across the board. So, you can’t go wrong with investing in this very popular and reputable company’s products.

Choosing between these two boils down to simple aesthetics and overall design. As we said, you can’t go wrong with either, but the Pro is going to give you just that little bit of edge that could make all the difference.

 

160R vs. 170R

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

Planet Eclipse is one of the most reputable paintball gun manufacturers out there. So it’s no wonder that many people live and die by their dedication to this brand. Within its catalog are tons of different models, and one of the most popular is the Gtek.

When looking at the Gtek, though, you have several different models to choose from, and the ones we’re looking at today are going to be the 160R versus the 170R.

The 170R is an updated version of the 160R, so it will have a few extra features attached to it that could make it a better option for you.

Things like a low-rise speed neck and a reflective eye system all make the 170R lighter and more reliable.

That being said, the 160R is still a viable option as well. So let’s take a look at how each of these stands up against each other when it comes to features, price, and advantages.

Which One is Sold More?

Sometimes one of the deciding factors in whether you choose to go with any type of paintball marker or not is popularity.

It is inevitable that when a marker is popular, it probably has excellent performance and handling. But when looking at these two options, it’s hard to choose which one is sold more.

In truth, most devout paintballers would automatically steer you toward the 170R.

This is because it has been upgraded from the 160R and has a wealth of features that enhance performance and handling.

But if you don’t have the money for that, going with the 160R is perfectly acceptable. That means that it is, on average, sold maybe a little bit more, especially in the beginning aspects of one paintball adventure.

 

Which One has Better Quality?

As with anything when looking at these two markers, understanding the features will help you understand which one has the best quality for you. The 160R comes with a two-piece barrel and a standard planet eclipse bolt system.

Created with a simple-to-reach eyes system and a synth trigger, the 160R is a little bit heavier and not as able to be upgraded with special accessories as the 170R.

The 170R was a direct answer to fixing some of the issues that many people may have found in the 160R. Because of this, the design includes a lower-rise feed neck and a removable grip, making it easier to access the eye system.

Speaking of the eyes themselves, the system is no longer a copper wire but a reflective ice system which allows for a lighter weight.

This model uses a blade trigger and incorporates the pipe into the grip as opposed to the trigger for a more streamlined frame. Understanding all these features should allow you to choose the option that’s the best quality for you.

It goes without saying that the 170R, because of its upgraded systems, does tend to have more quality features, but both are very sturdy and made with high-quality materials for durability purposes. So it is a good option for just about anyone.

 

Pros and Cons: 160R vs. 170R

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each of these is a vital tool in your decision-making process. So we have gathered together a pro and cons list for both markers so that you have every bit of knowledge you need to make that choice:

 

160R

Pros:

 

  • All aluminum construction for better vibrational control
  • Comes with an OLED screen
  • Offers smooth and quiet shots

 

Cons:

 

  • Price

 

170R

Pros:

 

  • Toolless access for easier maintenance
  • Gamma core gives it better air efficiency
  • Price versus value is outstanding

 

Cons:

 

  • Not great at long-distance shots

 

Price Range: 160R vs. 170R

As you’re beginning this process of determining which of these markers might be the right fit for you, we’re going to take a look at the price tag. Everyone has a budget, and the price of entry into paintball can be quite high.

So determining where to place the bulk of your budget is key. We highly suggest you invest as much as possible into the marker itself.

That being said, when looking at the 160R, you’re looking at roughly a $750 price tag. On the other hand, the upgraded version of 170 R is about $900.

This may seem like a pricey investment, but if you have the budget, the value you’ll get from investing that extra $150 in the 170R might just be worth it.

 

Final Verdict: 160R vs. 170R

In the end, the choice of which one to choose is really up to you and your style. The 160R is a great marker. It has a lot of features that enhance performance and is quite durable. But for us, the upgrades that came with Planet Eclipses’ newer model 170R are far superior.

So if you have the budget and are looking for a marker that will stand up to the test of time, we think the 170R is the better choice. However, if you’re working on a budget choice, the 160R is also fine.

The perfect marker is one that fits your style and budget while giving you value for the money you spend.

Both of these markers from planet eclipse do that, so in the end, whichever one you opt to go with, you will be making a smart decision that will lead to victory on the field.

Do Paintball CO2 Tanks Expire?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

In general, there are two types of Paintball tanks; there are the HPA (High-Pressure Air) tanks and the CO2 tanks. Generally, a CO2 tank will only last three to five years after the manufacturing date. In some circles, this is termed the re-hydro date.

There is also a termination period, which like all things, comes with age. Seals and the bottle’s integrity will come into question after a period of time; the only sure way to know if a CO2 tank is functional is to get it tested regularly after the three-year mark.

Man wearing green holding a paintball gun in hands - Do Paintball CO2 Tanks Expire?

How do I Know if my Paintball Tank is Expired?

This will be simple; as mentioned before, the best way to be sure is to get your air tanks tested regularly after the three-to-five-year mark. A re-hydro process is meant to help players avoid any explosions or injuries caused by a faulty paintball tank.

Also, some self-checks that are quaint would be to listen for leaks and be super observant of how the Marker is operating and how the rounds are being shot. Little tells will help you, as the combat athlete, be sure your Marker is at one hundred percent.

 

Where is the Date on a CO2 Tank?

There will be different locations on different brands of air tanks, but usually, a person will find the dates just below the crown of the bottle.

Within the first three lines, there will be a printed month and year, in which a player will want to project out three to five years to maintain the tank properly.

Of course, some brands will put the number on the bottom of the bottle. Either on the lip or all the way on the bottom, and if you are still looking for a date, wait to buy that tank.

 

For How Long Does the Tank Last?

How long a tank will last depends on the brand, how much it is used in combat, and how well it is taken care of.

On average, most experts concur that a player should check their tank seals at the three-year mark because the majority of paintball HPA tanks will only hold up for three to five years.

Remember to check the manufacturer’s date, then add the three to five years. That is the ‘expected’ life expectancy of paintball air tanks, but a well-kept bottle that has had its seals properly checked and replaced when necessary could last longer than that.

 

What is a Bad Level of CO2?

From a scientific perspective, the dangerous levels of CO2 exposure will cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea, to name a few symptoms.

This occurs when the human body is exposed to about five thousand five hundred particles per minute; when this number reaches concentration levels close to forty thousand PPM, it’s fatal.

Therefore, maintaining an eye on the integrity of the air tank ensures the seals are intact and not spewing gas into your face. Though the levels in the tanks are predetermined to be safe, it is always a good idea to be safe and not sorry.

 

What Happens if CO2 gets Too Low?

As with any pressurized gas, it will not rush out of its container if the levels get too low. However, in the case of a Paintball tank, this will cause a lack of propulsion for the paint to fly.

In other words, a combatant with a Marker with low-pressurized tanks will notice distance loss, lack of velocity, paint breaking in the barrel, and possibly a weapons malfunction.

Then what will need to happen is a refill or replacement of the air tank. It is as simple as that when it comes to fixing the issue of low CO2.

 

Final Thoughts on Do Paintball CO2 Tanks Expire

One of the most important things to remember when playing Paintball is to maintain your Marker, which includes taking care of its components, cleaning them regularly, and keeping tabs on the status of the air tank.

If the tanks reach the three-to-five-year mark, get them Hydro tested to check for breakage, cracks, or leaking seals.

These air tanks will be essential to keep them filled and ready for play. If not, there are always the experts at the paintball facility that will have an air compressor that will fill any empty tanks.

To be a professional, or appear so, a combat athlete must be on top of the Paintball tanks they use.

How Do You Make A PVC Paintball Marker?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

Straight out of MacGyver comes the project of creating your PVC paintball marker; there will be a few main elements to make a working launcher. First, you will need a propulsion source (compressed air) that connects to the “loading component.”

You can, in effect, launch the ammo from the loading component out of a PVC pipe barrel. This is the simplest form of marker possible; the firing rates will not be impressive, nor should you expect to be able to fire more than a dozen in a half hour.

A black paintball bun near a bag - How Do You Make A PVC Paintball Marker?

What do you Need to Make One?

The first item to acquire would be the PVC pipe that fits the caliber paint used as ammo. Next would be to find a pressurized gas dispenser, hair spray, or similar that works fine and attach it to a vacuum-tight body or loading component.

This will create the propulsion needed to launch the paint out of the PVC barrel and out to the target. You will also need to work out a triggering device to activate the spray or ignite the gas in the chamber to create pressure and fire the paint.

 

Which Tools Do You Need to Have?

There are no set tool requirements when building a makeshift, at-home paintball marker unless you are attempting to create the next greatest marker of all time, in which a set of specialized tools will be required.

Simple tools you might need will be a saw to cut the PVC to size, along with duct tape, box cutters, and firing range equipment. Then again, not all designs out there on the web will require tools at all; some of the ingenuity that goes along with this can be surprising.

 

How Long Does it Take to Make One?

Since there are many different designs, creative processes, and building techniques, each way’s building processes will vary.

For example, some of the simpler, only-for-fun designs will take an hour to build out, but then the simple marker will only work for an hour as well.

Other designs are more complicated and may take days or even weeks to get the correct settings and or parts to make the production happen.

Then you will have the more serious builds that take weeks or months to perfect the air pressure balance, trigger mechanisms, and PVC pipe barrel length.

 

How Does it Work?

The basic process will be the same as any paintball marker; you have a vacuum-sealed airtight chamber filled with pressurized gas (Hairspray can, for example).

Next comes the barrel, which will house the paint rounds but also must maintain the pressure in the vacuum chamber.

From there, a trigger or ignition source will need to force the pressurized gas in the vacuum chamber out behind the paint round and out of the PVC pipe barrel.

The ignition source can either release more gas into the vacuum-sealed compartment to which the extreme pressure will push the paint out of the barrel or ignite the already present gas creating an explosive pressure release, firing the paint out of the PVC barrel.

 

Does it Have Good Quality?

This depends on the seriousness of this build for the creator; if the person building the marker wants a quick, fun project, then the launcher will not be of any quality.

Other inventors are looking for something they can use on their friends, in the backyard to kill some time or work up to a pumpkin launcher to win the community competition.

The quality of the build will depend on the needs of the builder. For example, suppose the inventor is genuinely trying to create a prototype Paintball marker.

In that case, the materials and quality of the build will have to be professional level.

 

Final Thoughts on How do you Make a PVC Paintball Marker

The surest bet for a quality paintball marker would be to buy one from a proven manufacturer and maintain it. Otherwise, these homemade markers are only for some.

It takes a certain kind of workshop savvy to handle materials like PVC pipe and make it into a working paint launcher. If you are a parent looking to find a project to bond with a child, you could go for creating a fun paintball launcher project.

As the sport of Paintball becomes more mainstream, there is going to be interest from the younger generations. So, hopefully, a new sport will rise.

How Long Should 500 Paintballs Last?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

This is a point-of-view dependent question; parents providing a paintball birthday party will want to make those last for months and should be able to.

While a professional or every weekend paintball enthusiast will likely use that bucket in one day, depending on the intensity of the competition and how trigger-happy the combatant is.

On average, a package of two hundred rounds will last about one or two hours, and using the same ratio for five hundred paint rounds should last upwards of four hours.

The elements that will change this are the number of players, game type and intensity, and player shooting habits.

Person aiming leaning on tires - How Long Should 500 Paintballs Last?

How Long Can 500 Paintballs Last?

Again, there are different ways to manage a bucket of ammo; The selective shooter, all the way to the budget-conscious player, will sparingly shoot, even in the middle of an intense firefight.

Then you have the ‘spare no expense’ player who enjoys laying down suppressing fire, who will burn through that bucket in an hour.

This can only be answered in any situation when the paint is done flying, and a rough scientific estimate is made about how much ammo was used during the timed session.

 

Is This Too Much for a Day?

A bucket of five hundred daily rounds will cover just about every situation an amateur combatant will face on the field. If the bucket is for the entire group, just the one team or just the player having more than you need is better than not having enough.

To be quaint, purchasing an ammo bucket that big is perfect for planning a full day of paintball. Even if you do not end up using all the shots, you can store the excess and use them again for the next session.

 

How Many Paintballs Should You Waste per Hour?

The use of waste would be a relative term; some testers out there will waste hundreds of rounds to dial in a scope or new attachment for the marker. Depending on the intensity, a player will fire about one hundred to two hundred rounds per hour.

This is a general number that many sources concur on. Still, actual results will be unique to each combat athlete.

The best way to know is to count your shooting habits, keep track of time out on the field, and crunch the numbers yourself.

 

How Much Should You Pay for 500 Paintballs?

This will depend on the brand, shopping method, and paint quality. The average caliber-sized paint, in the sizes of five hundred rounds, will be relatively inexpensive and run about twenty-five dollars or so for a package of four total (two hundred dollars total).

Then there are options to purchase two thousand rounds for a whopping fifty to sixty dollars. Therefore, most paintball combatants will be able to afford ammunition, especially when the bill can be split between friends and colleagues.

On a side note, professional paint ammo will not be as affordable as the above prices.

 

Where Should You Buy it?

The matter of where you should buy it will have biased answers, and the unbiased answer would be to purchase your equipment from the fields you play in. Therefore, the money you spend will go into the facility you play at, which is good.

If this is not an option, look for a local paintball store and connect with the lifetime players found there. Otherwise, online store options allow players to buy paint from the same manufacturers producing markers.

The best thing to do is to find a Paintball company you support and buy your equipment from them.

 

Final Thoughts on How Long Should 500 Paintballs Last

When approaching the game of paintball, it is essential to remember the style of play you intend. For example, if you are a heavy shooter, purchasing two five-hundred-round buckets might make more sense than going with just one.

Going with a bucket of five hundred will work out if you are a sharpshooter or low-volume shooter. A thing to remember when buying your rounds is to think, ‘having too much ammo is better than not having enough.’

If you can afford to play this game, finding ways to procure ammo is not an issue; the more arduous task is finding facilities to play. Hopefully, that will change in the future.

How Many Times Can You Use Hydro A Paintball Tank?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

To start, to hydro a tank (aka hydro test) means to have the paintball tank pressure tested, which includes submerging the air tank into the water and then subjected to large amounts of pressure to ensure the integrity of the unit, plus avoid explosions.

You can test a tank innumerable times, but the general rule of thumb is that Paintball tanks only last between three- and five-years tops.

Now, this does not mean that one should overly test their tanks, there should be regular testing within the three to five-year range, but there is no need for excessive testing.

Person holding a paintball tank in hand - How Many Times Can You Use Hydro A Paintball Tank?

How Many Times Should You Do it for Non-Pressurized Systems?

Concerning markers that use ballistic or mechanical means of launching paint, there is no need for hydro testing the air tanks because there are none.

One should know that as invaluable as knowing whether or not your paintball air tank will explode, it is equally as important to know that non-pressurized systems do not require a compressed air (or CO2) tank.

In short, knowing what type of marker you intend to go into paintball combat is invaluable. Additionally, understanding the differences between an HPA and non-pressurized system will help combatants avoid confusion.

 

And How Much for Pre-Pressurized Systems?

Regarding the experts’ word, a regular paintball air or CO2 tank will need to be pressure tested before the three-year mark.

After that, a paintball player should either consider getting a routine test done or replacing the old air tanks with a new one and three more years of worry-free play.

To be blunt, there is not much hydro testing required for paintball tanks. Still, they assure you that your air tank equipment is functioning correctly and will not fail you on the paintball field.

It is recommended to have at least one test done at the three-year mark of an air tank’s usage.

 

What Happens if you Hydro too Often?

Just like refilling a tank regularly and expanding it just as often, there will be wear and tear, especially on the seals and nozzle of the tanks, but even more so under the higher pressure tests underwater.

Suppose a player hydro’s their tank too often, in effect. In that case, they will be shortening the longevity of the air tanks and risking an eventual explosion.

One risk of performing the Hydro testing too often is that the system and seal integrity could be compromised by exposing the tanks to such pressure and conditions too often, which can lead to a dangerous explosion.

 

When is the Best Time for Hydro?

The best time to test one’s equipment, specifically the air tanks, with hydro testing is after about three to five years of using the same tanks. During that time, the manufacturer warns that the integrity of the seals may be compromised after all that time.

The best time to test an air tank is when you notice the change in the performance of your marker during a match. Immediately afterward, it would be wise to seek a hydro testing facility.

Another good time is to set up a schedule with a professional on when to take tests and replace the old air tanks.

 

What Would Happen If You Don’t Re-Hydro?

There are a few possibilities of what might happen if a paintball player does not re-hydro test to ensure the integrity of the air tanks but also to avoid explosions. There are many risks when considering what happens if an air tank is not adequately tested.

The most dangerous of those possible outcomes comes with an exploding tank that went untested for too long.

Knowing the dangers of being uncertain about the integrity of your equipment and the possibility of a deadly explosion makes it clear-cut to the importance of having your air tanks adequately maintained.

 

Final Thoughts on How Many Times Can you Hydro a Paintball Tank

Participating in a combat sport like Paintball takes split-second decision-making and a reliable marker. Nothing is more frustrating than a Marker getting jammed in the middle of a competition or having paint misfire because of a pressure issue.

From the information gathered here, it can be gleaned that maintaining paintball tanks is essential to having a working marker. Getting tanks checked around the three to five years mark is crucial to ensure the integrity of the seals and canister.

Remember to research when selecting a place to test your tanks – an informed customer is an empowered buyer.

How Much Is Paintball Gear?

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

The average price range for a complete gear set would be between three hundred and six hundred dollars; this includes a Marker, Mask, chest guard, and pants.

There are, of course, more expensive options, such as professional-grade equipment from the major manufacturing companies.

Then, of course, you have the second hand stores, or online auction sites, in which to shop around and find the lowest or most affordable prices on the market. Be sure to ask the knowledgeable players about their gear and where they purchased it.

Man standing with a paintball gun in hand and three guys far behind him - How Much Is Paintball Gear?

How Much Do Paintballs Cost?

There are a couple of bucket options, and the most cost-effective would be to get packages wholesale. However, prices have dramatically dropped in recent years. A five-hundred-round bag will cost somewhere in the fifteen- and thirty-dollar range.

In contrast, a bag of two thousand rounds will cost about fifty to seventy-five dollars. Then you could visit the OG manufacturer of Paintball equipment, The Nelson Paint Company.

There you will find twelve thousand count packages for one hundred and forty-seven dollars and ninety-nine cents.

There are two thousand counts of 0.68 caliber precision paintballs with a ‘buy-in bulk and save’ deal, which could be just the thing for those budget-conscious individuals.

 

What is the Most expensive part of the gear?

This far will be the Paintball marker, and the higher quality products will have a price tag in the hundreds of dollars. A particular model will cost over three thousand dollars, with the least expensive being purchased at two thousand dollars.

This is going to be the piece of equipment that will cost the most, and it does not have to cost a fortune. There are some manufacturers that produce affordable markers, such as the Valken Razorback Paintball Marker, in which a player can piece together a set of gear.

 

How Much Does Full Gear Cost?

The complete list begins with the safety equipment, the mask, the body armor, gloves, the air tank, the Marker, paintball ammo, and the hopper. Depending on a buyer’s shopping skills, a complete gear set can cost between one hundred and one thousand dollars.

The more expensive markers will range between five hundred and a few thousand dollars.

Speed feeds for higher-performance hoppers, pod reload packs, and other accessories can be added for professional and advanced players.

Most upper-level players seek a balaclava-type cover, Shemagh, or additional head coverings for stray paint.

 

Moneysaving Tips

Some of the real money-saving opportunities are with second hand stores, online marketplaces, and auction sites. There are also some homemade options to use, such as old winter coats and snow pants.

Another route to take, if you are committed to being a lifetime player, is to go ahead and purchase a decent set of gear.

This is possible for four hundred dollars without the high-priced professional markers. An obvious move in the later months of the year, nearing Autumn, would be to shop on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, bound to find a good deal during that time.

 

How Expensive is Paintball as a Hobby?

How expensive the hobby will depend on the level of dedication and desire for the higher quality items. After a few outings of buying a few two thousand round paint bags, it will add up.

After a dozen trips, a player will have dropped about six hundred dollars on paint alone. There are going to be Paintball Markers that will get upwards of one thousand, two thousand, or more dollars for a major manufacturer.

Then you will have the name-brand gear that comes with the extra price tag but will deliver some of the better products on the market.

 

Final Thoughts on How much is Paintball Gear

The game of Paintball will cost a person more than most sports. In addition, the gear and Markers will sometimes cost someone more than a few hundred dollars, especially when starting out.

The one saving grace is that Paintball prices have drastically fallen over the past few years, going from a hundred dollars a two thousand count to around fifty dollars for the same two thousand-round ammo package.

If a combat Athlete can budget well, do the price investigation and research, and execute with the knowledge of deals and locations to show, then an affordable set of gear is possible.

Luxe X vs. Luxe Ice

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

There is one thing that is for sure having the right paintball gun on the field is vitally important to your overall experience. But with so many options available to you, sometimes the only way to make that decision is to look at them side by side.

This process is more difficult when guns are for the same brand. For instance, many people opt to look at the Luxe X and Luxe Ice side by side.

Each comes with some very similar features, but on the whole, it is the core that makes them different. So we are going to dive deep into each gun to help you in your decision-making process.

Which One is More Popular? 

The first question to answer is which one is the most popular. This question will help guide you to the right choice by showing you who each gun is perfect for. Let’s start with Luxe Ice. This paintball gun comes with the Ice core that many people love.

This particular paintball gun is popular for individuals on the hunt for a softer shot and one that offers reduced noise. Additionally, this could be good for those playing on fields with noise regulations, as many do those housed in places with a community surrounding them.

The Luxe X is popular among hardcore paintballers. These individuals seem to place more importance on accuracy and reliability than other things. Because of the electric system and the core used in this gun, it is a good fit for them.

 

Which One Has Better Features?

Now that you know which gun is fit for which player, it is time to dive deep into the features each paintball gun from Luxe brings. It is always best to do this one by one and then compare the two.

So each comes with the same case, and though that makes no difference in the performance of the paintball guns, it still is important to the overall worth of the paintball gun. Let’s start with the Luxe X, and here are the main features:

 

  • X Core bolt system
  • Pro Lock Frame
  • Freak XL barrel
  • EZ axis trigger
  • Max-Flo regulator
  • Ice-coated friction system

 

Now let’s look at the best features of the Luxe Ice:

 

  • 4-point adjustable trigger
  • Integrated air system
  • Milled frame
  • New electronics system
  • Freak barrel XL
  • Ice-coated friction system

 

Which one has the better features depending on what you are looking for?

Of course, this paintballer’s style must determine this individual choice and the performance they are looking for. The above features, though, are some of the best features of each, and we hope that knowledge will help you make your final decision.

 

Pros and Cons: Luxe X vs Luxe Ice

For us, just like comparing the features is important, so too is looking at the pros and cons to figure out which is the right paintball model for you. So here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of both the Luxe X and the Luxe Ice.

 

Luxe X

Pros:

 

  • Smooth shot
  • Air efficiency
  • Reduced noise
  • Limited paint breakage
  • Easy setup

 

Cons:

 

  • Price
  • Magnetic eyes easy to lose
  • Easy to break copper wire piece

 

Luxe Ice

Pros:

 

  • High efficiency
  • Easy to take care of bolt system
  • Able to understand five languages
  • Easy to breakdown for cleaning

 

Cons:

 

  • Electronics leave something to be desired
  • Not as aesthetically pleasing as other models

 

Price Range: Luxe X vs Luxe Ice

The final determining factor for many has to do with the price. Many people are working on a budget, and though spending a little extra on a good paintball gun might be within it,understanding the price points could help speed the process along.

When you are looking at the Luxe X, you will be spending roughly $1500.

On the other hand, the Luxe Ice comes with a smaller price tag of anywhere from $750 up to $1000. So if you want a good-performing paintball gun but are on a tight budget, the Luxe Ice is a solid choice.

 

Final Verdict: Luxe X vs Luxe Ice

The final choice really depends on you. The Luxe X offers more consistency when it comes to shots.

It also tends to be more reliable when it comes to performance, thanks to the core the unit uses. However, the $1500 price tag may be a little steep for you if you are on a budget.

In this case, you will still get a good-performing paintball gun by opting for the Luxe Ice. You will get many of the same features but with a much more wallet-friendly price of entry.

Looking at the features, pros, cons, and price is a good process for spending your hard-earned money on anything. It is especially important when looking at entering into the world of paintball or elevating your paintball kit by investing in a new marker.

We have made a head-to-head comparison of two of the most popular guns out there, and we hope it has helped you just a little bit.

 

Luxe X vs. CS2

  • Updated July 31st, 2023

Here we find ourselves with a pair of top-quality state-of-the-art paintball markers, and the question is, what about these paint launchers that make them unique?

The Luxe X (tenth edition) has set a new standard for the sport of Paintball with easy-to-maintain parts like the Pro-Lock Frame and the EZ-axis Trigger System.

The CS2 is a Planet Eclipse product with their new third-gen Soft Touch bolt that can shoot even the most fragile of tournament-grade paint.

Along with HK Army, the standard of electronics set by the CS2, and Planet Eclipse, with the GP Core, continue the tradition of high-quality markers and paintball equipment.

Which One is More Popular?

Regarding knowledge of the two markers, they are both on the top of the water cooler charts for paintball enthusiasts’ chatter.

However, there is one definitive piece of evidence that will sway this in favor of HK Army’s Luxe X: the product is sold out on the DLX website, but so isn’t the CS2 on the Planet Eclipse web page.

Even the accent kits have sold out the Luxe X, but to be fair, the CS2 has been replaced by Planet Eclipses’ newer CS3 model and the LV2. Unfortunately, they are making it more challenging for the CS2 to be as popular as the Luxe X.

 

Which One has Better Features?

There are going to be quality features from both markers, and the Luxe X will have the exclusive Pro-Lock Frame system, which can be removed without the need for tools.

The Freak XL barrel kit comes standard along with the X-Core bolt system and EZ-Axis trigger system.

The CS2 features the GP core and the BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) module that allows for connectivity possibilities and boasts a rake-blade trigger and toolless grip removal.

They both come with a good variety of features; in this case, this writer is going with the Luxe X to answer the question.

 

Pros and Cons: Luxe X vs CS2

There will be more pros than cons to these two markers, but there will be a difference between them in this section. The Hk Army Luxe X paintball marker has some of the best high-tech gadgets that come at a price.

Still, one troubling feature is that the small holding screws and magnetic eye covers are easily lost if not cautiously taken care of.

Planet Eclipse CS2 is a professional-grade marker with a lightweight design capped off with an aluminum barrel to allow quicker reaction times in a pinch.

One blaring issue is the nearly two thousand dollar price tag for a Marker no longer being produced by the manufacturer.

 

Price Range: Luxe X vs. CS2

The two professional quality markers are going to cost a combat athlete between a thousand and two thousand dollars for either the Luxe X or the CS2.

On average, the HK-Army Luxe X kit will have a price tag of close to fifteen hundred dollars, but some special editions will run a little higher on the price scale.

That is almost affordable when it comes to the average price tag on the Planet Eclipse CS2 pro, which rounds out to around two thousand dollars. In comparison, the more generic CS2 equals the Luxe X base model, which costs approximately thousand five hundred dollars.

 

Final Verdict: Luxe X vs CS2

You can hardly do wrong by selecting either of these two fine paintball markers; both have the capability to take your game to the next level.

In addition, the Luxe X will have featured a set of easy maintenance attachments that come off without tools, making this a solid choice for the combatant that goes every weekend.

The CS2 pro is more for those looking to become the next professional paintball star, cleaning and maintenance of this marker will take more than it would for the Luxe X; they will be the critical difference between these two markers.

If you have the tools, CS2 is an option, but for those players looking for an amateur-level marker, the Luxe X will fit the bill.

Rarely have there been two markers that are so similar to each other that selecting one or the other is difficult. So the Planet Eclipse team has put together a professional-grade marker that can handle the rigors of a season with cutting-edge technology.

The HK-Army team has put together a marker that was created for every weekend, everyday combatant. The reason is the easy-to-remove and clean components that make up the marker, such as the exclusive Pro-Lock Frame system and the EZ-Axis trigger system.

The choice of which to purchase comes down to the individual and the preferences they desire.

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