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What You Need To Know About Paintball Barrels

What You Need To Know About Paintball Barrels

A paintball barrel is the section at the end of your marker which the paint will discharge from. There are various types of barrels available and some may simply be down to personal preference. In this post were going to take a look at what to consider before buying a barrel.

Thread

The first thing to consider when buying a barrel is to make sure you get the correct barrel thread. Different marker manufacturers or models accept a different thread type. We've listed some of the most common threads and what markers use each thread below:

  • Autococker - also known as 'Cocker' or 'AC' - used on all autocockers (obviously!), all Planet Eclipse markers (EMEK, GTEK etc), all DYE markers Shocker RSX/XLS/CVO, Bob Long/Field One Markers, Empire Mini, Empire Axe and many more
  • A5 or X7 - found on Tippmann A5s, X7s, BT-4s
  • Impulse - also known as Luxe, GOG or ION threads - common on most Smart Parts markers, Ions, Luxes, eNMEys, G1
  • Spyder - mostly just found on Spyders, but also on some other cheaper entry level markers

Length

You can get numerous barrel lengths, these usually range between 8-20 inches. The best barrel length is probably around 14inches. You can still use longer barrels of 16-20inches, this may be desirable if you have longer arms or are looking for a certain style.

Materials

Barrels are designed to accommodate the player and their needs thus being readily available in various materials. Aluminium is probably the most popular choice, this is lightweight inexpensive and easy to machine, its ideal. Barrels are also available in stainless steel which is heavier in comparison to aluminium. They are also obtainable in carbon fibre, this is the lightest/strongest material however it's pretty pricey.

Bore Size

These range from .698 down to .674, the most common size is .689. You'll want to make sure the bore size of your barrel is as close as possible to the size of the paint you're shooting. A close match will result in the greatest accuracy, but too small and you'll be breaking paint all day. It's important to remember that size of the paint you're using will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, grade to grade and even from batch to batch. Conditions will also affect the size of the ball - so if it's warmer on an afternoon compared to the morning, there's every chance you'll need to change your barrel bore size throughout the day. 

Most barrels that come with a marker will be a single barrel with a large bore size that can't be changed. The best way to be able to change bore size is go for a barrel type that allows you to changet he bore size with different inserts or barrel backs.

Kits

Again there is such a vast selection its paramount you pick a kit to suit your needs. Kits can include various backs and fronts, insert systems or one front and numerous backs. Having a kit allows you to choose the best setup at any time depending on the paint you're using.

 

Recommendations

Total Freak Kit: https://www.bzpaintball.co.uk/total-freak-kit

Eclipse Shaft FL Inserts and Fronts: https://www.bzpaintball.co.uk/paintball-barrels/eclipse-barrels

If you require any advice or assistance don’t hesitate to call us on 01642 605000.



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