8 Best Paintball Pistols of 2024 | Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

The best paintball pistols can give you a significant edge during play. While paintball markers are the weapon of choice for many, a quality paintball pistol is an effective side arm solution. Certain playing scenarios mean that taking aim and firing with a conventional marker is nigh on impossible, which is where the compact design and user-friendly operation of pistols comes into play. Looking to improve your performance? Read on for our go-to guide on what look for when shopping for the best paintball pistols on the market.

You would be forgiven for thinking that paintball pistols are pretty uniform in design, but this could not be further from the truth. In fact, there are around half a dozen different designs to consider when picking out a side arm to serve alongside your regular paintball marker.

Perhaps the most basic type of paintball pistol you will find on the market is the pump-action type. These pistols include a pump component that needs to be manually operated in order for you to set your next round of ammunition up before you take a shot.

Pump paintball pistols are relatively simple in their build and design, although this simplicity makes for a more robust and durable choice. They are also very reliable and efficient. Despite their limitations, pump-action pistols are still very popular, even with the most experienced of paintball players.

Semi-automatic paintball pistols are also common. The functionality of these pistols is incredibly simple, requiring you to do nothing more than pull the trigger every time you wish to take a shot. You will find variety within this category. In addition to basic manual models, electro-pneumatic semi-automatic pistols are becoming increasingly popular.

If you are looking for a pistol that fires more quickly than conventional models, a ramping paintball side arm might be for you. To operate a ramping paintball pistol, you can increase the firing rate of your weapon by continuously pressing the trigger.

The best ramping pistols can deliver impressive firing rates of 20 rounds per second. Newcomers to paintball often find ramping pistols a convenient choice as the fast firing rate compensates for shortcomings in accuracy and aim.

Another advanced model to consider is the so-called three shot burst paintball gun. The functionality of these side arms is simple – simply pull the trigger once to deliver a burst of three rounds.

These types of paintball pistol can be put to good use by the more experienced player, but they do require some getting used to. Therefore, they are not advised for the newcomer who has yet to grow accustomed with the basic operation of a paintball pistol.

Fully-automatic pistols take the features of ramping pistols and builds upon their strengths. They are a go-to for those looking for quick-fire performance, but do not require you to continuously pull the trigger. Depending on the manufacturer, the exact firing rate of a fully-automatic pistol can vary wildly.

As a rule, those pistol with the highest firing rates will set you back more. Fully-automatic paintball pistols are not really suitable for the beginner, requiring plenty of practice before they can be used effectively.

One thing you need to think about prior to purchasing a paintball pistol is weigh up the potential investment against your playing behaviour. If you have been playing paintball for a while and regularly head to the field to do battle with fellow players, a paintball side arm is definitely worth looking into.

However, if you only play paintball occasionally, the outlying cost of a pistol will usually work out more than what would you spend on full set rentals. If you’re looking to buy a quality storage option for your pistol, check out our buyer’s guide and reviews showing the best belly band holsters on the market today!.

This is another key factor to bear in mind when weighing up your options. Those with a very tight budget will find plenty of entry-level options that are very affordable, although the functionality of such side arms is limited.

Unless a basic model allows for further customisation and enhancement, it might not prove the best long-term investment. If you have more money to play with, definitely consider spending more outright as this will negate you having to splash out more for an upgraded model down the line.

Just as with a regular paintball marker, a pistol will require you to take undertake regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure it stays in premium condition and full working order for as long as possible.

Look for models that can be easily disassembled and reassembled with no complex tools to ensure you can carry out the necessary maintenance with minimal fuss. You should consider the cost of replacement parts and repairs when selecting a paintball pistol.

For peace of mind, look into how much replacement components for any given model will set you back so you have a good idea of how much will spending in the long term.

As with any paintball weapon, you will need to consider what additional equipment you will need to add to your inventory. Almost every pistol on the market will require you to purchase a compressed air tank in order for it to work.

Unless you are buying a complete bundle, consider how much your pistol of choice and additional tank will cost in total. You should also consider what kind of hopper your pistol requires, unless of course it includes ones as standard.

Many paintball pistol bundles include a variety of extras, including goggles, ammo feeders and other essentials. Even with a slight premium over a basic pistol, these bundles can seem like a great deal at first glance.

However, it pays to assess the quality of the individual accessories and extra equipment before you buy. If the additional items are second-rate, it might be better to buy the pistol individually and shop elsewhere for the rest.

Ready to up your game with a new paintball marker? Read on for our pick of some of the best paintball pistols currently available on the market.

The Umarex T4E TMP1 is a solid choice of paintball gun marker for those looking to take their game to the next level. This marker is made from hard-wearing metal and polymer material, making it a particularly robust choice.

It is also a lightweight option, coming in at just over 500 grams. This semi-automatic marker utilises blowback action and accepts .43 calibre paintball rounds and rubber ball ammunition. This marker also offers an ammo capacity of 8 rounds.

The T4E TPM1 features an efficient trigger pull that, when pulled, forces the inner barrel backwards into the magazine. This moves a paintball read into the barrel itself, sealing it tightly in place. This particularly effective at minimising CO2 waste. The build quality of this pistol is particularly impressive.

Hard-wearing metal is used for all the crucial elements including the slide and catch, the barrel, the magazine and the bulk of the internal components. Although the outer housing is made from polymer, this is comparable with most pistol models currently available on the market and serves to keep the overall weight of the pistol low.

Pros:
– Lightweight design and solid feel
– Perfect choice of training gun
– Realistic operation
– Reliable safety trigger
– Superb finish
– Reliable spring release

Cons:
– Limited blowback action
– Fairly low ammo capacity

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Umarex T4E Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 .43 Caliber Training Pistol Paintball Gun Marker

The Umarex T4E Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 is definitely worth considering if you are looking to upgrade to a semi-automatic pistol marker. This quality paintball gun is incredibly realistic in its design and finish, with a robust metal and polyester construction and reassuring weight of approximately 760 grams.

This semi-automatic marker with blowback action will accept .43 calibre paintball rounds or rubber ball ammunition, with an ammo capacity of 8 rounds.

If you are looking for a more accurate replica, this maker will definitely appeal. With a premium finish and very authentic details, it is hard to distinguish this paintball pistol from the real thing. You can also expect a superior build quality here.

Essential components like the slide, catch, magazine and barrel are all constructed fro durable metal. The outer housing is made from a high-quality polymer material, helping keep the overall carrying weight down.

Pros:
– Good feel and user-friendly
– Metal components add some essential weight
– Very realistic in operation
– Safety trigger
– Superb finish and fit
– Spring release magazine
– Authentic .43 calibre barrel opening
– Incredibly accurate replica

Cons:
– Limited ammo capacity
– Limited blowback action
– Complicated to take apart

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Umarex T4E TR50 Revolver .50 Caliber Training Pistol Paintball Gun Marker

The Umarex T4E TR50 Revolver will definitely appeal to those looking for a high-quality replica they can put to good use on the paintball field. This impressive paintball pistol combines the good looks and double action of a classic revolver firearm, with a smooth bore barrel and compatibility with 0.50 calibre paintball rounds.

This paintball revolver is relatively lightweight at 726 grams, while a high-grade finish is assured thanks to a metal and polymer construction.

One thing to consider before investing in the T4E TR50 is that it will handle a little differently to conventional paintball pistols. It might be feel a little awkward when firing to begin with, but practice will make perfect.

To ensure you get accurate results with every shot, you will want to take some time to acclimatise to the trigger and firing action of this revolver. Purists looking for an authentic replica of an existing firearm might be disappointed to discover the TR50 is not an imitation of any actual weapon.

Instead, it combines the classic shape of a revolver with more contemporary aesthetic that brings it closer in line with other paintball markers on the market.

Pros:
– Relatively high FPS
– Wide scope of customisation with various accessories
– Includes five magazines that cab preloaded
– Simple design for ease of use
– Solid build quality

Cons:
– Few metallic components
– CO2 requires regular replenishing

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JT Splatmaster z100 Paintball Pistol .50 Cal

The JT SplatMaster Z100 is an affordable choice of paintball pistol that combines a user-friendly with smooth, rapid firing. This pistol offers a solid and authentic feel, with a 7-round paintball magazine that can be readily ejected and replaced.

This pistol uses a spring-loaded mechanism to deliver consistent and reliable firing performance. You can expect a firing velocity of up to 150 feet per second, while an impressive range of 100 feet makes this an ideal substitute for conventional markers.

A great advantage of the Z100 is that it does not require you to invest in CO2 cartridges, making it an incredibly cost-effective option.

This is a good entry-level pistol that younger paintballers and the less experienced player will have no trouble getting to grips with. The smooth cocking action makes operating the pistol easy, while the additional cocking assist handle ensures even the novice will have no trouble handling this weapon.

Pros:
– Very easy to get to grips with
– Smooth cocking action
– Spring-firing action
– No need for CO2 cartridges
– Good firing rate and range

Cons:
– Relatively basic design
– Will not appeal to the more experienced paintballer

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GI Sportz Menace .50 Cal Paintball Pistol

The GI Sportz Menace is an incredibly efficient choice of paintball pistol that will hold up well to repeated play. This 0.50 calibre low impact pistol offers an ideal side arm solution for every game. It is incredibly lightweight, making it a good choice for those weary about being too bogged down by excess gear.

The balanced design also makes it very easy to handle, even when you finding yourself in the midst of gruelling play conditions. Despite being small in stature, this pistol is surprisingly robust and boasts a durable design that will withstand shocks and impacts with ease.

The 7-round magazine provides you with ample ammunition if you are looking for a pistol to serve as a side arm. Those playing without a marker may find this quite limiting, although additional magazines can be easily loaded onto your utility belt.

You will also need to bear in mind that this pistol requires C02 cartridges in order to operate and fire. As paintball pistols are generally not that efficient in this regard, you will also need to consider the excess carrying weight of additional CO2 cartridges.

Pros:
– Lightweight and easy to handle
– Surprisingly robust build
– 7-round magazine
– Very affordable

Cons:
– Usual limitations of a side arm pistol
– C02 tanks will need replenishing

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HSA PACKAGE T4E S&W M&P9 M2 .43cal Co2 Semi Auto BlowBack Paintball Pistol W/Free 50ct T4E Rubber Balls

This T4E Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2 HSA package will definitely catch the eye of the more enthusiastic paintballer. This semi-automatic paintball side arm has plenty of first-rate features to dramatically improve your performance. Utilising CO2 and BlowBack mechanism, this reliable pistol provides plenty of bang for your buck.

You can also expect a very high build quality here. All the crucial components and internal elements are made from metal, providing you with a reliable pistol that will hold up well to repeated use.

The exterior housing is made from a polymer material, although it is hard-wearing and finished to perfection, while also bring the overall weight of the pistol down to manageable levels.

This is the same basic model as the T4E Smith & Wesson M2 previously discussed in this list. However, this particular package comes loaded with essential extras along with the main side arm itself.

Along with the gun you will find a magazine, a hard case for storage, three different grips in various sizes, along with rubber ball ammunitions and cleaning tools.

Pros:
– User-friendly design
– Good feel
– Realistic replica
– Plenty of essential accessories included

Cons:
– Limited ammo capacity
– Complicated to take apart
– Relatively expensive

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JT ER4 RTP .68Cal Paintball Kit Includes Guardian Goggle, 15G Co2 Jetts, Small Loader, Smoke

If are you looking for a solid choice of paintball pistol to add to your arsenal, the JT ER4 RTP is well considering. This .68 calibre semi-automatic marker is a very reliable and efficient performer. The composite construction is also a robust choice, ensuring it will withstand knocks and impacts as you traverse the field of play.

The composite material also makes it a lightweight option, without you needing to worry it will weigh you down if you tend to carry a lot of extra gear and accessories. The low-profile vertical feed port allows for easier reloading of ammunition, while the push button safety trigger is a very convenient feature.

In addition to the pistol itself, this kit comes packed with a bundle of accessories to allow you to get the most from your marker. One of the best extras included is the JT Guardian Protective Paintball Goggle System. These goggles offer fog resistant lenses to provide you with incredibly clear vision in all conditions.

You will also find a 40-round loader included as standard. Finally, there is a barrel plug also thrown in for good measure. This plug serves as a secondary safety feature for your pistol, preventing shots from being discharged from the barrel accidentally.

Pros:
– Reliable and efficient
– Durable construction
– Low-profile vertical feed port
– Great variety of extras included

Cons:
– A bit more expensive than other options in this list
– The complete novice might struggle to get to grips with it

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Umarex T4E Walther PPQ .43 Caliber Training Pistol Paintball Gun Marker

This Umarex T4E Walther PPQ is a quality choice of paintball pistol for those looking to enhance their performance with a reliable side arm. There is lots of first-rate spec on offer here. Firstly, the overall design of this pistol is top-tier.

The finish is authentic with a pared-back aesthetic, ensuring an easy compliment to your existing marker and gear. The realistic size also makes this incredibly easy to handle, with the composite construction offering a lightweight choice of pistol that will not weigh you down.

This pistol is powered by CO2 cartridges, which is fairly typical of paintball side arms of this type. You will also find an 8-round magazine with realistic release mechanism included as standard. The most important components, such as the barrel, catch and slide are all made from hard-wearing metal to ensure you have a pistol that will hold up well to repeated use.

This pistol also provides you with a user-friendly option that can be tailored to your playing preferences. The rear sight is adjustable, while the fixed front sight allows for straightforward targeting to improve your accuracy and aim.

Pros:
– Authentic replica and quality finish
– Lightweight and easy to handle
– 8-round magazine
– Accessory rail included as standard

Cons:
– CO2 cartridges need replenishing regularly
– Not as high impact as other paintball pistols

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