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Looking to upgrade your Tippmann 98 Custom? (I hope so. Why else would you buy a marker with “Custom” in the name?) Let’s talk barrels as we unveil the best barrel for the Tippmann 98 Custom.
The Tippmann 98 Custom is one of the most popular paintball guns of all-time.
Why?
- It’s affordable.
- It’s reliable.
- It’s customizable.
(That last one is right in the name.)
In this guide, I’ll answer one simple question for 98 Custom owners like you: what’s the best barrel for the Tippmann 98 Custom?
The Best Tippmann 98 Custom Barrels
#1: Empire Apex 2 Barrel System
- Adjustable ramp switch for desired level of curve
- Nine adjustment spin positions to hit your target, including spin
- Durable aluminum construction
- Tool less disassembly for easy maintenance
- Left and right hook, drop shot, and long flat trajectory shots with the twist of the barrel
Perfection, thy name is Apex.
The Empire Apex 2 Barrel System is the best aftermarket barrel upgrade for the Tippmann 98 Custom, and it isn’t that close (maybe with one exception — our first runner-up below).
What makes the Apex 2 so great?
- Comes in either 14″ or 18″ barrel lengths, though 14″ is all you’ll really ever need
- Adjustable ramp switch gives you 9 levels to customize your curve and spin
- Redesigned internal section for longer, flatter shots on top of those reality-bending curves
- Easy, tool-less disassembly
- Durable aluminum construction
The best criticism I’ve ever seen for the Apex 2? The adjustable ramp switch is too good and you might get carried away with fancy trick shots.
Case closed. This Tippmann 98 Custom Apex barrel is one of the best 98 Custom aftermarket parts, period.
#2: Tippmann Model 98 Platinum Flatline Barrel
- Shoots over 250 feet
- Puts backspin on the paintball
- Includes an extra Picatinny rail for non Platinum Series 98’s
- Made In USA
- Easy installation
Designed for range and accuracy, the Tippmann Model 98 Platinum Flatline Barrel is designed for the Tippmann 98 Custom and Tippmann 98 Custom Pro. It’s different than the Flatline Barrel upgrade for the A5, which also made our list of the best barrels for the Tippmann A5.
The Flatline works by increasing backspin on your paint, which increases your range by 30 feet or more compared to the stock 98 Custom barrel and other lower-quality 98 Custom aftermarket barrels. The Flatline doesn’t quite have the range or trick shot prowess of the Empire Apex 2 Barrel System, but that’s why I picked the Apex for best Tippmann 98 Custom barrel.
#3: Tippmann 16″ Sniper Barrel
- Greater accuracy than a standard barrel
- 16-inch barrel provides increased shooting distance
- Made In USA
- Micro-honed and polished for precision accuracy
- Fits Tippmann A-5/X7/X7 Phenom Paintball Markers
The top Tippmann 98 Custom long barrel, the 16″ Tippmann Sniper upgrade gives you better accuracy downrange thanks to its high-polish, smoothed-out inner bore and channeled muzzle porting, the latter of which also reduces sound for improved stealth.
Note that the Tippmann 16″ Sniper Barrel for the 98 Custom isn’t the longest 98 Custom barrel — the Empire Apex 2 has an 18″ barrel system as well — but you won’t see much (or any) improved accuracy with a 2″ longer barrel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the proper spelling – “tipman 98 custom barrels” or “tippmann 98 custom barrels”?
Tippmann is spelled with two Ps and two Ns, so the correct spelling is “Tippmann 98 Custom Barrels.”
Is the Tippmann 98 Custom a good gun?
Yes! The Tippmann 98 Custom is affordable, reliable, and customizable.
Does a longer paintball barrel increase accuracy?
By making it easier to aim the longer barrel can increase accuracy.
What is the best long range paintball gun?
The Tippmann A-5 .68 Caliber Paintball Marker is a popular pick. Check out our article on the Best Barrel for the Tippmann A5.