Our Top Picks for Power & Precision
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Looking for the perfect paintball pistol to complete your gear collection? Look no further! As Mike Tyson said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face,” and having a backup sidearm can be the difference between winning and losing. But with so many paintball pistols on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Our guide has done the research and testing for you, so you can find the best paintball pistol of 2023 that fits your playing style, from compact .43 caliber models to powerful, .68 caliber, military-style replica handguns. With our top picks in each category, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and have an edge on the competition.
The Best Paintball Pistols
#1: Umarex T4E Walther PPQ .43 Cal Paintball Pistol
Best .43 Caliber Paintball Pistol
- Metal barrel and slide for realistic look, feel, and weight
- 8-round, drop-free magazine with realistic mag release
- Adjustable rear sight and fixed front sight
- Picatinny accessory rail for easy mounting of lights, lasers, and other accessories
- Fits duty holsters
- 360 fps shooting out of the box
- Self-lubricates for easy maintenance
At Paintballer, we’re always on the lookout for gear that can elevate your paintball game. The Umarex T4E is a unique paintball pistol designed to simulate the size, weight, and feel of a real firearm. It shoots .43 caliber paintballs, powder balls, and rubber balls with a muzzle velocity of about 360 fps. However, this exceeds the maximum-allowed firing rate of 280-285 fps, making it unsuitable for use in many paintball fields. While it may not be field-legal, the T4E is a powerful and well-designed paintball pistol that’s sure to impress in the right circumstances.
#2: GI Sportz Menace .50 Cal Paintball Pistol
Best .50 Caliber Paintball Pistol
- 7-round removable magazine (paintballs not included)
- Powered by 12 gram CO2 cartridge (not included)
- Non-blowback design makes it gas-efficient up to 70 shots
- Ambidextrous safety
- Grip frame window to see remaining paint
- Stationary front and rear sights
- 15 oz weight
If you’re looking for a paintball pistol with a realistic feel, the GI Sportz Menace might be just what you need. This .50 caliber pistol has a 7-round magazine and uses 12-gram CO2 cartridges for power. The Menace is designed for both righties and lefties with an ambidextrous safety, making it a comfortable choice for any player. Plus, its realistic design adds to the overall experience. However, keep in mind that the .50 caliber size of the paintballs may not be ideal for all players and fields.
#3: Tippmann TiPX .68 Cal Paintball Pistol
Best .68 Caliber Paintball Pistol
- 7-round Tippmann Tru-Ball magazines
- Powered by 12 gram CO2 cartridge (not included)
- Realistic blowback action
- Gas blowback design makes it less gas-efficient with 25-30 shot capacity
- Mock suppressor
- External velocity adjuster and internal regulator
- Set up for First Strike rounds
Looking for a compact, high-performing paintball pistol? Look no further than the Tippmann TiPX .68 Caliber Paintball Pistol. With an effective range of up to 150 feet and a comfortable, easy-to-pull trigger, this small and stylish option is perfect for adding color to your opponents in close quarters. And with its realistic design, the TiPX is a top choice for anyone who wants form to go along with function. As one of the best large-caliber paintball pistols on the market, the Tippmann TiPX is definitely worth considering for your next game.
#4: GLOCK 17 Gen 3 6mm Paintball Pistol
Best Paintball GLOCK
- Replica of the original 9x19mm Parabellum model released in 1982
- 7-round magazine
- Powered by 12 gram CO2 cartridge (not included)
- Realistic blowback action
- Gas blowback design makes it less gas efficient with 25-30 shot capacity
- Full metal slide
- Fixed white front sight
As one of the most recognizable firearms in the world, the GLOCK 17 is a favorite of many. The replica GLOCK 17 paintball pistol by Elite Force is just as effective as it is identical, providing comparable firing action and recoil to the actual GLOCK firearm. The realistic gas blowback action allows for reduced loudness, similar to using a suppressor on the actual firearm. However, the tradeoff is that the GLOCK 17’s firing capacity is reduced to 25-30 shots. Despite this, its comfortable design and reliable performance make this GLOCK 17 paintball pistol great for either skirmishing or indoor target practice.
#5: Umarex T4E Walther PPQ .43 Cal Paintball Pistol
Best Paintball Revolver
- 6-round rotary clip and comes with 5 magazines
- Powered by 12 gram CO2 cartridge (not included)
- Quick-piercing CO2 chamber
- Non-blowback design makes it more gas-efficient with up to 70 shot capacity
- Lightweight polymer frame
- Dual Picatinny rails for mounting a red dot sight, laser, or flashlight
- Charge indicator at the rear of the pistol, which lets you know if the CO2 cartridge has been pierced
Looking for a paintball pistol that makes a statement? The Umarex T4E TR50 Paintball Revolver is a powerful option that can pack a punch on the paintball field. With an impressive 360 fps firing velocity, you’ll need to adjust the velocity to meet field regulations. The TR50 also features a 6-round rotary clip and is powered by a 12 gram CO2 cartridge located in the pistol’s grip. While it’s not the most practical option, it’s definitely a conversation starter and sure to turn heads.
#6 JT ER2 Pump Pistol
Best Pump Paintball Pistol
- Fires .68 caliber paintballs (30 included)
- 10-round magazine capacity
- Powered by 12 gram CO2 cartridge (2 included)
- Realistic gas blowback design isn’t gas-efficient (25-30 shots per cartridge)
- Pump-action reloading system
- Smooth-firing pump handle
- Lightweight composite construction
- Smoked translucent body
- Stick feed port
- Anti double-pump action and ball stop system for safety
The JT ER2 Pump Pistol is the perfect entry-level paintball pistol, offering a high-powered CO2 propellent with realistic hand-pump action to chamber each new paintball. While the rate of fire is lower due to the need to pump the handle several times to power it up before each shot, it’s an inexpensive option that doesn’t skimp on user experience. The JT ER2 is incredibly easy to use and perfect for beginners, despite having a lower firing power and range compared to other pistols. With a shooting range of up to 75 feet and accuracy to 30 feet, this pistol is still perfect for close-quarter combat, and with a maximum velocity of 280 fps, it’s field-legal at most paintball fields.
#7: JT Splatmaster z100 .50 Cal Paintball Pistol
Best Cheap Paintball Pistol
- Hand-pump powered so it doesn’t need CO2
- Realistic sliding action
- 7-round capacity with quick-release magazine
- Includes instructions and reusable target
- Includes Cocking Assist handle for increased cocking leverage
- Includes barrel plug and manual
- Range of up to 75 feet with accuracy up to 30 feet
We understand that sometimes budgetary concerns can be a major factor in choosing the right gear. For those who want to try paintball without breaking the bank, the Splatmaster z100 .50 Cal is a great option. While it’s designed as an entry-level paintball pistol for kids, it’s also suitable for people of all ages, thanks to its simple hand-cocking action that requires no CO2 cartridges or other propellants. The firing velocity tops out at just 140 fps, which is much lower than the other best paintball pistols mentioned in this guide. Though it may not be the most effective option for competitive play, it’s a great entry-level marker and could serve as a useful backup sidearm in a pinch.
#8: H&K HK45 .45 Cal Airsoft Pistol
Best CO2 Pistol For Self Defense
- 7-round magazine capacity
- Non-blowback design is gas-efficient
- 20mm Picatinny accessory rail under the barrel
- Adjustable hop-up
- Ergonomically designed high-quality polymer grip
- 30-day returns and warranty through Airsoft Station
A lightweight, highly-efficient, non-blowback CO2 airsoft pistol, the H&K HK45 is yet another great replica by Umarex. It has a polymer frame instead of a full metal design with a 15-round magazine, and it features an adjustable hop-up and 20mm Picatinny rails to mount lights, lasers, and other accessories.
While it may not be a paintball pistol, the Umarex H&K HK45 is still a quality CO2-powered pistol at an amazing price point, and its authentic appearance makes it a great deterrent for self-defense. It sacrifices a little realism for gas (and cost) efficiency plus extra accuracy, but it still checks enough boxes in terms of overall functionality.
Determine Your Playing Style
Speedball or Woodsball? Aggressive or Defensive? Primary or Backup?
When choosing a paintball pistol, it’s important to consider your playing style. Do you prefer fast-paced speedball or the strategic gameplay of woodsball? Are you an aggressive player who likes to charge forward or a defensive player who likes to hold down a position? Do you want your pistol to be your primary weapon or just a backup sidearm? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and find a pistol that matches your playing style.
Know Your Budget
Entry-Level vs. Mid-Range vs. High-End Balancing Cost and Quality
Paintball pistols come in a range of prices, from affordable entry-level models to high-end options that can cost hundreds of dollars. When deciding on your budget, consider how often you’ll be using your pistol and what level of quality you’re willing to invest in. Keep in mind that while entry-level pistols are more affordable, they may lack certain features and durability of mid-range or high-end models.
Consider Your Needs
Caliber Size Gas-Powered vs. Spring-Powered vs. Electronic Magazine Capacity and Reloading Mechanisms Ergonomics and Comfort
When it comes to choosing a paintball pistol, there are a few key factors to consider. The caliber size of your pistol will impact its power and accuracy, with .43 and .68 being the most common sizes. Gas-powered pistols offer consistent firing, while spring-powered models can be more affordable and reliable. Electronic pistols offer the most advanced features, but come with a higher price tag. Magazine capacity and reloading mechanisms are important considerations, especially if you plan to use your pistol as a primary weapon. Finally, don’t overlook the importance of ergonomics and comfort when choosing a pistol, as you’ll be carrying and using it for extended periods of time.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
When choosing a paintball pistol, it’s important to find one that matches your playing style, budget, and needs. Be sure to do your research and read reviews before making a decision. And don’t forget to check out other helpful resources on the Paintballer website, such as our guides on paintball masks and markers.
Paintball Pistol FAQ
What is the difference between .43 and .68 caliber paintball pistols?
.43 caliber paintball pistols are smaller and generally used for more tactical scenarios or indoor fields. .68 caliber pistols are larger and more powerful, making them a better choice for outdoor scenarios.
Are gas-powered paintball pistols better than spring-powered ones?
It depends on your playing style and preferences. Gas-powered pistols offer more power and consistency, but require a gas source and can be more expensive. Spring-powered pistols are simpler and less expensive, but typically have less power and require more manual operation.
How many rounds can a typical paintball pistol hold?
Magazine capacity varies depending on the model, but most paintball pistols can hold between 7-15 rounds.
Are paintball pistols only used as backup weapons?
While paintball pistols are often used as backup weapons in close-quarters combat, they can also be used as a primary weapon depending on your playing style and the scenario.
Do I need to wear a paintball mask when using a paintball pistol?
Yes, it is important to always wear a paintball mask regardless of the type of paintball gun you are using. Paintball pistols can still fire paintballs at high speeds and cause eye and face injuries if not properly protected.