Paintball enthusiasts often wonder whether paintball air tanks are universal.
The answer is not as simple as a yes or no. Paintball air tanks come in different sizes shapes and materials and they have different fittings and regulators. Some paintball air tanks are compatible with certain markers and not with others. Therefore it is essential to understand the nuances of paintball air tanks before purchasing one. But how do you know which paintball air tank is right for you?
Understanding Paintball Air Tanks
Paintball air tanks are an essential piece of equipment for any paintball player. They provide the air pressure needed to fire paintballs accurately and consistently. In this article we’ll take a closer look at paintball air tanks and what you need to know about them.
Types of Paintball Air Tanks
There are two main types of paintball air tanks: CO2 and compressed air. CO2 tanks are the most common and are typically less expensive than compressed air tanks. However they are also less consistent and can cause velocity fluctuations as the CO2 is used up. Compressed air tanks on the other hand are more expensive but provide a more consistent air pressure resulting in more accurate shots.
Tank Sizes
Paintball air tanks come in a variety of sizes ranging from 12 grams to 100 ounces. The most common sizes are 20 and 48 ounces. The size of the tank you need will depend on how often you play and how many shots you typically take per game. If you’re a recreational player a 20-ounce tank should be sufficient. If you play more frequently or use a marker that requires more air a 48-ounce tank may be a better choice.
Tank Materials
Paintball air tanks are typically made from either aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum tanks are less expensive but also heavier. Carbon fiber tanks are more expensive but are much lighter making them a popular choice for tournament players who need to move quickly on the field.
Tank Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential to keep your paintball air tank in good condition. This includes regular inspections for damage or leaks as well as cleaning the tank and valve after each use. It’s also important to store your tank in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.
Useful Information
| Tank Size | Number of Shots | Weight (empty) |
|---|---|---|
| 12 grams | 15-20 | 0.5 oz |
| 20 ounces | 800-1000 | 1.5 lbs |
| 48 ounces | 2000-2500 | 3.5 lbs |
| 68 cubic inches | 1000-1200 | 2.5 lbs |
The Different Types of Paintball Air Tanks
Paintball air tanks come in a variety of shapes and sizes but there are three main types: CO2 tanks compressed air tanks and nitrogen tanks.
CO2 Tanks – These tanks are the OG of paintball air tanks. They’re the most widely used and the most affordable. They’re also the most temperamental. CO2 tanks can be affected by temperature changes which can cause changes in pressure and ultimately affect your accuracy. Plus they’re not as consistent as compressed air tanks.
Compressed Air Tanks – These tanks are becoming increasingly popular because they’re more consistent than CO2 tanks. They’re also not affected by temperature changes which means you can play in any weather condition without worrying about your tank. However compressed air tanks are more expensive than CO2 tanks.
Nitrogen Tanks – These tanks are the most expensive of the three but they’re also the most consistent. They’re used by professional players because they provide the most stable pressure. Nitrogen tanks are also not affected by temperature changes which means you can play in any weather condition without worrying about your tank.
The Compatibility of Paintball Air Tanks
So you’ve got your trusty paintball gun and your shiny new air tank. But will they work together like a match made in heaven or will they clash like oil and water? Let’s dive into the compatibility of paintball air tanks and find out.
– Thread Type: The first thing to consider is the thread type. Most paintball guns and air tanks use either the standard 9/16-18 UNF thread or the metric M18x1.5 thread. However some guns and tanks may use proprietary threads so be sure to check before making a purchase.
– Regulator Compatibility: Another factor to consider is the compatibility of the regulator. Some tanks come with built-in regulators while others require an external one. Make sure the regulator is compatible with your gun’s input pressure and output pressure requirements.
– Tank Pressure: The pressure at which your air tank operates is also important to consider. Most paintball guns operate at a standard pressure of around 800-850 psi. However some guns may require a higher or lower pressure so check your gun’s manual before choosing a tank.
– Tank Size: Finally the size of your tank may affect compatibility. Larger tanks may be too cumbersome for some players while smaller tanks may not provide enough shots per fill. Make sure to choose a tank size that works for your playing style.
Factors That Affect the Interchangeability of Paintball Air Tanks
Ah the age-old question: are paintball air tanks universal? Well yes and no. Let’s dive into the factors that affect the interchangeability of paintball air tanks.
1. Thread Type
The thread type of the air tank is the most important factor when it comes to interchangeability. There are two main thread types: standard and metric. Standard thread tanks have a 5/8-18UNF thread while metric thread tanks have a M18x1.5 thread. Make sure you know which thread type your marker requires before purchasing an air tank.
2. Tank Regulator
The regulator on your air tank is responsible for controlling the pressure of the air going into your marker. Some markers require a specific pressure range so make sure your tank’s regulator can handle that pressure. Also some regulators are non-adjustable so make sure the regulator on your tank is compatible with your marker.
3. Tank Valve
The valve on your air tank is responsible for releasing the air into your marker. There are two main types of tank valves: pin valve and on/off valve. Pin valves are the most common and are found on CO2 tanks while on/off valves are found on high-pressure air tanks. Make sure the valve on your tank is compatible with your marker.
4. Tank Size
While most paintball air tanks come in standard sizes there are some tanks that are larger or smaller than the norm. Make sure the size of your tank is compatible with your marker and that it doesn’t exceed the maximum size allowed by the field you’re playing at.
How to Choose the Right Paintball Air Tank for Your Marker
So you’ve got your marker but now you need a paintball air tank to keep that baby loaded. But with so many options out there how do you choose the right one? Fear not my fellow paintballer for I have some tips to help you find the perfect match.
1. Consider your playing style – Are you a speedball player who needs a lightweight tank for quick movements? Or are you a scenario player who needs a larger tank for longer games? Think about how you play and what kind of tank will best suit your needs.
2. Check your marker’s requirements – Different markers have different air tank requirements so make sure you know what your marker needs before you buy. Check the manual or do some research online to find out.
3. Think about tank size – As I mentioned earlier tank size can vary. If you’re a speedball player a 48ci/3000psi tank might be all you need. But if you’re a scenario player you might want to go for a larger 68ci/4500psi tank.
4. Consider tank material – Aluminum tanks are lightweight and affordable but they can’t hold as much air as carbon fiber tanks. Carbon fiber tanks are more expensive but they can hold more air and are lighter than aluminum tanks.
5. Don’t forget about tank maintenance – No matter what kind of tank you choose you’ll need to take care of it. Make sure you know how to properly clean and maintain your tank to keep it in good condition.
In the end the right paintball air tank for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your playing style marker requirements tank size material and maintenance needs when making your decision.
Maintaining Your Paintball Air Tank for Optimal Performance
Your paintball air tank is the lifeline of your game and you need to keep it in top-notch condition for optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you maintain your air tank:
1. Inspect Your Tank Regularly – Before every game give your tank a quick once-over. Check for any signs of wear and tear such as scratches dents or cracks. If you notice anything out of the ordinary get it checked out by a professional.
2. Keep Your Tank Clean – After every game wipe down your tank with a damp cloth to remove any dirt debris or paint residue. If you let it sit for too long it can cause corrosion which can damage your tank over time.
3. Store Your Tank Properly – When you’re not using your tank make sure to store it in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and moisture can cause damage to the tank’s internal components which can affect its performance.
4. Replace Your Tank O-Rings – O-rings are small rubber rings that help seal your tank’s valve. Over time they can wear out and cause leaks. It’s a good idea to replace them every six months to ensure that your tank is working properly.
5. Get Your Tank Hydrotested – All paintball air tanks have a lifespan and they need to be hydrotested every few years to ensure that they’re still safe to use. Check with your local paintball shop to see when your tank is due for a hydrotest.
Maintaining your paintball air tank may seem like a hassle but it’s worth it to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your game. A well-maintained tank can give you the edge you need to dominate the field.