Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the right paintball gun barrel can make all the difference in your game. From barrel covers to plug kits to custom kits, there are endless options and accessories available to help you customize your paintball gun barrel just the way you like it. Get ready for a paintball experience with the ultimate guide to paintball barrels!
So, why is the paintball gun barrel so important? Well, not only does it impact your accuracy and range, but it also affects the overall performance and feel of your gun. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is best for you.
We will cover everything you need to know to choose the best paintball barrel, including the benefits of different materials, the importance of barrel length, and the top brands and models on the market.
Table of Contents
Importance of a Quality Paintball Barrel
No matter how skilled you are as a player, if your paintball gun barrel is subpar, you’ll never be able to reach your full potential. A barrel that’s too short or too wide can lead to decreased accuracy, resulting in missed shots and reduced success on the field.
On the other hand, a well-crafted barrel can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. With the right barrel, you’ll be able to shoot straighter, farther, and more precisely than ever before.
Investing in the best paintball barrel you can afford is not only a smart move, but it’s also a necessary one if you want to dominate the paintball field. So don’t skimp on your equipment, and always prioritize quality. Your game (and your team) will thank you for it.
Basic Components of a Paintball Barrel
Barrel Length
A longer barrel doesn’t necessarily mean better accuracy. In fact, it can actually make your shots less accurate by increasing your chances of breaking paintballs in the barrel. A longer barrel also means a heavier paintball gun. A shorter barrel, on the other hand, gives you better maneuverability and a quicker shot.
Bore Size
Relates to the diameter of the inside of your paintball gun barrel. This determines how well your paintballs fit in the barrel, which affects accuracy and consistency. A good rule of thumb is to choose a bore size that matches your paintball size.
Underboring and Overboring
These are techniques where the bore size of your paintball barrel is smaller or larger than the bore size of your paintballs, respectively. The best paintball barrel bore size is around .685, and choosing the proper bore size is crucial for accuracy, efficiency, and avoiding barrel breaks.
Porting
This is the number and placement of small holes in the barrel that release air from behind the ball as it moves through the barrel. This helps reduce the amount of recoil and noise while also improving accuracy. The sound signature of your marker can also be reduced by upgrading to a barrel with more porting.
Best Paintball Barrel Cover & Kit
As any paintball enthusiast knows, safety should always come first on the battlefield. That’s why every paintball gun barrel should be equipped with a protective paintball barrel cover or plug when not in use. These safety accessories not only prevent accidental firing but also protect the inside of the barrel from dirt and debris.
But why settle for basic protection when you can add some style and customization to your paintball gear? With a variety of colors, patterns, and materials available, you can find a barrel cover that matches your personality and team spirit.
For those looking to take their gear to the next level, paintball kits can provide a complete upgrade to your paintball gun barrel. These kits may include improved barrels, barrels with added porting to reduce noise or even adjustable barrel kits for maximum customization.
Riakrum Paintball Barrel Covers
You’ll receive six airsoft barrel covers in a bold red color. This is enough to meet your daily needs for usage and replacement.
The barrel covers are made of ballistic nylon and come with an elastic cord. They’re solid, sturdy, and won’t easily break, fade, or deform. You can use them for a long time.
The bright red color of the barrel covers is eye-catching and easy to spot. They come with white words printed on them, making them a practical accessory for you to use.
These gun barrel covers provide good protection for you and others from accidental shooting when in a safe area. They’re suitable for most fields and are both convenient and practical.
The paintball barrel cover measures 5.51 x 3.15 inches (14 x 8 cm), making it the perfect size for you to use. It’s easy to install and fix, and even easier to disassemble.
Smart Parts Freak XL Barrel Kit
You want your paintball to hit the target accurately. That’s why you need to match the paintball barrel to the paintballs being used. The Freak XL offers an interchangeable bore system that’s easy to use and store. You can quickly swap the control bore to fit or bore match the barrel.
The new Freak XL threaded for autococker threads features Quick Turn Autococker Threading. With just four turns, you can remove the new Freak XL back from the marker quickly. This means you can attach the barrel on and off any marker faster, while staying compatible with the most common barrel thread in paintball.
The complete Freak XL barrel system comes with eight color coded Freak XL inserts (.679, .682, .684, .687, .689, .691, .693, and .695), an All-American XL or Freak XL front, and a durable Freak XL zip-side case. You have plenty of options to choose from right from the start.
The Freak System allows you to get more shots from every fill-up, no matter what marker you shoot. By matching your paintballs to the bore, you’ll waste less air propelling them down your barrel. This means you can turn your regulator pressure down or your velocity screw out, making your marker softer on paint and easier on air.
Closed vs Open Bolt
When it comes to paintball gun barrels, the debate of closed vs open bolt is as old as the game itself. Some swear by closed bolt, while others refuse to use anything but an open bolt.
Closed Bolt
Closed bolt barrels are known for their accuracy and consistency, which makes them a favorite among seasoned players. They’re also great for beginners since they’re easy to use and require less maintenance. The downside is that they can be a bit harder to clean and may require more effort to shoot rapidly.
Open Bolt
Open bolt barrels are preferred by players who value speed and efficiency. They’re great for players who like to move around a lot and shoot on the go. They also tend to be lighter than closed bolt barrels, which is a plus for those who like to keep their gear minimal. However, open bolt barrels can be less accurate and less consistent than their closed bolt counterparts.
Threading and Barrel Materials
A threaded barrel has helical grooves that allow it to be screwed into the paintball marker. The threading determines whether a barrel is compatible with a particular paintball gun or not. It is essential to know the threading size and the type of material used to ensure that you get the perfect fit for your gun.
Aluminum barrels are among the most common because they are lightweight and affordable. Stainless steel is heavier, but it is more durable and offers better accuracy. If you’re looking for top-of-the-line performance, carbon fiber barrels are known for their excellent accuracy, lightweight, and reduced noise.
Brass barrels are rare in the paintball world, but they are an excellent choice for those who prefer a heavier barrel. They have good accuracy, but they can be more challenging to clean than other materials.
Barrel Types
When it comes to paintball, the paintball gun barrel is a crucial component of the game. It can mean the difference between a hit and a miss and can even affect the accuracy of your shot. There are a variety of different types of paintball gun barrels available on the market, each with its own unique perks and drawbacks.
Stock Barrel
The barrel that comes with your paintball gun. This barrel is usually made of aluminum and is of standard length. While it is reliable and inexpensive, it lacks the precision and accuracy that a higher-end barrel can offer.
One-Piece vs Two-Piece Stock
One option for upgrading your stock is a one-piece barrel. These barrels are made from a single piece of metal or composite material and provide a more consistent shot.
Two-piece barrels are also a great option, as they allow you to easily swap out the front portion of the barrel for different lengths and types. This provides more flexibility in terms of play style and terrain
Carbon Fiber
These barrels are lightweight and can provide better accuracy due to their stiffness. However, they can be more expensive than aluminum barrels and are prone to cracking or chipping.
Stainless Steel
These barrels are heavy-duty and durable, providing reliable accuracy. However, they can be expensive and may need more maintenance than other types of barrels.
Tips and Advice: Solving Common Problems
Barrel Breaks
This occurs when the paintball explodes inside the barrel after it has been fired. It can be frustrating and messy, but there are a few things you can do to prevent it. Firstly, make sure you clean your barrel regularly. Use a squeegee to clear out any paint residue after each game. Also, make sure your barrel cover is intact and covers the entire length of the paintball gun barrel. This will help prevent dirt and debris from entering the barrel.
Barrel Drag
This is when the barrel of the gun is too tight for the paintball and slows it down, causing it to spin and fly off course. You can fix this by using a wider bore size or upgrading to a better paintball barrel. Consider investing in a paintball barrel kit that allows you to switch between different bore sizes and types of barrels. This will give you more versatility and flexibility on the field.
Remember to keep your barrel clean, use a good barrel cover, and consider investing in a barrel kit to improve your game. The best paintball barrel is the one that works for you, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works for your playing style.
Final Thoughts on The Ultimate Guide to Paintball Barrels
Now you know that when it comes to upgrading your paintball gun, the barrel is the one component you don’t want to overlook. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming trying to find the best paintball barrel for your needs. But armed with the knowledge of barrel covers, plugs, kits, and more, you can now confidently choose the perfect upgrade to take your game to the next level.
Whether you’re looking for improved accuracy, sound reduction, or just a sleeker look, the right paintball gun barrel is out there waiting for you. Don’t settle for subpar performance when you can have the ultimate playing experience with the right gear. So go out there, try a few different options, and get ready to dominate the competition with your new and improved paintball gun barrel.
Paintball Barrels FAQ
Do I need to invest in a high-end paintball gun barrel?
It depends on what you’re looking for. A high-end paintball gun barrel can certainly enhance your accuracy, but it’s not always necessary. Make sure you do your research and choose a barrel that suits your needs and budget.
Are paintball barrel covers necessary?
Yes! Not only do they protect your barrel from scratches and damage, but they also prevent accidental firing. Always make sure to use a barrel cover when not in use.
Can I use different brands of barrel plugs and covers?
It’s always best to stick with the same brand for plugs and covers. This ensures the best fit and performance. However, if necessary, make sure the size and shape are compatible with your barrel.
Should I invest in a barrel kit?
Again, it depends on your specific needs. A barrel kit can give you the option to adjust your barrel length and bore size for different types of paintballs. If you’re looking to take your game to the next level, a barrel kit may be worth the investment.
