

There five main methods of mechanical operation: Mechanically operated paintball markers operate using solely mechanical means, and as such do not use electro-pneumatic solenoids controlled by an electronic board to fire. Most paintball markers can be disassembled into four main components: the body, loader, barrel, and air tank. While greater muzzle velocity is possible, it has been ruled unsafe for use on most commercial paintball fields. The muzzle velocity of paintball markers is approximately 90 m/s (300 ft/s) most paintball fields restrict speed to 280–300 ft/s, and small indoor fields may further restrict it down to 250 ft/s. The term "marker" is derived from its original use as a tool for forestry personnel to mark trees and ranchers to mark wandering cattle.

Paintball markers use compressed gas, such as carbon dioxide (CO 2) or compressed air (HPA), to propel dye-filled gel capsules called paintballs through the barrel and quickly strike a target. A paintball marker and related equipment, including ammunition and a protective maskĪ paintball marker, also known as a paintball gun, paint gun, or simply marker, is an air gun used in the shooting sport of paintball, and the main piece of paintball equipment.
