Editing Paintball equipment (section)

== Paintball markers ==

A '''[[paintball marker]]''', also called a paintball gun, is a device designed to propel paint-filled projectiles using compressed gas or another energy source.

Markers vary considerably in construction, operating mechanism and intended use.

The principal categories include:

* '''Pump-action markers:''' Require the player to manually cycle the marker between shots.
* '''Mechanical semiautomatic markers:''' Automatically reload and recock using mechanical and pneumatic systems, allowing one shot per trigger pull.
* '''Electronic markers:''' Incorporate electronic firing controls, typically operating a pneumatic or mechanical firing mechanism.
* '''Magazine-fed markers:''' Use detachable or integral magazines rather than conventional gravity-fed or powered loaders.

Modern electronic markers are commonly used in tournament speedball, while mechanical, pump-action and magazine-fed markers remain popular in recreational and specialist competitive formats.

Early paintball markers included the [[Nel-Spot 007]], [[SplatMaster]] and [[Sheridan]] PGP. Later designs included the [[Automag]], [[Autococker]], [[Smart Parts Shocker]] and electronic markers developed by manufacturers such as [[Planet Eclipse]], [[DYE Paintball]] and [[WDP]].[3]

Detailed information about marker design and development is covered in [[Paintball marker]].