Best 5 Paintball Air Tanks to Dominate the Field
Choosing the right paintball air tank is crucial for any player looking to dominate the field. The tank you select not only powers your marker but also influences your mobility, play style, and overall performance. With the variety of options available, choosing the best air tank can be as challenging as picking the perfect paintball gun. In an effort to help you make the best decision for your paintball air tank, we put together a list of the top 5 paintball air tanks to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to the sport, continue reading to discover the tanks that will help you outperform the competition.
Why Air Tank Quality Matters
The quality of a paintball air tank impacts not just the performance of your marker, but also the consistency and reliability of your shots during a game. Paintball air tanks serve as the fuel for your marker, providing the necessary propulsion for paintballs. These tanks come in two primary types: CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) and HPA (High-Pressure Air), each with distinct characteristics and impacts on gameplay.
CO2 tanks, once the standard in paintball, are known for their affordability and wide availability. However, CO2's performance causes temperature fluctuations, leading to inconsistent shot velocities and potentially freezing the bolt in your paintball marker. On the other hand, HPA tanks, which utilize compressed air, offer a superior alternative. HPA provides a more consistent output pressure and the temperature is less variable than is the case for CO2. This consistency is crucial for players aiming for precision and reliability in their shots.
Beyond the propulsion source, high quality air tanks can be both economical or have a high price tag. However, the more advanced paintball air tanks will usually be made of a combination of aluminum and carbon fiber. The regulators are also key piece of the paintball air tank and can affect the performance of your marker, especially when it comes to operating pressure.
For answers to all of your paintball tank questions, take a look at our helpful air tank FAQ YouTube video:
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paintball Air Tank
When selecting a paintball tank, several critical factors must be considered to ensure it meets your specific needs and enhances your performance on the field. One of the foremost considerations is the tank's capacity, which determines how many shots you can fire before needing a refill. A larger capacity tank allows for extended playtime, making it ideal for longer matches or scenarios where refilling options are limited. However, the trade-off typically involves increased size and weight, which leads to the next crucial factors: weight and size. A lighter and more compact tank can significantly improve mobility and endurance, especially in fast-paced games or for players who prefer a more agile playstyle. Balancing capacity with weight and size is essential to find the right tank that won't hinder your movement or tire you out prematurely.
The material of the tank also plays a vital role in its durability and overall weight. Tanks are commonly made from aluminum or carbon fiber, with carbon fiber being the lighter and more durable option, albeit at a higher price point. The investment in a carbon fiber tank can be worthwhile for serious players looking for the best balance between weight and resilience.
Additionally, the quality of the tank's regulator is paramount. A high-quality regulator ensures consistent air flow to the marker, providing stable shot velocity and accuracy. This consistency is crucial for competitive play, where precision can make the difference between hitting or missing your target.
Finally, compatibility with your marker cannot be overlooked. Not all tanks work with every paintball gun, and ensuring that your tank's output pressure and connection type match your marker is essential for optimal performance. Some markers require specific pressure levels that only certain tanks can provide, making it crucial to check compatibility before making a purchase.
In sum, choosing the right paintball tank involves a careful consideration of capacity, weight and size, material, regulator quality, and compatibility. Balancing these factors according to your play style, the frequency of play, and the specifics of your marker will lead you to the best tank for your needs, ultimately enhancing your paintball experience.
For a full analysis of the best paintball tanks, take a look at our comprehensive YouTube video review:
HK Army Aluminum 48/3000 Air Tank
The HK Army Aluminum 48/3000 Air Tank offers a solid alternative to carbon fiber options, featuring a standard high-pressure regulator preset at an 800 psi output. These tanks, popular among HK Army paintball accessories, boast a capacity of 48ci / 3000psi and include a fill level gauge for easy monitoring. Ideal for players looking for reliable and durable equipment, these tanks are recommended for those interested in upgrading their gear.
Ninja Lite Air Tank
The Ninja Lite Air Tank stands out for being lighter than typical carbon fiber tanks and is one of the lightest DOT-approved tanks in the USA. Available in sizes of 45, 50, or 68 cubic inches with a capacity of 4500 psi, these tanks are made from DOT-approved carbon fiber and come with a 5-year hydro test certification. They are notable for their versatility, offering up to 1350 shots per fill depending on the marker, and feature adjustable pressure with included shims for outputs of 800psi, 700psi, 550psi, or 450psi. Proudly made in the USA, these tanks are designed for players seeking lightweight, high-performance air systems.
Ninja SL2 Air Tank
The Ninja SL2 Air Tank represents a significant leap forward in the paintball industry, setting a new standard as one of the lightest tanks available thanks to extensive engineering efforts by Ninja. These tanks surpass their predecessors in lightness and are available in a variety of sizes and colors. They are DOT-approved, feature the high-performance Ninja Pro V2 regulator, and allow for the mounting of any Ninja 4,500 psi rated regulators. Key features include options of 68 or 77 cubic inches, a 4500 psi capacity, a 5-year hydro test certification, and the capability to deliver up to 1350 shots per fill, varying by marker. The Pro V2 regulator, notable for its preset 800 psi output, is fully adjustable and boasts enhancements such as a new ball valve seal for 30% increased flow, improved seal integrity, and 360-degree rotation. Pressure can be adjusted with included shims to achieve outputs of 800 psi, 700 psi, 550 psi, or 450 psi. Proudly made in the USA, the Ninja SL2 is designed for players seeking the ultimate in lightweight, high-performance air systems.
HK Army AeroLite "Extra Lite" Air Tank
The highly anticipated HK Army AeroLite "Extra Lite" Air Tank has been introduced to meet the demand for an ultra-lightweight tank. Designed for top-tier performance, this state-of-the-art tank is made in the USA and caters to players seeking the lightest equipment without compromising on quality.
Powerhouse Featherweight Air System
The Powerhouse Featherweight Air System claims the title for the lightest paintball tank currently available on the market. These tanks come with the prestigious Tri-Label UNISO certification, meeting the highest paintball standards and ensuring worldwide acceptance due to their DOT and TC certifications. Offered in three sizes (68ci, 78ci, and 88ci), they cater to different play styles and needs, allowing players to choose based on the game's pace or their preference for air capacity. Pairing these tanks with the latest generation Powerhouse TKO Regulator enhances their performance, making it arguably the best air system in paintball. The Featherweight Air System is the epitome of innovation, combining ultra-lightweight carbon fiber tanks with a high-performance regulator, setting a new benchmark for air systems in the sport.
Conclusion
Finding the best air tank for paintball can be a daunting challenge with all of the different air tanks on the market. We hope that you've found this article helpful and that it provides a little guidance about which air tank is best for you. If you still have more questions, contact us today and one of our friendly associates will help answer your questions. For an even better selection of professional and beginner air tanks, head on over to Lone Wolf Paintball's online store where you'll find a wide range of air tanks at excellent prices!