Loader
Overview
A loader is the device mounted on the marker that stores and feeds paintballs into the feedneck, ranging from gravity fed hoppers to high performance electronic force feed systems.
Key Points
- Feeds paintballs into the marker’s feedneck and breech.
- Available in gravity fed, agitating, and force feed designs.
- Force feed loaders provide consistent feeding at high ROF.
- Battery life, sensor systems, and drive mechanisms affect reliability.
- Loader shell shape influences profile and balance.
- Maintenance prevents feeding issues and drive train failures.
Details
A loader is the hopper system mounted onto the marker that stores paintballs and delivers them into the feedneck. Loaders vary widely in design, speed, reliability, and intended use.
Gravity fed loaders rely solely on paintballs falling through the feedneck. They are inexpensive but limited to low rates of fire and prone to jams.
Agitating loaders use spinning paddles or vibration to encourage consistent feeding, increasing reliability compared to gravity systems.
Force feed loaders are the competitive standard. They use a motorized drive cone, tension system, or spring stack to push paint into the marker. These deliver consistent feed rates even during sustained bursts or snapshooting transitions.
High end loaders may include shot sensors, infrared eyes, Bluetooth connectivity, programmable feed torque, and balanced shell geometries designed to reduce profile.
Loader maintenance includes cleaning internal parts, lubricating drive systems (when applicable), replacing batteries, and checking the feed tube for cracks or stress marks.
A reliable loader is essential for preventing chops, misfeeds, and dry fires in fast paced play.
Video References
Related Topics
Linked From
- Marker Cycling
- Paintball Fill Characteristics
- Paintball Hopper
- Quick Feed
- Vision System
- Wet Paint Behavior
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