Paintball Air Tank

A paintball air tank is an essential component of the gas delivery system that powers a paintball marker. Its purpose is to store compressed gas—primarily compressed air, also known as high pressure air (HPA)—at levels far above the pressure a marker can safely use on its own. The tank connects directly to the marker or to a remote line and supplies gas through an attached regulator that reduces stored pressure to a consistent, controlled output. This regulated flow supports stable velocity and predictable cycling, both of which are necessary for safe and reliable operation.

Two primary tank constructions are used in modern paintball: aluminum cylinders and carbon fiber wrapped cylinders. Aluminum tanks are made from a single metal body, are generally rated to 3000 psi, and prioritize affordability and durability. They are common in rental fleets, entry-level setups, and environments where resilience is the main concern. Their heavier weight is the primary tradeoff.

Carbon fiber tanks use a thin aluminum core wrapped in composite fibers and resin. This construction allows them to store higher pressures—typically 4500 psi—while remaining substantially lighter than aluminum tanks. The higher pressure rating means that carbon fiber tanks can provide more shots per fill, making them popular in competitive and high-volume recreational play. Their lightweight structure reduces fatigue and can improve how the marker balances on the shoulder.

Attached to every tank is a regulator, installed at the cylinder's neck. The regulator restricts the outgoing gas to a safe and stable operating pressure suited to modern markers. Output levels are often categorized as high pressure (HP) or low pressure (LP), depending on the marker’s design. Additional safety features such as burst disks are built into the regulator to vent pressure if abnormal internal conditions occur. Consistent regulator performance contributes directly to shot-to-shot stability and helps protect internal marker components from unnecessary stress.

All high pressure cylinders are subject to strict safety standards. Tanks must undergo hydrostatic testing at fixed intervals, during which the cylinder is pressurized in a controlled environment to confirm structural integrity. A tank that is past its test date, shows signs of external damage, or fails hydrostatic evaluation may not be used. Regular visual inspections by players and field staff also ensure that the cylinder body, regulator threads, and protective coatings remain in appropriate condition.

Proper handling of air tanks includes filling them only at approved stations, avoiding drops or impacts, and ensuring that valve components remain unaltered. Tanks should be stored in temperature-appropriate spaces and kept with a small amount of residual pressure to protect internal seals. Careful handling supports both safety and long-term reliability.

Tank characteristics influence marker performance and ergonomics. Shot capacity per fill, overall weight, center of gravity, length of the bottle, and regulator type all contribute to how the marker feels in use. Competitive participants may select configurations that optimize balance and shot consistency, while recreational participants may choose options that prioritize durability, availability, or cost.

This entry outlines general construction, safety requirements, and functional considerations without evaluating proprietary regulator designs, manufacturer-specific engineering, or specialized fill systems.