Once of Smart Parts' sales representatives posted on PBN the durability of their electropneumatic paintball markers, specifically their SP-1 and Vibe. Both of these paintball guns retail for about $150 each. These two markers are considered entry/beginner level guns, competing with most Kingman Spyders and the notorious Tippmann 98 Custom. Smart Parts is really trying to win the beginner-level market. Why? Because the average paintballer only plays for about two years... no joke. Because of this, the volume of beginner players is much higher than experienced.

A few months ago I threw together a table comparing the new Smart Parts gun line. I suggest you take a look at it if you're curious to see how the Vibe and SP-1 will match up against the others.

By reducing and refining the electropneumatic systems that we have perfected in professional level paintball markers, our design team has radically raised the bar for performance, reliability and efficiency that is affordable to the first time player. While both new markers share the same internal structure and operating characteristics, each has its own unique flavor: the Vibe for the player moving fast on the speedball field, and the SP-1 for the scenario player in the woods. -Scott

Tippmann recently sent out their 2008 product catalog to all of their dealers. I got mine today and must say that I'm impressed with their innovation. On top of their X7 and A-5, Tippmann is introducing 3 "new" markers into their 2008 product line: the 98 Custom Pro Platinum Series, 98 Custom Platinum Series, and Field Rental Marker. In reality they're just modified 98 Customs. However, they each serve a purpose.

Tippmann 98 Custom (Platinum Series)
"For the beginner or seasoned pro, the new 98 Custom Platinum Series Marker line maintains the reliability and durability you have come to expect from Tippmann. And with the new split receiver design it is even easier to customize, maintain, and upgrade."

Tippmann 98 Custom Pro (Platinum Series)
The 98 Custom Pro comes with an 11-inch high-performance barrel for better accuracy, double trigger, and a drop forward. Comes with A.C.T (Anti-Chop Technology). A small bump up from the regular 98 Custom.

Tippmann Field Rental Marker
Since the 98 Custom is already a standard field rental gun, Tippmann decided to create a Field Rental version of the 98 Custom specifically made to withstand consumer use. They added the ACT technology and put an extra durable acrylic finish to it. Basically it's a 98 that you can beat the crap out of with little ball chops.

Xtremez is now offering the Smart Parts Ion for only $164.95, the lowest price on the web so far. If you've been on the moon the last few years, the Smart Parts Ion has been praised as one of the best low-end paintball guns on the market today. Its functionality and performance can be compared to the Tippmann 98 Custom.

Deals like these should be sprouting up all over the web these next few days for the holidays. Xtremez (and most other online paintball stores) is also offering guaranteed delivery by Christmas as long as your order is placed before the 14th to the 20th (depending on where you live). Keep in mind this 45% off the MSRP and wouldn't be a bad gift to get for your family or friends (or yourself )

TechT Paintball came out with a mod for both Tippmann A5's and X7's, allowing your trigger pull to be much more sensitive; and in turn shoot faster. Most people prefer lighter trigger pulls in order to shoot faster. The "Hair Pin" trigger mod includes a few pins that the trigger mechanism in both guns use. According to Tech Paintball's installation instructions, you simply switch around the pins in your A5 or X7 to your own personal preference. Basically you are replacing the pins in the trigger mechanism to reduce the amount of contact there is between the sear and hammer, and reduce the amount of movement that the trigger has. Together these attributes allow for higher rates of fire and a more response trigger.

A nifty little mod for any A5 or X7 owner. You can find the trigger mod for the 98 Custom here.

Remember when we posted about Kingman's Spyder rebate deal? Tippmann is using a similar marketing campaign, offering $20 back via mail-in rebate if you buy a 98 Custom or 98 Custom Pro paintball gun. Kingman is offering only $10 back, but for all their markers except the VS3 and MR3 (their most expensive guns).

The obvious downside to Tippmann's offer is that it's exclusive only to Tippmann 98 Customs. Regardless, it's still a pretty good deal; especially if you're looking for a new paintball marker this Christmas.