Tippman 98 Custom (M98) Review:

     There is no arguing--the Tippmann 98 Custom, popularly known as the "M98", is a stylish, uniquely designed paintball gun that looks simply beautiful. Tippmann is known for quality weapons, but how does the super-model M98 hold up? Is she really a beauty or just a beast?

Accuracy

     As with any paintball gun, accuracy is vital. Better aiming means fewer wasted shots and longer fight time between reloads.

Here, the M98 proves its merit by way of Tippmann's unique design. The M98 features a sight-rail on top of the barrel, so instead of looking down the side of the gun because of a feed-hopper, target acquisition is more effective. The design also results in a more realistic shooting stance.

     The M98's Front and rear sights also give the gun more of a sniper feel, as opposed to just spraying markers like you're shooting a machine gun. And let's face it, with many guns the machine gun approach is the only option available.

     Better sighting makes you a better marksman, and the M98 provides on all counts here.

Paintball Feed

     Part of the unorthodox design comes in the M98's side feed, a feature allowing the sight features mentioned earlier. The advantages don't stop there, however.

     The M98's removable elbow allows chopped balls to be quickly cleaned from the gun. Anyone who has faced the task of field-stripping a clogged weapon can recognize the value here. Simply flush out the M98's barrel with water to remove paint and shells and you're ready to roll again.

     Tippmann improved on this unique design further by way of a built-in clamp on the elbow. Securing the hopper to the gun is now a snap, staying of your way until you're ready to reload.

Performance & Upgrades

     The M98's unusual and pretty design generates an efficient and functional paintball gun.

The improved accuracy features equate to less trigger pulls, promising improved performance and longer life for the weapon. The sleek, unusual design is also hardy and isn't prone to wear-and-tear performance issues common to comparable weapons.

     While any gun is likely to perform well out of the box, and the M98 is no exception, Tippmann has specifically designed this paintball gun to handle whatever upgrades you want.

From expansion chambers to full-auto kits, double-trigger feeds, virtually any expansion imaginable can be added onto the 98 Custom.

Overview

     No matter how glowing of a review the 98 Custom might get from us, every paintballer knows it's not the weapon; it's the person behind the trigger that ultimately counts.

     If you've never fired a paintball gun before, you need look no further for a top form entry to the sport than the M98. Its ease of use and quality performance covers all the bases for a new player.

     Even if your eye is bent from a more professional point of view, or you simply have become accustomed to traditionally designed paintball guns like the Spyder or Piranha, the top notch accuracy features and reduced on-field fuss should make you re-consider when the time comes for your next weapon upgrade.

     Overall, Tippmann has offered an excellent weapon that is dollar for dollar the best you can buy regardless of your experience level.

Pro

· Accuracy

· Minimal On-Field Fuss

· Sleek, Effective Design

· Very Upgrade Friendly

Con

· Unconventional Design