I'd have to say that starting out with a semi is the best alternative for a new player in an average rec game.
When you're a new player, there's already a lot to learn and think about without having to worry about chambering a ball and timing the pump-trigger action. A semi allows new players to focus more on the game and less on the marker.
Semis also make new players a bit more competitive when they're up against more experienced players. The new player is still at a disadvantage, obviously, but I think the semi makes it less so. With a semi the new player may even feel less intimidated.
I've actually learned on both. I played in the early 90s with a pump (Piranha LB), then stopped when I went to college. I picked up the sport again recently and am playing with a semi (Piranha Pro TS).
When you're a new player, there's already a lot to learn and think about without having to worry about chambering a ball and timing the pump-trigger action. A semi allows new players to focus more on the game and less on the marker.
Semis also make new players a bit more competitive when they're up against more experienced players. The new player is still at a disadvantage, obviously, but I think the semi makes it less so. With a semi the new player may even feel less intimidated.
I've actually learned on both. I played in the early 90s with a pump (Piranha LB), then stopped when I went to college. I picked up the sport again recently and am playing with a semi (Piranha Pro TS).