I'll second that idea of buying second hand. Another factor you may want to consider when purchasing a marker is the level of experience and understanding you have about the operation and maintenence of said marker. For example, if you're not real good with maintenence, I'd have to not recommend a Matrix or Cocker, you may want to consider more the Impulse, Angel or Spyder (timmy). Of course, ultimately you'll be the one shooting it and upkeeping it, so the best thing you could do would be to go to the local pro shop, test as many markers off the shelf as you can, and ask players if you can shoot their markers, and see what you like best.