Starter Package Recommendations

[Barsteward]

I have been playing for on and off 12 years and now with 5 kids I seriously need to get back into playing more regular to ensure my sanity.

Ideally I am looking to pick up a good solid package to get me started and also one that I can build on.I have had a quick look around and seen this package which seems to tick most of the boxes:

http://www.store.justpaintball.co.uk/marker-gun-packages/bt/bt-erc-bundle-save-over-150.html

The other package which is more expensive but also ticks all the boxes:

http://www.store.justpaintball.co.uk/marker-gun-packages/empire/invert-mini-package-save-170.html

Are either / both of these packages suitable for someone getting back into the sport and is the second worth the extra spend over the first?

In terms of game type this will primarily be indoors at Urban Paintball in Edinburgh. Thoughts and comments would be much appreciated.

Edit: wow just realised I first came to these forums over 9 years ago...

 

[StrikeBang]

Shop around there are tones of paintball shop/web sites around the UK. might be worth pricing everything up individually, you could save alittle bit more.

 

[Sayers]

Or if you dont mind buying second hand have a look on the classifieds

 

[Niall W]

This might be a help

All depends on what kind of paintball you want to get into. But the Invert mini is in a whole other league to the BT. Again, the bt might be good if you want the 'realism' and just play in the woods etc

http://p8ntballer-forums.com/threads/tips-for-getting-started-in-paintball.99186/

 

[Sam_M]

I have a mini and i would highly recommend it for the price

 

[Lyam]

I would definitely recommend the mini package. I bought the exact same one from just paintball only a couple of weeks ago, (just swapped the mask and JT hopper for a Halo B v35 hopper as i already had a mask). It's probably a good idea to spend the extra money and get the Mini over the BT, but if You're just going to be playing Woodsball then the BT might be a better option if you want to save money.

 

[a2ruedas]

I am new to the sport and was looking at packages but after reading post on here and speaking to my local site manager I have decided just to buy just the protective gear to start with. Mask, bounce vest, pants, etc... And found a bargin or two on here ;-)

 

[matj]

Definitely build up some posts on here and buy a second hand marker though. Both me and the mrs have second hand mini's and love them. Little gems.

For a mask I have to admit that visiting a store would benefit you a lot. You really should try them on first. For example the mrs wears sly profits; excellent mask that is seriously comfortable but my dumbo ears means it will not fit my head without being uncomfortable for me. Instead I wear I4's which are designed for 'small' faces. I have to be honest...I have a big head...But those beauties fit like a treat.

The same goes for unique brand masks. For example savephace; unique designs etc but they are a lot more solid than other masks which use more flexible plastics. Its all about personal preference

Bear in mind that you could buy a second hand mini for 120-150 (300 new), second hand halo too for 25-30 (70 new), second hand mask for 50ish (90 new) (or brand new cheaper ones for the same price...depends what you want), second hand pod pack with pods for 20ish and a steely (steel/aluminium air supply) for £35 brand new from a store (or £45 for guerilla air etc branded tanks).

It all depends how much money you want to save and whether you would prefer slightly better gear to begin with or brand new shiny gear.

I have to admit I would buy a tourny style marker over a milsim/woodsball setup though. Personal preference but you can use the tourny for both where as the woodsball is pretty much limited to woodsball.

 

[Barsteward]

Thanks for the great replies - much appreciated.

In terms of game play - I see it more in the lines of indoors / tournament. Due to the kids I will mainly be playing on a night to relax and unwind - weekends will be a special occasion.

Primarily money isn't an issue, but I would rather buy something midrange and ensure everything fits into a crazy lifestyle and then invest properly as opposed to buying bottom end and being put off or equally buying top end and not being able to justify it. Would rather buy brand new simply from a perspective of warranty and cover and I am sure I will get my moneys worth before parting.

I was looking to spend around about £400 and know I have everything I will need for the next 6 months at least. If things are going great then I can invest more and upgrade different parts. The arena I am looking to become a member in throw in a Proto Switch mask free as well as gloves as part of your membership. Certainly if I move up to the next level I would look at buying some of the second hand top end markers / air systems.

What I am ultimately looking to do is find the least hassle option, which gives me a solid platform that will see me good for at least 6 months of play indoors.

 

[Kevin Winter]

If you're looking at tournament DON'T buy a BT/Tipman whatever you do...