For those of you who remember when the first electropneumatic paintball guns came out, each one cost in excess of $1000. Ten years later, if you've ever thought of trying one but the price kept you away, now is the time to think about it again. Advances in manufacturing and a market that expects quality for less has led many manufacturers to lower the price on their electronic guns. In fact, three manufacturers (WGP, Smart Parts and Proto) have electronic guns that cost less than $200.

Electronic paintball guns operate on lower pressure, are typically quieter, lighter and usually shoot faster than mechanical guns with a shorter trigger pull. They do require a battery, often require compressed air (CO2 can mess up the gun, so avoid it if your gun's manual says to) and don't hold up to water nearly as well as mechanicals. They can make good primary guns or make a fun change of pace for certain games. If you've never tried one, now is certainly a cheap time.
_{(Photo Courtesy of PriceGrabber)}