The Bottom Line
The Tippmann Model 98 is legend in the paintball industry. While there have been updated versions of the gun (such as the Model 98 Custom), the basic Model 98 is still a very reliable paintball gun that is a great choice for the beginning or intermediate paintball player.
Pros
- Reliable and long lasting
- Requires very little maintenance
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Heavier than other guns
- Longer than most guns
- Not as upgradeable as the Model 98 Custom
- Doesn't shoot particularly fast
Description
- Blowback mechanical paintball gun
- Can run on CO2 or compressed air
- Designed at beginner or intermediate player
- Commonly found used at varying prices
- Manufacturer's Website
Guide Review - Tippmann Model 98
Design
Tippmann was originally a manufacturer of firearms and the design of the Model 98 (Compare Prices) reflects this influence. The all-metal design is very sturdy and its rear pistol grip and front fore grip ensure a comfortable feel during extended use. The hinged elbow is easily removed allowing easy access to the chamber to clean out any breaks and the feed neck snugly locks onto your hopper with an Allen screw. The Model 98 comes with a standard ASA and adjustable blade sights. It can run on CO2 or compressed air.Performance and Reliability
The Model 98 is known for its reliability and is frequently used as a rental gun because it can really take a beating and it needs little maintenance. Its sturdy design also lets it work despite being dropped, slammed into trees and left out in the rain (not recommended). Its trigger pull is not particularly hard but it is not a feather trigger. The stock gun is not inaccurate and I have seen upgraded 98's shoot as well as any blowback gun. One disadvantage of the in-line bolt design is that I notice more recoil than with some over-under bolts which affects the accuracy of your second and third shot. One advantage of the recoil, though, is that it agitates your hopper enough that you don't need a motorized hopper. The stock Model 98 can shoot around 6-8 shots per second.Upgrades
The one area where the Model 98 lacks is ease of upgrading. E-triggers, response triggers and many cosmetic upgrades can be installed by the user on the 98 Custom but need to be installed by the factory for the Model 98. With the difficulty of predicting which upgrades will work without sending your gun into the factory, the Model 98 is best suited for basic upgrades such as improved sights (Compare Prices), an expansion chamber (Compare Prices) and upgraded barrels (Compare Prices).
