The Incompatibility of Compressed Air and CO2 in Paintball Guns: A Detailed Analysis

When it comes to paintball, understanding the differences between the power sources of your equipment is crucial for both performance and safety. A common question among paintball enthusiasts is whether an old PMI Piranha or similar CO2 paintball gun can be adapted to use compressed air instead. This article will explore the reasons why using compressed air in a CO2 paintball gun is not advisable and provide insights into the requirements of each power source.

Understanding CO2 Power in Paintball Guns

CO2, or Carbon Dioxide, paintball guns use high-pressure gas as a propellant to launch paintballs. The liquid CO2 stored in pressurized canisters rapidly vaporizes, maintaining a nearly constant pressure until all the liquid has been converted to gas. This process is what creates the reliable and consistent performance in paintball guns. CO2 is favored by many players for its ability to deliver a steady air supply and minimize pressure drop-off during play.

Compared to CO2, compressed air is less dense and does not maintain consistent pressure as well. When used in a CO2 paintball gun, compressed air can only provide a few shots before the pressure drops significantly. This is because the output pressure of a typical air compressor (8 atmospheres) is much lower than the vapor pressure of liquid CO2 (50 atmospheres). Using compressed air in a CO2 paintball gun not only leads to limited performance but can also cause damage to the gun and pose a safety risk.

Why Compressed Air Doesn't Mix with CO2 Paintball Guns

CO2 paintball guns and compressed air paintball guns are designed with different specifications and capabilities. CO2 paintball guns use dedicated canisters designed to provide the necessary pressure and consistency, while compressed air paintball guns use high-pressure air tanks to achieve the same end.

Using compressed air in a CO2 paintball gun can lead to several issues:

Reduced Performance: After a few shots, the pressure will drop significantly, resulting in a decrease in paintball velocity and performance. Damage to the Gun: The inconsistent pressure and density of compressed air can cause mechanical stress on the paintball gun, leading to potential damage over time. Safety Risks: The sudden drop in pressure and potential wear and tear can create safety hazards, such as the release of compressed air when the gun is not properly sealed.

Compatibility Concerns with Lower-End Markers

For lower-end paintball markers, the issue is even more pronounced. These markers often lack the necessary components to handle the high pressure provided by compressed air tanks. For instance, a Spyder TL that was previously powered by CO2 may not achieve the desired velocity when switched to compressed air. The lower pressure from the air tank cannot generate the required pressure to propel the paintball accurately.

Electronic markers present an additional challenge. CO2 can freeze the electronic components, leading to damage that can permanently affect the performance of the marker. Replacing these components can be costly and, in many cases, not even feasible.

Conclusion: Stick to the Right Power Source

Although compressed air is generally considered better in every way compared to CO2, it is vital to use the correct power source for your paintball gun. It is not advisable to use CO2 in a marker that requires compressed air, and vice versa. Always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for your paintball gun to ensure optimal performance and prevent any safety risks.

For mechanical markers, compressed air is generally recommended for its reliability and consistent pressure. However, even for mechanical markers, it is advisable to use shaken/agitated CO2 tanks to avoid dangerous velocity spikes. This will help maintain the longevity and performance of your paintball gun.