Best CO2 for Paintball Guns: Simple Guide to Stay Fueled on the Field
In short, you want CO2 cylinders that are reliable, compatible with your marker, and easy to swap during games. This guide highlights top CO2 options for paintball, airguns, and related markers, so beginners and seasoned players can choose with confidence. The selections favor durability, consistent pressure, and broad compatibility. Whether you play recreationally or in tournaments, these choices help minimize downtime and maximize firepower where it counts.
Below is a quick buying table for the featured products to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| JT Paintball 90G Prefilled Cylinders (6 Pack) | Casual to intermediate players needing multiple spares | Requires adapter for markers |
| JT Paintball JT 88/90gram CO2 Tank (3 Count) | Short bursts and backup tanks | Prefilled, threaded option |
| Maddog 20 Oz Refillable CO2 Tank | All-day spraying with a larger capacity | Refillable, ships empty |
| Tippmann 20-Ounce Co2 Tank | Popular marker setups with broad compatibility | Pin valve; standard AS compliance |
| Guard Dog Security 12 Gram Cartridges (25) | Reserved for quick bursts and backup cartridges | Non-threaded, universal compatibility |
JT Paintball 90G Prefilled CO2 Cylinders — 6 Pack
Best for players who want a ready-to-use supply with multiple backups. These 90G cylinders come prefilled for immediate use, reducing downtime between games. The pack’s six cylinders are convenient for players who participate in back-to-back sessions or longer play days. They are designed for universal compatibility with a wide range of markers, though an adapter may be required for some models.
Who it’s best for: casual to intermediate players who value convenience and quick swaps between games. Why selected: the pack ensures you won’t run out quickly and minimizes downtime between matches. Caution: some markers require an adapter (model # 40293 or 40298) for proper fit.
TIPPMANN 20-Ounce Co2 Tank
Best for players using Tippmann setups or markers that prefer standard 20-ounce capacity. This tank is built with Tipmann quality and meets or exceeds AS standards, making it a solid choice for reliability and safety. It’s a common upgrade for markers that require a larger CO2 reservoir for extended sessions.
Who it’s best for: marker owners seeking a widely compatible, high-capacity CO2 tank. Why selected: strong compatibility with Tippmann and similar markers. Caution: ensure the valve type matches your marker’s requirements to avoid fit issues.
JT Paintball JT 88/90gram CO2 Tank — Prefilled
Ideal for players who want compact power with prefilled convenience. The 88/90 gram format works as a compact backup or primary power source for smaller markers. It can be used as a threaded cartridge in many setups, offering flexibility for different marker designs.
Who it’s best for: players needing a compact, reliable CO2 source for smaller markers. Why selected: prefilled and versatile for various markers. Caution: verify threading and compatibility with your specific gun before use.
Maddog 20 Oz Refillable CO2 Paintball Tank
Best for players who want high-capacity, refillable CO2 tanks that can cover long play days. The Maddog 20 Oz Tank is compatible with all standard CO2-powered markers and ships empty for safe transport. It comes with a 5-year re-test cycle and DOT/TC certification, offering a long-term option for serious players.
Who it’s best for: tournament-ready or heavy-use players needing fewer fill interruptions. Why selected: large capacity and refillability. Caution: ensure proper hydrotesting intervals and follow safety regulations before recharging.
Umarex High-Grade CO2 Cartridges (12 Gram, Pack of 30)
Best for shooters who prefer clean CO2 with minimal residue. Umarex cartridges are tested and proven clean to protect valve life and ensure consistent performance. The 12-gram size is a common standard for many airsoft, pellet, and paintball devices, with the number of rounds depending on the gun model.
Who it’s best for: players prioritizing valve health and consistent performance. Why selected: reliable clean CO2 with broad compatibility. Caution: round count varies by marker; check your gun’s specification for expected shots per cartridge.
Umarex High-Grade CO2 Cartridges (Various)
Best for general-purpose CO2 needs across pellet guns, BB guns, airsoft, and paintball markers. Umarex emphasizes clean CO2 for long-term gun health, with performance tied to proper gun calibration and usage. The exact rounds per capsule depend on the device.
Who it’s best for: mixed-use players who own multiple CO2-powered devices. Why selected: consistent clean gas and broad compatibility. Caution: verify your device’s CO2 requirements to avoid over-pressurization or under-firing.
Hawki CO2 12 Gram Cartridges (5 Pack)
Best for quick power on the go. The Hawki 12-gram cartridges provide a compact, universal option suitable for many airguns, airsoft pistols, and paintball markers. They offer consistent pressure for standard play sessions.
Who it’s best for: players needing portable, quick-change CO2 cartridges. Why selected: convenient multi-pack and broad compatibility. Caution: as with all 12g cartridges, verify the exact rounds-per-cartridge for your gun type.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For CO2 In Paintball
- Marker compatibility: Check thread type, cartridge size (12g, 88g, 90g, 20 oz), and whether an adapter is required for your marker.
- Capacity vs. weight: Larger tanks provide more shots per fill but add weight and affect balance. Choose based on play length and marker style.
- Quality and purity: Use clean CO2 to protect valve seals and prevent residue buildup. Reputable brands often offer cleaner gas and consistent pressure.
- Safety and regulation: Ensure tanks meet DOT/TC standards and follow hydrotesting intervals for refillable tanks. Ship-empty policies apply to some tanks.
- Portability and storage: Consider how you transport and store CO2 cylinders; smaller packs are easier for field carry, while larger tanks are less convenient to move.
- Budget and maintenance: Prefilled options reduce downtime, while refillable tanks can be more economical over time but require periodic hydrotesting.
FAQs
- What CO2 cartridge size is best for paintball markers? – It depends on your marker. Common sizes are 12 g for pistols and small markers, 88/90 g for compact cartridges, and 20 oz or larger for long sessions.
- Do I need an adapter for 90 g CO2 cylinders? – Some markers require adapters; check your marker’s model numbers (e.g., 40293 or 40298) or consult the manufacturer.
- Are refillable CO2 tanks safer than prefilled? – Both can be safe when used correctly. Refills require proper hydrotesting and handling according to safety standards.
- Can CO2 carriages affect gun performance? – Yes. Gas purity, pressure consistency, and the number of rounds per cartridge influence velocity and reliability.
- What should I consider when buying CO2 for a paintball tournament? – Favor reliable brands, consistent pressure, and easy accessibility for field swaps to minimize downtime.
- Is CO2 suitable for all paintball markers? – Most markers use CO2 or compressed air, but always verify the gas type recommended by the manufacturer.