OneShotKill is a brave man to suggest a Spyder, but he makes a very good point in that you shouldn't feel obligated to buy a Tippmann unless you feel it will suit your needs on the field.

My first marker was an ACI F4 Illustrator TP. I bought it without doing much research because a friend of mine suggested it. It looked nice but it chopped and broke down on me every time, and although the marker was a nightmare, it taught me what options were important to me in my style of play.

That's when I found the A5. It's field-strippable, durable, customizable, and the wealth of information available from the A5OG makes it a logical choice from beginners to professionals alike.

I currently own two A5s, a Delta .68, and a Tac-1 (Automag), and I used to own a host of other markers. The A5s are the only markers that never gave me a problem on the field (save one worn ratchet (easily fixed)), and were always reliable. If I play with the Mag I make sure the A5 is in the trunk ready to go... just in case.

I may buy and sell other markers in the future but as you guys as my witnesses, for as long as I play paintball I will ALWAYS own an A5.

Best of luck with your decision and feel free to come to us with any questions.
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I know I'm jumping the gun a little, but assuming you DO decide to take the A5 route, remember the following:

"Washer first, then o-ring. The tombstone holds them in place. If you don't know what I'm talking about now, you will soon."

-Mavro

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