A paintball gun is a big investment, so you’ll want to keep it clean and in working order. Nothing is worse than getting hyped for a big day of woodsball, only to get on the field and find out your gun is leaking or won’t shoot!

Your marker will require some easy maintenance to keep it functioning like new. Check out the following blog for storage and care tips, as well as solutions to the most common problems.

1. Read the Owner’s Manual and Disassemble Only As Needed

Make sure to read the owner’s manual for any maintenance and cleaning instructions specific to your marker. One very important detail to look for in the manual: the type of oil required.

While it’s important to clean and repair as needed, don’t take the gun apart more often than necessary. It’s too easy to reassemble it incorrectly or lose a bolt while doing so.

2. Oil Frequently But Not Excessively

Before gameplay, make sure to oil the front and rear bolt O-ring. Use oil specifically made for paintball guns only, because other types can damage the O-rings. Remember that less is more when it comes to oil. Too much oil will gather over time and cause delays in the operation. The perfect amount of oil is just enough to coat the seals.

Check your markers manual, because many will specify a certain oil or grease that should be used. The right kind of oil is usually inexpensive and has the most power to extend the life and quality of your gun.

3. Clean After Every Use

Clean the marker thoroughly after every use, but make sure to remove your Co2 or HPA tank first. Wipe down the outside of your gun after gameplay to remove all paint. Don’t use soap, chemical cleansers or wash cloths that are too abrasive.

During gameplay, be careful when playing in wet or muddy conditions and try to prevent too much water or mud from making contact with your gun. If it does become exposed to a lot of dirt, mud, or water, take it apart to wipe out the inside. Make sure it is fully dry before reassembling.

Occasionally you’ll also want to remove the barrel and clean the inside with a squeegee and some water. Too much paint buildup can pile up and cause problems. Wipe it down again with a dry towel and make sure it is completely dry before reassembling.

4. Keep It In a Safe Place

After cleaning, oil your marker to prevent rust. Make sure the trigger is in safety mode and the barrel plug is in place, then unload and remove the air supply.

Keep it in a safe, dry place, out of direct sunlight. The tank is especially prone to heat and sun damage because Co2 expands in high temperatures.

5. Most Common Problems Solved By Replacing These Parts

If your gun is having operational issues, the first thing you should do is check on the Co2 bottle, batteries (if it uses them), and the O-rings. The most common problems can be fixed simply by replacing these parts.

Make sure the Co2 bottle is not empty and check for valve problems, or test out the marker with another bottle. If the gun is leaking near the bottle, the Co2 bottle O-ring probably needs to be replaced. You should also routinely check the O-rings for any cuts, tears, or openings that air could get through just as a preventive measure.