This article was taken from the May 2013 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by <span class="s1">subscribing online.
This is war! Weaponry that will push your paintball prowess to victory
Precision firing: Carmatech Engineering SAR12 Sniper Rifle
Manufacturers and hardcore paintballers believe that bolt-action guns are more accurate then semi-automatic ones -- the ball isn't jostled just before it is fired. The 107cm-long SAR12 is the first paintball sniper rifle that's convertible from bolt action to semi-auto in 30 seconds without tools, and its reversible magazine doubles capacity. The SAR12 is available in sniper, close quarters and basic load-outs.
Cost: From $830 (£535)
**Real-life imitator:
Rap4 468**
Built to replicate as closely as possible the ergonomics of M4 and M16 assault rifles, the 468 is as lifelike as weaponry gets in the paintball arena. Modular two-part receiver, stock and barrel options let you customise its look and feel to a wide extent. Rounds and gas are contained in the magazine and stock respectively, and the construction -- should you require it -- is solid enough to take a shotgun blast.
Cost: £TBC (around $400)
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Hi-tech shield: Planet Eclipse Overload range
Being shot by a paintball, particularly one fired from a powerful gun such as the RAP4 468 (left), is a painful experience. Planet Eclipse's range of armoured base layers includes an articulated and vented moulded jersey that keeps you cool and well protected, and elbow pads with extended sleeves to cover the lower biceps and forearms. Jersey £27; elbow pads £33; gloves
Cost: £27
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Full-face protection: GI Sleek Field Vision System
A patented easy-change lens-binding system lets you quickly swap out lenses when on the battlefield -- useful for varying light conditions or when your mask has taken a direct hit.
The lenses are also impact-protected and have a hydrophobic coating to shed liquids. The lightweight, unrestricted design also looks menacing. We recommend the optional full-head protection setup.
Cost: £32
Film the adventure: R7 Replay XD1080 Video Camera
Suitable for gun- or helmet-mounting, this full HD action camera is small, light (85g), water-resistant and constructed from hard anodised aluminium. Video recording is 1080p at 30fps, 720p at 60fps and photos 5MP. Field of view ranges from 110 degress to 135 degrees and recording battery life lasts up to two hours. Vibration feedback tells you that you're recording (you don't want to be looking down in a firefight).
Cost: £315
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
