Buying equipment, especially for the first time player, can be a fustrating and expensive ordeal.  I know this is nothing new to many players in the industry, but it is something which I quite frequently get asked with the first time players.  "How much should I spend on equipment?"  "What is the best stuff to buy on the market?"  "Is it better to muy a cheap gun and fix it up, or buy a gun with everything on it?"  To start off, the most important thing to keep in mind when buying equipment is how much can you afford to spend.  Alot of players don't realize how expensive paintball stuff can be, and how much it actually costs until they recieve their credit card bill which they can't pay off.
 

        I have seen too many people buy "the best" or what they believe to be the best in equipment when they can't afford to buy it.  Many players believe the more expensive the gun/equipment, the better it must be so they go and spend way beyond their means.  The best way to see what is right for you is to first off, calculate how much you can afford to spend on equipment.  Next, look at the paintball guns in your spending range, and check them out.  When you are at the field, don't hesitate to ask other players if you can look at their guns.  Most players that I know are honored to let other people see their stuff.  Even ask them if you can shoot it.  Looking at other players equipment is the best way to see multiple variations of different guns setup different ways.
 

        Look into any aftermarket accessories that you may have/ want to purchase.  For example, if you are going to buy an Autococker, many players would suggest that you would need a roc, ball detent, etc (all features which come with the new 98 cockers by the way).  Too many people want to get items for their gun "just because the other players have it".  Ask your local airsmith what you actually need (if anything) to make the gun functional.  As far as other paintball equipment such as your mask, loader, guppies (pods) harness, etc., don't forget to add that stuff in as well.

Sean Takeda
MPN Columinst