As is the case with most stock markers, replace the barrel.
Strengths:
Well-balanced, fairly accurate out of the box, mil-sim upgrades.
Weaknesses:
Plastic, spring-operated feed elbow assembly latch. Field stripping.
Review:
Bought a BT-4 Rental from a former paintball field operator getting out of the business. I paid $65 (he included a V-Force mask, Extreme Rage dual pod carrier, and a 20 oz CO2 tank.)
I got to try it and played a few games before I shelled out the cash. I was impressed with how balanced the BT-4 was and it's accuracy and distance for being completely stock.
The marker was well maintained for being a former rental. The inside and internal parts were clean and lubed.
As far as upgrades go, I took my BT-4 Rental apart and custom painted it camo (since I primarily play woods ball.) I bought a Smart Parts 12" Progressive barrel online, which I should be receiving at the beginning of next week. I would have bought a 14" barrel, but with the distance I was shooting with the stock 8.5", I figured 12" would be sufficient.
Take down and cleaning is a cinch.
My only complaints are field stripping the marker...forget about it -- there are too many screws to lose and too many allen wrenches to juggle -- and the means the plastic feed elbow assembly is secured to the BT-4.
It was a poor design decision by BT Paintball Designs to use a plastic, spring operated latch to secure the feed elbow assembly to the picatinny rail.
The other day, while attempting to reload and close the lid on my hopper, I knocked the feed elbow assembly completely off, spilling my paintballs onto the deck.
I had to order a completely new feed elbow for $7.50, which included shipping, because the latch was worn down and it would not stay secure, in place.
Losing my hopper and feed elbow because BT chose to use plastic rather than a screw has forced me to lower my rating.
Conclusion:
All in all this is a great marker. The positives outweigh the negatives. It shoots straight, is well balanced, and fairly durable. It is a good choice for us woods ballers and scenario types. The stock barrel is fine for CQB. I also like the mil-sim upgrades, though they are a bit expensive.
BT Paintball Designs customer service/support is excellent and responsive.
The BT-4 is a nice, quality, cheaper alternative to more expensive markers with the same performance.
Though I bought mine dirt cheap and with the few issues that I've encountered, I still wouldn't hesitate to buy one brand new (less than $130.)
Rating:
8 out of 10
Last edited on Saturday, May 5th, 2007 at 3:00 am PST
you got it for 65 bucks? dude, thats awesome!
this is exactly the marker I want and i just dont have any cash at all to buy it. :(
great review though, thanks for the warning about the elbow :D
