Compare the Empire BT-4 Combat and First Strike FSC side by side: price, specs, firing modes, weight, and maintenance — and see which paintball gun is the better buy for your style of play.
| Empire BT-4 Combat | First Strike FSC | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Tier | Budget | Budget |
| Typical Price | $70-130 (used) | $140-200 |
| Operation | Mechanical inline blowback | Pump pistol (magazine) |
| Firing Modes | semi-auto | pump |
| Caliber | .68 | .68 |
| Feed | Gravity hopper | Magazine |
| Air | HPA/CO2 | HPA/CO2 (12g capable) |
| Operating Pressure | ~250 psi | ~250-300 psi |
| Weight | 3.3 lb | 1.3 lb |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
The Empire BT-4 Combat and First Strike FSC are both budget paintball guns, so the choice comes down to how each one fits your game rather than how much you spend. On price, the Empire BT-4 Combat runs roughly $50 less, so budget-first buyers will lean its way. For a higher rate of fire and tournament-style play, the Empire BT-4 Combat pulls ahead with its electronic firing modes, while the First Strike FSC keeps things simpler and more rugged. At 1.3 lb the First Strike FSC is the easier carry over a long day on the field. The Empire BT-4 Combat is built with used-market scenario and woodsball in mind. The First Strike FSC is built with magfed sidearm and scenario players in mind. Bottom line: pick the Empire BT-4 Combat for a tight budget, or the First Strike FSC for all-day comfort.