Compare the First Strike FSC and Tippmann 98 Custom Platinum Series ACT side by side: price, specs, firing modes, weight, and maintenance — and see which paintball gun is the better buy for your style of play.
| First Strike FSC | Tippmann 98 Custom Platinum Series ACT | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Tier | Budget | Budget |
| Typical Price | $140-200 | $110-160 |
| Operation | Pump pistol (magazine) | Mechanical inline blowback (ACT) |
| Firing Modes | pump | semi-auto |
| Caliber | .68 | .68 |
| Feed | Magazine | Gravity hopper |
| Air | HPA/CO2 (12g capable) | HPA/CO2 |
| Operating Pressure | ~250-300 psi | ~250 psi |
| Weight | 1.3 lb | 3 lb |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
The First Strike FSC and Tippmann 98 Custom Platinum Series ACT 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 Tippmann 98 Custom Platinum Series ACT runs roughly $50 less, so budget-first buyers will lean its way. For a higher rate of fire and tournament-style play, the Tippmann 98 Custom Platinum Series ACT 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 First Strike FSC is built with magfed sidearm and scenario players in mind. Bottom line: pick the Tippmann 98 Custom Platinum Series ACT for a tight budget, or the First Strike FSC for all-day comfort.