Tippmann Cronus Review (2024) – Best For Beginners?
If you are looking for an affordable paintball marker that is reliable, easy to use, and has tons of customizability options, the Tippmann Cronus is best suited for you.
Being known for its reliability and ability to perform in most paintball formats, it’s almost impossible to go wrong with this gun.
The Cronus was designed for better accuracy and improved efficiency over its predecessor while also maintaining its legendary durability. Before the Cronus, The Tippmann A5 was the flagship paintball marker for years. However, looking to improve its line of products. Tippmann introduced the Tippmann Cronus in 2013.
Back in 2013, the Cronus was already ahead of its time but what I find fascinating is that despite this marker being almost a decade old, it can still compete with most of the modern entry-level markers.
That’s it for the introduction. But before we head toward the detailed review let’s first take a quick look at some of the specifications Tippmann Cronus has to offer.
- Frame: Aluminum
- Outer Body: Composite / Nylon
- Barrel: 9 inches A5 threaded barrel
- Firing Mode: Semi-automatic
- Trigger Type: Mechanical
- Bore: .68 caliber.
- Propellent: CO2 / HPA
- Effective Range: 150+ feets
- Colors: Olive green, Black, Tan
- Fire Rate: Upto 8 BPS without any upgrades
- Operation: Open Bolt Blowback
- Weight: 3.7 pounds
- Tippmann Proven In-line Bolt System
Tippmann Cronus Review
Now that we have gone through the basic features, Tippmann Cronus has to offer, it is time to dive into the detailed review and explore the different factors which make this gun so loved and admired by paintballers.
1. Customization
Most entry-level markers don’t give you the freedom of customizability, forcing you to buy a whole new marker instead of upgrading your existing marker. Luckily, that is not the case with Tippmann.
Tippmann guns are well known for being highly customizable, and the Tippmann Cronus is no exception. The gun features Picatinny rails on all sides to equip accessories and attachments such as sight, scope, flashlight, laser, and foregrip.
Apart from the tactical conversion kit, you can also find several aftermarket upgrades that can fit with this marker. This includes a barrel, mock silencers, and an angular foregrip.
2. Firing Speed
Tippmann Cronus is often regarded as the best paintball marker for beginners but don’t get it wrong. Despite being an entry-level gun, the Cronus can still deliver you the performance you need to shoot your way to glory.
The semi-automatic marker can provide you with ultimate shot power thanks to the Open bolt blowback system. Moreover, even without any upgrades, it can shoot at a firing rate of 8 BPS. Pretty impressive for an entry-level marker, Right?
3. Durability
When choosing a Tippmann marker, you don’t have to worry about the durability and reliability of the marker. Tippmann guns are built to last decades.
The outer body of the Tippmann Cronus is made up of highly durable composite material, which is not only lightweight but sturdy. The internal mechanism is sleeved inside an aluminum covering, making it prone to blows.
Moreover, the internal mechanism of the Tippmann Cronus is borrowed from the legendary Tippmann 98 custom. Now you know where durability and reliability come from.
4. Range & Accuracy
The range and accuracy of the Cronus are pretty good, thanks to the 9 inches ported barrel. With this stock barrel, the marker has an effective range of 150+ feet, this range is good enough for even large paintball fields.
Moreover, the range and accuracy of this gun can be further increased by upgrading the shorter barrel to a longer high-performance barrel, adding scopes/sight, and using good quality paintballs.
5. Ergonomics & Design
Tippmann Cronus is a compact and lightweight marker that is easy to carry around. Since it is a beginner’s marker, it is designed to keep easy functionality and customizability in mind. It has a design that is quite unique and can be described as futuristic and modern.
The basic version comes with an adjustable foregrip that improves the overall handling of the marker. In the tactical version, the addition of a carry handle, 5 points adjustable shoulder stock, and a barrel shroud adds to its tactical look. Moreover, the grip is rubber-made and has hand indentation, making it comfortable to hold for long periods
Moreover, both the basic and tactical versions are available in different color options which include black, olive green, and tan. These colors not only give this gun a cool look but also help you blend into the natural terrain.
6. Tippmann In-line Bolt System
Does the Tippmann In-line bolt system sound familiar to you? Chances are you might have heard it in a paintball field. That is because all of Tippmann’s legendary makers including the Tippmann 98 and Tippmann A5 use this mechanism.
The Cronus features a high-performance inline bolt system as well that delivers speed and efficiency to give you a competitive edge on the field.
The front and rear bolts are positioned in the same line, hence the term in-line. As a result, the marker is more compact, making it easier to be used for beginners. Apart from that, the In-line bolt system is pretty reliable as well and doesn’t require frequent maintenance.
7. Shooting Experience
If you are looking for an affordable paintball marker that will not only look great but also perform better, then the Tippmann Cronus would be a good fit for you!
The marker features a mechanical trigger, which can shoot as soon as you pull the trigger. Thanks to the in-line bolt system, the marker is air-efficient and also produces less recoil. Moreover, it comes with an offset feedneck, which doesn’t block your view and enables this gun to be mounted with scopes.
Apart from that, you can also operate this gun on both compressed air or CO2. Using an HPA tank with this marker will reduce pressure drop and improve your shooting experience.
8. Beginners Friendly
Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, the Tippmann Cronus is your ideal field companion. The gun is designed keeping beginners in mind. Cronus is also very easy to operate, you can start using this gun as soon as you receive it without having any prior experience.
Moreover, It is also easier to clean and maintain and doesn’t require frequent cleaning, so you can focus more on having fun and enjoying the game.
9. Budget Friendly
Tippmann Cronus comes with a pretty reasonable price tag. It is an excellent choice for beginners as well as anyone looking to get value for their money.
The extremely durable build quality, rapid-fire rate with good range and accuracy, and several customization options make this marker a bang for the buck deal. Moreover, the marker allows you to customize it with different upgrades without having to invest in an entirely new platform.
- Highly Customizable, several aftermarket upgrades available.
- A premium built quality makes it exceptionally durable.
- Beginners Friendly, easier to operate and maintain.
- Budget friendly, comes with a reasonable price tag.
- Slightly heavy to hold for longer periods, weighs around 3.7 pounds.
- The stock barrel is 9 inches long which is shorter than what most players are comfortable playing with (14 Inches).
Tippmann Cronus Basic Vs Tactical
The Tippmann Cronus comes in two options, the Tippmann Cronus Basic and the Tippmann Cronus Tactical. The Tactical version is technically similar to the basic version with the addition of a carry handle, mock silencer, and a collapsible shoulder stock which has 5 adjustment points.
Since the tactical version is basically just a basic Tippmann Cronus with some tactical upgrades, you shouldn’t expect any performance difference. The tactical upgrades serve a different purpose, they are there to make the looks and feel of the marker similar to a real-life gun.
So, should you spend some extra money on the tactical version when there will be no difference in performance? Well, it totally depends on your personal preference.
Personally, I would go for the tactical version since the price difference between both variants is negligible. On top of that, you’re getting upgrades that will not only make your maker good for woodsball but for MilSim Paintball as well. Therefore, it is worth the extra money.
Nevertheless, if you still choose to go with the basic version, for now, you can easily upgrade your marker to the tactical version later by buying the tactical kit sold separately.
Tippmann Cronus – FAQs
How far can the Tippmann Cronus shoot?
Tippmann Cronus has a pretty good range. With its 9 inches stock barrel, the marker can effectively shoot a target up to 150+ feet away, using either CO2 or HPA.
Moreover, the range of Cronus can also be increased when equipped with an aftermarket high-performance barrel.
Which one is the best barrel for Tippmann Cronus?
Tippmann Cronus has the same barrel threading as the Tippmann A5, that’s why any good-length barrel that is compatible with the Tippmann A5 will work great with the Cronus as well.
Some of the notable mentions are the Empire Apex 2, Tippmann A5 Flatline Barrel, and the J&J A5 Ceramic Barrel.
How to set up Tippmann Cronus?
Setting up a Tippmann Cronus for the first time is pretty simple. The basic version only comes with a foregrip while the tactical version also includes a carry handle, shoulder stock, and barrel shroud.
Attach all the parts with the help of a toolkit and user manual. After that, screw the barrel in and attach a hopper. Lastly, attach the air tank and you are good to go.
Can Tippmann Cronus be used with an HPA tank?
Yes, the Tippmann Cronus is compatible with both HPA and CO2. In fact, It is recommended to use this marker with an HPA tank in order to get the maximum performance and to reduce the pressure drop.
Is the Tippmann Cronus a good gun?
Absolutely yes, this gun is best suited for beginners who are looking for an affordable paintball marker that is durable, has good range and accuracy, and is easy to use and maintain.
Is Tippmann Cronus good for speedball?
Not really, the Tippmann Cronus is a mechanical marker with a tactical design and a firing rate of 15+ BPS, it is best suited for woodsball or Mil-Sim Paintball.
Although with some modification and upgrades, it can be used for speedball as well.
How long does a Tippmann Cronus last?
The Tippmann Cronus can last for several years. The outer body of the marker is made up of composite material that is durable enough to take hits and blows without damaging the body. The internal frame is made up of aluminum which is sturdy and naturally prone to rust and corrosion.
Is Tippmann Cronus full auto?
No, the Tippmann Cronus is a mechanical paintball marker with a semi-automatic firing mode.
What is the firing velocity of Tippmann Cronus?
The velocity of a paintball gun is measured in feet per second. The velocity of the Tippmann Cronus is adjustable and can be adjusted from 250 to 300 FPS. The international safety standard limit is 300 FPS.
Final Words – Wrapping it up
Whether you are an intermediate player who is looking for a backup gun in case your primary gun malfunctions, or you are a complete beginner who is looking for an affordable marker that is reliable and easy to use. The Tippmann Cronus can be a good addition to your arsenal.
Although, there are several other entry-level markers that claim to provide the same high-quality product as the Tippmann. However the features Tippmann Cronus has to offer at such a budget-friendly price tag are unmatched by most entry-level markers.
Due to its tactical design with highly realistic looks, good range and accuracy, and tons of customizability options, this gun is best suited for woodsball or Military Simulation Paintball.
Like the other Tippmann Gears, the Cronus is also built to last decades. With this paintball gun, you can easily shoot your way to glory on the field of play!
Happy Paintballing!
