Editing SplatMaster (section)

== Design ==

=== Operating mechanism ===

The original SplatMaster was a single-action, manually operated marker.

Unlike conventional pump-action markers, which use a sliding foregrip, the SplatMaster was cocked by pushing a large plunger at the rear of the receiver.

The design incorporated a combined barrel and hammer assembly that moved within the marker's body.

Pushing the rear plunger forward cocked the marker and allowed a paintball to enter the firing position.

Pulling the trigger released the assembly, allowing the barrel to move rearwards and engage the paintball before compressed gas was released to fire it.[3][4]

The mechanism was designed to minimise the number of moving components and simplify operation.

=== Construction ===

The SplatMaster used a two-piece moulded polymer body containing the valve, trigger, barrel and cocking mechanism.

Its principal features included:

* A manually operated rear-plunger cocking system.
* A fixed barrel.
* A horizontal ammunition feed tube.
* An integrated pistol grip and trigger guard.
* A push-button safety.
* A mechanical ball-detent system.
* A 12-gram CO2 cartridge housed inside the grip.

The marker included an integrated sight and was designed for straightforward operation and maintenance.[4]

=== Ammunition and gas ===

The SplatMaster fired .68-calibre paintballs supplied through a horizontal feed tube above the barrel.

The standard magazine accommodated ten paintballs, with an additional paintball held in the firing chamber.

Players used removable ten-round tubes to replenish ammunition.[4]

The marker was powered by a single 12-gram CO2 cartridge fitted inside the pistol grip.

A technical examination published by the Stock-Class Paintball Network in 2002 reported approximately 20 to 30 shots per cartridge, depending on operating conditions.

The original marker did not incorporate a factory velocity adjustment mechanism.[4]