| Manufacturer | First Strike |
| Type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| Caliber | .68 cal |
| Power Source | CO2 |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~300 fps |
| Effective Range | ~27 m |
| Projectiles | Standard .68 Cal Paintballs, First Strike Rounds (FSR) |
| Price Range | $449–$449 |
Design & Build Quality
The First Strike XP is a compact .68 caliber pistol built to a realistic handgun profile. The receiver is constructed from a durable polymer frame with solid fitment throughout. At 1.9 lbs and approximately 9 inches in length, it handles like a full-size duty pistol and holsters well with compatible aftermarket options.
The tool-less quick-puncture CO₂ system is a standout build feature: the 12g cartridge holder is separated from the magazine, which means you can swap CO₂ without dropping the mag. The carrier slides in and punctures with a simple slap — no tools, no threading. This is a meaningful quality-of-life improvement over traditional screw-in CO₂ designs.
The XP includes an integrated compact regulator that allows velocity adjustment on the fly — a feature not common at this price point. Hi-Viz front and rear sights are factory installed. An RMR-standard mounting pad sits on the top of the slide, allowing direct attachment of miniature red dot sights without an adapter plate. A cross bolt safety is positioned for ambidextrous access. The package includes two 6-round magazines.
Performance & Ballistics
The First Strike XP operates on 12g CO₂ cartridges with a velocity range of approximately 200–300 fps, adjustable via the onboard regulator. At the recommended field velocity of ~280 fps, .68 caliber rounds deliver meaningful kinetic impact at close to mid-range distances (15–40 feet).
The XP is compatible with both standard .68 caliber paintballs and First Strike Rounds (FSRs) — the proprietary fin-stabilized projectile that significantly extends effective range and accuracy. FSRs from this platform can maintain useful accuracy out to 60–80+ feet, making the XP considerably more capable than a standard pistol at distance when loaded with FSRs.
CO₂ output is consistent across moderate temperature ranges, though velocity will drop in cold conditions as is typical for all CO₂ platforms. The 12g cartridge yields approximately 20–30 shots depending on velocity setting and ambient temperature. The separated CO₂/magazine design makes cold-weather cartridge changes faster and less disruptive to the shooting grip.
Handling, Controls & Ergonomics
Ammunition Compatibility
The First Strike XP is chambered in .68 cal caliber and is compatible with the following projectile types:
- Standard .68 Cal Paintballs — Compatible with any standard .68 caliber paintball, including OC-filled rounds for less lethal use.
- First Strike Rounds (FSR) — Proprietary fin-stabilized .68 caliber projectile for extended range and accuracy – effective out to 60-80+ feet.
Known Issues & Limitations
- Velocity drops in cold weather as with all CO₂ platforms
- 6-round magazine capacity is low — extra mags recommended
- No last-round bolt hold-open; round count must be tracked manually
- CO₂ cartridge cost adds up with frequent practice sessions
- Limited availability — often sold out or pre-order only
Accessories & Upgrade Ecosystem
- Additional 6-round First Strike magazines
- First Strike Rounds (FSR) fin-stabilized projectiles
- OC-filled .68 cal paintballs (third-party, for less lethal use)
- 12g CO₂ cartridges
- RMR-compatible miniature red dot sight
- Holster compatible with full-size pistol dimensions
Platform Summary
The First Strike XP is the most refined .68 caliber CO₂ pistol currently available in the consumer less lethal space. Its combination of onboard velocity adjustment, quick-puncture CO₂ system, RMR mounting pad, and FSR compatibility puts it in a category above standard paintball pistols. At $449.99, it competes directly with Byrna’s pistol-format launchers but offers .68 caliber capacity and FSR compatibility that provides genuine range and impact advantages.
For civilian self-defense use, the XP’s compatibility with OC-filled .68 paintballs and FSRs provides genuine deterrence and direct-impact capability. The RMR pad allows the addition of a miniature red dot for improved accuracy at distance. This is a serious, purpose-built platform — not a sport paintball pistol repurposed for home defense.
Where to Buy
Official Manual
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