The Gearbag: Dye DSR

As with most products, the creation and shelf life of paintball markers follows a simplistic cycle. Every year companies release an updated iteration, forge a rebranded image on standing equipment, or release updated parts to bring current markers up to date. While this standard has proven to provide companies with predictable revenue streams, the consequences of this stance has created a secondhand market that rivals that of retail. Moving out of the 2017 season, those at Dye Precision changed that.

The Dye DSR was a perfect blend of superior craftsmanship, and an introduction of various new components at a midrange price point. Ultimately, this marker would provide players high end performance at a sub $1000 price tag. After playing with this marker for the past season and amassing almost 200,000 shots, I feel it necessary to finally provide a review of the Dye DSR.

Ergonomics:

Using the proven Dye UL frame, the rear grip offers comfortability to both larger and smaller hands while also providing a solid base for one-handed operation of the marker. Coupled with the “Sticky Grips” from Dye, the overall feel of the marker is quite good and on par with other high-end competitors. Using a newly designed foregrip, the size and shape allows for various ways to hold your marker, and the continued use of a hoseless design is almost expected.

The only negative aspect that can be correlated to the midrange price is that of the trigger frame. The sharpness of edges around the frame itself can be somewhat of an annoyance to players, but nothing that would impede playability overall.

Engine:

One of the best features of the DSR lies in the new Dye ARC bolt. Coupled with the regulator now being placed inside the rear grip frame, the simplicity of the marker is its greatest asset. Though players who tend to tinker with their marker might not find the dwell independent bolt to be as enjoyable, the stock shot is second to none.

For those who wish to get the most out of their marker, Dye offers select performance upgrades through their Dye Lab shop. Currently, they offer both a bolt and can upgrade that softens the already smooth shot – something that other high-end markers can’t achieve.

Efficiency:

Comparable to most other spool valve markers, the DSR provides good efficiency overall. Currently, I personally use a 90 cubic inch tank that offers upwards of 13 pods per 4500 psi fill.

Electronics:

Again with the midrange price point, the marker does not have the electronic capabilities seen with the Dye M3+ but does offer a simplistic joystick operation of a “Method Operating System”.

Evaluation:

The DSR is something of an oddity. Not only does it provide a smooth shot and impeccable handling, it does it at a price point much lower than many other high-end markers. With a robust backing from Dye Paintball, the potential for future support is high as this gun is a mainstay for many competitive tournament teams and players across the globe.