The 9-ounce CO2 bottle is no longer in production, but alternative options are available.

History of the 9oz Paintball CO2 Bottle

9oz bottles represent one of the earliest refillable CO2 options in paintball. Introduced in the early 1990s, they revolutionized paintball by replacing 12-gram disposable CO2 cartridges. These refillable tanks could fire approximately 350 68-caliber shots per fill. However, by the year 2000, the 9oz bottle became inadequate for current paint consumption in each game. Larger sizes, such as the 12oz and 20oz bottles, gained popularity. Despite being the least expensive option for many years, production ceased around 2019, and it is unlikely we will see them again. Various types of 9oz CO2 bottles existed, with the most common having a diameter of 2 1/8 inches and a length of about 10 inches. Other styles included short fat bottles (2 5/8 inches in diameter) and chromoly bottles.

Other Options and Substitutions

You are unlikely to find a usable 9oz bottle due to regulatory restrictions, limiting their lifespan to 15 years from the date of manufacture (indicated on the tank).

Alternative Options:

• Switch to a 12oz or 20oz CO2 bottle. The 12oz bottle has a diameter of 2 5/8 inches, while the 20oz bottle has a diameter of 3 1/4 inches.
• Consider compressed air, now a standard power source in paintball. The entry-level 48ci 3,000 psi bottle with a regulator outputs at the same pressure as CO2, providing around 500 shots per fill. Ensure you have a source capable of filling the HPA bottle.
• If you need a solution with the same diameter as the 9oz, consider the 13ci compressed air bottle. Some non-paintball uses constrained on space may require this similarly sized bottle.
• As a last resort, use a remote line and a larger bottle. Products like a CO2-powered crossbow designed for the 9oz can accommodate a paintball remote line in the housing, allowing the use of a larger bottle stored remotely from your device.