Overall, CO2 tanks are cheap, easy to maintain and generally last a long time if you take care of them
. If you use your tank regularly, consider buying a new one every year regardless of what it looks like. The best way to protect against scratches and dings is to purchase a tank cover; these will greatly prolong the life of your tank. Knowing more about the properties of CO2 and how to take care of your tank will make your tank investment last longer and allow you to focus more on playing paintball than dealing with problems.