Abstract: An anti-pinch bolt is provided for use with a paintball marker having an automatic reloading mechanism comprising an instrument connected to the bolt by a pin for moving the bolt between a loading and a loaded position. The bolt comprises a tubular bolt body having a front end, a rear end and a slot for receiving the pin. A spring is provided for maintaining, in use, the pin in a first position in the slot, the spring allowing movement of the pin toward a second position in the slot when the bolt is obstructed by the presence of a paintball.