No, you don't need an e-grip. Without an e-grip, you can only shoot single shots (semi-auto). Most e-grips come with a selector switch which allows you to change firing modes by flipping the switch. Older e-grips on the other hand requires an allen key/pointy stick to push a button on the grip to change modes. E-grip allows you to fire in several modes, most popular being the burst, ramping or full auto. While fun, continuous usage will consume a lot of paint and air and most probably, if not careful, leave you stranded in a middle of a game. This is especially hazardous to Tippmann users (except for X7 phenom). If you run out of air, EVERYONE in the vicinity will know. laugh.gif

I would recommend getting an apex barrel rather than an e-grip. The apex puts a spin on the paint pellet, allowing it to travel further then normal barrels. Also, it allows you to curve the paintball by twisting the tip.

Tank price depends on the tank that you want. There are two types of HPA tanks, steel and carbon fiber.

Steel HPA tanks are cheaper but heavier and have lesser shot capacity when compared to fiber tanks. Steel tanks have a maximum pressure of 3000 psi. Comes in several sizes; 13, 48, 62 and 72ci. The most common size is the 48ci which would get you about 500 shots (2 pods, 1 hopper). Price is about RM350.00, depending on size. Used ones are about RM150.00 - RM250.00, depending on hydro* date.

Next you have the fiber tanks. Fiber tanks are lighter and generally have more shot capacity but is more expensive then steel HPA tanks. These tanks are made from carbon fiber and have a maximum pressure of 4500 psi (There is also fiber tanks that can only hold 3000 psi, check the label). Standard sizes are 45, 48, 68, 70 and 90ci. The most popular size would be the 68ci capacity which gives you about 1000 shots (about 7-8 pods, depending on the marker. Some markers can go as high as 15 pods per fill). Price is about RM800.00, depending on size. Used ones can go as low as RM400.00 depending on the hydro* date.

Compare this with a co2 tank. Co2 tanks are made of steel only. Weight is about the same as steel HPA tanks. Has the most shot capacity when compared to HPA tanks. Comes in several sizes; 2.5, 5, 10 and 20lbs. The most popular size is the 20lbs, which gives you about 1000+ shots. Price is about RM100.00, I think. Used is about RM50.00 - RM80.00. Again, this is estimated. I'm not sure what are the current price for co2 tanks.

*Hydro date

All tanks have a hydro date. Yes, that includes co2 tanks. The first hydro date is usually 5 years (for both steel and fiber tanks) from the date stated on the tank. Once the hydro date is reached, you need to send the tank to an airsmith for a hydro test. The test determines if the tank can safely contain the air pressure without failing. If the tank passes the test, they will mark the tank with a new date. The next hydro test is another 5 years from the new date. If the tank fails during the hydro test, it is considered dangerous and must be discarded, in which case you have to purchase another tank.

Each hydro test will cost you about RM200.00.

Also, carbon fiber tanks have an expiry date. I may be mistaken, but I think the expiry date is 15 years from the original date stated on the tank. Which means after 15 years, you cannot do another hydro test. The tank must be discarded. Most steel tanks do not expire. It is still good as long as it passes the hydro test.

Only the 13ci HPA tank and 2.5lb co2 tanks do not require a hydro test.

This post has been edited by DeFaeco: Yesterday, 03:23 PM