True cost to switch to PCP?

A place to discuss non-discipline specific items, such as mental training, ammo needs, and issues regarding ISSF, USAS, and NRA

If you wish to make a donation to this forum's operation , it would be greatly appreciated.
https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/targettalk?yours=true

Moderators: pilkguns, m1963, David Levene, Spencer, Richard H

Post Reply
otto
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Nov 02, 2006 1:42 pm

True cost to switch to PCP?

Post by otto »

I have two Springers, (Diana 75 and a Beeman R9) and a IZH46m. I was thinking of upgrading to a PCP and was wondering what the "complete" cost is, what do I need? what is essential? I don't know anyone who has one so I have no one to beg, borrow or ask. Do pumps work or do I need the whole scuba tank thing? Any thoughts?
User avatar
Richard H
Posts: 2654
Joined: Mon Mar 01, 2004 11:55 am
Location: Guelph, Ontario
Contact:

Post by Richard H »

Pumps work. Scuba tanks aren't a big deal as long as there is someone who will fill it without a scuba cert. check first. I don't know about where you live but a used Scuba tank and valve cost about the same as a new pump. Of course a new scuba tank is a bit more.

Heres what you need:

scuba tank, Din valve, and fill ( other cost are fills, visual inspections and hydro static test none are that expensive).

Pump (thats it), muscles.
GaryBF
Posts: 111
Joined: Sun Feb 19, 2006 8:46 pm
Location: St. Louis, Missouri

Post by GaryBF »

Otto,
When I upgraded to a pcp air pistol from the Izzy, I had similar concerns. Since I do not compete and only shoot for pleasure in my basement, I elected to go with a Hill pump. Once you get the hang of it a pump works fine. Unlike using a scubs tank where the pressure drops off with use, the pump will always allow you to refill to full pressure. There are many threads on the pistol forum regarding the merits of pumps vs. tanks so you might try using the search feature. Richard is correct that the cost is similar for either method-its more a matter of personal preference and convenience.
otto
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Nov 02, 2006 1:42 pm

Post by otto »

Thanks Gary, I also only shoot in my basement. I know there is the gun and the pump or tank but what else do you need? Are there a bunch of accessories that go wih it, gauges, hoses or anything else? I have done some searching but have found no info besides one guy has a buddy in the scuba business and another doesn't mind pumping kind of thing.
User avatar
Richard H
Posts: 2654
Joined: Mon Mar 01, 2004 11:55 am
Location: Guelph, Ontario
Contact:

Post by Richard H »

otto wrote:Thanks Gary, I also only shoot in my basement. I know there is the gun and the pump or tank but what else do you need? Are there a bunch of accessories that go wih it, gauges, hoses or anything else? I have done some searching but have found no info besides one guy has a buddy in the scuba business and another doesn't mind pumping kind of thing.
The gun should come with an fill adpater, if you go the scuba route you will need to purchase a DIN valve for the tank so you can screw your adapter on to it (no hoses or anything else). If you gon the pump route you just screw the fill adapter onto the pump (nothing else required).
TWP
Posts: 384
Joined: Sun Mar 14, 2004 6:57 am
Location: Northern Virginia

Post by TWP »

I've never pumped up a pistol, but I've taken several FWB P70 and Anschutz 2002 air cylinders from empty to full. It's pretty exhausting. I'd recomend pumping your tanks after you are done shooting for the day so they are ready to go for the next session without wearing yourself out.

We use the Scuba tanks at our air rifle club. I couldn't imagine pumping up a dozen rifle tanks every night. (probably would be a good work out though)
User avatar
Richard H
Posts: 2654
Joined: Mon Mar 01, 2004 11:55 am
Location: Guelph, Ontario
Contact:

Post by Richard H »

Pistols not bad, but air rifle cylinders are a pain (especially when empty). If you pump up your cylinders after each session like TWP said its pretty easy to keep them full.
otto
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Nov 02, 2006 1:42 pm

Post by otto »

Thanks, thats what I was looking for.
Post Reply