How do you get more gas efficiency?

[A-5 Sniper]

Hey guys, How do you get more gas efficiency from an Ion? I already have QEVs, but I still only get around a hopper (Evvy II) and three pods of paint off before I run out of air. I am chronoed at 270-280 fps. Thanks. Oh, by the way, I'm using a 68/45 nitro tank.

Matt

[StatesboroAsylum]

Your dwel settings, from what your sayin are WAYYYY to high. Try moving them down more

[WebFisher]

You could change your reg, get a barrel kit, and change your bolt. These will help a little, however, the Ions are not noted for their air efficiency, as is the same for any spool-valve marker. Depending on the size of your tank, you should be able to get anywhere from 800 to 1200 shots per tank.

A lighter bolt, such as the Smart Parts Firebolt or the Shocktech Superfly bolt will require less pressure to move the bolt forward. Less pressure = less air, and therefore higher efficiency. It will also help reduce kick, making your shots more accurate. The increase in air efficiency will be negligible at best.

A barrel kit (Smart Parts Freak Kit, Empire Revolver, etc.) will allow a better "fit" for your paintballs travelling down the barrel. This will increase your accuracy and provide the biggest improvement in air-efficiency.

A reg (Shocktech, Dye, etc.) have the benefit of providing a more consistant air flow out of your tank into the marker. This will help in consistency on the chrono range and accuracy on your marker. This will also add some efficiency. The stock reg on the Ion is actually a decent reg, but it takes it a while to break in before seeing an efficiency increase.

Settings: Make sure your dwell is not set too high. When a QEV is installed, alot of people leave the dwell at the stock setting. You need to lower it to compensate for the quicker bolt return rate.

(writer's note: This is all my opinion, mind you, others may have some other suggestions/thoughts on the matter.)

[Rembrandt]

Yeah Ions aren't known for efficency.

If everything is stock other than the qev internal wise then set your dwell at about 13-14 from the bottom. If you notice any drop off at high rates of fire or first shot drop off raise it a notch or 2. But 14 should be about right. You'll notice a little difference there.

You won't get any more efficiency unless you get into buying a barrel kit, bolt, and firing chamber. I don't think any other upgrades other than a bolt and qev internally are worth it, but that's just my experience and opinion.

[SirRod]

My Ion with a SP QEV dwell is 15 the stock setting was 52, I get with a
91ci 4500 about 4000 rounds...

I now have a L-7 bolt and still haven't set the dwell but users of the L-7 bolt tell me that they have turned there dewll way lower...

[Rembrandt]

Yes once you get a bolt you can drop it to about 12 clicks. Sometimes lower. Firing can you can drop it one click buit not many users do.

[gfgjester]

I'm a big supporter of the L7 bolt. I've installed them in SP-8's and run the dwell as low as 5-8... yes FIVE. Strangely enough (Can't 'splain, Lucy), ION's seem to want a little more, around 10-12, and that's mostly for first shot drop off. What WebFisher sez is right. The ION vertical reg is the same reg they are using on the Shocker. It is very stable and flows well. Two things, though. They take a couple o' three cases of paint to break in... AND you MUST, I repeat... GOTTA keep them lubed. Lots O' Critters think because you're not supposed to put oil in the ASA, that it don't need any lube. BOMP! No Plinko chip for U! You have to pull them down and give them a nice greasing (read-Dow 33, Gun Butta, etc...), or they will NOT be your friend.

And Rod... DO IT. Set that puppy. Drop your dwell to ZIP. Then bring it up to where you get action... Then one click at a time till you eliminate the FSDO. You'll love the difference. And another perk is that it is MUCHO QUIETO...

[SirRod]

Ok gfgjester you bet...

[gfgjester]

I know, I know. I HAVE been called a paintball FANATIC!

[SirRod]

gfgjester God Bless you for being who you are...one of the Good guys...