Needs to be whistle clean, not to mention, lubed after playing.
Review:
I got my X-7 with a responce trigger. Had no problems. Then I went to the E-grip, and as soon as I did, I started going through ratchets. My first ratchet broke after 6 cases of paint. The second after three cases. The third after four cases.
So I got the vortex and the lightning rod and installed them as per the directions. No problems since. I have shot three cases of paint so far with no problems what-so-ever. In fact, thier claim that the cyclone works at lower pressures seems to be true.
Before, I wouldn't even notice a decrease in velocity before my cyclone would quit. It would just quit, and I'd have to play pump. (by manualy pumping the push rod) Now....there is a noticable decrease in velocity before my cyclone quits. It gives you quite a bit of warning to get out of the game and go get your tanks filled. So I know my cyclone is working at a lower pressure than before.
And I would just like to say.... Shame on Tippmann for puting X-7s on the market without testing these cheap new plastic ratchets. Why switch from the plastic used in the A-5 ratchet? I know people with over fifty cases of paint out of thier stock cyclones on thier A-5s. If it's not broke.......Don't fix it!!!
I will update this review a little ways in to next season. For the price of this thing, it better work this good for a long long time to earn it's keep.
Conclusion:
If you like to shoot fast and are sick of having your ratchet break in the middle of a game, buy the vortex and the lightning rod. Works better. Lasts longer.
