Smart Parts Ion, CCM clamping feedneck, Dye Sticky 3 grips, TechT L7, 2 piece 14 inch CP barrel, 3000 psi Pure Energy tank, Evlution 2 loader.
Recommended Upgrades:
Techt L7 bolt.
360 QEV.
Any 14 inch barrel (CP seems to work perfectly).
Strengths:
Inexpensive.
Easy to work with once you get used to it.
Reliable.
Customizable.
Weaknesses:
Requires many upgrades to get it shooting at "tournament level"
Not B.O.B.
Review:
This is the marker that got me into paintball, after tossing out my VL triton 2. I have owned an Ion for about 8 months or so, and have been playing with it since the day I purchased it. I have put in well over $120 of upgrades (many which were not necessary).
The Ion is one solid shooting marker, whether is it upgraded, or 100% stock. I have never had an issue with this marker that I couldn't fix for less than $15.
The great thing about the Ion is that it is 100% customizable. Almost every single part of the marker can be changed/upgraded. From the body all the way down to the ASA, everything on this marker can be purchased aftermarket.
Although it doesn't shoot like an Ego or a DM, it gets the job done. Both reliable and easy to use, the Ion is probably one of the main markers from a huge list of other markers that actually gets people into paintball.
Conclusion:
Buy a used Ion and give it a shot. They can be purchased stock off most forums for around $90 shipped. Or semi-upgraded for around $140 shipped.
