Incorporating Bisley air cylinders into the toolkit of any PCP owner is an excellent choice to ensure consistent gun performance. These cylinders, available in three sizes, are crafted from a single piece of steel, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship evident in the making of these essential components. You can witness the intricate process involved in producing these cylinders by watching the accompanying video
With a mere 3.7mm thickness, it's astounding that these cylinders can safely withstand pressures of up to 300 bar. While all cylinders designed for air rifles necessitate a check at your local diving shop every five years, proper maintenance can extend their lifespan indefinitely
Choosing the right size air bottle boils down to two key considerations: available storage space and budget constraints. The size you opt for will significantly impact the number of fills and shots you can get. Here's a rough estimate of shots based on different bottle sizes:
- 3ltr 300bar bottle: Approximately 15 fills (about 1200 shots)
- 5ltr 300bar bottle: Approximately 30 fills (about 2000 shots)
- 7ltr 300bar bottle: Approximately 40 fills (about 3200 shots)
There are now three different valves to choose from:
The Bisley Valve
The Hydrotech
The Jubilee
When it comes to deciding between a cylinder and an air pump, there are several advantages to favouring a filling bottle. Firstly, using a cylinder is less physically demanding than a stirrup pump, making it a more efficient option. Cylinders are quicker to fill, and when empty, you can conveniently have them refilled at your local dive shop.
Additionally, cylinders offer the benefit of delivering clean and moisture-free air, unlike pumps that may introduce contaminants during the filling process. Moisture or grit entering your rifle's air cylinder can cause significant damage, potentially requiring a complete rifle overhaul.
However, it's important to note that cylinders come with their downsides. They are heavier and may pose a risk of injury if they fall. Special precautions, such as using stabilizing boots, can mitigate this risk to some extent.
A word of caution: When dealing with high-pressure equipment, it's crucial to handle cylinders with care. Any damage to the valve can turn the cylinder into a potential hazard, resembling a rocket. Take extra precautions to avoid accidents and potential injuries.
In summary, choosing between a cylinder and a pump involves weighing the convenience and efficiency of a cylinder against the portability and safety considerations associated with a pump. Whatever your choice, exercising caution and proper maintenance is essential when working with high-pressure equipment.
