Etha2: An Engineer's Perspective
figured since I got the "Etha 2" close (turned out to be the GTEK) I'd do a "review" of the actual thing
http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/w...ps3acnfodi.png
Caveat: I don't have one (probably not getting one due to other priorities :( ) and haven't handled one yet. this analysis is based upon information available in the manual and other sources.
http://www.hustlepaintball.com/v/vsp...10360440-2.jpg
GRN composite use: Proven material used in previous PE models (Original Etha, Etek5, GTEK) as well as within the firearms and other industries. great material choice with regard to strength and pricing compared to the AL 6061 or similar alloys.? requires slightly different design to make up for strength shortcomings but PE definitely has the experience and has shown they know what they are doing.
Regulator: smart repackaging of existing hardware in a new design which aligns the typical 1/8" NPT (macroline) input with the POPS airway.
this design allows PE to keep standard parts within the regulator with very minimal changes to the proven internal design.?
The top cap with slip fit tube is smart and allows for easy disassembly just by pulling the tube and regulator apart.
Slipp fit tube style similar to that in the TPX pistol, no fittings to worry about so it's much more compact, 2 o-ring seals are robust and easily replaceable.
POPS: new body for a proven design. the original POPS was revolutionary and subsequent iterations, including the one else on the Etha2 have continued to improve the form factor while maintaining a core design specification and standards.
Gamma Core: obviously proven price of technology that allows PE to streamline both parts across multiple marker platforms.
Of note: back cap is removable via a screw, this design feature may lend itself to aftermarket designs but not to a GTEK style quick release since threads are built into the bolt body vs the back cap.
Board/Battery: Battery placement in front grip continued from previous models at higher price points. Board takes advantage of the placement for a one piece design, although it seems to have some "wasted" open space which is necessitated by the markers long design.
Solenoid: Seems to be a robust design with plenty of flexibility if used in other configurations or new markers.
Eyes: Mounting eyes on the main board makes disassembly easy without messy daughter boards or eye wires that may break. It will be interesting to see how well the design holds up, however the standard design had held up very well, and I expect the same of the new design.
Grips: Design used in other industries and reduces screw holes and hardware that would add complexity to the grip frame and mess with the regulator in the grip.
Thoughts?
I know I've missed things but hard to do a review without having one in hand.