Tippmann 98 Custom
This Tippmann 98 Custom has made quite an evolution over its lifetime. It started from a badly mistreated gun from ebay which had dried, old paint in the front bolt area as well as paint in the rear bolt area from a direct hit.
It all started from this. I added the Halo and the Empire barrel kit (instead of the stock barrel and stock gravity hopper) as well as the double trigger which I filed flat. I also cut the receiver soon after its arrival.
After about a year of owning it, I decided it was time to move on, but I didn't want to leave this marker behind with so much potential still left in it. So, I modified the electronics, relocating the battery and on/off switch and filling in the cocking slot. This required me to cut a groove in the receiver underneath the trigger for the wiring.
The gun needed painting. The epoxy I used isn't very aesthetically appealing in my opinion. I figured a red/black combination would make some kind of statement.
At this point, I have made no performance enhancements to it other than HPA. That all changed when I purchased a Palmer's Micro Rock and CP ASA to replace the Tippmann Proshop low pressure regulator. I also installed a trigger stop and a Clippard QEV (Quick Exhaust Valve) which requred me to file the ram to accept it.
It didn't end there. I wanted more from it. I wanted to lower the operating pressure and decrease the noise of the marker. But this caused a dilemma. With the battery in the front grip, I couldn't install a normal regulator. This left me with one choice: the PPS (Palmer's Pursuit Shop) female Stabilizer. I also needed a way to install the Macro line and a gauge to the valve so I purchased a cross fitting.
Finally, after 3 weeks on backorder, I received the TechT Fang Trigger in the mail. This aquisition has not left me unscarred though. In order to achieve the shortest trigger pull possible, I had to file the safety down a little bit. As of now, everything works in perfect harmony. I have the pressure set at 225 PSI which allows me to get 700 shots out of my 72 CU, 3000 PSI tank. Not the best efficiency, but it works.
Yay! I finally decided to install the centerfeed. It is amazing! My gun is perfectly balanced and I no longer want to tilt it slightly while shooting. I also got a Virtue grip to replace the stock one. I feel like I can better walk it now. I had to replace the Halo shells because they snapped at the feedneck. Everything is in perfect working order.
Here's an updated shot of the custom wiring. I had it professionally done because I was sick of my attempt short circuting.
I finally have ALMOST completed this project. After many months of acquiring all of the components, I'm finally ready to give this a test run, although the first trials didn't go well. I can't wait to play with it!
Complete list of modifications and upgrades
Custom 2-Way Ram
DM4 Tadao THump Board
Bob Long Intimidator Solenoid
Relocated battery
Split receivers
Clippard QEV
GTA Low Pressure Kit
RufusDawg centerfeed
PPS gauge
Macro Line
PPS female Stabilizer
PPS Micro Rock
TechT Fang Trigger
Pen spring
No blowback valve