Updated: 02/01/03
Usually, I'm the biggest advocate for the Sniper II, but after being on the receiving end of a Phantom on more than one occasion (Thanks Paul! :-P)... I developed a great deal of respect for this little pump. So much so that I bought one.
While being fairly simple design (and a little high on price IMHO), it is very effective and accurate. In fact, the Phantom probably has one of the most accurate stock barrels on the market. It' simplicity in design also makes it very easy to convert from it's Direct Feed body to a Stock Class body in a very short time, which adds to it's versatility.
My current Phantom has a 11" CCI Nickel plated barrel, Direct Feed and Stock Class body, Clear 9v Rev and elbow, Bottom line and 12g Quick Changer, 7 oz tank, 45 grip and bottom line, 4 oz tank, and Vertical air kit with SS Hardline.
Now... what mods do I have planned for mine?
Absolutely nothing.
Really, there's nothing that needs any upgrading on them. About the only thing you could do to a Phantom to increase performance is to add a regulator (my Palmers will work well) and maybe a different barrel. The Nickel plated barrels from CCI are one of the most accurate and inexpensive barrels for the Phantom... although I'm waiting still (2 years and counting!) for CCI to finally release the Carbon Fiber barrels that Mike's been working on for some time (Note: I believe CCI abandoned this project, although there are a few prototypes floating around out there.).
Addendum
Nov. 08/01: The Phantom is about to become my
primary pump. With the recent (small fortune) amount spent on it, and my
acquisition of an
Autococker, I can't justify spending the money on the Sniper II like I was planning on. The
Phantom has the ability to serve a dual role my Sniper II can't. If I really want to play
again with a Sniper style pump, I'll get a pump kit for my Cocker.
Feb. 01/04: Well, here's where I flip-flop again. Now it looks like I'll most likely be going back to a Sniper II. The Phantom has been an excellent marker, but I think the Sniper II just "fits" me better. Plus should I need extra barrels, I already have an assortment of Cocker-threaded barrels as opposed to having to buy a new barrel kit for the Phantom. Since I never really got into stock class as much as I thought I would, I have no need for a marker with the ability to switch bodies. Buying a pump kit for my Cocker is an option too, but considering the small fortune I've spent on my Cocker, I really don't know if I want to be screwing around with the pneumatics that much. Plus this idea will be blown all to hell should I decide to go with an E-Blade frame on the Cocker.
SNIPER BOB, 2000-20010