[section label=”Introduction” anchor=”Introduction”]Introduction
In 2009 Tippmann unleashed the TPX pistol marker upon the world, and true to form it quickly rose to prominence and a player favorite. Though not the first paintball pistol to market, the TPX brought with it a few key differences: under barrel CO2 cartridge chamber, a weaver rail for accessories and a first party after market remote line adapter among other things. In addition, the TPX launched with Tippmanns legendary durability and support, providing extra incentive for players already familiar with the Tippmann brand.
[section label=”History” anchor=”History”]History
Not all was rosy at launch though, as the TPX experienced several issues in its first iteration. First was the CO2 cartridge failing to punch on the first trigger pull, second was the 8 round magazines, which were prone to jamming and third, the pistols had a problem with chopping when using certain kinds of paint.
Tippmann quickly came out late in ’09 with a series of upgrades for the TPX, namely a longer bolt spring, a whole new breech chamber, a new bolt and a new type of damping washer under the bolt. Shortly after that, during the early spring of 2010 they came out with the new TruFeed 7 round magazine. Players could send in their markers for free repairs, or if they were technically inclined, could have Tippmann send them replacement parts to fix it themselves. Additionally players who invested in the original 8 round magazines were instructed to load only 7 balls to avoid feeding issues.
Starting in the serial number run of ~9500-11000 Tippmann integrated the fixes into the markers. Coincidentally around the same time Tippmann received a cease and desist letter from Louisville Slugger for the TPX branding. To avoid costly litigation Tippmann rebranded the TPX as the TiPX. They also used this opportunity to signify that the TiPX was being made with the improved parts and avoiding the issues of the early TPX’s. The timing of the two events didn’t line up exactly so there are some early branded TiPX’s out in the wild that potentially still have the older internals. Factory improvements are an ongoing process with Tippmann, for instance the breech chambers changed around serial # 30,000 again, so earlier bodies may not accept newer breech chambers without modding.
Today there is a thriving community based around the TiPX and the players who use it. They have taken the TiPX and modified it to their personal needs, looks and wants that transformed it from a basic side-arm to a full on player eliminating force to be reckoned with. Several companies have stepped up to provide high quality parts and accessories to further customize and enhance the TiPX’s capabilities, such as adding First Strike capability to the marker. This guide is intended to be your first stop for all things TiPX related. Keep checking back as this guide will be updated as new equipment comes on the market and old parts fade away.
Feel that we missed something? Drop us an email at contact@paintballtech.net!
Note: Hat tip to Rob Smith who provided updated details on the issues with the first run TPX’s.
[section label=”Summary” anchor=”Summary”]Summary
Marker: TiPX
Manufacturer: Tippmann
Marker Type: Magazine Fed Pistol
Valve Type: Spool
First Strike Capable?: No, requires mods
Barrel Length: 6.25 in / 15.87 cm
Weight: 1.81 lbs / .821kg
Legend:
Cost:
$ = <$50
$$= $51-$100
$$$=$101-$200
$$$$=$200+
[section label=”Body Kits” anchor=”Body Kits”]Body Kits
Olive Colored replacement shell
Description: Olive colored TiPX composite shell made by Tippmann to swap your TiPX internals into.
Mod Type: Aesthetic
Technical Difficulty: Low, requires marker disassembly
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Description: This kit is made of composite materials and is designed for Umarex BB air pistols. Requires cutting and grinding in order to mount on the TiPX. Main advantage to this kit is the relatively low cost compared to other conversion kits.
Mod Type: Conversion
Technical Difficulty: Medium: cutting, grinding, drilling and precise measurements required.
Time to Complete: ~60 mninutes
Modification Cost: $$
[section label=”Barrels” anchor=”Barrels”]Barrels
The TiPX is A5 threaded meaning players have access to a large ecosystem of barrels and barrel kits, so long as they fit in the barrel block in the front. This guide will highlight only the most popular barrels for the TiPX.
Description: Most barrel sizing kits cannot fit the TiPX due to the barrel block. Python Paintball makes an insert kit with an insert adapter and a specific barrel for the TiPX. TechT buys and re-brands Python kits as iFIT kits to sell through their own channels.
Length:
First Strike Compatible: No
Bore Size: Inserts range from .678 to .692
Barrel Cost: $$$
Bonus: The Python barrel is threaded to accept various barrel tips/flash suppressors.
LAPCO BigShot / BigShot Assault
Description: An aluminum 8″ barrel by LAPCO Paintball. The Assault version comes with extra porting and a threaded tip.
Length: 8″
First Strike Compatible: Yes, but not optimized for FS rounds
Bore Size: .684 – .690
Barrel Cost: $$
LAPCO TiPX First Strike Barrel
Description: A rifled LAPCO barrel for First Strike rounds
Length: 9″
First Strike Compatible: Yes
Bore Size: .683
Cost: $$
Hammerhead First Strike Rifled Barrel
Description: A rifled and threaded barrel by Hammerhead barrels.
Length: 8.15″
First Strike Compatible: Yes
Bore Size: Unkown
Cost: $$
Description: A threaded and rifled barrel for the TiPX.
First Strike Compatible: Yes
Bore Size: .688
Cost: $$
[section label=”Breeches” anchor=”Breeches”]Breeches
TCR Breech
Description: The TCR breach is based off of the TiPX breach with the exception of being First Strike compatible, as well as introducing a second detent in the chamber. Currently not available for direct purchase, instead you must contact Tippmann and request the breech under your marker’s warranty. Requires StarkPursuit ZetaMag or Tippmann 12rd TruFeed magazine to use First Strike rounds.
Mod Type: Marker Capability, add First Strike Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Gunhead V3 TPX First Strike Adapter
Description: A third party breech adding First Strike compatibility for TiPX markers and is widely available for purchase. Requires StarkPursuit ZetaMag or Tippmann 12rd TruFeed magazine to use First Strike rounds.
Mod Type: Marker Capability, add First Strike Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Killhouse Weapons Systems First Strike Breech
Description: A third party breech allowing First Strike compatibility for TiPX markers and is widely available for purchase. Requires StarkPursuit ZetaMag or Tippmann 12rd TruFeed magazine to use First Strike rounds.
Mod Type: Marker Capability, add First Strike Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
MILSIG PsiOps First Strike Breech
Note 7May18: Though still listed on the website, it is out of stock here and other retailers, this may be discontinued. Proceed at your own discretion.
Description: Another third party breech to upgrade the TiPX to First Strike capability, also readily available from MILSIG. Requires StarkPursuit ZetaMag or Tippmann 12rd TruFeed magazine to use First Strike rounds.
Note: This block is not compatible with the LAPCO TiPX barrel as it prevents the barrel from threading completely in. (thanks to Facebook User Matthew [Redacted for Privacy] for the tip!)
Mod Type: Marker Capability, add First Strike Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
[section label=”Front Block” anchor=”Front Block”]Front Block
Description: A replacement front block available in 3 different colors that adds a picatinny rail to the top of the TiPX marker and is widely available from multiple retailers.
Mod Type: Aesthetics, Added Functionality
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $$
Killhouse Weapon Systems Front Block
Description: A drop in front block replacement adding a picatinny rail across the top of the TiPX and extending all the way to the back.
Mod Type: Aesthetics, Added Functionality
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $$
Description: Exclusive to ANS Gear, multiple colors available with matching CO2 plug. A drop in front block to add a dash of color to your TiPX and further customize it to you.
Mod Type: Aesthetics
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Note 7May18: Deadcell is currently shutdown with the intent of returning to operations. If they do not return by the end of the year this product will be moved to the graveyard.
Description: A 3D printed front block coming in multiple colors for your TiPX. Lighter than an aluminum block.
Mod Type: Aesthetics
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
[section label=”Other Mods” anchor=”Other Mods”]Other Mods
Description: A replacement bolt that is lighter than the stock bolt. Takes some fine tuning of the TiPX to see gains and stable operation. NOT recommended to use in conjunction with the TechT springs below.
Mod Type: Marker Efficiency
Technical Difficulty: Medium, Requires marker to be disassembled, may require further tuning
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Description: Replacement bolt springs to better fine tune your TiPX for efficiency and velocity. NOT recommended to be used in conjunction with the TechT MRT bolt above.
Mod Type: Marker Efficiency
Technical Difficulty: Medium, Requires marker to be disassembled, may require further tuning
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
StarkPursuit Extended Magazine Release
Description: Provides players a more prominent magazine release button to help facilitate no-look magazine changes
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Dead Cell Extended Magazine Release
Note 7May18: Deadcell is currently shutdown with the intent of returning to operations. If they do not return by the end of the year this product will be moved to the graveyard
Description: Provides players a more prominent magazine release button to help facilitate no-look magazine changes
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Exalt Extended Magazine Release
Description: Provides players a more prominent magazine release button to help facilitate no-look magazine changes
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Exalt Ambidextrous Magazine Release
Description: Provides both left and right handed magazine release capability for the TiPX.
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Description: A modification part offered by Tippmann to allow users to connect to a larger capacity air source and eliminate the need for CO2 12g cartridges. In order to install a hole is required to be drilled in the back of the marker.
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Medium, Requires marker to be disassembled, requires drilling, may require further fine tuning
Time to Complete: ~30 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Description: The Tippmann TCR marker has a rebuilt valve to operate more efficiently with HPA, providing more consistent and higher velocities using HPA than with the stock TiPX valve. If you intend to operate your TiPX with HPA, then you can either contact Tippmann and request a warranty upgrade or find a retailer, such as TippmannParts.com to purchase the valve. If you stick with CO2, you will see little to no benefit with this modification.
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $$
TiPX Long Range Conversion Kit
Description: Another upgrade based off of the Tippmann TCR, this kit replaced multiple parts within the TiPX to provide better and more consistent long range shots with the TiPX, as well as adding First Strike Compatibility.
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Medium, Requires marker to be disassembled, Requires multiple parts be replaced
Time to Complete: ~30 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Dead Cell TiPX Butt-Stock Adapter
Note 7May18: Deadcell is currently shutdown with the intent of returning to operations. If they do not return by the end of the year this product will be moved to the graveyard
Description: An adapter to install a buttstock on the rear of the TiPX. Requires the Remote Air kit to be installed.
Mod Type: Marker Capability, Aesthetics
Technical Difficulty: Medium, Requires marker to be disassembled, Requires Remote Air kit to be installed.
Time to Complete: ~30 minutes
Modification Cost: $
Dead Cell TiPX Shroud Compensator
Note 7May18: Deadcell is currently shutdown with the intent of returning to operations. If they do not return by the end of the year this product will be moved to the graveyard
Description: TiPX Shroud Compensator
Mod Type: Marker Capability, Aesthetics
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $
[section label=”Magazines” anchor=”Magazines”]Magazines
Not First Strike compatible
Cost: $15 each, comes in packs of 2 for $30
Tippmann 12rd TruFeed Magazine
First Strike Compatible
Cost: $20 each, comes in packs of 2 for $40
StarkPursuit 20rd ZetaMag generation 3
First Strike Compatible
Cost: $25 each
Cost: $15
NOTE: This is a mod you make yourself to the standard Tippmann 7 rd TruFeed magazine. Proceed at your own risk!
[section label=”Unofficial Modifications” anchor=”Unofficial Modifications”]Unofficial Modifications
[alert variation=”alert-danger”]NOTE: These modifications are permanent, non-reversible and WILL void your Tippmann warranty. PaintballTech.Net does not endorse nor encourage making these modifications. This section is to demonstrate what other players have done to suit their individual needs and desires. Should you choose to make these modifications PaintballTech.Net cannot be held liable for any damages or consequences resulting from individuals copying these modifications.[/alert]
DISCLOSURE: These modifications come from PistolRogue and Smiley on MCarterBrown.com. The original thread can be found here. I have not performed any of these mods on my own TiPX.
[g-slider gid=”1156″ width=”75%” height=”75%”]
Not pictured modifications:
Polishing Internals
In markers such as the Tippmann 98 variants there is metal on metal action between the bolt an the shell. A lot of players polish this area to reduce friction and increase the efficiency of the marker. Greater efficiency means more shots per tank and more consistent ball velocity since it does not require as much force to cycle the bolt.
There is very little metal on metal action inside of the TiPX, so polishing the breach won’t herald much, if any, improvement for you. You can, however, still polish the parts of the breach where the ball feeds into. Smoothing that out reduces drag on the ball thus reducing the possibility of a ball break in the breach.
Chamfering the Breach ball feed hole
MCarterBrown user PistolRogue has also chamfered the ball feed hole in the bottom of his breech for much the same reasons as stated above. Be wary of this, if you take too much out you will introduce feeding issues to your marker.
Honing Stock Barrel
Manufacturers these days are providing better stock barrels on their markers and the TiPX is no exception. The stock barrel performance is enough that should you be on a tight budget, it will perform well. However, as with everything, there is room for improvement. The inside of the TiPX’s stock barrel can be further polished using a process known as honing. Smoother barrel = less friction = more efficiency ~= better accuracy (we will be testing this next year).
There is a plethora of other mods that players have done that include up to and beyond Custom Milled Front Block, Custom Painted Front Block, Custom Painted Shells and Hydro Dipped Shells. Below is a gallery of several player’s own TiPX’s modified to their aesthetics, style and play needs.
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[section label=”Troubleshooting and Maintenance” anchor=”Troubleshooting”]Troubleshooting and Maintenance
From the TiPX Manual:
PROBLEM: Air/CO2 is leaking out of the gas vent hole.
SOLUTION: The most common air/CO2 leak is caused by a dirty or damaged puncture seal. Check the Puncture Seal for dirt or damage
PROBLEM: Magazine will not feed paintballs correctly.
SOLUTION: Try using fresh paintballs
SOLUTION: Clean the Magazine with a damp towel to wipe off paint, grease, and debris. Dry springs immediately, if necessary, to help prevent rusting.
PROBLEM: You pull the trigger, and the marker does not pressurize.
SOLUTION: Adjust the CO2 Cap assembly
PROBLEM: Air/CO2 is leaking from the air/CO2 cylinder connection to the remote coil tank adapter.
SOLUTION: The most common leak occurs from a bad air/CO2 cylinder valve O-ring.
PROBLEM: You pull the trigger and the marker does not pressurize.
SOLUTION: Check that the puncture pin cap is installed
SOLUTION: Adjust the CO2 cap assembly.
[popover title=”Tech Tip” body=”The TiPX is designed to operate using marker grease, not oil. Using oil may lead to a variety of issues with your TiPX up to and including damaging it. So for your safety and the longevity of your marker, use marker grease always!” placement=”bottom”]Tech Tip
[/popover]
PROBLEM: You install a cartridge and you hear air/CO2 leaking.
SOLUTION: Check to be sure the O-rings of the long gas line and the short gas line are not damaged.
PROBLEM: The Regulator vents air/CO2 continuously.
SOLUTION: Adjust the Pressure Relief Valve.
SOLUTION: Check the Regulator Pin for dirt, damage, or if it is not inserted into the Regulator Piston properly. Clean, inspect, and replace if damaged.
NOTE: When assembling, be sure the Regulator Pin seats into the Regulator Piston.
PROBLEM: You pull the trigger back and it binds and will not release.
SOLUTION: Check the Firing Pin for misalignment. Disassemble the Firing Valve and make sure the Firing Pin is pushed in flush with the Firing Valve Body during assembly.
PROBLEM: There is air/CO2 leaking out of the barrel.
SOLUTION: Check the Front Valve Spool O-ring for dirt or damage
PROBLEM: When the trigger is pulled slowly, a short leaking sound is normal. The leak continues without the gun firing.
SOLUTION: Check the Valve Spool rear O-ring and the Air Valve End Cap O-ring for dirt or damage
PROBLEM: The trigger will not move at all when trying to fire.
SOLUTION: Check the trigger safety to be sure it is not installed backwards. The red O-ring should be on the left side of the marker (PUSH SAFE is embossed on this side), and the black O-ring on the right side of the marker (PUSH FIRE is embossed on this side)
PROBLEM: You fire the marker but no paintballs are fired.
SOLUTION: If the Front Bolt sticks in the forward position, paintballs will not load. Check the Ball Latch to be sure it is not installed backwards
SOLUTION: If the Front Bolt is installed correctly and does not return completely, the paintballs will not load. Check the Barrel Adapter and the Air Valve Assembly for dirt or damage
NOTE: If a problem still exists, contact Tippmann Service Department at 1-800-533-4831 or see your local paintball dealer
PROBLEM: Low velocity using HPA
SOLUTION: Ensure your HPA tank is outputting ~900+PSI
SOLUTION: Upgrade to the TCR Valve or the Long Range Kit
PROBLEM: CO2 venting through velocity adjustment screw
SOLUTION: Turn both inner and outer adjustment screws fully clockwise. Be sure to Chrono your marker after this as your velocity will be at unsafe levels after this adjustment.
[section label=”The Graveyard” anchor=”The Graveyard”]The Graveyard
This section is where discontinued products from earlier sections of the guide have been moved to. These are kept for posterity’s sake, instead of being deleted.
The Sarge Kit by Engler:
NOTE: Discontinued by Manufacturer
Description: An aluminum drop in kit requiring little to no modifications to it or the TiPX itself. Difficult to find and get hold of, expensive.
Mod Type: Conversion
Technical Difficulty: Low, Basic mechanical knowledge required
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $$$
MILSIG PsiOps FXR Carbine Kit:
NOTE: Discontinued by Manufacturer
Description: Another Aluminum drop in kit requiring little to no modifications in order to mount the TiPX in it. Available directly from MILSIG when in stock.
Mod Type: Conversion
Technical Difficulty: Low, Basic mechanical knowledge required
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $$$
NOTE: Discontinued by Manufacturer
Description: A short ceramic barrel by J&J Sports
Length: 6.5″
First Strike Compatible: Yes, but not optimized for FS rounds
Bore Size: Unknown
Barrel Cost: $
MILSIG Direct Ambidextrous Magazine Release (AMR)
NOTE: Discontinued by Manufacturer
Description: Provides both left and right handed magazine release capability for the TiPX.
Mod Type: Marker Capability
Technical Difficulty: Low, Requires marker to be disassembled
Time to Complete: <15 minutes
Modification Cost: $$
NOTE: Discontinued by Manufacturer
First Strike Compatible
Cost: ~$125