Many others have said it before, but the Tippmann A-5 is like the AK47 of the paintball world. It's true that there faster, lighter, and more advanced paintball markers on the market, but few of them can boast the dependability and high level of customization that the A-5 has to offer. I have used several modern markers before this one, and something about using this is just more satisfying than using some of the space age guns out there today. I play woodsball where tactical movement and strategy do more for you than having the most advanced equipment out there, and using an older marker like the A-5 more or less forces you to play better to keep up. Some may see that as a weakness of the marker, but I actually enjoy that aspect of the A-5. The plain version listed here is strictly semi auto, and the stock barrel doesn't really lend well to accuracy over range. However, it does promote a more deliberate play style that will ultimately be more successful in larger fields. It may seem like I'm dancing around the "cons" of the marker at this point though, so I will break the rest of the review down more plainly. Pros: 1. Reliable - The A-5 takes its knocks on the fields and feeds CO2 like a champ for those who prefer it. I use the heck out of this thing, and none of the stock parts have worn out yet. 2. Customizeable - I don't think there is a single marker for sale today that has more after market upgrades available for it than this one. You can literally make the A-5 into anything you want for paintball. 3. The Cyclone - The 2011 version of the cyclone feed system works very well, and I don't often have issues with feeding until my C02 gets low. Once you get to the 400 shot mark, you may need to manually feed balls until you run out of air. The up side is that you don't need an additional hopper unless you want a low cap replacement or a spare. 4. Easy to Clean/Maintain - It's not as easy as an open bolt marker to clean, but it is still pretty easy. There are very few o-rings that need regular maintenance, and keeping it well lubed will prevent a lot of wear and tear. Cons: 1. Heavy - I'm not a small person, but the marker can get a bit weighty after lugging it around all day. I recommend a remote line for sure, and I haven't added any mods just to keep the weight down. 2. Loud - I have tried several barrels, and this thing will always be loud. It adds character, but will also expose you very quickly if you are trying to be stealthy. 3. Pricey (with necessary upgrades) - I'm not saying that the price should be lowered, but buying a few uprades like the response trigger and a better barrel will quickly make this marker just as expensive as more versatile markers in a hurry. If they lowered the price of the response marker a tier and reduced the cost of the base model by $30, I think that would be more fair. 4. Outdated? - I bought one of these because I wanted one, not because I thought it would be the best thing out there. I wanted to change my game and play more deliberately, and I knew this marker would make me focus more on the field. I wouldn't necessarily recommend this as a beginner marker anymore since there are quite a few better options out there these days. The A-5 is really a hobbyist/enthusiast marker now. Don't get me wrong. People can still dominate with this marker (I have witnessed it), but there is a steep learning curve when you play with people running speedball markers and other full autos. Overall, I really enjoy using this marker, but I think it is an acquired taste. I can't fault anyone for buying it, and I wouldn't discourage anyone from doing so either. If anything, using other markers after this feels too easy, so maybe that is a good place to start. I'm currently saving for a Phenom, so I can't wait to see what a difference that will make. Enjoy!