Let’s Dive into Benjamin Charging Cylinder
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder offers a lightweight and convenient solution for PCP airgun enthusiasts looking to fill their guns in the field. Benjamin, a trusted name in airguns, has designed this cylinder to be portable and reliable, promising multiple fills from a single charge. This carbon fiber cylinder is rated for 4500psi and includes essential features like a fill hose, pressure gauge, and bleed valve.
I was tired of being tethered to my home compressor or relying on inconvenient trips to the dive shop. I needed a reliable, portable solution to keep my airguns topped off during extended outings.
My first impression was how incredibly light the cylinder felt. The carbon fiber construction is immediately apparent and inspires confidence, and the build quality appeared solid, with smooth threading on the fill connection. It’s a compact unit that seems purpose-built for mobile use.
Compared to lugging around a heavier steel tank or relying on hand pumps, the Benjamin Charging Cylinder seemed like a game-changer. While some smaller aluminum cylinders exist, their fill capacity is significantly lower. I also considered a larger carbon fiber tank, but the increase in size and weight defeated the purpose of portability.
I was immediately excited by the promise of a truly portable and convenient airgun charging solution. The potential for increased independence and flexibility in the field was compelling.
Real-World Testing: Putting Benjamin Charging Cylinder to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Benjamin Charging Cylinder at my local shooting range and during a weekend varmint hunting trip on a friend’s property. The range test allowed me to carefully monitor fill pressures and shot counts under controlled conditions. The hunting trip put the cylinder’s portability and ruggedness to the test.
Performance was consistent across both environments. Even with morning dew on the ground during my hunting trip, the stainless steel fill connection remained rust-free, and the grippy hand wheel was easy to manipulate with slightly damp hands.
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. Connecting it to my airguns was straightforward, and the hand wheel allowed for precise control of the fill rate.
The only surprise was how quickly the pressure dropped when filling my Benjamin Bulldog. This highlighted the importance of understanding the cylinder’s capacity relative to the airgun being filled.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Benjamin Charging Cylinder continues to perform flawlessly. I use it at least twice a month, refilling various PCP airguns.
The cylinder has proven to be remarkably durable. Despite being tossed in the back of my truck and carried through brush, there are no signs of dents, scratches, or any compromise in its structural integrity.
Maintenance has been minimal, consisting primarily of wiping down the cylinder with a damp cloth after use. I ensure the fill connection is clean and free of debris before each fill.
Compared to the hassle of frequent trips to fill a scuba tank, the Benjamin Charging Cylinder has been a significant upgrade. It has streamlined my airgun shooting experience and allowed me to spend more time in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Benjamin Charging Cylinder
Specifications
4500psi Rating: This high-pressure rating allows for efficient air storage, providing more fills per cylinder volume. This means more shooting time and less frequent refills.
Carbon Fiber Construction: Carbon fiber dramatically reduces weight compared to steel or aluminum, making it easier to carry and transport. The lightweight design makes this tank ideal for field use.
Stainless Steel Fill Connection: The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and ensures a reliable connection with fill adapters. This material choice prevents rust and provides longevity.
12″ Microbore Hose: The flexible microbore hose allows for easy connection to airguns in various positions, while minimizing air loss during filling. The shorter hose also makes it easier to pack and transport the cylinder.
Grippy Hand Wheel: The hand wheel provides precise control over the fill rate, preventing overfilling and ensuring safe operation. It is easy to manipulate with gloves or in inclement weather.
Built-in Pressure Gauge: The integrated pressure gauge allows for easy monitoring of cylinder pressure, preventing overfilling and providing valuable information about remaining air capacity. The gauge is essential for managing air reserves and planning refills.
Bleed Valve: The bleed valve allows for safe and controlled venting of air pressure, facilitating safe disconnection of the fill hose. It ensures no air is wasted and prevents damage to the fill valve.
90 cu in (14.72 cubic feet) Capacity: This capacity offers a good balance between portability and fill volume, providing a sufficient number of fills for most PCP airguns. It provides a practical amount of air for multiple refills in the field.
DOT Certified: The Benjamin Charging Cylinder meets Department of Transportation safety standards for compressed gas cylinders, assuring safe transport and use. This certification is critical for legal and safe operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder performs its job exceptionally well, providing a reliable and portable source of compressed air for PCP airguns. It consistently delivers the expected number of fills, and the fill rate is easily controlled.
The cylinder’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, ease of use, and consistent performance. A potential weakness is its relatively small capacity compared to larger tanks, but that is the trade-off for enhanced portability.
It exceeded my expectations in terms of portability and ease of use. The lightweight design makes it a true pleasure to carry in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and meticulous construction. The carbon fiber is smooth and durable, and the stainless steel components are precisely machined.
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder is very user-friendly, requiring no special tools or training. Even a novice airgunner can quickly learn to use it safely and effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder appears to be built to last, thanks to its robust carbon fiber construction and stainless steel components. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and visual inspection. The fill connection should be kept clean and free of debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder comes with all the necessary components for immediate use, including the fill hose and adapter. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it is compatible with standard fill adapters and quick-connect fittings.
The cylinder works seamlessly with the Benjamin hand pump adapter, allowing for alternative filling options if a compressor is unavailable. The standard threading also allows for compatibility with various aftermarket fill probes and connectors.
Pros and Cons of Benjamin Charging Cylinder
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight and portable thanks to its carbon fiber construction. This makes it ideal for carrying in a backpack or vehicle for field use.
- Easy to use with a simple and intuitive design. Even novice users can quickly learn to fill their PCP airguns safely and efficiently.
- Provides multiple fills from a single charge, significantly increasing shooting time. This reduces reliance on compressors or trips to fill stations.
- Durable and reliable construction ensures long-lasting performance. The carbon fiber and stainless steel components withstand harsh conditions.
- Integrated pressure gauge and bleed valve enhance safety and control during fills. This allows precise monitoring and prevents overfilling.
Cons
- Relatively high price compared to steel tanks, but the weight savings justify the investment for many users.
- Smaller capacity compared to larger tanks might require more frequent refills for high-consumption airguns.
Who Should Buy Benjamin Charging Cylinder?
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder is perfect for hunters, field target shooters, and anyone who values portability and convenience when filling their PCP airguns. It is an ideal solution for those who need to top off their airguns in remote locations or at the range without access to a compressor.
Those who primarily shoot at a fixed location with easy access to a compressor or who require a very large volume of air may not find the Benjamin Charging Cylinder as beneficial. It is not the most economical choice for users who do not prioritize portability.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality fill adapter that matches your specific airgun. A protective case or bag is also recommended to protect the cylinder during transport.
Conclusion on Benjamin Charging Cylinder
The Benjamin Charging Cylinder is a well-designed and high-quality product that delivers on its promise of portability and convenience. It provides a reliable and easy-to-use solution for filling PCP airguns in the field.
While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the weight savings and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for serious airgun enthusiasts. It strikes an excellent balance between size, capacity, and performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Benjamin Charging Cylinder to anyone looking for a portable and reliable air source for their PCP airguns. If you value freedom and flexibility in your shooting experience, this cylinder is a game-changer. Invest in your shooting experience today and get your Benjamin Charging Cylinder now!