Filling PCP's and " Dive cylinders"

[D4V1D]

Not knowing anything about pcp guns how do you know when the correct pressure is in the tank? Is it a case of 'how many pumps' or are there guages built in to the gun/pump? This may seem like a stupid question but I am of the old school, 'If you don't know, ask!' I have also seen mentioned filters, and 'dry packs' can someone explain this to me. (Email if you prefer) Thanks for looking Kimosabe - Tonto

There is a gauge on charging unit, whether that be from a pump or divers bottle. There is also a gauge on almost all pcp rifles. The dry packs reffer to a unit on the Hills pump. It is a moisture stage filter. Hope that clears that up fella.

Some pictures as well.

Pump with dry pack
67.jpg

Gauge on under side of stock
GLD-00133-copy.jpg

[andyhawkx3]

There is a gauge on charging unit, whether that be from a pump or divers bottle. There is also a gauge on almost all pcp rifles. The dry packs reffer to a unit on the Hills pump. It is a moisture stage filter. Hope that clears that up fella.

Some pictures as well.

Pump with dry pack
67.jpg

Gauge on under side of stock
GLD-00133-copy.jpg

Always, but always take note of the gauge on the pump or scuba tank, never the gauge on the gun ..the gauge on the gun is for your convenience ..ie ...let you when to stop shooting, due for a refill or top up, or that you may have a leak on your gun. ...but saying that I know of one exemption, that being the WH100

[Bobba]

No matter what cylinder size or pressure rating you get, you will have to have it inspected and tested 5 years after it has been made and thereafter every 2 years. That can cost anything up to 40£ per test. Prices for filling a dive cylinder vary from 5 to 15£ a pop so you will have to go and find that out for yourselves.

An interesting and useful post. But and update on testing.

If a cylinder has a pillar valve and integrated contents gauge incapable of supporting scuba diving then the cylinder is regarded as for surface use only and tested 5 years from manufacture and 5 years after the first test.

If the pillar valve ("A" clamp or DIN) is capable of supporting scuba diving then it regarded as a dive cylinder. Effectively it is tested every two and a half years but the tests alternate between a hydrostatic or visual test.

It is hydrostatically tested 5 years from date of manufacture (stamped on the shoulder of the cylinder) and hydrostatically tested at 5 year intervals thereafter BUT it must also have a visual test half way thorough these periods i.e at 2yrs 6 mths then 7 yrs 6 mths. This is why, when tested, the IDEST sticker gives an in test life of 2 yrs 6 mths before the next test be it hydrostatic or visual.

Not easy for non-divers to get their heads around this one but this is what is required.

PS: You may have guessed by now - I am a diver.

[Tonto]

Interesting stuff this. Thanks very much. I can see me picking mor brains in the near future when I get my pcp rifle. Thanks again. Tonto

[unclesparks]

I have a smallish cylinder that i use for charging the Falcon and wanted a bigger one just for ease that i wouldnt have to take it for charging as often. I have been looking on ebay and see 15 litre diving tanks that are going cheap for around £30. I take it with the correct adaptor there is no reason why i could use one of these. Spending £200 plus at the gun shop seems way out of my league in the present economic climate. Does anyone know if this is possible. Because they are so heavy most people on ebay will only do cash on collection so a quick search on nearest first had a couple within an hours drive starting at £20 with no bids so there are bargins out there.

[Andy]

If there just dive bottles, then you would need an A-clamp or Din fitting for the bottle, that's another £60 then if the bottle is out of test you would need it re testing. You want to get a 300 bar bottle if possible.

[unclesparks]

How much does it cost to have it tested and how long does it last?

[Andy]

How much does it cost to have it tested and how long does it last?

Never had one tested yet so not sure what the price is, it tells you how long the test lasts in post 12 of this thread.

[Sako 30-06]

Never had one tested yet so not sure what the price is, it tells you how long the test lasts in post 12 of this thread.

Iv'e just bought one with a new test on it. The bloke showed me the receipt it had cost him £40.00 that was for the hydrostatic test the visual test is £30.00 but its ok now for 2 and a half years. I also got the certificate of test as well. He also told me if the cylinder is fitted with a surface valve not a dive valve the test lasts 5 years

[fishzx7r]

I have a smallish cylinder that i use for charging the Falcon and wanted a bigger one just for ease that i wouldnt have to take it for charging as often. I have been looking on ebay and see 15 litre diving tanks that are going cheap for around £30. I take it with the correct adaptor there is no reason why i could use one of these. Spending £200 plus at the gun shop seems way out of my league in the present economic climate. Does anyone know if this is possible. Because they are so heavy most people on ebay will only do cash on collection so a quick search on nearest first had a couple within an hours drive starting at £20 with no bids so there are bargins out there.

Just read this post and noticed you have a Falcon, I have just purchased a falcon pcp, what are your view's on this make of airgun,
It seem's pretty good quality and is very accurate,