[arkansasbowman]

Now time for me to buy, have to figure out my budget and decide what works good for someone that has always just rented

[mandiesbaby483]

Fire your sons setup a few times and get a good feel for it. An electro is a lot different than a rental for sure. go to your local store and get your hands on a few different models in your price range. Have the dealer throw a tank on each so you can shoulder the gun. Each one feels different. Find what's comfortable. Hell, if the dealer really wants to sell a particular gun, they will probably load a few rounds and take you to the range if they have one.

The biggest thing about gear imo is don't be pressured to place a price tag on performance or quality. My Axe setup with loader and custom Crossfire still costs less than base models of the higher priced guns. It shoots like a champ and has afforded me the ability to buy equipment for my son and I without breaking the bank.

[balsac]

My mini has been rock solid. I also have some Empire pads and a few Empire loaders also. I take care of my gear, but also like to push it to the limit. I feel their quality is awesome. Plus, they have a tech on this forum. That blew my mind when I found that out. That is some great service right there. I haven't had to call them but lots of people rave about their customer service. That being said... I have an etek also and some Planet Eclipse gear as well. I can say the same for PE also.

[minimag03]

If he is still renting all his stuff, his first purchase should be a nice mask. It doesn't matter how nice his gun is if he cannot see to shoot it because his mask is fogged up.