Might be a dumb A-5 question.

[glaman5266]

I've noticed a few times now that some people like the newer A-5s over the older ones. I've always been one to prefer the older "made in the USA" ones 'cause I've rarely had issues with them & I've read that the Tippmann quality took a hit after selling out to GI. (still decent though) But I've seen people commenting on various places on the internet about how nice the newer A-5s are. Why? The only differences I can tell offhand are the green paddles, trig frame & double fittings on the passenger side instead of the one. Are these the only differences? Just curious as to why people seem to like these over the older ones.

[Toestr]

I think they just have cleaner lines.

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[Magmoormaster]

I've actually heard the opposite. I have never heard anyone say the newer ones are better than the old.

[smiffington]

Although I've never bought a new one myself, I've had a few used a5's that have had the selector switches worn down to the point that they would flop about during use. Especially on egripped ones. Not a problem I've had on older a5's. I also prefer the feel of the older trigger frame as well, but that's entirely subjective.

[Dusty Bottoms]

I've only heard people say the old ones are better, and within reason I'd say the same. I've owned early, mid, and newer (post 2011) build A5's, and prefer the older ones. The paint on the original production A5's was a shinier, smoother black, but did chip easier. The clamshells themselves were a bit better finished than the rougher, newer ones usually are too. The hammer designs are different, but I'm not sure why. The little rear sight knob on the early production A5's was also metal instead of plastic, which I think is a nice touch. There's other differences, but basically they're the same marker, and not much different. It's just a preference thing. Most of the aftermarket parts and body kits for the A5 were made for the pre-2011 A5's, before the slector switch, and don't all work on the newer version A5.

No A5, or 98 for that matter, is made or finished as nice as a Pro-Carbine, 68 Carbine, or ProLite though, but the A5/98 does have the better stock trigger.

[Cdn_Cuda]

I’ll echo what others have said. The pre-2011 A-5s are generally considered better made. I’ve flipped a bunch of A-5s the last year or so and general players doesn’t seem to care either way.

Maybe it’s a case of new vs old? It’s newer therefore better in some people’s eyes. I think the new stock barrels are better than old ones.

[XEMON]

I dont have enough experience to talk about the A5 as a whole, ive used the old ones and they shoot good as long as you put an aftermarket barrel.
The newer A5 Ive used were all tricked out by a buddy or Tacamo kits ...

But I definitely confirm the stock barrels are better now than they used to be!

[Cdn_Cuda]

I now have both a new and old A-5, so easier to compare. The new A-5s have a different tombstone setup which makes them a little easier to dissemble and removes the little latch and spring. Maybe I should take some photos and go over the differences.

[XEMON]

Thats a great idea.
A few pictures would be easier to understand

[glaman5266]

I'd be interested in pics as well. Sounds neat.

[Cdn_Cuda]

I’ve sold my extra A-5 but next time I pick one up I’ll get some photos and go through the differences.

[melkson]

Just keep in mind the new tombstone can't be used with old gripframes, as it uses the gripframe instead of the latch and magic spring.