Editing Smart Parts Ion (section)

== History ==

=== Development and introduction (2005) ===

Smart Parts developed the Ion during 2004 as a lower-priced electronic marker.

The project incorporated a newly designed solenoid, a compact spool-valve firing assembly and a replaceable polymer body covering.

Unlike the company's premium [[Smart Parts Shocker|Shocker]] and Nerve markers, the Ion was designed around simplified construction and lower manufacturing costs.

The Ion was introduced in early 2005 at a recommended retail price of approximately US$275.[2]

In an August 2005 technical review, WARPIG described the Ion as an important development in the availability of electropneumatic markers below US$300.[1]

=== Commercial adoption ===

The Ion became a commercially successful product for Smart Parts.

Its relatively low purchase price provided an alternative to more expensive electronic markers then used in tournament competition.

The marker incorporated electronic firing modes, a vertical regulator and Smart Parts' Vision anti-chop eye system as standard equipment.

The Ion also supported an extensive aftermarket industry, with manufacturers offering replacement bodies, bolts, triggers, regulators and electronic components.

A retrospective published by Paint Magazine reports that more than 100,000 Ions were sold within a year of its introduction.[2]

=== Ion XE (2007) ===

Smart Parts introduced the '''Ion XE''' in 2007.

The principal change was a redesigned rear section allowing the bolt assembly to be removed from the back of the marker.

On the original Ion, access to the bolt required more extensive disassembly.

The Ion XE simplified routine cleaning and maintenance while retaining the basic spool-valve operating system.

The model also retained the Ion's interchangeable external body concept.[2][3]

=== Epiphany and EOS ===

Smart Parts developed additional markers based on the Ion platform.

The '''Epiphany''', introduced in 2006, incorporated a magnesium-alloy external body, revised firing components and an adjustable-volume firing chamber.

It also included a Freak Junior barrel and other upgraded components.

The '''EOS''' followed as another premium version of the Ion platform.

The EOS incorporated features associated with the Epiphany and adopted the rear-access bolt arrangement introduced with the Ion XE.[2]

These models were marketed under their own names rather than as numbered Ion generations.