Editing Air Power (section)

=== Development of the Vector ===

Air Power introduced its first semi-automatic marker, the [[Air Power Vector|Vector]], in February 1993.

The Vector was a pneumatically operated, open-bolt marker that combined a Nelson-style firing valve with an automatic cycling mechanism controlled by a four-way pneumatic valve.

It featured a removable barrel, regulated pneumatic cycling system and a mechanism intended to reduce paintball breakage during feeding.[1]

Unlike the company's earlier pump markers, the Vector was a mechanically complex design.

The first production version, subsequently identified as the Model A, experienced problems with gas efficiency, inconsistent velocity and valve component durability.

These problems affected the marker's early reputation.[1][5]

Air Power introduced the revised Model B during 1994. The redesign improved gas efficiency and velocity consistency and replaced the original valve tube with a stronger stainless-steel valve shaft.

Later Model B markers were available in Backbottle and Thruster configurations, the latter allowing velocity adjustment through an external regulator.

The Model C followed during late 1994 and early 1995, introducing a bottom-line grip configuration.[1]

Despite the improvements, the Vector did not achieve widespread commercial success.

Its original retail price was approximately US$600, and the manufacturer faced difficulty overcoming the reputation established by the earliest models.

An Air Power Owners Group history estimated total production at approximately 1,200 to 1,300 Vectors.

Production ended in 1995.[1]