Concerning HPA and x-chambers

Hey guys

My Co2 question, first of all:

I have right now a Tippmann A5 with a Lapco SnapShot 14", double trigger, and a 12oz. Co2 tank. I know the A5 is considered a gas hog so I was wondering, it seems like I only get about 200 rounds in before I run out (estimated), is this normal from a 12oz Co2 tank?

Now with the main subject, HPA:

I know what ci/psi means but I really don't know what would be right for me. I don't really want a super heavy tank, so what would be a good fiber wrapped tank?

When I was looking at different tanks, some have gauges, some have preset psi, and some are high or low output. Can someone please explain what all this means?

Connecting this to my A5:

Drop Forward: What would be a good one to get to even out the weight? Also, I see some people say to people in the Marker Gallery that their drop is way too big, so what would you recommend?

Expansion Chamber: I was thinking of getting a x-core (this would just be temporary until I have enough for a HPA tank).  Would this work with a drop forward? I’m guessing that I would need a Macroline kit?  When I decide on a HPA tank, what regulator do you suggest, would a Palmer Stabilizer work? 

I’m sure that there are already posts regarding this subject, but I would rather have someone actually addressing me instead of reading about someone else’s situation. Sorry if this subject comes up a lot.

Thanks to everyone that takes the time to answer my questions!

(if you have the time, please also provide a link to the HPA tanks/drop forwards/regulators you recommend)

ci=cubic inches,the size of the tank

psi-the pressure inside the tank(either 3000,4500,or 5000psi) it can also mean he pressure coming out of the tank.you can find high pressure output tanks and low pressure output tanks.

crossfire makes reliable and fairly inexpensive fiber wrapped tanks.get a high pressure tank for your a-5

personally, i wouldnt use an x-chamber with nitrogen.however,dead on paintball makes the x-core ex-chamber that says it can work with nitro.this would be good if you use nitro and co2.the palmer stabilizer reg also works well with nitro and co2.its about $90 though.

CO2 problem: I'm really not quite sure, but it sounds like a problem to me. I can last a full day (250-500 rds) with a 16 oz on mine.

HPA: There are 3 main pressures and various tank sizes. On a 3000 psi tank you can expect to get roughly 10 shots per ci. On a 4500 about 15 per ci, and i believe 20 shots per ci on a 5000psi tank.

And unless you have a low pressure kit, you have to use  high pressure (800-900 output tank)

As for a tank for you, I suggest a fiber wrapped 45 ci /4500 psi, or a fiber wrapped 68/ 4500. Or if you're over like 15 a steel tank can save you money.

http://www.countypaintball.com/product_description.asp?item= 2308

I would think you should get closer to 500+ shots out of a 12 oz tank.  I really haven't counted, but I've come close to 900 on a 20 oz.

 

DOP VA?you dont need a vertical adapter for the a5.it already comes with one.i thought you wanted a light weight tank(fiber wrapped) you picked steel.

Ok now I'm confused, I read before that you needed a VA and paintballaluke ^ said that too, please clarify .

Yeah I know I said that I wanted a lighter tank but they're all so expensive .  I'd prolly just get this until I get more money to get a fiber wrapped... I read in the Uber Upgrades and FAQ's or somewhere that steel tanks last longer though, is this true?  Would having a steel HPA tank save me more money in the long run?