Tippmann X-7 Phenom 

This marker definitely lives up to its name! Rarely does a player come across a marker that is so complete (yet customizable,) easy to maintain and operate, and a blast to use. When I received the marker the first thing that I noticed was the small and compact box the marker arrived in. After experiencing this marker for almost a week, the expression “good things come in small packages” comes to mind. Despite its small size the Phenom’s box commands attention and provides a wealth of information about the marker contained inside. Earlier in the year, I noticed an announcement that Tippmann made the effort to push to a “greener” business and the box is a great example of the effort’s success. The foam inside is cut out perfectly and will keep the marker well protected in-between use.

 Now onto the marker: 

The Tippmann X-7 Phenom marker is lighter, shorter, and comes with a longer barrel than the X-7 marker. Another major difference is the Phenom is an electro-pneumatic marker that uses an open bolt blow forward spool valve system. The spool valve design eliminates recoil; therefore less aim adjustment between each shoot is required. This is especially important in making sure every shot counts when the marker is firing at 15 bps. 

The low profile hopper still holds 200 paintballs but sits lower than previous cyclone hoppers. The hopper did require a fair amount of force to install and remove, but I had no worries that the lid would stay closed and not unexpectedly pop open. The cyclone feed paddles have been improved to not break paintballs while easily keeping up with full auto fire rate (no batteries necessary). 

Adjusting the velocity on this marker has changed from previous Tippmann markers. Instead of twisting a screw left and right, adjustments are made by turning the adjustor upwards and downwards. Players still have the option of using CO2, compressed air, or nitrogen with this marker. Also a remote line, which is my preferred method, can be connected and used. For those who wish to do so, air thru stock systems can still be attached. 

I am thrilled that the stock Phenom comes with only top and bottom picantinny rails. Having picantinny rails on each side of the X-7 marker made it uncomfortable to hold under the stock shroud. The picantinny rails that are included can be used to attach any number of accessories. I always appreciate sling mounts and this marker does not disappoint in that option. 

The internal gasline is a dream that has come true. Since my I first purchased a Tippmann marker my biggest cosmetic complaint was that the gasline was exposed. The Phenom cleverly uses the space within the hand grip to hide the gasline, while also encloses the electronic board and battery. The three position selector switch makes this marker easily switched between the safe position, manual trigger pull, and the electronically controlled firing modes. The marker is pre-programmed with five different firing modes. Three round burst, full auto, auto response, turbo mode, and semi auto are the different options a player can select. With the help of the manual, switching between each mode and understanding each firing mode is simple. The manual also covers how to fine tune each firing mode in the advanced programming section. Players that follow this guide will see how easily the setting can be adjusted. Also helpful is the marker’s low battery feature. “As the battery loses power, the LED stops flashes green, and changes to flashing red.” Players no longer have to guess if their marker’s battery is going to die in the middle of play. If this does happen, a player can easily move the selector switch to the manual fire mode and continue to manually fire the marker. This option is not available with most electronic markers. Just as easy is the ability for a player to switch the battery. The battery door pops out of the back of the grip and the battery can be accessed and replaced. 

As always, Tippmann generously includes tools, supplies, and barrel blocks, most of which fit into the magazine clip of the marker. With this marker, the quick-release tools storage magazine fits snuggly and releases smoothly from its holder. I comfortably use the feature as a front grip. This marker is also one of the easiest markers to maintain. Just pop open the back, remove a few parts, and oil. Just as easy is the process to return the parts when maintenance is complete. 

            One last thing, this marker is a Tippmann so that means this marker is built to last. When push comes to shove, I would take this marker over any other electro-marker and not have to worry about breaking anything. This marker is definitely not going to break down on game day spoiling all the fun. 

            Overall, I love this marker. Full auto capability, no visible gasline, easy maintenance, no recoil, sling mounts, and durability are all favorite features of this marker.