I’m thinking about...

Since no one will help you, I'll chime in. For a first 'cocker, I'd suggest looking for a basic 2k4 Vert (Prostock). That was my first model, and I loved it. They're all essentially the same, so feel free to get whatever, but the Verts/Prostocks should be a lot cheaper. As for electronic or mech, that's up to you. For sheer performance, there's no denying the benefits of an E-Blade or Race frame, but for that magical feel 'cockers are known for, mech is the way to go. In regards to timing, it's really not as difficult as people make it out to be. At least when you get the hang of it. If you get an electro 'cocker, the timing is all electronic (basically dwell).

So in conclusion, the E-'cocker would be the most practical and easiest to maintain, but the mech would have that certain magic to it us 'cocker nuts have come to love. :)

Well, yes and no. There are different types of 'cockers that have subtle differences. Let's start with the basics. The pre-2K 'cockers have a smaller diamater banjo bolt to fit the smaller valve chamber. Also, their bodies were wider, so you'd need to have a pre-2K vertical ASA as well. Then there's Evo-length 'cocker bolts. These are shorter bolts for P-blocked 'cockers, such as earlier STO's. And then there's the mini-'cocker. These use shorter timing rods and pump arms. Other than that, yeah, 'cocker parts are pretty much universal. That's why I'm starting to not understand the fuss over expensive bodies. I mean yeah, I love my Ripper, but just know that a 2K4 Prostock can be made to shoot just as good as anything else out there.