Benjamin Charging Cylinder Review

What Happened When I Tried the Benjamin Charging Cylinder

As someone who spends more time with gear than with people sometimes, I’m always on the lookout for reliable tools. My quest for a better way to power my personal airguns led me to the Benjamin Charging Cylinder. This compact, carbon-fiber tank promised a solution to the frequent need to refill my air rifles and pistols.

The real driver behind this purchase was a particularly frustrating day out. After just a couple of good shooting sessions, my air tanks were depleted, cutting short an otherwise perfect afternoon at the range. It meant a hurried trip to a fill station, interrupting the flow and adding unnecessary hassle.

My initial impression of the cylinder was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. It felt surprisingly light for its apparent robustness. The stainless steel fill connection and the integrated pressure gauge hinted at a well-thought-out design, even before I connected it to anything.

While I considered a larger, bulkier HPA tank, the portability of this model was a major selling point. The prospect of a lighter, more manageable unit that could easily fit into a backpack made the decision easier.

The moment I held it, there was a sense of quiet satisfaction. This wasn’t just another piece of equipment; it felt like a genuine step up in managing my airgun needs.

Real-World Testing: Putting Benjamin Charging Cylinder to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of this charging cylinder was at my usual outdoor shooting spot. This is an area where I’m often far from a compressor or SCUBA fill station, making a portable solution essential. I had brought it along specifically to top off my Marauder Rifle after a series of extended plinking sessions.

The cylinder handled itself admirably. Despite being exposed to a bit of dust kicked up from the dry ground and the general wear and tear of being transported in a pack, its performance remained consistent. There were no signs of degradation or operational hiccups even after repeated fills throughout the day.

Using the unit was remarkably intuitive. The grippy hand wheel for controlled filling was a standout feature, providing excellent tactile feedback. I didn’t need any complex instructions; it was clear what each component was for from the outset.

My only minor surprise was how quickly the pressure dropped on the gauge as I filled my rifle, a testament to the demanding nature of PCP airguns. It wasn’t an issue with the cylinder itself, but more a reminder of the energy stored within.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, this charging cylinder has become an indispensable part of my outdoor kit. I’ve used it for everything from quick top-ups at the range to extended days where multiple firearms needed refilling. It has consistently delivered reliable performance without any notable decline.

Durability has been excellent. The carbon fiber construction has resisted the inevitable bumps and scrapes that come with field use. I haven’t noticed any cracks, stiffness, or leaks, which is crucial for a high-pressure vessel.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A simple wipe-down after use keeps the exterior clean, and the stainless steel fill connection shows no signs of corrosion or wear. There’s nothing particularly complex to maintain, which is a huge plus for busy users.

Compared to older, heavier aluminum SCUBA tanks I’ve used for airgun filling in the past, this Benjamin unit is a revelation. It’s significantly lighter, making it far more portable, and the integrated features streamline the entire process.

Breaking Down the Features of Benjamin Charging Cylinder

Specifications

This cylinder boasts an impressive 4500 PSI rating, allowing it to fully charge even the most demanding PCP airguns. Its carbon fiber construction is a key feature, bringing the weight in at under five pounds, a significant advantage for portability. The unit measures approximately 15 inches in length with a 4-inch diameter, making it compact enough to fit comfortably in a backpack.

The stainless steel fill connection ensures durability and a secure seal during fills. It comes equipped with a 12-inch microbore hose and a grippy hand wheel that allows for precise control over the filling process. A built-in pressure gauge offers immediate visual feedback on the cylinder’s remaining pressure, and a bleed valve is included for safe and easy pressure release.

The cylinder has a 90 cubic inch capacity. This translates to a substantial number of fills for most common airguns. For example, expect around 34 fills for a Marauder Pistol (refilled at 2000 psi) and up to 10 fills for a Marauder Rifle (refilled at 2000 psi).

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Benjamin Charging Cylinder is to store and deliver high-pressure air, and it performs this task exceptionally well. The 4500 PSI rating is more than sufficient for any common PCP airgun, ensuring you have plenty of power for multiple shots and refills. The microbore hose is flexible yet robust, and the connection is secure and leak-free during operation.

Its biggest strength is undoubtedly its portability combined with its high-pressure capability. This allows for a full day of shooting without needing to return to a fixed fill station. A minor point of consideration is that refilling higher-pressure airguns from near empty requires the cylinder to have a higher starting pressure, which is inherent to the physics of compressed air.

The unit meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose. The integrated pressure gauge is accurate and easy to read, providing crucial information without needing separate equipment. The bleed valve operates smoothly, allowing for controlled venting of excess air.

Design & Ergonomics

The carbon fiber construction gives the cylinder a modern, high-tech feel while being incredibly lightweight. The overall build quality feels very solid, with no rattles or loose parts. The stainless steel fittings are nicely machined and provide a professional finish.

Ergonomically, the grippy hand wheel is a standout feature. It makes operating the fill valve comfortable and precise, even with gloves on. The size and shape are well-balanced, making it easy to handle and position for filling.

The layout of the pressure gauge and bleed valve is logical and accessible. They are positioned for easy viewing and manipulation during the filling process. The 12-inch hose offers just enough length to comfortably connect the cylinder to an airgun without being excessively long or cumbersome.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, this charging cylinder is built for longevity. The carbon fiber composite is inherently strong and resistant to impacts. The high-pressure seals appear to be of excellent quality, showing no signs of wear or degradation after numerous fill cycles.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down of the exterior and ensuring the fill connection is free of debris is all that’s typically needed. It’s DOT certified, which speaks to its robust safety standards.

Potential failure points would likely be related to the seals over a very extended period or accidental damage. However, given the quality of materials and construction, I anticipate a long service life with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Benjamin Charging Cylinder comes as a complete, self-contained unit. It includes the cylinder itself, the integrated 12-inch microbore hose, the stainless steel fill connection, and the built-in pressure gauge and bleed valve. There are no additional accessories that typically come with this type of product as it is designed for direct connection to airguns.

While there are no built-in customization options in terms of interchangeable parts on the cylinder itself, its standard HPA fill connection means it is compatible with most airguns designed for 4500 PSI fills. It might require a specific adapter from the fill station side depending on their equipment, as noted in the product description.

Pros and Cons of Benjamin Charging Cylinder

Who Should Buy Benjamin Charging Cylinder?

This charging cylinder is ideal for enthusiast PCP airgun shooters who frequently venture outdoors or to ranges where high-pressure fill stations are not readily accessible. It’s perfect for those who prioritize portability and convenience without sacrificing the ability to fully charge their airguns. Hobbyists who enjoy extended shooting sessions and want a reliable, self-contained solution will find this unit invaluable.

Individuals who only shoot occasionally or have consistent access to a 4500 PSI compressor might not see the immediate value, especially given the cost. Those primarily using lower-pressure airguns might also find the 4500 PSI rating to be overkill, though it offers excellent future-proofing.

For maximum efficiency, ensure you have a reliable 4500 PSI fill source available locally. A compatible airgun fill probe will also be necessary to connect to your firearm.

Conclusion on Benjamin Charging Cylinder

The Benjamin Charging Cylinder represents a significant leap forward in portable airgun power solutions. Its lightweight carbon fiber build and 4500 PSI capacity make it an outstanding choice for serious PCP enthusiasts. The thoughtful design, including the integrated gauge and grippy hand wheel, enhances usability and provides confidence during fills.

While the initial cost is higher than basic SCUBA tank setups, the convenience, portability, and performance justify the investment for those who regularly engage in field shooting. It eliminates the hassle of lugging heavy tanks and the uncertainty of finding a suitable fill station.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this charging cylinder to any PCP airgun shooter who values portability and reliable, high-pressure fills. It has earned a permanent place in my gear, and I believe it will do the same for anyone looking to elevate their shooting experience.