New to pcps and here, but lurking a while trying to learn. But this gun has had a steep learning curve.
Got the Challenger Elite .457 about 4 months back, because externally regulated and didn't want to deal a shot bell curve with my 1st pcp.
But it's been a head ache.
First blew o-ring in regulator core, reg kept resetting itself lower after few series of shots and I kept trying to reset where I had it. So eventually turned out to far. Only 2nd day out with gun, boy was I sick.
New reg core, same resetting itself lower issue. This time lowered tank psi, turned reg down, then refilled and readjusted reg. But problem continued.
Afraid to take apart gun at first, eventually removed pressure tank to find it was loaded full of oil. I've always used dual filters with my compressor so not from that. Dealer's tech said he'd also seen a few like that from factory.
Cleaned tank and reg, got to finally work properly 2 weeks ago.
Started with MrHP's slugs but had large deviations across shot string on chronograph. Slugged bore, was .457, resulting in his barely engaging lands. Groove's were .461ish. So got myself for setup casting .460, more $. Experimented sizing .458, .459, and powder coating. Best results just .460 as cast. And absolutely hates powder coated slugs.
Next, last weekend, suddenly started what I thought was valve bouncing, by double firing randomly. Tech support gave possibilities, and sending another spring, not arrived yet.
Less afraid now, took apart gun this morning and found valve pin was hanging up in it's o-ring. Fortunately had already bought the o-ring kit for gun. Replaced o-ring (#42 in gun diagram) and valve pin moved smoothly. 50+ rounds today FINALLY not a single issue.
Also had a older scope go out during all this. But life time warranties aren't any good after the company goes out of business. New scope arrived yesterday but haven't mounted. Today was simply testing and shooting thru chrono.
Now agree with countless post throughout forum, AEA is for those who don't mind working on their gun.
But even fighting the regulator issue, and before scope gave out it can be a tack driver. At 50 yrds I've had 3 and 4 same hole and the other nealy touching those.