A5 mag fed conversion?

[COB]

I have been following this thread for a while. I get what you are trying to do. I have mag fed all sorts of semi blow backs. The main goal was to modify the original marker body, not buy yet another marker body to swap parts into. The A5 is the only one that I haven't modified. I have mag fed the Knock off PCS US5. The hardest part working with the A5 body is the gaping hole for the cyclone feeder.
You need to decide if you want to use FSR or just round ball. The round ball can be fed from any direction. The FSR need to be inline, feed direction 90 degree to the body. Then you need to decide on the type of magazine. Single stack like the TiPX or Zeta. Double stack like Dmags or DAM mags. Continuous feed mags that hold 18 to 20 rounds. Type of mags dictate size and placement of the mag well. This can make the marker difficult to hold.
If the member above's bolt on 3D printed adaptor works, that is probably your easiest answer. Alternatively, you could create your own system.
Please post your decision. I would love to see what you create.

[HarleyQuinn]

Thank you! I appreciate the insight here.


I have yet to decide, the kits are tempting, and I might for simplicity sake. Though it'd be pretty cool to make my own as well (winter time project).
Blocking the hole, my first thought is jb weld, but I don't like using that near friction or air pressure parts.
My next thought is a bolt on plate kind of deal, that fits into the hold, and over the area. That'd have to be pretty precise of course. I don't think the.. low temp aluminum solder stuff I've used in the past would work, maybe, but not sure I have a place I could do it anyway.

As far as roundball vs FS, I haven't really settled on either tbh. I have a marker I can use for FS (well 2 counting the revolver), and it would be nice to use either, but that adds to the difficulty imo. I'd love to have a drum mag of sorts, but I feel like I'd need to acquire a 3d printer to have a chance at getting it to work.


So that's the cross roads I'm at. Do I buy a kit and take the easy (but mostly functional) route, or finagle something myself from scratch. Regardless of choice, I'll probably document how it all goes (downside is testing will be tricky, as I'm in an apartment these days).

[COB]

When I modified 98s and other similar markers, I used JB weld to fill the original feed ports. It will take some smoothing and sanding, to allow free travel of the bolt, but it holds perfectly fine. Your concerns about pressure at the JB welds are not necessary. The bolt and power tube send all the air pressure up the barrel.
I have toyed with the idea of making a drum mag, that wraps around the body enough, to feed through the original feed port. Like you, I don't have access to a 3D printer. More importantly, my Neanderthal tendencies make use of computer technology a pipe dream or witchcraft. I'm more of a low-tech Amish build kind of tinkerer. Most of my custom builds are done with hand tools. I'm sure you will find the right balance for what you are trying to achieve.
As for testing, you may have to create a noise friendly, easily installed, diagnostic barrel accessory.