Ion XE and Vibe Firing Chamber Compatibility

[Daytonastreetlights]

I was looking to convert my mech Ion to an Ion XE so I can have bolt out back. However, finding a Ion XE firing chamber seems to be a bit of a challenge. Does anyone know if the Vibe breech is the same as the Ion XE? It looks very similar, and they seem to share the same Ion family bolt type.

[JeeperCreeper]

I know the XE's feedneck mount via threaded insert in the outer shell, unlike old Ions that had the threading right in the breech. I'd Imagine the Vibe is a similar situation. Also the newer cans are slightly larger OD, so they dont fit the old bodies. So both of those problems together made me stick with the OG platform for anything Ion that I use a hopper with. Basically what I'm trying to say is you're going to also need a body no matter which BOB body you go with, or modify the new style cans to accept a hopper. Hope this helps.

[JeeperCreeper]

Also, being a mech, you really shouldn't have to do much for maintenance. I drop in a couple drops of oil into the ASA and cycle it through. No noid to worry about, so the oil can work its way through the whole system. Dont over do it with the oil though, too much and it will be in your breech.

[Daytonastreetlights]

I know the XE's feedneck mount via threaded insert in the outer shell, unlike old Ions that had the threading right in the breech. I'd Imagine the Vibe is a similar situation. Also the newer cans are slightly larger OD, so they dont fit the old bodies. So both of those problems together made me stick with the OG platform for anything Ion that I use a hopper with. Basically what I'm trying to say is you're going to also need a body no matter which BOB body you go with, or modify the new style cans to accept a hopper. Hope this helps.

Old Ion XE bodies are reasonably available, BOB Ion bodies not so much. I already got burned on one I picked up that had damaged threads for the rear fitting. This kind of led me down the path of converting to an Ion XE body, since I would rather deal with components that are a bit more common place and not reasonably sought after, assuming the Vibe firing chamber is the same that was used for the XE.

I might just take a plunge and see how it works out, if not I have some parts for a mech Ion rifle I've been wanting to build.

[JeeperCreeper]

Im definitely down with an Ion rifle. I got a link in my signature for my Ion rifle, its the quietest marker Ive ever heard.