What is better? Pre-Built or Upgraded Gearboxes?
When it comes to upgrading guns, there is the common question of, "should I upgrade the gearbox or buy a already built gearbox?". I am a big advocate for not using pre-built gearboxes just based on the current market with no good selections. When exploring big websites like Evike or Taiwangun, their selection of "upgraded" gearboxes is mis-represented since they are not really considered "upgraded". They are more of "OEM Spares" for being used to replaced the same gearbox that would come in the gun from the factory.
Here are some Pros and Cons between upgrading and pre-built:
Upgrading
Pros:
- Larger selection of parts that are better quality and can offer a higher performance.
- More tunable compared to "factory tuning".
- Guaranteed compatibility.
- Better performance achieving (FPS, Accuracy, Feeding).
Con:
- More Costly.
- Hard to find a good tech for reliable work.
- Harder to compile a compatibility list.
- Not all parts are compatible in every system.
I would say if you were interested in upgrading your gearbox and are new to choosing parts. I would encourage you to reach out to a manufacture or retailer that has a tech that can help assist with a list. You would just need to be accurate with the type of gun and performance you are looking to achieve.
Pre-Built
Pros:
- Readily available as a complete gearbox.
- Direct drop-in if using the same brand as the gun.
- No tuning required.
- Sometimes cheaper than upgrading.
Cons:
- No real performance upgrade.
- Stock quality parts.
- Not all gearboxes fit in all brands.
- Stuck with common OEM issues.
Pre-built gearboxes are a harder market to tap into and definitely need some researched performed when considering this option. Although there are many factors in play when choosing the right gearbox, there are companies that are using OEM gearbox shells and upgrading the internals only. That guarantees fitment but offers some performance upgrades. All you would have to calculate is whether or not the gun is going to be accurate, feed, or the FPS you are going to get.
Hope this guide helps you make the decision that you might be on the fence about. I still personally find upgrading a existing gearbox is the best option, but it really comes down to the end user and what feels is going to be the most comfortable and easiest for them. All I can do is layout out the experiences I had.