Editing Smart Parts (section)

=== Introduction of the Ion ===

In February 2005, Smart Parts announced the '''[[Smart Parts Ion|Ion]]''', a lower-cost electropneumatic marker intended to make electronic tournament equipment accessible to a wider market.

The original Ion was marketed at approximately US$300, substantially less than many contemporary professional-level electronic markers.[11]

Its design incorporated a simplified spool-valve mechanism, electronic firing modes, break-beam ball-detection eyes and a polymer outer body.

Contemporary testing by WARPIG identified the Ion as an important development in the availability of affordable electropneumatic paintball equipment.[12]

The marker became one of Smart Parts' most commercially successful products.

According to the company's founders, more than 100,000 Ion markers were sold during the first year of production.[1]

In 2007, Smart Parts introduced the Ion XE, incorporating a revised body and rear-access bolt system intended to simplify maintenance.

The Ion platform also provided the basis for several related markers, including the Epiphany and EOS.