Design & Erganomics:
Empire Axe 2.0: The Axe 2.0 features a larger and more ergonomic grip frame compared to the Mini GS. This provides a comfortable feel players with larger hands. It has a longer overall length which gives you a more stable feel during gameplay.
Empire Mini GS: The Mini GS is designed to be compact and lightweight. This makes is a great choice for players who prefer a smaller marker or have smaller hands. It has a more streamlined profile which allows for better maneuverability on the field.
Air System:
Empire Axe 2.0: The Axe 2.0 utilizes a standard ASA (Air Source Adapter) with an ON/OFF lever, providing convenient air management and easy tank removal. It is compatible with both CO2 and HPA (High-Pressure Air) tanks.
Empire
Mini GS: The Mini GS features a built-in ASA with an integrated regulator, offering consistent air pressure for improved shot-to-shot accuracy. It is also compatible with both CO2 and HPA tanks.
Firing Mechanism:
Empire Axe 2.0: The Axe 2.0 utilizes a poppet valve firing system, which delivers smooth and reliable performance with minimal recoil. It offers a wide range of firing modes, including semi-automatic, PSP ramping, Millennium ramping, and full-auto.
Empire Mini GS: The Mini GS features an inline bolt system, which operates with a low pressure poppet and spool valve combination. This design results in smooth and efficient firing, ideal for players seeking consistent shot accuracy. It also offers multiple firing modes, including semi-automatic, PSP ramping, Millennium ramping, and full-auto.
Maintenance and Upgrades:
Empire Axe 2.0: The Axe 2.0 is known for its tool-less bolt removal and easy maintenance, allowing players to quickly clean and service their marker between games. It also has a wide range of aftermarket upgrades and customization options available.
Empire Mini GS: The Mini GS is designed with easy maintenance in mind, featuring tool-less disassembly for quick access to internal components. While it may not have as extensive aftermarket support as the Axe 2.0, there are still various upgrade options available to enhance performance and aesthetics.
Price Point:
Empire Axe 2.0: Typically, the Axe 2.0 is priced slightly higher than the Mini GS due to its advanced features and larger size.
Empire Mini GS: The Mini GS is often considered a more budget-friendly option while still offering excellent performance and reliability.
Overall, both the Empire Axe 2.0 and the Empire Mini GS are excellent choices for paintball players, each offering unique features and advantages to suit different preferences and play styles. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, budget, and specific requirements for gameplay.
Packaging and Contents:
Both the Axe 2.0 and the Mini GS come in similar packaging.
The Mini GS used to come with a one-piece barrel, but now both guns come with a two-piece barrel with a 0.688 bore size.
Both guns also include a parts kit with similar components, such as O-rings, grease, and tools.
Additionally, both guns come with a barrel sleeve.
Body and Construction:
The feed necks on both guns are identical, with a composite body and an aluminum lever.
They both use a similar body design for the feed neck, which clamps onto an insert threaded into the body.
Both guns feature rubberized front grips and main grips for comfortable handling.
However, there's a notable difference in detent design: the Mini GS uses a sprung detent system, while the Axe 2.0 uses a rubber detent system.
The Axe 2.0 has an eye wire system for its eye sensors, while the Mini GS has hardwired eye sensors directly connected to the board.
Bolt Assembly:
The Axe 2.0 features a bolt release button for easy removal of the bolt assembly. In contrast, the Mini GS requires unscrewing the rear bolt frame to access the bolt assembly, making removal slightly more cumbersome.
The bolt assembly on the Axe 2.0 is larger, providing a larger volume of air, potentially leading to better efficiency and a smoother shot.
Trigger Mechanism:
Trigger removal on the Axe 2.0 is simpler, requiring only the removal of a screw.
On the Mini GS, trigger removal involves hammering out a pin, which may be more challenging for some users.
Regulator:
Both guns feature the same regulator design, with a lever and cap.
However, the Mini GS includes a pressure gauge, providing users with valuable information about the gun's pressure settings, which is absent in the Axe 2.0.
Size and Ergonomics:
The Mini GS is smaller and lighter, making it suitable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a compact marker.
In contrast, the Axe 2.0 is slightly larger, offering a more substantial grip and frame, which may be preferred by players with larger hands.
Price and Value:
The Axe 2.0 typically commands a higher price due to its additional features and improvements over the Mini GS.
Users should consider factors such as frequency of play, budget, and personal preferences when choosing between the two markers.
In summary, while both markers offer reliable performance, the Axe 2.0 boasts several enhancements over the Mini GS, including easier maintenance, larger bolt assembly, and potentially better efficiency. However, the Mini GS provides a more compact and lightweight option with the added convenience of a pressure gauge. Ultimately, the choice between the two markers depends on individual preferences, playing style, and budget considerations.