The Ultimate FAQ
Who makes the Viking Paintball Marker?
Aaron K. Alexander designed the marker as the 'little brother' to the Excalibur. The company is based in Indiana and has a web site AKALMP.com
How do I contact AKALMP?
You can call them directly at (317) 631-7200. Or visit their website contact page for information on their fax number, mailbox, and shipping address.
Is the Viking open bolt or closed bolt?
The Viking is an open bolt marker which makes it different from its big brother the Excalibur, which is closed bolt. Being open bolt allows it to cycle faster...and some even say it loses some accuracy, efficiency, and consistency because of this. No study has really been done to prove it.
What is the Rate of Fire for a Viking?
The Viking currently comes from the factory set at a stock 13 balls per second. Depending on the board that you have in your marker, the Rate of Fire can be updated using either the AKA Data Cable or the Wicked Air Sportz Equalink Cable. The older Vikings with the stock board run very well at 30 balls per second. The new WAS board can be set even faster.
What is this 'break in' period I keep hearing about?
AKA suggests that you put 10,000 shots on the marker before lowering the LPR (low pressure regulator) or raising the Rate of Fire. This gives all the mechanical pieces internal to the marker the time to work in and move smoother. Once the marker is broken in, the Viking can be more efficient on air, consistent at the chronograph, and shoot faster when you raise the rate of fire.
Are there different circuit boards for the Viking and Excalibur?
There are two circuit boards for the Viking and Excalibur. The stock board that came with all AKA markers before May 1st, 2003, and the new WAS board that is now the new stock board which is in all currently shipping Vikings. The Excalibur still doesn't have a legal WAS board as they are still testing it as of 05/13/2003. To tell which board your marker has, you'll have to take your frame off and look at the circuit board.
Are there new Solenoids in the Viking?
Around the middle of April 2003, AKA started using the Humphrey solenoid in place of the MAC solenoid. This new solenoid gives the marker a snappier return and might even be more efficient. To see which solenoid you have, you'd have to remove the trigger frame and look above the tray of the marker.
Does the Viking have an Anti Chop Eye?
As of May 3rd, the Viking does not have an Anti Chop Eye. However with the new WAS boards as the stock board, the markers are milled to accept the WAS eye. AKA is anticipating making the eye stock with the marker. For the older Vikings, no eye is really needed - as long as you use a Halo B force feeder, you can go case after case without chopping.
What is the SCM I keep hearing about?
The "soda can mod" SCM is a new type of self calibrating LPR (low pressure regulator) that AKA has designed to make the Viking even more efficient and consistent. AKALMP has them available to order for $89.
How consistent/efficient is the Viking?
The Viking is nearly as consistent and efficient as the Excalibur. It is designed as one of the most efficient markers available and with the Sidewinder regulator, it is quite consistent as well. You can expect 1800+ shots from a 68/4500 tank. With a good paint to bore match and high quality paint, many players have claimed +-2 over the chrono consistently.
What is the operating pressure of the Viking?
The Viking runs at an input pressure of 180psi. You can use almost any screw in tank up to 850psi without any problems since the Sidewinder regulator is the best on the market. AKA recommends using the MacDev Conquest tank as it has a very high flow rate, but most players use cheaper fixed output tanks with excellent results.
How much does a Viking cost?
Depending on your milling, anodizing and options, it can run anywhere from $775 for a stock black unmilled viking to over $1000 for a custom JMJConcepts.com featherlight. Used Vikings are selling as of May 2003 for anywhere between $575 (unmilled) to 775 milled.
Which is faster? My Timmy, my Impulse, my Angel or my Viking?
It all depends on your options, what your rate of fire is set at and how fast you can pull the trigger. However, Jim Drew of Wicked Air Sportz says that with the WAS board the Viking is the fastest cycling marker on the planet, then the Impulse, then the Intimidator. The new Angel Speeds are starting to show up and are quite fast too.
My pro shop airsmith says that a Viking is just an upgraded Spyder!
He's quite misinformed with that comment! However there was some truth to the statement many years ago. The original AKA VIking WAS a blowback marker similar to the Spyder. There were only a couple of prototypes made.Since then, all the technology from the Excalibur was used to produce the AKA Viking, which is a patented design unlike any other. And is faster, more consistent, more efficient better built and better designed than most markers available.
What is this Type 3 anodize that I hear the Viking has?
The AKA Factory Vikings have a type 3 hard anodize. This military grade anodize is extremely tough and is very unlike most paintball markers which have a soft anodize and are easy to scratch. You will find Vikings many years old without any signs of wear on them.
Should I buy a used Viking?
Actually, if you can find a good deal on one and its in your price range, you should pick it up. The value for your money is very good and you don't need all the new accessories to have a very consistent and efficient marker that does not chop! The AKA markers actually get better and shoot better the older they get. So that used Viking is a treasure! However, if you want the latest and greatest, go with a new one, they are even more advanced and have AKA's finest updates.
What loader / hopper should I use on my Viking?
Set at the stock 13bps, the VL Revolution and Ricochet work ok. Between 13-16, the EggII works pretty good. But the Halo B works the best and MUST be used for any settings above 16bps! With the WAS Eye, you should be able to use any loader you'd like, including the gravity fed VL 200!
Can I use CO2 with my Viking?
You can if you have a Palmer Female Stabilizer (regulator) between your tank and the Sidewinder regulator and have a CO2 tank with an Anti Siphon. You are better off just getting a screw in preset tank. You'll have better success and much better consistency.
What can I set my LPR at and how do I do this?
Your LPR (Low Pressure Regulator) comes from the factory at an already low 85psi! However, if you have shot over 10,000 shots (broken it in), you can lower it even further. Many people have taken their LPR as low as 50psi, but in most cases, 66 to 72psi is the norm. To do this, you'll need the Viking tool kit which is available from AKA. It costs about $55. Alternatively, you can just send it in and they will do it for you.
I want an Angel Snatch grip on my Viking!
You can put one on it...just screw it on the frame, most fit!
What kind of Feed necks are available?
AKA lets you choose between a high rise and a low rise. However there are aftermarket rises available that are clamping (CCM) and also a no-rise which is made by the AKA Master tech, Dan Voils. See his website at DBNPaintball.com.
What kind of triggers can I get?
There are the two stock trigger frames...the single trigger and the double trigger frames. The double trigger can come with the stock double trigger or the blade trigger. Additionally, Dan Voils makes a Razor Blade Trigger which is the best of them all. See his website at DBNPaintball.com.
What kind of drop forward works best for the Viking?
The shocktech drop forward seems to be the favorite for the preset screw-in tank crowd. However, it really comes down to personal preference.
What kind of barrels does a Viking take?
The Viking is autococker or cocker threaded.
What barrel works best?
The stock Javelin barrel is a fine barrel, however they only come in .684 and .687 sizes. People have raved about the Evil Pipe, the Freak, Titanium Longbow, Equation Pro, and Sceptre systems. It all comes down to your budget and preference.
Where do I get a toolkit or data cable?
Data cables for the old circuit board are available from AKA. The software is available but only works under windows 98 or 95. The new WAS board uses the Equalink and it is available from Wicked Air Sportz. It runs on any Windows operating system. The toolkit is only available at this time from AKA or a licensed dealer.
How do I get sponsored by AKA!!!
No one knows the answer to this question. Perhaps ask nicely and show them your maturity, winning potential and sincerety might be a good start! And shoot all Vikings!
What kind of Milling is available?
PaintballArizona.com showed a pretty good example some time back. Check the article for details!
Where do I find the old AKA Software?
The software will only run under Windows 95 or 98. Dan Voils (AKA Master Tech) made it available online Here. At the bottom of that descriptive page there is the link to download it. This software requires the AKA data cable!
What kind of lube do I need for my Viking?
You should only use AKA's Extreme Lube. Some people have had good results with other SYNTHETIC oils such as PMI, but this is not recommended.
How do I care for my Viking?
The Viking is designed for very low maintenance. So its very easy. Wipe off any paint on your marker with a damp towel after every game. Every case of paint or so, put a 1 or 2 drops of AKA Extreme lube into your asa or macro line just before your Sidewinder reg. This keeps the internals lubed up nicely. Don't go crazy with the lube. Put a drop of oil on your bolt and rub it around. This will make the bolt move nicely. Repeat every few days of play.
What are all those hex screws all around the body of the Viking?
Don't touch them! Unless you are an AKA certified tech, never adjust anything other than your Sidewinder velocity (on the bottom of the regulator), and removal of the grip panel to change the battery. You shouldn't need to touch any other hex screws.
How often should I change the battery?
You should be able to get 10,000 or more shots out of each battery. Many people swear by the Plainview brand of rechargeable batteries and use one exclusively. Any 9volt battery will work fine!
How do I break in the marker?
The 'Break In' period takes about 10,000 shots. The best way is to shoot it and play with the marker. See dry firing for more details..
Can I dry fire my Viking?
Yes. And you can even remove the bolt and turn it around to make the marker quieter and use less air while you do so. Many people do this while breaking in their marker for the first 10,000 shots.
My marker all of sudden started chopping and acting funny!
You probably need a new battery. Try changing that out first. Its the number one cause of strange problems in any marker.
The LED on my marker is flashing red!
Some LED's do flash red from green in long strings. Don't worry too much about that. However, if it is red or poorly lit, change your battery!
How do I turn on a Viking?
There is a switch on the back of the marker. Click it to the right and the LED will flash. Your marker is now ready to fire, assuming you have an air system attached! The new 04 vikings have the LED in the back but now have the on/off switch located on the left side of the trigger frame.
I have an older marker, where do I get the new Solenoid(s)?
You'll need to send it in to AKALMP to get the solenoid installed. The older solenoid is the MAC solenoid and the newer, the Humphrey. Upgrade prices: The Viking takes one: $90. The Excalibur two: $180.
How reliable is a Viking or Excalibur?
They are among the most reliable if not the most reliable markers on the planet. Most people just wipe them off after a day of play, lube the bolt with Extreme Lube, and maybe put a drop of oil in the line that goes to the Sidewinder. That's it for maintenance! Internally there is nothing that you need to take apart to maintain.
Where do I get the new WAS Equalizer board for my old Viking?
At this time you will need to buy it from one of the stores listed on our stores link. (See our Stores link above). There are several places to purchase the new Equalizer board.
How do I put Anti Chop eyes in my old AKA Marker?
If your Viking or Excalibur didn't come predrilled for the Wicked Eyes, you'll need to wait for a company to offer this service as the eye locations must be drilled exactly to specifications and you will need a WAS Equalizer board installed as well. There is no one offering this as of 05/27/2003.
My new AKA Marker is predrilled for eyes, how do I install them?
You need to purchase Wicked Eyes from Wicked Air Sportz. (see our stores link). Then you'll need to notch your tray for the wires, remove the eye plugs and wire the eyes to the board. You might search this board for a story on how a local DarkViking installed their eyes...
Where do I get Eye Covers from?
As of 07/31/2003 only JMJConcepts.com carries them.
What gun shoots further, the Viking or the Excal?
Both guns will shoot the same distance. Also, both guns will shoot along the same parabolic curve. This holds true for every paintball gun in existance. All paintball guns will shoot the same distance if they are cronoed at the same speed, with the same bore to barrel match.
My Nelson board went "dumb". Help!
Nelson boards can be reprogrammed. However, once a Nelson board goes dumb, it will keep going dumb. Unless you own a data cable, it is in your best interest to get the was board. You can contact Nelson at http://www.nelassoc.com and ask about his warrenty.
What is the difference between a 03 and a 04 viking??
The 04s have: Same side, dual ball detent 3/8's of a pound lighter than the '03 Shorter in length SCM comes standard Relocated on/off switch Shorter bolt Bodies are milled for eye wiring
What is the difference between a Excal and a Viking??
The major difference between the two is the method in which they fire. The Excal fires in the closed bolt position, and the Viking will fire in the open bolt. Because of this, the Viking will fire faster then the Excal. The excal can run a lower lpr pressure, and people say this makes the gun feel more "smooth".
If I order a new Viking from Company X, what will it come with?
Typically the gun will come with a WAS board, an AKA gun bag, and a bottle of lube, a warranty card, and the manual on a floppy disk, but unless specified, vikings do not come with eyes or covers. If ordering from a place that offers a loaded version, then it typically will include eyes and covers.
Where can I get eyes and covers??
Eyes- www.wickedairsportz.com Covers – www.jmjconcepts.com Both – www.dbnpaintball.com
Is there anyplace that will upgrade my old Viking to get WAS and eyes??
DBN paintball currently offers a “full meal deal” that will upgrade the gun. The cost includes milling the body for eyes, the board, the eyes, the covers, servicing the gun, install, and return shipping. Their site is www.dbnpaintball.com .
How fast will a Viking shoot??
Equalizer board no eyes - 13 Equalizer board with eyes - limited by hopper speed Nelson board (stock) - 13 Nelson board (max) - 30.3
What upgrades do I need out of the box??
If your viking doesn't come with eyes or eye covers, those are very essential. The second thing you should invest in is a new barrel. If you don't have one already, a halo B hopper or a z board eVLution II is ideal.
How can I solve my FSDO problem??
If you are using the new solenoids, then run your dwell at 12. If you are using a MAC solenoid, then run it at 15. Also put a new battery in the gun.
How many shots can I get out of my tank??
With a 68/45 tank expect about 1900 or more shots. On a 45/45 expect about 1200 or more.
Is the Javelin a good barrel? What size is it??
Although the Javelin is a decent barrel, many people upgrade their barrel to a longer size. The Javelin is 2 different bore sizes and both are 12 inches long. Javelins with one row of porting holes are .684. The newer ones with four rows of holes are .687, though most people find that this bore size is too small, especially for semi-old or low quality paint.
What is the lightest Viking??
The Destructive Custom Viking which will be released soon should be the lightest Viking available.
Will stripping the anno on my Viking void my warranty??
Yes, it will. If you want a custom annoed Viking, call order a raw Viking from AKA.
My Viking is double feeding, what can I do to fix this??
If you have the pre-04 vikings, try bending out the ball detent so that it sticks into the breech more. However don’t bend it too much, as this will cause the ball to be sliced in half. If you have an 04 viking, you can try stretching the springs out in the dual detent.
Should I get a LP or a HP tank for my Viking??
Although a LP tank will have some benefits, it isn’t necessary. If you plan on buying a new tank, then I recommend getting a LP as it does have benefits over the HP. Some people have lately been reporting that LP tanks actually are increasing air efficiency.
If I buy a gun from (company name here) will be drilled for the eyes??
Unless a company is selling a used or very old gun, then the viking will be predrilled. All 04 vikings are drilled to accept eyes.
Are there any upgrades available for my Viking??
DBN paintball carries a lot of aftermarket parts for Vikings. Their website iswww.dbnpaintball.com .
What kinds of triggers are available for my Viking??
There currently is, JMJ Razorblade, Froth’s Frothblade, AKA double trigger, AKA blade trigger, and several others being made by JMJ.
How do I program my WAS equalizer board??
Wickedairsports.com has the equalizer board manual that you can download.