A couple of years ago, waves were made when the first Autococker hinge frame was produced.  Since that time just about everyone has produced their own version of the hinge trigger.  This invention revitalized the Autococker, and brought in many new owners.  To meet this demand, most major companies produced their own version, and in the end, there were a couple designs that were borrowed from, and improved upon.  One of the lesser-known frames is the Axis hinge from Powerlyte.  While it may not be widely known, it should be.  Powerlyte is quickly making a name for themselves by producing some top-notch products.

     Even though the Axis frame isn’t 100% unique in its looks, it is close to unique in both its performance and its extras.  The trigger has a removable trigger shoe that can be swapped for either a traditional two finger trigger, or the newer blade style trigger.  If you take off the shoe, you can access the pre travel and post travel set screws to set the trigger pull exactly to your liking.  The trigger return is controlled by a trigger spring that is the same size as the springs found in slider frames.  The sear return spring is the same size as the sear springs found in sliding frames.  With two setscrews and independently controlled return actions, the Axis frame is one of the most versatile and adjustable hinge frames on the market.  For those who are concerned with safety, the Axis hinge frame comes with a flush mount safety.  This is the first safety I have felt that doesn’t negatively effect the pull of the trigger.  Some people are about accidentally pushing the safety in the middle of a game, but with the Axis there is no need to worry.  There is a hole above the safety threaded for a set screw so that you can lock it out, and keep it from moving (regardless of the force applied).  For the bottom line attachment, there are two sets of holes, so you can further fine tune your set up.  You can move the tank a small bit forward or backward for that last bit of personal flare. 

     All Powerlyte products have a unique look to them.  I don’t exactly know how to describe it, but my best attempt would be to call it a sharp organic look.  The frame has smooth lines, and flows nicely, but at the same time it has some sharp corners as well that give it a bit of edginess.  Unlike a lot of other hinge frames, the Axis is not excessively tall.  The Axis is only 1/8 of an inch taller than sliding frames.  I see this as a benefit because it not only keeps the marker from growing excessively tall, but it also helps with balance.  The overall appearance of the frame is very clean; one line flows to the next and presents a great look that would compliment most markers.

     The Axis hinge frame has a couple different options for it.  It is available in either black or nickel plating.  Unlike other hinge triggers you can actually use different triggers.  There is both a blade style trigger, and a two finger trigger available to conform to the tastes of just about everyone.  In addition to that, there is a version of the Axis frame called the Grip Styx.  This frame has a patented comfort angle that is a bit closer to vertical to allow for a more ergonomic grip, which helps in rate of fire.  The Grip Styx frame also has a small built in drop forward.  The Axis frame comes with all the screws you would need for the frame (the screws for the grips, and to attach the frame to the body) as well as the allen key to adjust the trigger stops.  Just add your favorite 45 grips, and you are ready to go.  The Grip Styx model comes with the same screws, but it also includes a pair of 45 Hogue grips.

     When it comes down to it, the trigger pull and feel of a hinge is only as good as it is set up to be.  Slapping a hinge frame on a marker won’t do it justice.  You need to adjust it to your personal tastes.  The Axis frame will make it exceedingly easy to find your personal setup.  Of course, if you are afraid to tune the trigger to your personal tastes, there is no need to fear.  By just bolting the axis frame to your body and retiming, you get a nice, snappy, crisp pull that many people would love to have. 

     Despite not having the big name, the Axis frame is a solid product that you could feel at ease owning.  If you enjoy the feeling of a hinge trigger, be sure to check out this model.  If you aren’t sure if you do or not, this is a great choice because you can make it feel right for you.  The standard Axis carries a MSRP of $99.95 for nickel and $94.95 for black.  If you want the slightly more upscale Grip Styx model, the MSRP is $109.95 for nickel and $104.95 (remember, that $10.00 would at least pay for the Hogue grips that it comes with).  Once again Powerlyte proves that they are one of the most meticulous companies on the market and insist on bringing well thought out products to the market.