Help with a hardline starter kit

[PrimeSonic]

So, after my 3rd completely reassembly of my soft-tubing loop (photo included) I think I'm feeling ready to go hardline.

What I'm looking for is to get everything I need in as few "line items" as possible.

 

I recently saw Monsoon's hardline bending kits, which look to have everything minus the heat gun.

I've got plenty of angle fittings leftover so all I would need on that front would be the hardline compression fittings.

I remember JayzTwoCents recommending PETG tubing as the easier to work with for hardline.

 

So, can I get some recommendations on getting started with hardline tubing in as few purchases as possible?

I'll probably be expecting to drop around $200 or so on all the gear to transform my loop into a hardline loop.

 

I may or may not transfer into a new case but that's not part of this discussion nor is it part of this budget.

[For Science!]

30 minutes ago, PrimeSonic said:

 

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I think a major decision driver will be which fittings you want to go with.

 

This will largely dictate which are compatible tubing in terms of diameters. I have done all my systems with PETG but slowly thinking of moving towards acrylic when the next opportunity arises. 

 

Once you have the tubing decided, then I would heavily recommend getting the silicone insert from the company that sells the tubing to guarantee a nice fit. (e.g. EK hard line bending kit for EK-HD tubing).

 

A good pair of aluminium tube cutter works well with PETG but you will need a saw for acrylic.

 

I have never used any bending tools and do all my bends free-hand. The only "tool" I use occasionally is the corner of my table. So I personally do not see the need for expensive bending assists.

 

So all in all, I guess go from deciding on the hardline fittings you want first, and go from there.

[PrimeSonic]

2 minutes ago, For Science! said:

I have never used any bending tools and do all my bends free-hand.

I'm willing to shell out for a bending kit if it means I get everything in a single box, even if I end up paying for stuff I may rarely or never use.

I've seen those come with cutting tools and the silicon insert along with the angle guides.

4 minutes ago, For Science! said:

deciding on the hardline fittings you want

The only thing I know for certain is that I want an OD smaller than 3/4" and compression fittings in white.

Beyond that, I'm very flexible.

 

I'm willing to let the tubing size be dictated by what the bending kit is ready for.

So whatever that kit was designed to bend, I'd just go with that sized tubing and appropriately sized compression fittings.