Choosing a pneumatic cylinder is a balancing act. You have to match bore, stroke, rod thread, port size, and pressure rating to the job. For a compact, short-travel double-acting role, a 1-inch bore with a 2-inch stroke is a common specification, and the Parker Series 2A tie-rod cylinder hits that sizing exactly.
Quick verdict
If your application calls for a short-stroke cylinder with a 250 PSI rating, this is a straightforward option. The cylinder comes with a steel body and a 1/2-inch rod diameter. At $29.95, it's in the listed condition.
Who it suits
This cylinder suits repair work, bench fixtures, clamps, or small automation projects where a compact cylinder is required. The straightforward design is a plus for maintenance staff who work with pneumatic components.
What stands out from the listed details
The two numbers you'll care about for hookup are the 1/4 NPT ports and the 5/16-24 rod thread. The maximum pressure is 250 PSI, and the unit is double-acting. It's also noted as made in the United States.
Product note
PARKER 1" Bore X 2" Stroke Pneumatic Cylinder Series 2A 250 PSI
This specific model offers a 1-inch bore and 2-inch stroke in a tie-rod steel body. Pick it if your project needs these dimensions and you want a double-acting cylinder. The main limitation is the fixed 2-inch stroke; there's no adjustability for longer travel. The open-box new-old-stock status is a detail to weigh if packaging condition matters to you.
Meaningful trade-offs
The fixed stroke is the main trade-off. Because it's spec'd at 2 inches, it won't serve a longer-travel requirement. The 1/4 NPT ports and 5/16-24 rod threads need corresponding fittings and hardware. The open-box new-old-stock status is a detail to weigh if packaging condition matters to you.
Bottom line
At the listed price of $29.95, the Parker Series 2A is a viable candidate for a short-stroke pneumatic setup. If the hookup sizes and pressure rating fit your application, this cylinder is worth putting on your short list.
