If you are really worried about using a full cylinder with a short barrel, just get a sorbo pad. It will absorb most of the shock from the piston, prolonging the live of the mechbox.
As for the hopup bucking: If you want to try the Big Out H-Hop Bucking, you can also get the H-hop made by element. If you can find it, its around 5-6 bucks USD shipped. There are great reviews for H-hop bucking.
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