Silca vs. SKS
In 1986 I bought a Silca floor pump and have been using ever since. I have put 2 leathers in it, and 2 grommets for the pump head. The pump, even when the leathers were worn out, would still get to 120 psi, and the pump head grommet, if held down when worn, always seal. The check valve has never needed service. Really an amazingly good pump for 45 bucks in 1986!
A few years ago I won an SKS Airbase pro. It has been sitting idle all this time as the Silca still functions perfectly. Yesterday I had occasion to use it for the first time, not because the Silca failed, but because I decided it was time. Very pleasantly surprised at the quality of this pump. It functions quite well, the pump head is considerably easier to use than most new type heads that are the clamp on type for presta valve. The pump weighs a ton due to the cast base, and it moves a larger quantity of air than the Silca. Although I did not pump to 150 or more psi, it achieved 120 psi without trouble. Good pump and considerably better than the big name brands like Topeak, Specialized, Lezyne, etc., all of which I have been able to use at one time or another.
If the Silca ever dies, I know the SKS will respectfully replace it, and in 30 years, I will report on its reliability, too. I just wonder if it can be rebuilt like the Silca, when needed.