I bought a elliptical cylinder + hand pump set from VacuTech for almost 200 dollars, because all the PE forums recommended them as the best source for pumping gear.
The Vacu Tech cylinder cracked within a few days. VacuTech was very friendly about it, I sent it in and got a replacement.
During the few days I was waiting for a replacement, I bought a $26 Cylinder from Amazon.
It has the same air valve as the VacuTech cylinder, so I was able to use the VacuTech hand pump. It also gives a better seal because it is flared at the bottom and is lighter than the VacuTech Cylinder.
I’m no pro at pumping, but I honestly don’t understand why I should ever spend over $100 on a cylinder again. Even if this cylinder breaks, it was only $26 and I’ll have a new one in two days with Amazon Prime!