yes it comes off, and yes it's definitly a good marker to start off with...i started with a Diamond GT Limited Edition, and now i own a 2000 Free Flow ( sweeeeet ass marker d00d)
i recommend if ya get a 01 cocker, the ans front block kit, wdp in-line reg or a gen-x reg, free flow bolt and valve, and either a shocktech or kapp trigger plate.....get a 10 or 14 inch boomy too, all that should give ya one of the best markers ever made......