Another Airsoft Rifle Addition in the Canada Replica Airguns Store, this one from King Arms, the King Arms Thompson 1928 Ultra Grade AEG Airsoft Tommy Gun. Also with an introductory sale price!

The Thompson M1928 Chicago Style 1928 Submachine Gun with Drum Magazine is an awesome weapon that delivers semi & fully automatic fire at outstanding velocities in the battlefield. This gun has a polished full metal body that recreates the awesome look and feel of a real Tommy gun. The gun features a metal gear box & steel bushings, a high-capacity 450 rd drum magazine and a shot velocity of 390-450 fps (using .20g BBs).

The front charging handle allows you to control the gun and an adjustable BAXS shooting system improves the accuracy of the gun when shooting from long distances. Own your enemies and order today! This rifle also Includes: 8.4 V 2000 mAh Ni-CD battery, 300 mah charger (6.5 hrs charge time), cleaning rod & manual.

• Comes with charger and battery!
• Shoots 6mm Plastic Airsoft BB's
• Full metal body
• Imitation wood stock
• Fully Licensed
• Front charging handle
• Adjustable BAXS shooting system
• Metal Gearbox/Gears
• 8.10 lbs.
• 390-450 fps
• 450 round magazine
• Adjustable rear sight (windage & elevation)
• Semi & full auto selectable
• Orange Tip (Can be removed with heat)

 Buy this Airsoft Rifle in Canada  -  Buy this Airsoft Rifle in the US

We just got in a new Field ready Airsoft AEG rifle, the Cybergun ISC SG-551 SWAT version. Get in on our introductory sale price!

The Cybergun ICS SIG SG-551 SWAT offers hardcore performance in a lightweight and compact package. Manufactured in Taiwan under licensed from Cybergun this rifle features full SIG trademarks engraved into its receiver.

With a stamped aluminum upper receiver and cast lower, the SG-551 weighs over a pound less than a KWA M4 while retaining the same strength and rigidity. Complete with a fiber composite handguard and pistol grip you can feel the quality of this rifle as soon as you pick it up. Its side folding skeleton stock locks firmly into open and closed positions making this rifle highly versatile in both indoor and outdoor scenarios. It features a centrally located magazine release and ambidextrous selector levers allowing for left or right handed use. One cool thing about these ICS SIG series rifle is the functioning bolt catch. Pull the bolt back all of the way and it will lock open allowing you to easily adjust the rifle hop-up without needing a third hand to keep the bolt back. Once you are done just flip the bolt release and the bolt flies forward with a nice metallic ring. Other features include a folding trigger guard for use with thick gloves, adjustable front sight complete with hood and changeable long/close range sight post, rotary rear sight with four adjustable apertures as well as windage and elevation adjustments.

Its battery is housed in the handguard which has enough room to hold an 8.4v or 9.6v AK Stick Type battery.

• Shoots 6mm Plastic Airsoft BB's
• Semi & full auto selectable
• 400 fps
• Effective range: 180 feet
• Rate of fire: 850 RPM
• Hop Up: Adjustable
• Metal Gearbox/Gears
• Weight: 5.75 lbs
• 450 round magazine
• Battery: AK Stick Type 8.4v or 9.6v
• Motor type: Medium Shaft Type
• Fully Licensed
• Comes with orange tip
• Battery & Charger NOT included

Buy this Airsoft Rifle in Canada  -  Buy this Airsoft Rifle in the US

This Article is not intended to explain which type of gun is better or worse, it is only to point out what makes each gun different and how these differences can effect their performance and usage. I personally like all types of guns and respect other peoples choices in which guns they prefer to use. If you have a strong opinion about one type of gun being the "only gun" for everyone, then keep it to yourself please or it will be deleted!

For those "Special People" out there that like to call other people names for their interest in BB and Airsoft guns, here's an idea… go take your 9mm and shoot off a full magazine in your residential backyard and then see what happens? Also take note of how much money that magazine of 9mm ammo cost compared to the $5 that 2400 BB cost.

And please don't tell me to get a real gun because I probably have more real guns than you do! Like I said I appreciate and respect all types of guns.

What is the difference between a BB gun and an Airsoft gun?

• In short BB guns (airguns that shoot a steel or lead BB) have been around for a long time so they get to keep the name of being called a "BB gun", even though many people refer to Airsoft guns as "BB guns". And yes Airsoft guns shoot a plastic BB but they do not inherit the name as it is reserved for the long standing… well BB gun!

• BB guns generally shoot a 4.5mm or .177 caliber steel BB but some can also shoot lead BB's.

• BB guns are most often used for target practice and training, some high power BB guns can also be used for pest control.

• Airsoft guns generally shoot 6mm plastic BB's ranging in weights depending on what they are being used for. There are also larger caliber Airsoft guns available but they are not the norm.

• Airsoft guns are most commonly used for tactical simulation games but can also be used for target practice and training, there are also Airsoft leagues that conduct IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) competitions.

• Both BB and Airsoft guns can use Springs, Air, Gas or CO2 as a means of propulsion.

• Both BB and Airsoft guns can be made out of a variety of materials depending on the grade and use of the gun.

Realism

• I would have to give the edge to the Airsoft guns in this category, the entire hobby is bases on how real the gun looks and functions. Most Airsoft guns are near impossible to tell apart from the real steel versions, even on close inspection.

• That is not to say that there aren't any highly realistic BB guns available, there most certainly are but the focus with BB guns is not always on realism. It is often more on performance and so compromises are made that can effect realism.

Power!

• BB guns generally have more power (energy) and carry that energy out further down range, but both BB and Airsoft can shoot up into the 500+ fps ranges.

• BB guns have a smaller but denser and harder ammo so they tend to penetrate deeper into objects which can be good or bad depending on what you want to do with the gun. (War Games vs target and Pest control)

Accuracy

• Both BB and Airsoft guns can be very accurate and this surprised me when I started reviewing and testing Airsoft guns. I had the impression that Airsoft guns would not be nearly as accurate as a BB gun but I was impressed with the results I got from a well made and tuned Airsoft gun.

• With that said I still feel that a BB gun takes this category, not so much for close up shooting, but when shooting out at range a BB is less susceptible to the elements and will be more accurate further down range.

• One advantage Airsoft guns generally have over BB guns is the hop up that gives the BB some backspin and allows it to keep a more level trajectory which can help with long rang shots. (Kind of like the backspin a tennis player uses to make the ball float deeper into the court.)

Shooting Environment

• Because of the material and energy levels of both projectiles, BB and Airsoft guns are best used for different shooting situations and with different levels of safety implemented. Always use eye protection with either gun but be aware that a steel BB will cause more damage when it hits an object and that object could be you. BB guns require a heavier backstop and will also ricochet off of objects with much more force than an Airsoft plastic BB would so you need to be careful around windows and breakable objects.

• Airsoft gun can be a better solution for indoor shooting or even sometimes when doing some backyard shooting where you may live close to buildings.

• Airsoft guns are obviously the better choice when being used in war games as the plastic BB's are designed to hit but not harm, keep in mind that proper clothing and protection is required and limits to the FPS are often employed to keep everyone safe.

• Do not even think about using a standard Steel BB gun for war games unless you want to make a trip to your local emergency for BB removal. 

Hunting

• I rarely recommend BB or Airsoft guns for pest control, I prefer larger caliber pellet guns that shoot at as high a velocity as you can obtain in your area. This is the most humane way to take care of small varmint if this is required, or for hunting to put meat on the table.

• There are a few exceptions, some furry critters that do not like to stay still like squirrels and chipmunks can be alleviated with a high powered BB machine gun. A customized full auto Drozd can pump out 1200 rounds per minute with velocity up into the 800 fps range.

• I would not consider an Airsoft gun for pest control or hunting period! If you want to scare off your neighbors cat, well that's another issue.

Cost

• Both BB guns and Airsoft Guns can range dramatically in cost and so comparing quality to quality they are about the same to buy and also the cost of use is about the same as ammo is fairly close in price, perhaps steel BB's are a bit cheaper but not by that much.

• Some BB guns can get up there in price, I have spent as much as $1000 on my full customized Drozd Blackbird with all the bells and whistles.  A high end competition Airsoft gun can also cost well over $1000 to even $2000 or more when all is said and done.

So I hope this Video helps you understand the differences and practical uses of both BB Guns and Airsoft Guns and wether you deiced to get one or the other or maybe some of each. Just remember to use them with respect and always shoot safely and you will have a great time doing so!

Watch the video Vimeo version of this Article!

I have been hinting about an even bigger Canada sale on the King Arms Colt M4A1 Metal AEG Airsoft Rifle and here it is - now $100 OFF the regular price (Canada Store Only) so don't wait as I'm not sure how long this sale will last...

Make sure to watch my full Table Top Review and Shooting Review videos on this awesome performer!

Buy this Airsoft rifle in Canada On Sale

Buy this Airsoft rifle in the US

Type: Airsoft Rifle.

Manufacturer:ASG.

Model: ASG AW .308 Airsoft Sniper Rifle.

Materials: Metal & plastic.

Weight: 6.61 pounds.

Barrel: 19 inches, smooth bore.

Propulsion: Spring.

Action: Bolt action single shot.

Ammunition Type: Airsoft 6mm Plastic BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 28 rounds.

FPS: Up-to 449.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the ASG AW .308 Sniper Rifle is very nice, there is very little play, once the trigger safety is flush the release is almost instant and the pull is very light but not so light that you would accidentally shoot it.

Accuracy: Being an Airsoft Rifle and a Sniper rifle in one made me wonder if you could actually get a tight grouping at longer distances? I'm sure hitting a human target at 60 feet shouldn't be too hard but what about a pop can consistently? With a bit of fine tuning I was able to get a 2 inch grouping at 60 feet out using a rested position. And with the Hop-up dialed in, my aim point was the same at 30 feet as it was at 60 feet as a result of the backspin keeping the trajectory even all the way out.

Build Quality: The ASG AW .308 is not over the top price wise so I was not expecting it to be built like a Sherman tank. It is however solid enough but also light enough to use in the field without having to lug around too much extra weight. Most of the parts that you want to be metal are metal including the barrel, bolt & receiver, trigger, magazine, strap rings and rial system. The stock is of course plastic with some added rubber and seems to be hollow in parts which I am assuming is what keeps this rifle on the lean side.

Realism: Without actually having handled a real AW .308 Accuracy International England Sniper Rifle, it's hard to say how spot on it is but it does look very similar to the photos I found online with the exception of the magazine being further forward on the stock. It is a nice touch that the actual Accuracy International England licensing is also on the ASG AW .308.

Available at the:Canada Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

• Extremely fun to shoot (Even though it's not a semi or full auto gun).

• No CO2 or batteries required, ready when you are.

• Excellent accuracy at most ranges.

• Very nice trigger.

• Good power.

• Good use of metal parts.

• Will not break the bank.

Cons:

• Does not come with a sighting system so you need to buy something to shoot it.

• Light Airsoft BB's will not give you good results, use high end heavy Airsoft BB's for best results.

• Stock looks adjustable but is not, was not a problem, everything felt good!

• Some things are not explained in the manual?

Comments:

I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing this Airsoft rifle, you would think that a full auto gun would be so much more fun to shoot and don't get me wrong they are fun to shoot, but there is something to be said about setting up a target well down range, getting into position to take the shot and slowly squeezing off one well placed round! And of course hitting the target. I really like the fact that all you need is a bunch of Airsoft BB's and you're ready to go, no CO2, no dead batteries to deal with. Every time a do another Airsoft review I am impressed with how well these guns shoot and how accurate they are! The ASG AW .308 took this to an even higher level and also showed me that an Airsoft BB can pack some real punch to it. All in all it was a good day and I have a feeling when I get the urge to fire off some well placed rounds just for fun, this rifle is going to get picked more often than not.

Buy AW .308 Airsoft Rifle in Canada

Buy AW .308 Airsoft Rifle in the US

I just received some of my ASG Airsoft guns in my BC location and wanted to make an update video for you so you can see them up close and perhaps see how they stack up against their Airgun counterparts. Keep in mind many of my ASG guns are only available in the Canada Replica Airguns Store, we do have some ASG Airsoft guns for my US based customers but this time here in Canada I have more to offer my Canadian folks!

The Dan Wesson's, the Steyr M9-A1, STI Duty One 1911, CZ 75 P-07 Duty are all pretty much identical to my 4.5mm Steel BB shooting versions with the exception of not having blowback but the good news is the slides do in fact move on the semi autos! Of course the Dan Wesson is just made to accept 6mm Airsoft BB's rather than 4.5mm steel BB's.

I am also super impressed with the high quality of the LMT Defender M4 Carbines, they are a serious bit of gear and have some very good heft to them, even more so than my full metal King Arms M4A1 I already sell and have done a full review of, not to take anything away from the Kings Arms product as it is very good at its price point.

I also received my first sniper rifle and have played around with it a bit to see what it is capable of. I added a bipod to the front and a 3x9 power scope as the ASG AW .308 comes pretty bare bones but ready for all you can throw at it. I can say it likes heavier Airsoft BB's, as the .20 gram ones I started with seemed to fly off in all directions due to the high velocity, even stepping up to a .25 gram BB tightened my group up significantly at 30 feet. I have heard this rifle really prefers heavy Airsoft BB's so I plan do do my review based on that information.

Enjoy my Vimeo Video Update focusing on the new ASG Airsoft lineup.

Buy ASG Airsoft Pistols in Canada

Buy ASG Airsoft Rifles in Canada

Buy Airsoft guns in the US

Slowly but surely we are getting some more ASG Airsoft guns and this time I have another pistol and three rifles!

ASG STI Duty One 1911 Non-Blowback Airsoft Pistol

The STI Duty One 1911 Non-Blowback Airsoft Pistol is a full size replica of the actual STI Duty one 1911 pistol which is a modernized and upgraded version of the original classic Colt 1911. You will find features like; an integrated weaver rail for lasers and tactical lights, high rise beavertail grips, a unique serial number on each air pistol and STI licensed markings. (BUY NOW)

• 6mm plastic Airsoft BB's
• CO2 powered
• 16 rounds
• 436 fps
• 1.8 pounds
• 8.6 inches
• Non-Blowback
• Integrated weaver rail
• licensed markings

ASG AW .308 Airsoft Sniper Rifle

The ASG AW .308 very powerful spring operated Airsoft Sniper Rifle and has licensed Accuracy International AW .308  markings. Out of the box it shoots close to 2 joule and weights almost 7 pounds with its solid metal construction. The Sportline AW .308 has adjustable Hop-Up for accuracy and top rail for mounting a scope. (BUY NOW)

• 6mm plastic Airsoft BB's
• Spring powered
• 28 rounds
• 449 fps
• 6.61 pounds
• Adjustable Hop-Up System
• Integrated top rail mount
• licensed markings 

ASG LMT Defender R.I.S. Airsoft Carbine

The ASG LMT Defender R.I.S. is a classic carbine with a few modifications. The normal front guard has been replaced with a full rail interface system (R.I.S.), that gives you plenty of opportunities to mount accessories. As the normal battery space is used by the R.I.S. the wiring to the battery goes back to the stock. The stock is a special sopmod stock with two compartments to house the battery. The functionality is similar to the other LMT ProLine models – Adjustable hop up, 1.5 joule power and semi & full auto. (BUY NOW)

• 6mm plastic Airsoft BB's
• Spring powered
• 350 rounds
• 394 fps
• 7.45 pounds
• Metal body.
• S.I.R. Rail.
• Full metal forward rails
• Sling mounts.
• 350 rd. hi-cap metal magazine.
• Collapsible stock.
• Stable muzzle velocity.
• Authentic LMT (Lewis Machine & Tool Company) markings. 

The Proline (PL) range of products, are high-end products, targeted at regular players, players who want to have better than average Airsoft gun and Milsim/teamplayers. The Proline models can be modified and upgraded.

ASG LMT Defender4 S.I.R. Airsoft Carbine 

Two well known firearms and accessory manufactures have joined forces to create this beauty of a Proline Airsoft AEG. The full metal Defender4 Carbine licensed by LMT upgraded with the S.I.R. rail system licensed by A.R.M.S.. A Selective Integrated Rail system (S.I.R.) offers a wide variety of options to mount tactical accessories. Quick and handy flip-up iron sights are mounted on the S.I.R. Strong and well built with what is probably one of the best out-of-the-box gearboxes, heavy reinforced with 8 and 9 mm bearings, steel gears, and ball-bearing spring-guide as well as an upgraded cylinder set. It can handle Li-Po batteries and shoots 1.5 joule (120m/s/394 fps) in semi- and full-auto mode with Easily adjustable Hop-Up. (BUY NOW)

• 6mm plastic Airsoft BB's
• Spring powered
• 350 rounds
• 394 fps
• 7.8 pounds
• Metal body.
• S.I.R. Rail.
• Detachable rear flip-up sight
• Flip-up front sight.
• Sling mounts.
• 350 rd. hi-cap metal magazine.
• Collapsible stock.
• Stable muzzle velocity.
• Authentic LMT (Lewis Machine & Tool Company) markings.    

The Proline (PL) range of products, are high-end products, targeted at regular players, players who want to have better than average Airsoft gun and Milsim/teamplayers. The Proline models can be modified and upgraded.

As promised, the new ASG Airsoft Pistols have been added to the Replica Airguns Store and by the way none of them have the orange tip as they are all classified as Uncontrolled Firearms just like a standard Airgun!

Dan Wesson Airsoft Revolvers:

The legendary revolvers licensed by Dan Wesson These revolvers have authentic markings and an individual serial number stamped into the frame. The revolvers features a single and double action trigger system and adjustable rear sight for extra realism and accuracy. The Dan Wesson BB revolvers are made of metal except for the ergonomical grip constructed in hard ABS plastic.

The 12g CO2 cartridge is stored under the grip and is easily accessed by sliding the grip to the side – easy-load style. Each of the 6 cartridges holds one Airsoft BB and is placed in the metal drum that rotates as each round is fired. The revolvers comes with a speed loader, changeable tactical rail and 6 cartridges.

Dan Wesson Revolver - 2.5 inch Black (Airsoft)

• No orange tip!
• 6mm Plastic Airsoft BB's
• CO2 powered
• 6 rounds
• 390 fps
• 1.9 pounds
• 8 inches
• Single and double action
• All metal design
• licensed markings

Dan Wesson Revolver - 4 inch Silver (Airsoft) 

• No orange tip!
• 6mm Plastic Airsoft BB's
• CO2 powered
• 6 rounds
• 440 fps
• 2 pounds
• 9.5 inches
• Single and double action
• All metal design
• licensed markings

Dan Wesson Revolver - 6 inch Silver or Grey (Airsoft) 

• No orange tip!

• 6mm Plastic Airsoft BB's

• CO2 powered

• 6 rounds

• 453 fps

• 2.25 pounds

• 11.7 inches

• Single and double action

• All metal design

• licensed markings

Dan Wesson Revolver - 8 inch Grey (Airsoft) 

• No orange tip!
• 6mm Plastic Airsoft BB's
• CO2 powered
• 6 rounds
• 540 fps
• 2.3 pounds
• 13.3 inches
• Single and double action
• All metal design
• licensed markings 

 CZ 75 P-07 Duty Non-Blowback (Airsoft)

The CZ 75 P-07 DUTY is the new generation of the CZ 75 family which was first designed back in 1975 by the famous small arms manufacturer Česká zbrojovka, Czech Republic. This is the semi automatic 4.5mm airgun version fully licensed by CZ. It is powered by a 12g CO2 cartridge stored in the grip using the easy-load system and the Airsoft BB’s are put in the drop-out magazine.

The CZ 75 P-07 DUTY is a compact tactical upgraded version compared to the standard CZ 75. Besides being more compact in size the P-07 DUTY has an integrated front waiver rail for mounting light and laser. The grip and metal slide carries authentic CZ markings and every gun comes with unique serial number. 

• No orange tip!
• 6mm Airsoft BB's
• CO2 powered
• 16 rounds
• 415 fps
• 1.8 pounds
• 7.3 inches
• Non-blowback
• Metal slide
• licensed markings

Steyr M9-A1 Non-Blowback (Airsoft)

The ASG Steyr M9-A1 Non-Blowback CO2 6mm AIrsoft BB pistol is a faithful copy of the real model Steyr mannlicher M9-A1 complete with licensed trade marks and a functional safety pin. You will get over 465fps shots from the 14 round drop out magazine and just like the real steal you can add a laser site or tactical light to the weaver style accessory rail.

• No orange tip!
• 6mm Airsoft BB's
• CO2 powered
• 14 rounds
• 465 fps
• 1.3 pounds
• 7.36 inches
• Non-blowback
• Weaver style accessory rail
• licensed markings

Just a quick heads up for our Canadian customers waiting on Dan Wesson Revolvers, the ASG Airguns and some Airsoft guns have now cleared customs, we still have some more Airsoft guns from ASG coming down the road but at least we have some to start with for now.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND that we have a very large backorder list and we will be doing our best to send out the backordered Dan Wesson starting tomorrow. It will take some time to get caught up so please try to avoid sending us an email about your backordered Dan Wesson, we are working very hard to get them to all of you and will update everyone with a tracking number as soon as yours ships.

If you are interested in some of the ASG Airsoft guns then make sure to check back over the next few days as I update our Airsoft guns section or our Canada Replica Airguns Store with the new ASG Airsoft items.

We have been waiting a while here in Canada for some of our ASG products to come back in stock. ASG provides us with our Dan Wesson line and the Dan Wesson Revolvers have been a very popular airgun to say the least. We did  manage to get a few of them, mainly to fill some of the earlier back orders but this big order had to come by cargo ship and now it has arrived and has been with Canada customs for about a week so we should be close to having them for you!

The hold up on this shipment is because we have some ASG Airsoft guns in with the regular Airguns which is good news as we will soon be stocking some very nice ASG Airsoft Pistols and Rifles but the new Airsoft guns are the main reason that Canada Customs is taking their time giving their OK on this shipment.

My advice to anyone who has been waiting a long time for their Dan Wesson Revolver (Mostly the 2.5 & 4 inch versions) is to hold on a bit longer because the wait is almost over and we will sell out of these guns quickly so having your backorder in guarantees you will get yours.

Buy ASG Airguns in Canada   -   Buy ASG Airguns in the US

It's always good to start the week off with an update video so everyone knows what's happening short-term and long-term...

I recently acquired a couple new items that I will be reviewing in the near future (along with several other reviews that I will be trying to get to ASAP!) First off is the Crosman M4-177 which is basically a multi-pump pellet and BB shooting replica of an AR or M4 styled carbine used by the US military. The Crosman M4-177 is mostly plastic on the outside but on first inspection seems to be built fairly well. It has removable metal sights and the magazine is also detachable but is not used as a magazine but rather a compartment for storage. The unit I have is the Canadian detuned version which shoots .177 caliber lead pellets and 4.5mm steel BB's at under 500 fps.

I don't currently sell the Crosman M4-177 in the Canada Replica Airguns Store but I do have it available for purchase in the US Replica Airguns Store for my US customers.

I also received my first old west blank shooting revolver (M1873), I have wanted one of these for a while and finally got my hands on one :) Unfortunately this one has a plugged barrel so it vents out of the cylinder area which may get a bit messy. I may see about making this one a front venting gun if possible and of course as long as it's within the law as I plan to make sure the cylinder stays semi plugged so no actual rounds could ever be shot out of it. The Old West M1873 Blank Revolver holds six .380 crimped blanks and is an all metal and wood construction. This should be a fun review!

I also touch upon a few other guns on the list of items I need to review and by the way in an attempt to get caught up I will be doing my Table Top and Shooting reviews combined.

Here are some of the guns that I will be reviewing over the next while...

• Gamo P-25 & PT-85 .177 Caliber Blowback Pellet pistols (This one will get done this week!)

• Daisy Powerline 5501 Blowback 4.5mm BB pistol.

• Webley Tempest .177 & .22 Caliber Spring Piston Air Pistol.

• Western Arms Smith & Wesson Shorty 40 Blowback 6mm Airsoft Pistol.

• Kimar Lady K Stainless Steel 9mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol

• EKOL Lady Chrome 9mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol. 

Type: Airsoft.

Manufacturer:King Arms.

Model:Colt M4A1 Metal AEG.

Materials: Metal & Nylon.

Weight: 6 pounds.

Barrel: 15 inches, metal.

Propulsion: AEG

Action: Semi/full auto, single action.

Ammunition Type: 6mm Plastic BB (recommended .20 gram plus).

Ammunition Capacity: 300+ round magazine.

FPS: 450.

If you haven't already checked out my King Arms Colt M4A1 Table Top Review, make sure to do so for all the details and specifications on the King Arms Colt M4A1 Airsoft AEG Carbine.

This Field Test Review focusses primarily on how the AEG  M4A1 performs in feet per second velocity using .25 gram plastic Airsoft BB's, its accuracy in both semi and full auto and of course my comments on it's shoot-ability and overall performance.

For this field test review of my King Arms M4A1 Airsoft rifle I switched from the .20 gram Airsoft BB's to heavier .25 gram plastic BB's. I did this to have a comparison between the two weights since I had already Chronographed and accuracy tested the .20 gram BB's. As expected the fps dropped a bit, down to around 380 fps but still stayed very consistent for me as would be expected with an AEG styled rifle.

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Another reason I wanted to test out the heavier .25 gram Airsoft BB's is because generally speaking, heavier BB's will shoot a bit more accurately as they are not as effected by the higher fps this guns is capable of shooing. The .20 gram BB's actually did well so I had high expectation for the .25 gram BB's and I was not disappointed! For this test I shot the King Arms Colt M4A1 from 30 feet out in a semi rested position (rested on a sand bag in the front and standing in the back). I shot 10 rounds in semi auto and got a very respectable 1.5 inch group which rivals any airgun in my collection! I also shot in full auto (I can't really tell you how many rounds ;) and the King Arms Colt M4A1 punched a nice 2 inch hole in the target. I would almost say it even beat out my other full auto 4.5mm steel BB shooting guns in terms of how tight of a group it can shoot while in full auto mode.

I am sure the Airsoft Hop-up system has something to do with the accuracy as the back-rotating BB's should keep a truer trajectory. One thing I notice while shooting this AEG styled Airsoft rifle, is that there is a slight delay from the time you pull the trigger till the shot is released. The trigger is actually activating a motor which in turn pulls the internal spring back, which then releases it once it hits the end of it's cycle. It's not a long delay but it is noticeable. In full auto it really does not matter at all :)

All in all I am again impressed with what an Airsoft gun can do in terms of both looks and performance.

My Vimeo Field Test Review for the King Arms Colt M4A1 6mm AEG Airsoft Carbine:

Buy this Airsoft rifle in Canada   -   Buy this Airsoft rifle in the US

Type: Airsoft.

Manufacturer:Western Arms (WA).

Model:Shorty 40.

Materials: Polymer & Metal.

Weight: 1.7 pounds.

Barrel: 3 inches, metal.

Propulsion: GBB

Action: Semi auto, single & double action.

Ammunition Type: 6mm plastic BB (recommended .20 gram).

Ammunition Capacity: 20 round magazine.

FPS: 260-270.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Western Arms Smith & Wesson Shorty 40 is very light in both single and double action but of course the lightest when shooting in single action mode. The single action is short with next to no reset making for very quick followup shots. If you have de-cocked the gun using the de-cocker, you may find it hard to re-cock again as there is no exposed hammer to grab. You will need to pull the trigger just a bit to expose the hammer and then pull it back the rest of the way as per normal.

Accuracy: This is now the third Airsoft gun I have tested and I always assumed Airsoft guns would not be nearly as accurate as my metal BB shooters but again I have been proven wrong! The WA S&W Shorty 40 even with its short 3 inch barrel got a nice 2 inch group my first time testing it out from 20 feet out in a free standing position. And 4 shots got right in the bullseye! Considering this Airsoft gun was supposed to be non-working, it worked pretty good for me!

Build Quality: When you first pickup the Western Arms Smith & Wesson Shorty .40, you immediately think it is an all metal gun since it's all black and has really good weight to it sitting in at 1.7 pounds and in a very small package. On close up inspection the WA Shorty 40 has a lot of plastic in it including the slide and the frame. Polymer frames are not uncommon and to be honest if the gun looks and feels like metal but is actually plastic, there are some benefits. This review model being used has seen some action but it looks pretty much like a brand new gun, the reason being is because of the plastic exterior - in general, plastic is not painted but rather the color is throughout the material so it will not rub off or show a scratch nearly as much as a painted or blued finishe which will show the grey metal underneath. And to be fair, my Western Arms Shorty 40 has lots of high quality metal parts where they really need to be like the magazine, magazine release, slide catch, trigger, hammer, barrel and many other internal parts.

Realism: From looking at photos of the real Smith & Wesson Shorty 40, I can say the Airsoft version is a dead ringer. The Western Arms version has all the markings and and licensing in all the right places and from what I can tell without actually having used the real steel version, it seems to function and even field strip like the real .40 caliber model. The only real telltale sign are the plastic parts but as I said before it is very hard to tell because of this Airsoft guns heavy weight.

Purchased From: Used.

Pros:

• I got this one as a bargain ($50) to say the least.

• Very realistic replica with full licensing.

• Seems to be very accurate for a short barreled Airsoft pistol.

• Decent FPS for a compact GBB Airsoft gun.

• Even thought the frame and slide are polymer, it has very good weight and feel to it.

• Everything works like the original, field strips and most mechanical parts are metal.

• Safety also works as the de-cocker.

• Adjustable rear sight for windage.

• Very nice light single and double action trigger.

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Cons:

• Hard to find this one, not in production as far as I know?

• Plastic slide and frame but still very high quality.

• Seems to go through gas fast - 20 BB's and it's done!

Comments:

For those of you who have been a bit down on the Airsoft guns I have been reviewing, maybe you just haven't put your hands on the right ones so far? I am now on my third Airsoft product review and I have received all kinds of comments from people ranging from very positive to very negative, with some people comparing Airsoft guns to kids toys. The funny thing is it's all about perspective - people who only shoot powder burners will say an Airgun is a toy but again many powder burner shooters also shoot airguns for economical and practical reasons. I think we should respect peoples interest and if it's not for you then stick with what is for you but at least first give it a chance. I plan to take part in some Airsoft games so this is a great time for me to see what Airsoft guns I like and will work well once I get in a battle situation. Now getting back to the Western Arms Smith & Wesson Shorty 40 at hand... It is a pleasure to shoot and for a "Broken" gun it sure works well, I wonder what a new pristine condition one would shoot like? It's hard for me to tell you to go out and buy one since they are not readily available but if you do manage to come across one, grab it if you can!

My Vimeo Video Review for the Western Arms Smith & Wesson Shorty 40 Airsoft Pistol:

Buy Airsoft guns in Canada   -   Buy Airsoft Pistols in the US

Type: Airsoft.

Manufacturer:King Arms.

Model: Colt M4A1 Metal AEG.

Materials: Metal & Nylon.

Weight: 6 pounds.

Barrel: 15 inches, metal.

Propulsion: AEG

Action: Semi/full auto, single action.

Ammunition Type: 6mm Plastic BB (recommended .20 gram plus).

Ammunition Capacity: 300+ round magazine.

FPS: 450.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the King Arms Colt M4A1 is fairly short and light as it is essentially just an on off switch for the internal electronic components. You can shoot this gun very quickly in semi auto mode, and of course even quicker when full auto is selected.

Accuracy: Again, I tested this Airsoft rifle just like I do my other BB rifles and put 10 rounds into a target from 30 feet out using a semi rested position (sand bag in the front - standing in the rear). I used a non-magnified red dot scope for this test rather than using the built in iron sights. Like my initial WE SCAR test, when I walked up to the paper I was shocked at this Airsoft rifle shooting .20 gram plastic BB's. I again got a 2 inch 10 round grouping! I am beginning to think that a well tuned Airsoft gun can make for a pretty good target plinker!

Build Quality: The King Arms Colt M4A1 Metal AEG Carbine is very well made with a full Metal upper and lower receiver, along with metal parts exactly where they would be on the real steel version of the Colt M4. The only plastic or nylon components are the stocks and the grips and perhaps some internal parts. There is a bit of wiggle in the rear stock and metal magazine but this may be a Colt M4 attribute, for the most part the fit and finish was excellent!

Realism: As with many Airsoft guns, there is great attention to realism and the King Arms Colt M4A1 is no exception. It is an AEG and not a gas blowback Airsoft gun so it does lack some realism in terms of the hard hitting bolt action but on the other hand you can fire what seems like an endless stream of BB's in full auto with this AEG Colt M4A1 Replica. I do like the fact that the charging handle and forward assist works similarly to a real M4 and also the Dust cover cleverly exposes the internal hop-up for easy adjustment. The Colt licensing and branding throughout this M4A1 look-a-like help to really make this Airsoft rifle look believably like a real Colt M4 carbine. 

Purchased From: The Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

• Amazing attention to detail with lots of working parts.

• Full colt licensing and markings.

• All Metal upper and lower receiver, lots of metal parts throughout.

• Semi auto & full auto selectable.

• High capacity 300+ round magazine.

• Removable carry handle with Weaver/Picatinny rail underneath.

• Nice high 400+ FPS.

• Extremely accurate for plastic BB's.

• Fully adjustable sights with two position Peep sights.

• 6 position adjustable stock.

• Easy access to internal hop-up system.

Cons:

• Magazine and stock seems bit lose.

• Canada version does not come with battery or charger.

• Came with the orange flash hider, you may want to replace or paint it if legal in your area?

• May be too powerful for inside skirmishes without some detuning.

Comments:

I was not fully sure if I would warm up to an AEG style of Airsoft rifle as I really enjoy the realism of a gas blowback type of replica gun. But the overall realism of the King Arms Colt M4A1 metal AEG really won me over and the added working components like the charging handle and forward assist along with the fully adjustable sights and 6 position stock just made it for me with this Airsoft Carbine. There is something to be said about an AR15 styled gun, they just look the part and this very realistic and usable M4 Airsoft replica is not just great to hold and look at but also performs very well which would make it deadly on the field! Now if only I could find some time to use it on the field ;)

Buy this Airsoft rifle in Canada 

Buy this Airsoft rifle in the US

I already mentioned all three of these gun in my previous posts, two being Airsoft: the King Arms Colt M4A1 All Metal and my Western Arms Shorty .40. And one being a 4.5mm steel BB shooter, the Swiss Arms Sig Sauer GSR 1911. I wanted to make you a quick YouTube Preview video to show you around all three replica guns before I get around to actually doing my full reviews for each of them.

I will most likely start off with my King Arms Colt M4A1 All Metal Airsoft rifle, then review my Swiss Arms Sig Sauer GSR 1911 4.5mm BB pistol, then finish off with my deal Airsoft pistol, the Western Arms Shorty 40.

This preview video should give you a good idea about these guns, but make sure to stay tuned for my full review videos for each of them.

Buy this Airsoft rifle in Canada   -   Buy this Airsoft rifle in the US

Buy Swiss Arms GSR 1911 in Canada

I have been very eagerly waiting for my King Arms Colt M4A1 to show up and it finally did. I have wanted an M16 - M4 for some time and to be honest I didn't really care if it was a 4.5mm steel BB shooter or 6mm plastic Airsoft gun. I just wanted it to look the part and hopefully perform well too.

Well I was definitely very happy with the King Arm Colt M4A1 All Metal Airsoft rifle. It looks amazing, has good weight, metal in all the places you would find metal on the real steel version, working bolt assist, working charging handle and both semi and full auto fire modes. My King Arms Colt M4A1 even has a removable carry handle.

And as for performance, it shot right on the money in both fps and accuracy, I don't want to give away too much since I will be doing a full review very soon but you will not be disappointed with this one!

Buy this Airsoft rifle in Canada   -   Buy this Airsoft rifle in the US

Every once in a while you get kind of lucky and get a real steel on something. Here in Canada, getting your hands on an "all black" Airsoft pistol is kind of hard since they are literally impossible to import as they are considered replicas unless they shoot "over" a set fps which most Airsoft pistols have trouble obtaining. There are some all black guns floating around from before the import restriction and there are some that slip through the cracks.

Yesterday I went into my local Army Surplus store (they also sell Airsoft guns) and saw a rather interesting little black pistol in behind the glass, something I had never seen before. When I looked at it a bit close it was in fact an all black GBB Airsoft pistol version of the Smith & Wesson .40 caliber Shorty! The sales person quickly told me the $50 price tag was because it was non-functioning or as he called it a "Grave Yard Special" I though hey, makes for a nice replica even if it does not work and so I bought it on the spot.

As is pretty normal for me, I rarely take anyone at their word and like to check things out for myself. So I loaded the magazine up with propane, added 20 BB's to the magazine and headed to my deck to give it a try. 20 rounds later and with my slide locked back I came to the conclusion that there was nothing wrong with this Airsoft catch of the day!

If your wondering where to get one I am not really sure, I did see them online in some overseas sites for around $220 or so. So my $50 was well spent ;)

I am in the process of making a "preview video" of this gun and will do a follow up full review video down the road a bit.

 Buy Airsoft guns in Canada   -   Buy Airsoft Pistols in the US

One more stock related update for the day! We now have the King Arms Colt M4A1 Metal AEG Airsoft Rifle available in the Canadian Replica Airguns Store in and ready to ship. I will also be receiving this gun early next week for review so make sure to check back for that YouTube Replica Airguns Airsoft Video Review.

Buy this gun in Canada   -   Buy this gun in the US

I have been asked so many times to make a "How To Video" on cleaning Airguns and Blank Guns so I thought I better make the video so people stop asking me to make one :) and if they do ask, which I am sure they still will, then I will be able to direct them to this awesome video tutorial...

So basically in this video I clean an Airgun that can be field stripped and I also clean an Airgun that can not easily be field stripped. I then clean a blank gun even thought the process is very much the same.

I also talk a bit about cleaners and general air gun maintenance but for the most part I just show you how to clean the guns so watch the video!

The CBSA (Canada Customs) has posted some good news for a change about the Reclassification of Airsoft Guns that shoot over 366fps! (Customs Notice 12-005)

So what does this mean? In a nutshell, any Airsoft gun that shoots a .20 gram airsoft BB at over 366 fps is now considered an uncontrolled firearm just like a regular airgun. And so it can be made out of full metal and look exactly like a real gun even without the red tip. (before the threshold was .22 gram BB had to shoot over 407 fps)

This means we will now be able to bring a lot more "All Metal Replica" Airsoft guns into Canada that where previously not allowed because of our much higher feet per second restrictions.

Here is the official statement from the CBSA:

1. The purpose of this notice is to advise of changes affecting the classification of 6mm calibre airsoft guns.

2. Section 2 of the Criminal Code defines a firearm as “a barrelled weapon from which any shot, bullet or other projectile can be discharged and that is capable of causing serious bodily injury or death to a person, and includes any frame or receiver of such a barrelled weapon, as well as anything that can be adapted for use as a firearm”.

3. As outlined in Memorandum D19-13-2, Importing and Exporting Firearms, Weapons and Devices, it was previously established that an airsoft gun, firing a .22g 6mm plastic pellet, must have a muzzle velocity in excess of 124 m/s (407 fps), in order to be considered a firearm.

4. Based on the latest research, it is now established that the muzzle velocity at which a .20g 6mm plastic airsoft projectile is capable of causing serious bodily injury is 111.6 m/s (366 fps).

5. Airsoft guns, firing a .20g 6mm plastic pellet, with a muzzle velocity above 111.6 m/s (366 fps), will be classified as firearms. Please refer to D19-13-2 for the import requirements of low muzzle velocity firearms, including low muzzle velocity “uncontrolled” firearms.

6. If an airsoft gun, firing a .20g 6mm plastic pellet, shoots below 111.6 m/s (366 fps), and resembles with near precision an existing make and model of a firearm, other than an antique firearm, it will be classified as replica firearm. Replica firearms are prohibited devices and must meet import requirements as listed in D19-13-2.

7. Inquiries and comments about this notice should be directed to: Other Government Department Programs Unit Programs Branch Canada Border Services Agency E-mail: faw-aaf@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca

Update on 2012-03-03 07:19 by Michael Kaye

Here is the direct link to this Customs Notice 12-005 on the CBSA website!