After many many requests to show how the Umarex Walther PPK CO2 Tab Modification is done I have relented to public demand. I don't actually cut my tab in this PPK CO2 Tab Modification Video but I do go step-by-step in detail and compare my modified Umarex PPK to my unmodified Umarex PPK. It is really very basic on how this is done and only a hack say and perhaps a file are all that is required to make the modifications to the PPK CO2 tab in order to make it flush with the bottom of the handle area.
Your best bet is to simply watch my YouTube Video located below and follow the steps there but here it is in text form:
Place an empty (already pierced) CO2 into your Umarex Walther PPK and tighten the unmodified CO2 tab until fully tightened, just like you would tighten a fresh CO2.
Take note at how many threads are exposed between the bottom of the handle and the top of the plastic CO2 tab, there should be about 2-4 threads exposed.
Unscrew the CO2 tab all the way, place the PPK BB Pistol so it is secure (in a vice of some sort) and use a hacksaw or dremel to shorten the CO2 screw just above the plastic tab at the thread location you previously noted. Be conservative as you can always cut or file the screw a bit shorter if your first cut was not short enough.
Now use the same hacksaw or dremel to cut a notch in the exposed cut area of the CO2 screw so that you can use a slot screwdriver to tighten the CO2 screw.
That's it - Enjoy your modified Umarex Walther PPK CO2 BB Pistol!
Watch my Vimeo Video of the Umarex Walther PPK CO2 Tab Modification Tutorial:
Ammunition Capacity: 13 round full size metal magazine -18 round metal stick magazine.
FPS: 428 - 380.
Trigger Pull: There is a lot of difference between the trigger on both of these guns, first off the Umarex Makarov has both a single and double action trigger/hammer while the KWC Makarov has a double action only trigger/hammer. Comparing the double action of both guns the definite advantage goes to the 4.5mm Steel BB shooting Umarex Makarov as it is shorter and lighter, the KWC Airsoft Makarov does not have a bad trigger but it is much longer and a bit heavier, but still very usable. The single action trigger on the Umarex Makarov is not really any lighter than when shooting in double action, it is however much shorter with a medium take-up and predictable release.
Accuracy: Both Airsoft and BB Makarov's performed very well in their shooting tests for me, they bot shot fairly well centered with the KWC Makarov getting all five shots in the black bullseye and the Umarex Makarov having a tighter group but just off to one side. This was good news since both guns do not have adjustable sights! They also scored very well in the velocity department shooting over their advertised claimed feet per second rating. The Umarex BB version shot a very respectable 390 fps while the KWC Airsoft pistol shot a very surprising 480 fps well over the claimed factory 430 fps. Both guns also shot very accurately out to ranges of 50 feet or so. From a single CO2 I was able to get 162 shots from the Umarex Makarov and 112 shots from the KWC Makarov before I noticed a significant power drop.
Build Quality: Neither one these Makarov replicas is going to win a prize for build quality, some shortcuts have been made to keep the price down on each model, but they are both built with mostly metal parts and they both performed perfectly for me during my testing. The Umarex 4.5mm Steel BB Makarov did have more moving parts while the KWC did weigh in a bit heavier, both guns had reasonable fit and finish to them.
Realism: In terms of being good Makarov replicas the pair for sure look the part, size and overall weight are very true to the original real Steel Makarov PM with the Umarex Makarov having a working slide, Makarov licensing and the ability to be field stripped. The KWC Makarov had a nicer recessed barrel and full size drop out metal magazine. I was not a big fan of the KWC screws on the right side slide or the Umarex exposed CO2 tab.
KWC may shoot a bit too hot for CQB Airsoft games.
Both guns do not have adjustable sights.
Comments:
To be honest when I got the KWC Airsoft BB shooting Makarov, I was not all that awe struck, the lack of a working slide, DOA trigger and screw holes in the slide put me off just a bit. This Airsoft pistol did warm up to me a lot once I shot it, I was surprised by the very high fps and how accurate it was for such a low cost Airsoft pistol. I can really see this gun being used as a backup or sidearm in an out doors style Airsoft game where you may need to shoot targets out at range where other lower powered pistols just would not be able to get out to. The Umarex Makarov has always had a place in my heart, it is just a really good little CO2 BB pistol for the price with mostly all metal parts, a working slide, single and double action trigger and very good overall performance. In my books you can not go wrong choosing either of these Makarov replicas so choose wisely!
My Vimeo Video Table Top Comparison Review for these Makarov Air Replicas:
This is not meant to be a full review of either the BB or Airsoft version of the Cybergun - KWC CO2 Blowback Mini UZI's but I do talk about specifications, show you around both guns, and put them both through a full Field Test so I guess in a way, perhaps it can be considered to be a full review ;)
I will list the specifications here for you but I am not going to get into details like Trigger Pull, Build Quality, Accuracy and Realism. You can check out my other video reviews for more information on the Mini UZI:
As I said you can check out all my other videos for info on these very accurate Mini UZI Replicas, I mainly want to go over some of the main differences and similarities for both the BB and Airsoft versions.
In terms of build quality they are made almost exactly the same and weigh in at a hefty near 5 pounds, the only differences are the inner barrel and magazines to accommodate the different sized ammo. The BB version has a 25 round single stack magazine that does not have a follower to stop the bolt from continuing to operate even after the magazine is empty. While the 6mm Airsoft version has a double stack magazine that holds 38 rounds and does have a follower to stop the bolt which can save you some unintentional wasted CO2.
The Airsoft Mini UZI version is distributed by KWC while the 4.5mm BB version is distributed by Cybergun, you will find the UZI and IWI licensing on the Cybergun 4.5mm BB version but not on the KWC 6mm Airsoft version.
Out of the box the KWC Airsoft Mini UZI is ready to go in both semi auto and full auto while the 4.5mm steel BB version will only shoot in semi auto mode, it can however be easily modded to shoot in full auto.
Both guns come in cardboard boxes with manuals, some BB's and an Allen key to tighten the CO2. The KWC Airsoft Mini UZI also comes with a handy speed loader.
There is a slight fps velocity difference between the two with the KWC Airsoft 6mm plastic rounds traveling at around 400 fps (with .20 gram BB's) and the 4.5mm Steel BB's traveling at right around 350 fps. In the field test portion I test both guns out on some water filled cans to see how each ammo type performs in terms of penetration.
Your best bet is to watch both my Table Top and Field Test Comparison Video Reviews and see for yourself how they compare!
The KWC/Cybergun Model 1911 Blowback BB Pistols and Airsoft Pistols are very popular and so I tend to get lots of questions about them like: Are they the same quality? What version shoots the best? How do I remove the white warning lettering? Can I get one in an Airsoft version? Can I add a laser or tactical light? Can I change the grips...
So in this YouTube video I compare all four existing KWC and Cybergun model 1911's showing you the Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911 in 4.5mm Steel BB, the KWC Model 1911 and Model 1911 A1 Tac also in 4.5mm Steel BB and lastly the KWC Model 1911 in 6mm Airsoft plastic BB.
Watch my Vimeo Video of these four KWC and Cybergun Model 1911 4.5mm Steel BB and Airsoft CO2 Blowback Pistols:
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KJWORKS KP-05 is what you would expect from a true 1911 single action only trigger, it has very little take up with a smooth crisp and light release to it.
Accuracy: I shot the KJWORKS KP-05 from 20 feet out in semi rested position and got very good test results. I was able to place 10 rounds in under 1.5 inches and getting four shots right in the bullseye making the shot placement very good even without adjusting the sights (which can be adjusted for windage). The KJWORKS HP-05 1911 styled HI-CAPA Airsoft Replica shot right around 300 fps range while conducting my 5 shot average chrony testing which was surprisingly low for the CO2 magazine version, this may have been a temperature or CO2 related condition, when I conduct my full Field Test Shooting Review, I will review this and see if we can do better? I also got two full 30 round magazines worth of shots which is what you would expect from this style of full heavy blowback airsoft pistol.
Build Quality: I am extremely impressed with the build quality of all the KJWORKS Airsoft guns so far, the fit and finish is the best around on any of my guns including my 4.5mm steel BB shooters. After shooting several magazines worth of BB's, areas that are painted like the metal friction areas show very light wear which is rarely the case with metal built blowback airguns. Again the tolerances between the moving parts like the slide and frame are very tight showing excellent workmanship and machining from KJWORKS.
Realism: The KJWORKS KP-05 6mm Airsoft pistol is a replica of a High Capacity styled tactical 1911 45 Auto and is a great looking and functioning replica. You will not find any actual licensing on this pistol and the CO2 magazine does stick out a bit to accommodate the 12 gram CO2 but other than that this Airsoft pistol looks and works near exactly like a real 1911 tactical semi auto and is fully field strip-able. I really like the updated more tactical add ons like the tactical rail, machined trigger and hammer, white dot adjustable sights, wrap around grips and ambidextrous safety.
All metal pistol with good overall realistic weight to it.
Full heavy blowback operation.
Typical KJWORKS excellent fit and finish.
High capacity magazine 30 rounds.
Very good accuracy and well centered on target.
Nice replica of a High Capacity Tactical 1911 styled pistol.
I like the stainless highlights and ambidextrous safety and Rail for accessories.
Fully field strip-able.
Cons:
Shot a bit low Feet Per Second for me - should do better?
CO2 magazine is long to accommodate the 12 gram CO2.
Slide is heavy enough but seems to be a bit sluggish which is kind of a 1911 trademark so that can be taken as good or bad.
Comments:
The KJWORKS KP-05 1911HI-CAPA is another excellent full blowback Airsoft pistol from KJWORKS. The HP-05 is a classic upgraded more modernized version of the 1911 semi auto pistol which is a great foundation to build any pistol from. I found the CO2 usage to be decent on the KP-05 but felt that I should have been able to get more fps out of this pistol, I will be testing the KJWORKS KP-05 again and hope to see some better results in this area. With that aside, the KP-05 1911 HI-CAPA is a great shooter and as is, with its high capacity magazine would be a perfect sidearm for any Airsoft related squirmish or even just for honing up your shooting skills when getting to the gun range is not an option.
Ammunition Capacity: 18 round full size metal magazine.
FPS: 320.
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KWC M1911 A1 Tac blowback BB Pistol is exactly what you would expect from a true single action 1911 styled pistol. It has a short take up and then a nice light and crisp pull to it. Because of the similar mechanics not only to the trigger but other aspects of this gun, it would make an awesome low cost trainer to be used when your real 1911 can not be.
Accuracy: I shot the KWC M1911 A1 Tac BB gun at a target from 20 feet away in a semi rested position, and it performed well getting a 2 inch grouping just a bit off center of the target. The sights are adjustable for windage so zeroing the KWC M1911 A1 Tac in would not be much of a problem! My initial Chrony testing puts this gun right in the 300-320 fps range which is just fine for this style of heavy full realistic blowback action BB shooter. I also managed to get three very good magazine worth of shots with some extra CO2 left for a potential 4th magazine. If you slow your shooting down and let the gun and CO2 warm up between magazines you can get 4 magazines with this gun for sure.
Build Quality: KWC did a great job with the KWC M1911 A1 Tac. The quality and build characteristics may even be just a bit better than my other KWC/Cybergun blowback air pistols. Everything that should be metal is the same on this as the original, the slide and barrel wiggle are minimal and the finish seems to be wearing fairly well on this KWC airgun. I do expect over time fore some of the finish to wear off on the high points but this can also give the gun some character ;)
Realism: The KWC M1911 A1 Tac BB airgun is as close as you can get to the real steel 1911 A1 45 auto but with an obvious more modern Tactical look to it, the Tactical version has the addition of a: Tac style trigger and hammer, textured grips, ambidextrous safety, adjustable white dot sights, rail for accessories. This gun is nearly all metal with very heavy blowback making it feel real to hold in the hand and shoot.
All metal construction - Good weight and solid feeling gun.
Nice heavy blowback action.
Very Accurate 1911 A1 styled replica in many way.
True 1911 Single action trigger, excellent pull, very smooth and light.
Accurate trigger design and working grip safety.
Decent accuracy, not too bad amount off shots for this style of gun about 3+ good magazines.
All metal full size dropout magazine.
Love the upgraded Tactical features (Tac style trigger and hammer, textured grips, ambidextrous safety, adjustable white dot sights, rail for accessories)
Cons:
Sacrifice fps and shots per CO2 because of the heavy blowback but worth it.
Finish on the Cybergun and KWC guns can ware off on the high points a bit but some people like this look.
Comments:
I love my Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911 as do many of you based on the amount of sales we have had on that unit! After all who does not appreciate such an accurate replica of the Classic Colt 1911 A1 45 auto? The only problem with the classic 1911 is that it is missing a few of todays more modern features and that's what is so nice abut the new KWC M1911 A1 Tac BB Pistol, it takes an all ready great design and makes it even better by adding the Tac style trigger and hammer, textured grips, ambidextrous safety, adjustable white dot sights and rail for add on accessories. So if you're a 1911 fan looking for as close as you can get to the real steel in a more modern version than look no further, this is it!
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the ASG Bersa BP9CC is light due to its true blowback operation that cocks the internal striker back with each shot taken. For some reason there is a slight creepiness in the trigger when the metal magazine is loaded, but it does not effect the lighter weight of the trigger pull. There is also a fair amount of take-up but the reset is short.
Accuracy: I shot the ASG Bersa BP9CC Blowback Airgun at a target from 20 feet away in a semi rested position, and it performed well getting a 2 inch grouping fairly centered on the target. The sights are non-adjustable, but for me there was no real need to adjust them. My initial Chrony testing puts this gun right in the 350 fps range.
Build Quality: ASG did another great job with the Bersa BP9CC, quality and build characteristics are very similar to my CZ 75 P-07 DUTY reviewed earlier. Everything that should be metal and polymer is the same on this as the original, and the fit and finish is very good in general!
Realism: The ASG Bersa BP9CC BB gun is as close as you can get to the real steel version while still retaining a good overall working airgun, the only real giveaway is the slightly longer but-plate on the magazine (most likely to allow for the CO2 screw tab). It looks very much like the real deal right down to the licensed Bersa trademarks and the 9x19 caliber markings on the slide and ejection port.
Good power and decent accuracy for a blowback gun with good usage of CO2.
Very well made, fit and finish is very good.
Very usable white dot sights.
All metal dropout magazine.
Gun feels great in the hand, love the thin profile.
Cons:
Magazine but plate is a bit on the long side, only telltale sign. also has strange moulding marks on it.
Trigger is a bit creepy when you have a loaded magazine and if you very slowly pull the trigger a BB can drop out of the barrel if holding downward.
Blowback is mild because of the lighter slide and reduced blowback movement.
Comments:
There are few smaller blowback air pistols that not only look great but perform well, this is one of them! I love the thin profile and overall operation of this pistol, for that very same reason the real steel version is doing exceptionally well here in North America which would make this airgun version a must have for any owners of the 9mm Bersa BP9CC. I highly recommend the ASG Bersa BP9CC 4.5mm BB Blowback Pistol to anyone looking for a very good quality and realistic BB pistol that does not compromise performance and build quality.
I've already done a KJWORKS review on the KP-02, KP-07 and Elite 1A and they turned out to be very high quality Airsoft pistols so the extra price does get you a higher quality gun. So in this preview we are simply looking at some more models that from the looks of things I expect to be more of the same in terms of high quality and excellent functionality.
The KJWorks models we are looking at today are the KP-05 (1911 HI-CAPA), the KP-09 (CZ 75) and the M9 (Beretta M9). Even though none of them are licensed, they are very detailed and realistic copies of the original real steel versions with full blowback operation, heavy metal drop out magazines and lots of metal throughout. You would be hard pressed to tell them apart from the real powder versions.
All version in this preview load CO2 in the magazine along with 6mm Plastic Airsoft BB's, none of them have any orange markings or translucent parts as they fall into the uncontrolled firearms category here in Canada.
I look forward to doing my full review of these three very nice KJWorks Airsoft pistols.
I know I have been talking about this gun for some time now (Since last years SHOT Show) but the truth of the matter is Umarex did not release it all that quickly and when it did finally come out several months ago there was a recall and so the stock that came in quickly left again. So here we are now and I finally get to show everyone this very nice Umarex made Walther P38 BB shooting replica pistol.
At first glance it looks a lot like the Crosman C41, when I was at the 2012 SHOT Show visiting the Umarex booth, I thought they had just rebranded the Crosman's C41. When I took a closer look I could clearly see the difference and realism found in the Umarex Walther P38 version; like full Walther P38 licensing, blowback operation, working safety and slide catch. Pretty much everything that was missing from the Crosman C41. The Umarex P38 is a very accurate copy of a real steal P38 in almost every way.
All in all it looks to be another welcome and very realistic looking blowback BB Replica pistol and in this case one with a history that goes back to the way to World War II.
I have talked about how KWC and Cybergun are really the same product and that Cybergun and KWC products in many cases are really the same gun but with some versions having slightly different markings on the guns themselves.
Today I show you a new 4.5mm Steel BB gun we just brought into the store very closely related to the Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911, or otherwise known as the KWC Model 1911. This new airguns is a Tactical version of the Model M1911 and it goes by the name Model M1911 A1 Tac. It shares the same internal parts as the Tanfoglio Witness 1911 including the 4.5mm Steel BB magazine but the Tactical version is all black and has several updated modern parts that you would not find in a traditional 1911 A1 45 auto replica: Like the tactical trigger, hammer, adjustable white dot sights and accessory rial. This gun would make an awesome IPSC trainer for sure.
At this point there is no 6mm Airsoft version but you can get the KWC Model 1911 and M92 in 6mm Airsoft all metal versions.
I also compare my GSG 92 4.5mm Steel BB pistol I reviewed in the past and show you that it is identical to the KWC same M92 version with the exception of some marking on the slide. Many people even prefer the KWC branded models as they do not have the rather offensive white warning instructions all over them.
So if you're in the market for one of these super popular KWC/Cybergun blowback ultra realistic BB and Airsoft pistols you do have some options to consider...
Watch my Vimeo Video Preview for these very popular KWC/Cybergun Blowback Pistols:
This Update video addresses the similarities between the KWC and Cybergun product lines, specifically the KWC Model 1911 vs. the Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911 and the KWC Taurus PT99 vs. the Cybergun GSG 92. In a nutshell, they are all made by KWC and are exactly the same with the exception of some of the licensing and branding that goes on the slides. Cybergun simply contracts KWC to make the guns for them and add some slight different printing. All parts are interchangeable.
I also show you the Silver Finish Blowback Airsoft KWC Desert Eagle and mention again that the licensing on this one is kind of hit and miss depending on what KWC sends us. So when you order one there is an additional surprise waiting for you when you open the box :)
Lastly, I show for the first time a G&G Airsoft product, the G&G Xtreme 45 Blowback that looks an awful lot like the Umarex Colt Special Combat chambered in 4.5mm Steel BB. The main differences are that the Colt Special Combat is a BB gun and the Xtreme 45 is an Airsoft gun. The G&G has blowback where as the Colt Special Combat does not have blowback.
Make sure to checkout my Vimeo video of this product update for even more info!
I got a few sample products I wanted to quickly share with everyone :) First off Bolt Airsoft, a Taiwanese based company, sent me one of their B4A1 (M4A1 Copy) AEG Airsoft rifles featuring BRSS - (Bolt Recoil Shock System) which has Blowback with simulated recoil.
The Bolt B4A1 is designed after the M4A1 and looks and works like most AEG Airsoft rifles giving you sustained performance and the use of high capacity magazines but Bolt has added their BRSS - (Bolt Recoil Shock System) which gives you the feedback and recoil you would normally only get with a true GBB (Gas Blow Back) Airsoft gun.
I will be doing a full review very shortly so watch for it!
I also received from ASG (Action Sport Games) a few Mock Airsoft Suppressors, all of them are B&T (Brügger & Thomet) derivatives. It was nice that they sent me the version (MP9 QD) that fits perfectly on my ASG/KWA MP9. The other tow are the ROTEX-IIIA and ROTEX-IIIA Compact that fit perfectly on to a standard flash hider and even include one with them.
Check out my Vimeo Preview Video of these Review items from Bolt Airsoft and ASG:
I've had lots of requests to review the Daisy Winchester Model 11 and to give my opinion how it stacks up with the Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911. I will be doing a full review of the Daisy Winchester Model 11 Colt 45 1911 replica shortly but wanted to kick things off with my comparison portion.
Your best off to simply watch my Vimeo Video Comparison of the Tanfoglio Witness 1911 and Winchester Model 11 but here are my thoughts on some of similarities, strengths and weaknesses for both 1911 syled airguns.
Similarities:
Both are good replicas of the classic Colt 45 1911 semi auto pistol.
Both shoot 4.5mm Steel BB's and use standard 12 gram CO2.
Both are mostly metal and weigh close to 2 pounds with the Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness weighing about 40 grams more.
Both come in a nice cardboard box.
Both have blowback operation with slides that lock back after the last shot.
Both have true 1911 styled single action only triggers.
Strengths:
The Winchester Model 11 has the higher feet per second rating and gets more shots per CO2 (410fps vs 320fps).
The Tanfoglio Witness 1911 has a full size drop out metal magazine that holds the BB's and CO2.
The Winchester Model 11 is more economical to buy and shoot.
The Tanfoglio Witness 1911 has a more realistic "full" blowback operation.
The Winchester Model 11 has less intrusive warning markings on the slide.
The Tanfoglio Witness 1911 has a working Grip Safety.
The Winchester Model 11 is made in Japan.
The Tanfoglio Witness 1911 can be field stripped similar to a real 1911.
Both have fairly high capacity magazines (16 BB's for the Winchester and 18 BB's for the Tanfoglio).
Weaknesses:
The Winchester Model 11 has a funky extra button on the thumb safety?
The Tanfoglio Witness 1911 tends to use a lot of CO2 with less average fps.
The Winchester Model 11 has more free-play (wiggle) in the slide.
The Tanfoglio Witness 1911 magazine are more expensive and can be hard to find at times.
All in all I really like both guns, and what really counts is how they feel and shoot and after a quick outside testing with the Daisy Winchester Model 11, it seemed to shoot and work pretty good for me. Realists may prefer the Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911 because it is more realistic in terms of how it's built and how it functions but as a daily shooting gun, the Daisy Winchester Model 11 hits harder and gets more shots per CO2, all while still giving the shooter a very realistic 1911 styled shooting experience.
Watch my Vimeo video Comparison of the Daisy Winchester Model 11 vs the Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911:
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Umarex Beretta 90two is respectable in both single and double action, I found the 90two to be good shooting in both actions but preferred the feel of single action for more precise shooting. In double action you fire off a lot of shots quickly but the trigger is fairly long so you need to use a full pull or you may miss a shot here or there.
Accuracy: The results I got shooting my 8 round group from 20 feet out where excellent, coming in at just under a 1 inch group which is about as good as you can expect from a BB pistol of any quality. I also got well over the factory claimed 375 fps at an average of closer to 400 feet per second.
Build Quality: The Umarex Beretta 90two does use both plastic and metal in its build with an all metal slide and feels solid in the hands but I feel it would of felt even better if it had a another half pound to it or so. I had no problems with it in terms of function and the fit and finish where very good but there is always that feeling you get when you hold something with some weight to it in your hands. I do have to credit Umarex for working in a moveable slide and full size drop out magazine.
Realism: The Umarex Beretta 90 two is very realistic and includes Beretta licensing and markings throughout. As mentioned before, the moveable slide and full size drop out magazine along with the recessed barrel makes this air pistol version look very close to the real steel Beretta 90two. The only real giveaways are the exposed CO2 tab on the bottom of the magazine and the somewhat out of place safety switch on the right side of the gun.
Full size drop out magazine that holds BB's and CO2.
Full Beretta Licensing and markings.
Single and double action trigger.
Rail for adding accessories.
Above claimed fps with good usage of CO2 and excellent accuracy.
Cons:
Gun could be a bit heavier for added realism.
Non adjustable sights.
CO2 tab is plastic and exposed.
Comments:
Right off the bat I have to say the Umarex Beretta 90two is a step up from the Elite II, not that there is anything wrong with the Elite II, but given the choice I would go with the Beretta 90two as it's simply a more realistic version of the Beretta 92 with its working metal slide and full size drop out magazine that holds both the BB's and CO2 in it. On the performance side of things, the Umarex Beretta 90two also met or exceeded my expectations so the 90 two is not just built for show. If your a beretta fan looking for a realistic Beretta styled air gun and don't want to spend the big bucks for the all metal German made Umarex version, then the Beretta 90two is an excellent option to consider adding to your collection or even as a first time BB gun purchaser!
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!
One question I get asked often is "Which are my favorite airguns?" or "What are my top 5 gun choices?" I have done my best to avoid answering this question because it's a very hard question to answer and to be truthful on any given day I may come up with a different selection of guns as there are just so many great airguns out there!
So today I took a bunch out and shuffled through them all to see if I could come up with five of my top picks, well at least for today that is, and I'm pretty happy with my selection (Umarex Desert Eagle - ASG CZ 75 P-07 Duty - Baikal MP-654K Makarov - Cybergun Tanfoglio Witness 1911 - ASG Dan Wesson 6 Inch Sliver). I know for a fact they are some excellent choices and if you happen to own or plan on buying one then I'm sure you will agree wiht me.
So checkout this Vimeo Video Review where I go through them and explain what I like about each gun, and why they made my Top 5 Airgun Pick.
One question I get asked all the time is to give my feedback on guns and in most cases I am asked to compare two or three guns with each other and come up with a definitive answer as to which on is the best or "which one should I buy?"
In this Vimeo Video I talk a bit about how I feel answering these questions because in many situations the guns being compared can not always be ranked on a scale as one being better then the other. Many times each gun offers its own set of positive and negative features and it really comes down to what features are most suited to your needs. Your needs may be very different then mine
Often it can be as simple as what style or look do you prefer because the guns in question may share the same features and benefits.
As you know I have been doing some reviews of my 22LR "Real Steel" guns and I added a couple more to the collection I want to share with you all. From my past experience, airguners also like the low cost 22LR guns for a variety of reasons including reduced operating cost, low recoil, lots of places to shoot them and so on...
I took both these guns to the gun range and put several hundred rounds through them and by the end they where both shooting very reliable using inexpensive box Blazer 22LR ammo. I stuck with this ammo because it seemed to be working well. The Chiappa 1911-22 was a bit pickier at first but I think it was mainly to do with a rather stiff magazine spring, making it difficult for the first couple rounds to chamber, again most of this sorted itself out by the end of the shooting day.
My ISSC M22 really performed well, the slide was a bit tight at first creating a few failures to chamber and eject but after a few magazines it settled right down and would hammer through all 10 rounds with no problems. I am really loving this little 22LR Glock replica!
Stay tuned for my full reviews on both of these guns and enjoy my Vimeo preview video for now!
Here it is by popular demend, a video of all my Air and Blank Guns, many of which where added in 2011. Thank you to everyone for your suport, without you all, this would not have been posible!
Here is a list of all my Air and Blank Guns so far...
Pistols BB:
Umarex PPK/S Nickel platted 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Pistol (Full Auto Mod).
Umarex PPK/S 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex CP99 Compact 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex CP99 Compact Recon 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex H.P.P 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex SA177 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex Steel Storm 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Machine Pistol.
Umarex Makarov 4.5mm CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex H&K USP 4.5mm CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex Colt Defender CO2 4.5mm BB Pistol.
Umarex Colt Special Combat CO2 4.5mm BB Pistol.
Umarex Smith & Wesson M&P 4.5mm CO2 BB Pistol.
Umarex Beretta Elite II 4.5mm CO2 BB Pistol.
Baikal IZH MP-654K (Makarov) 4.5mm CO2 BB Pistol (Nickel).
Cybergun P226 X-Five 4.5mm Blowback CO2 BB Pistol.
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Umarex Beretta CX4 Storm and the Crosman Night Stalker are both pretty decent and weigh in at 8.5 pounds for the Beretta CX4 and 7 pounds for the NightStalker. This is a bit surprising since the Umarex Beretta trigger only releases the action while the Crosman NightStalker has to rotate the 12 shot magazine with each trigger pull.
Accuracy: This is still to be determines in a later field test review but from my past shooting experiences with both these guns I found them to be pretty good and even though the Crosman NightStalker is a far cheaper built and priced gun then the Umarex CX4 Storm, I think it may have the edge on the German made counterpart.
Build Quality: Both of these Beretta CX4 Storm looking guns have plastic shells with internal metal parts but they are night and day when comparing the build quality. Don't get me wrong, the night Stalker is not a badly built rifle but when sitting side by side with the Umarex CX4 Storm, you can really see the extra quality that went in to the German made Umarex version. It has much heavier and thicker materials and the fit and finish is excellent, pretty much what you would expect to see on the real Beretta CX4 Storm.
Realism:The Umarex Beretta CX4 Storm is obviously a replica of the real steel Beretta CX4 Storm and it really is an excellent replica in almost every way with the excepetion of the screw holes one side. The pellet shooting version even includes the hard shell case that looks to be the same one the real CX4 comes with. So what about the NightStalker? The Crosman NightStalker is a look-a-like for the replica Beretta CX4 Storm but not really a replica. It still looks very good and makes for a a decent rifle if your looking for something that has that CX4 Storm look and feel.
Purchased From: Private Sale.
Pros for Umarex Beretta CX4 Storm:
Very well made - made in Germany.
Almost perfect replica with lots of detail.
Comes in a nice hard-shell case.
Adjustable sights for windage and elevation.
Has built in picatinny top rail.
Large capacity 30 rounds belt-fed pistol grip loading magazine just like the real CX4 Storm.
True Blowback operation.
Lots of shots per 88 gram CO2.
Pros for Crosman NightStalker:
Made in the USA.
Inexpensive yet a very respectable shooter.
Adjustable sights for windage and elevation.
Can mount rails for sights and add on accessories.
Decent capacity 12 round rotary magazine.
Lots of shots per 88 gram CO2.
Cons for Umarex Beretta CX4 Storm:
A bit on the expensive side!
Canadian detuned version is very underpowered.
Trigger pull is a bit hard for a true blowback gun.
Cons for Crosman NightStalker:
Kind of simple and basic in design!
Canadian detuned version is very underpowered.
Would have been nice if it came with a top rail of remounting a scope.
12 shot magazine a bit tricky to load till you get used to it.
Comments:
I don't do a lot of rifle reviews as there seems to be a lot less replica air rifles when compared to the vast amounts of replica air pistols available. So it's kind of nice to have these two air rifles that I can show you. Of course if money was no object, then I would recommend the Umarex Beretta CX4 Storm over the Crosman NightStalker especially since the NightStalker does not seem to be in production anymore - kind of a shame since it is really a very respectable multi-shot blowback air rifle for the money. Neither one of these air rifles are made for hunting but I suppose if you have the non-Canadian version that have not been detuned then they may have enough power for small pests. Either way these guns are meant for fun times, and they are fun to shoot rapid fire on targets so if you want a very believable CX4 Storm for a lot less money then the real steel version not only to buy but shoot, then look no further...
