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:

Buy Tanfoglio Witness 1911 in Canada   -   Buy Tanfoglio Witness 1911 in the US

Buy Winchester  Model 11 BB Pistol in Canada - Buy BB Pistols in the US

Type: BB air pistol.

Manufacturer: UmarexUSA.

Model: Beretta 90two.

Materials: Metal and plastic construction.

Weight: 1.2 pounds.

Barrel: 5 inches, non-rifled.

Propulsion: 12 gram CO2.

Action: Single & double actions.

Ammunition Type: 4.5mm steel BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 21 rounds.

FPS: 375+ fps.

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.

Available in the:Replica Airguns Store

Pros:

• Has metal working slide.

• 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!

Buy Beretta 90two in Canada

Buy Beretta 90two 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!

The classic Webley Tempest is now available in the Replica Airguns Canada Store and let's set the record straight right from the start. This is a the latest made in Turkey version and it really smokes! From most peoples reviews the fit and finish are comparable to previous versions and we will just have to take their word for it as I have never had a Webley Tempest to compare one to? I can tell you the new Turkish made Webley Tempest is very well made air pistol and when it comes to power this gun take it right to the edge in terms of what is legal as an unregulated airgun in Canada.

I tested both the .177 caliber and .22 caliber Webley Tempests and they both shot very hard, keep in mind, with added velocity there is also added cocking effort and the .22 caliber definitely uses a stronger spring as it also has more energy behind the fast moving .22 caliber pellets. The .22 is not for everyone because it take a lot for work to cock this bad boy!

These are the results I got shooting the Webley Tempests using my Chronograph:

• .177 Caliber
• 6.9 grain pellets used
• 499 fps
• 3.8 foot pounds
• 5.2 Joules

• .22 Caliber
• 11.9 grain pellets used
• 400 fps
• 4.2 foot pounds
• 5.7 Joules

Here is some more info on the new Turkish Webley Tempest:

This is the latest and most powerful (made in Turkey) version of the original barrel over cylinder design that made Webley pistols world famous. Positively locked barrel using the famous Webley revolver type stirrup.

The Webley Tempest is a spring-operated, single shot; break barrel air pistol fitted with a precision-rifled barrel primarily suited to waisted lead pellets. The gun is available in either .177 or .22 caliber. The gun incorporates many additional design features, which include: adjustable trigger, manual safety catch (i.e. selective use), adjustable rear sight with vertical and horizontal adjustment. Handle is designed to fit the hand, with a thumb rest and checkered grips.

• .177 or .22 cal. pellet versions
• Spring-operated, break barrel
• Single shot
• 400fps .22 - 499fps .177 (REALLY!)
• 2 pounds
• 6.89 inch steel rifled barrel
• Adjustable sights & trigger
• Manual safety
• Comes with manual
• Strong Cocking Effort!!

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

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.

Buy these guns in Canada   -   Buy these guns in the US

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.

Buy these guns in Canada   -   Buy these guns in the US

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...

Today I bring to you a quick preview of my ISSC M22 Glock Copy in 22LR and also my Chiappa 1911-22 1911 22LR Copy. You may also remember the review I did a while back of the ISSC MK22 SCAR styled 22LR.

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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!

I wanted to get this video out to you a bit sooner but I have been really sick the past three days and so I have not had a lot of time to put this YouTube Video together. It's a pretty simple compilation of some photos and videos I took during my time walking around the 2012 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, not all of it is to do with airguns but most of it is. I even took a few touristy shots since it wasn't all work ;)

I thought you may all be interested in knowing that the Crosman M4-177 Pneumatic Air Rifle is coming to Canada. I was looking through the 2012 Crosman product guide that I picked up when I visited Crosman at the SHOT Show, and I noticed they have a Canadian product code!

I have had a lot of people asking if this one would be fore sale in Canada and it looks like it is coming, the question now is when...

Buy Air rifles in Canada   -   Buy this rifle in the US

Here is the Official Press Release of the Crosman C-TT:

C-TT PRESS RELEASE - CROSMAN ANNOUNCES NEW RUSSIAN-STYLE CO2 BB PISTOL

 ROCHESTER, New York (January 17, 2012) – Crosman Corporation, long known for innovation and quality in products for the shooting sports, has introduced the new Crosman C-TT.  The CO2 powered .177 caliber, semi-automatic BB repeater air pistol is styled after a World War II era Russian service handgun.

Appealing to fans of WWII memorabilia, “the C-TT is an authentic looking plinking pistol that offers hours of fun action shooting,” says Crosman Product Manager Flemming Molin.  “Adding to the realism of the new, vintage-style C-TT pistol is its generous weight and the all-metal body.  It gives this pistol its genuine feel,” he said.  “The 18-round mag drops at the push of a button for quick reloading, getting you back to shooting sooner,” said Molin.

“Imagine the thrill of shooting as fast as you can pull the trigger with this new Soviet-style sidearm. What better way to enjoy target shooting than with a pistol that looks like it’s from your favorite WWII game?” Molin asked.  “Put together some targets and challenge your buddies to a friendly competition,” he suggests.

 

The new CO2 pistol is a semi-automatic repeater powered by a Powerlet® 12 gram CO2 cartridge.  It features a comfortable polymer grip, alloy body and is equipped with a front blade and rear notch sight. The C-TT holds up to 18, 4.5mm BBs and is as sturdy as the World War II Red Army service pistol it resembles,” Molin commented.

 

The C-TT has an MSRP of $99.99 and is available at retail.

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

OK, so I took a day off to appease the wife and did some "shopping" but then today it was back to business and I made the wife come along for the ride, she was a good sport about it so it all worked out!

I went back to Umarex and Crosman, just to verify a few things, first of all, the Umarex P38 is in fact a blowback pistol and it has a nice 400 claimed fps. I am looking forward to testing this one!.

I also went back to Crosman to checkout the C51 and the C*TT to see if the C51 Glock-ish looking replica had a polymer frame which it does and also to see if the C*TT is blowback which it is not :( But it is mostly metal and has a working slide so there is hope for the C*TT.

I dropped by the ASG booth but there was nothing really new there. I already have pretty much all their 4.5mm BB guns but they do have a nice selection of Airsoft guns, and speaking of Airsoft guns I am spending a significant amount of my time these days looking into the Airsoft market and what I can bring into Canada for sale. I have been talking with several suppliers and we should have some nice offering for us Canadians shortly so stay posted on this one...

Lastly, I have a few 22LR guns coming my way that I will be reviewing. yes I know they are not airguns but whenever I review a 22LR gun, I get a lot of questions and if you are like me, and you have your PAL, the 22LR guns make a nice addition to your low cost guns that you can buy and shoot for a fraction of the cost of the larger caliber guns out there.

Today I stopped by Chiappa and checked them out. I have a 1911 Tactical 22LR on the way that I will be reviewing and I may get some more 22LR from Chiappa down the road if the 1911 reviews well. By the way I also have a 22lR M22 ISSC "Glock" styled pistol also on it's way for review!

 

Well that's it from the Vegas  SHOT SHow 2012 for now, see you on the flip-side!

I thought the Crosman C51 was dead, it was expected to be released back in the summer of 2011 but it got delayed and then word came out that it was dropped! But then to my surprise I saw it on display at this years SHOT Show and after a few questions it looks like it is back on the table as a new product for 2012.

This is great news because I have to say this is a very well made pistol all around very realistic. It has excellent weight to it, especially in the slide and it has a floating barrel with full blowback action and a single action trigger. You will also be happy to hear it has a full drop out metal magazine and seems to be designed like many of the 6mm Airsoft blowback airguns. 

I am really looking forward to getting my hands  on this air pistol!

Enjoy the photos - I took lots :)

Buy Crosman guns in Canada   -   Buy Crosman guns in the US

One new item from Umarex that at first I thought was pretty much exactly like the Crosman C41 but after closer inspection it is very different and has some features that I believe will make it the better of the two.

For one the Umarex P38 has a slide catch and release, the Crosman C41 has a moving slide but no slide catch to speak of. The Umarex P38 also has the actual Walther P38 licensing which is a nice touch and it has an actual working hammer. I am not 100% sure if it is blowback or not but I plan on going back and asking a few more questions about the Umarex Walther P38 as it looks to be a nice addition to the Umarex Replica Air Pistol line up.

Enjoy the photos for now...

The SHOT Show is out of this world! You really need a week to check it all out or perhaps a clone of yourself... I barely touched the surface today. I did make sure I had a chance to checkout both Umarex and Crosman, I also made it to some other booths, but I will touch on them later in another post. There is enough information I can share with you from Crosman and Umarex to keep you drooling for now.

In short, here is what is new...

Crosman is bringing back the C51 Glock inspired Blowback BB pistol that we all thought was dead and I have to say it looks really really nice - more to come on this one. Crosman also has the new C*TT BB pistol that looks to be a blowback pistol replica of the Russian Tokarev. I also saw a very nice looking two tone version of the M4-177 and there may just be a Canadian detuned under 500 fps version on the way? Crosman is also introducing a really well made Nitro Piston air pistol called the Benjamin Trail NP that looks to be a very well made break barrel spring piston air pistol that shoots in the 500 fps neighbourhood.

Umarex also had some new items, one of which at first glance looks a lot like the Crosman C41 P38 replica but I have to say it has more going for it with a locking slide, licensed trade marks, true single action and overall just a more realistic version of the real P38. Umarex is also bringing the Smith & Wesson 327 TRR8 BB Revolver to North America, which is very similar to the Dan Wesson line but with extra rails on the top and bottom of the barrel. Umarex is also adding a couple Browning based air guns, one is a low fps Browning Buck Mark copy which is a break barrel .177 caliber pellet shooter targeted for the beginner target shooter and also a Browning High Power replica. One last BB pistol many people have been asking for is the Beretta 90 Two BB pistol and it looks like it has landed in North America finally!

Make sure to check back for some more photos and more info on all these guns...

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The bad news is - I'm going to be a bit out of touch with my email as I will be away from this Sunday till Friday in Las Vegas Nevada at the 2012 SHOT Show and not only will I be supper busy checking out all the cool stuff at the show, but I will most likely have limited internet access.

The good mews is - I will be doing my best to post as many photos, videos and info about the Airgun related booths and events going on at the 2012 SHOT Show, so make sure to checkout the Replica Airguns website next week, I hope to be able to share with you anything new and cool from the 2112 SHOT Show!

Type: Pellet air rifles.

Manufacturer:Umarex & Crosman

Model:Beretta CX4 Storm & Night Stalker

Materials: Metal & plastic.

Weight: 5.25 / 3.27 Pounds.

Barrel: 17.5 / 16.75 inches, metal-rifled.

Propulsion: CO2 88 gram.

Action: Semi auto - Blowback.

Ammunition Type: .177 caliber pellets.

Ammunition Capacity: 30 / 12 rounds.

FPS: Up to 500 fps (Canadian detuned versions).

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.

Update:

• Checkout my Umarex Beretta CX4 Storm Field Test Review

• Checkout my Crosman NightStalker Field Test Review

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...

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Crosman just made a press announcement for their latest M417 Pneumatic Air Rifle which looks a lot like an M4 assault rifle.

Although it looks like a semi auto, under the hood is a multi-pump pneumatic system that requires pumping between shots, you can pump just a few times or several to get right up to 625 fps with 7.9 grain pellets so I am assuming this one is not coming to the Canadian market in it's current configuration. By the way you can also shoot BB's by loading up to 350 into the BB reservoir located on the side of the receiver, while an 18 round track feeds the BB's for shooting.

Some other interesting points to mention are the adjustable rear stock and windage adjustable, dual aperture (2-position), flip rear sight, and elevation adjustable front sight that can also be removed entirely for alternative sighting like a red dot or scope.

The Crosman M417 - M4 styled pellet and BB rifle uses a polymer stock, receiver and forearm and sports tactical rails for mounting accessories in several locations. MSRP is right around $119.

Here 's to hoping for a Canadianized version some time in the near future...

Buy Air rifles in Canada   -   Buy this rifle in the US

Update on 2011-11-09 19:12 by Michael Kaye

Crosman just changed the name of this product to: M4-177

Type: BB air pistol.

Manufacturer: Cybergun.

Model:Sig Sauer X-Five P226 Open.

Materials: 99% all metal build.

Weight: 2.86 pounds.

Barrel: 4.4 inches, brass, non-rifled.

Propulsion: CO2 x1.

Action: Semi auto blowback, double and single action.

Ammunition Type: Steel BBs 4.5mm.

Ammunition Capacity: 18 rounds

FPS: 330

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Sig Sauer X-Five is what you would expect from a real automatic pistol, in single action mode it is very light and short. The blowback action re-cocks the hammer with each shot.

Accuracy: Excellent for a BB shooter, I got about a 1 inch grouping from a 20 foot away free standing position with this red dot equipped BB shooter. I also put the Cybergun Sig Sauer P226 Open version through my Chrony Chronograph and even though the box has a 300 FPS rating on it I, I was able to get an 8 shot average of 343 FPS.

Build Quality: Excellent, with an almost all metal construction, this gun has some weight to it and the craftsmanship is also very good!

Realism: The Cybergun Sig Sauer X-Five P226 is as close as you can come to the look, weight, feel, and action of the real Sig Sauer X-Five. P226! Everything about this gun makes it feel real, it would make an excellent training gun for someone just getting started in the sport or even for a skilled semi auto shooter wanting to hone their skills when a gun range is not easily accessible.

Available From: The Replica Airguns Store

Pros:

• All metal construction - Extremely good weight and solid feeling gun. As real as you can get in an airgun.

• Heavy blowback action adds to the realism.

• Very Accurate Sig Sauer replica.

• Really good accuracy for a BB gun (Red Dot helps),

• Awesome training gun.

• Both SA & DA with excellent pull, very smooth and light. 

• Field strips just like the real Sig Sauer X-Five P226.

• Mine came in with much higher FPS then claimed.

• Carries Sig Sauer licensed trademarks.

• For only $10 more you get the sight rail, compensator and rear adjustable sight.

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Cons:

• Sacrifice some fps and shots per CO2 because of the heavy blowback but worth it.

• A bit hard to load up.

• Can not field strip without taking off the sight rail?

Comments:

This Cybergun BB air pistol is styled after many modern blowback Airsoft pistols, this means it functions very similarly to the real steel. It is a very hefty gun made almost entirely from metal and has a very snappy blowback action which adds to its shooting realism. Even the magazine looks and feels like a real 9mm magazine with similar weight and dimensions. The Cybergun Sig Sauer X-Five Open version shoots even more accurately than the non-sight rail version because of the addition of a Red Dot scope helping the accuracy! Both the regular version of teh Sig Sauer X-Five P226 and this "Open" version are absolutely great air pistols but for the extra $10 price tag you get some really nice additions to this pistol including an adjustable rear sight.

My Vimeo Videos for this very fine Cybergun Sig Sauer P226 X-Five Open version Airgun:

Buy this gun in Canada

Buy this gun in the US

OK to start things off, this is a review of the Daisy Red Ryder Lever action BB Rifle but the Vimeo Video also compares the Red Ryder to the very similar Crosman Marlin Cowboy Lever Action BB Riffle, If you have not checked my Marlin Cowboy review out, you can see it here.

So for the most part I am going to focus on the Red Ryder in this text version but I will refer to the Marlin Cowboy when comparing the two BB air rifles.

Type: BB spring air rifle.

Manufacturer: Daisy.

Model:Red Ryder.

Materials: Mostly metal and wood.

Weight: 2.2 pounds.

Barrel: Smooth bore.

Propulsion: Spring.

Action: Lever action.

Ammunition Type: Steel BBs 4.5mm.

Ammunition Capacity: 650 rounds.

FPS: Up-to 350.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull is pretty good, not super light but predictable. (the trigger area is much larger then the Crosman Marlin Cowboy which may be more suitable for adults with thick fingers)

Accuracy: When I originally tested my Marline Cowboy I thought it performed well but the Daisy Red Ryder definitely has the advantage in the accuracy department, at least in my testing. I got about a 1.5 inch 8 shot group from a free standing position 20 feet away from the target.

Build Quality: This is a pretty much all metal and wood gun with a build quality almost exactly like the Crosman Marlin Cowboy. Daisy has even made some improvements like upgrading the lever to metal from plastic, most likely to compete with Crosman on this feature. The only plastic I found was the trigger, safety and front sight assembly.

Realism: Even though this BB gun is styled after the classic lever action Cowboy Rifle, it's not a close replica to any that I know of. You have to keep in mind the purpose of this gun - meant primarily for younger first time shooters. There are some nice touches like the leather tassels and the Red Ryder name burned into the stock .

Purchased From: Walmart.

Pros:

• Inexpensive introduction to the sport of Airgun shooting.

• Made out of Mostly Metal and Wood - Now including the Lever.

• Large capacity internal barrel magazine (650 rounds).

• Adjustable rear sight for height.

• Decent 300+ fps velocity.

• Excellent accuracy and consistency.

• The original maker of this style of BB rifle - great track record!

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Cons:

• Plastic trigger, safety and front sight assembly.

• Some people may find the non removable metal loop for the leather tassel a bit intrusive.

Comments:

I think this is a wonderful little BB rifle and even though it's intended for the young entry level shooter it can make a great back yard plinker that anyone can join in and enjoy - adults included! I plan to be shooting either the Red Ryder or my Marline Cowboy side by side with my little guy when he is old enough to shoot one of these fine lever action BB rifles. When it comes to picking between the Daisy Red Ryder or the Crosman Marlin Cowboy Lever Action BB Rifles it comes down to a few points: Both have almost the exact same build quality so it may come down to which look you like best? The Daisy was more accurate while the Crosman had a bit more power. The Red Ryder had the lighter but longer lever action pull while the Marlin Cowboy had a heavier shorter lever pull.

If you can't decide just buy them both because they are dirt cheap to buy and tons of fun to shoot, so when your friends come over you can always pass them one so they won't feel left out!

My Vimeo Video Comparison Review for these Lever Action BB Rifles:

Buy Air Rifles in Canada   -   Buy Marlin Cowboy in the US

Buy Red Ryder in Canada   -   Buy Red Ryder in the US

Another filed test video in the series. This one is of the Umarex Walther PPK/S CO2 4.5mm BB pistol, I show you both my regular unmodified all black PPK/S and shoot it through my Chrony Chronograph with an averaged reading of 282 FPS, not bad considering the manufacturers claim is 295.

I also shoot 8 rounds with my stock Umarex PPK/S at a target to see what kind of accuracy I get, and just for fun I shoot a 15 round magazine into the same target with my modified fully-auto sliver slided PPK/S.

To finish things up, I slowdown the action just a bit using my high speed Casio camera to capture the blowback action of both my stock and modified Umarex Walther PPK's.

Enjoy my YouTube Video of my Umarex Walther PPK/S CO2 BB pistols getting Chronographed, shooting at a target and slowed down a bit with my High Speed Camera.

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