This Field Test Shooting Video Review focuses on the performance results of the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol. I put it through its paces to see what kind of velocity it can achieve as compared to the 400 fps Umarex claims on the packaging. I also perform my standard 10 shot accuracy test from 30 feet back to see how this action pistol groups on paper.
My first portion of the test, the feet per second velocity test I performed using my Chronograph shooting five 5.1 grain standard zinc coated steel BB's with a brand new CO2. The fps for the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol ranged a little from 334 to 358 fps with an average 5 shot reading of 348 feet per second. Keep in mind the temperature was not exactly warm on this day, just a little over 10 Degrees Celsius so I was not anticipating top claimed fps readings so hitting about 50 fps under claimed may be a bout right, I know for sure on a hot summer day I can expect better results.
Next up was the accuracy or shooting portion of this field test shooting review, I performed my standard 30 foot back paper target test using a semi rested stance standing in the back with a sandbag up front to rest my hands on for stability. This position is nice and stable but not perfect so there is always some human factor to take into account. Removing one flyer that was rather high, I was able to get a 3.5 inch grouping from my Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol which is what I would consider about average for a blowback BB shooter, not the best but far from the worst I have shot. I am pretty sure I could do a bit better once I got used to the trigger as it does have a lot more take-up than I am use to with a 1911 and the release is a bit firmer.
A couple of observation when shooting the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol. I found the trigger to be noticeably longer and heavier than a standard 1911 but at least it is single action and I would say usable once taking a little time to get accustomed to it. The break point is rather deep and the release can catch you off guard but again putting some rounds through the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol will work much of this out. The Blowback action is not overly heavy but certainly enough to give that recoil effect. I would also suggest only placing 15 rounds in the magazine as the load of the follower spring for a full magazine can play a little havoc with the trigger.
All in all this is a nice 1911 Blowback BB pistol option especially if you are looking for a 1991 that shoots a little harder and gets more shot per CO2 than the KWC/Cybergun 1911's since you can expect fps performance in the mid to high 300's and at least an extra magazine worth of shots per CO2 from the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
Propulsion: Green gas or 12 Gram CO2 dependant on magazine used.
Action: Blowback,Single action only.
Ammunition Type: 6mm plastic Airsoft BB's.
Ammunition Capacity: 29 rounds.
FPS: 410-440 fps
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KJWork KC-02 Version 2 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine is pretty much exactly like a real Ruger 10/22, nice and short, not to light or heavy, crisp and single action only. If you already have a Ruger 10/22 and want to pickup this Airsoft version for some anytime shooting then you will not be disappointed in the trigger since it is already what you are used to.
Accuracy: I decided to setup my paper target a little further out than my standard 30 feet, so I took it back to around 50 feet and put around 24 shots into it in a fairly quick succession from a rested position. The KJWork KC-02 Version 2 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine grouped continently and well centred on target getting around a 3 inch grouping. This was using a red dot scope but with the out of the box hop-up setting in place. I was a little bit surprised by my fps results as my Chronograph recorded an impressive 445 average 5 shot fps using the lower powered green gas magazine. All shot where within only a few fps of each other too! I can only imagine how hard this gun would shoot using the alternative CO2 Magazine. Blowback action was just enough to give some feedback and of course allowed for the bolt to cycle giving the KJWork KC-02 Version 2 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine a true single action trigger pull.
Build Quality: The build quality for all KJWork KC-02 Version 2 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine is very good with a nice weight and feel to it, It really does feel like I am holding a real Ruger 10/22 and it is one of the most popular semi auto 22LR rifles out there for a reason. Mechanically this Ryger 10/22 copy works great, super consistent and very responsive. The fit and finish as with all KJWorks guns is top notch.
Realism: The KJWork KC-02 Version 2 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine is for all intents and purposes simple an Airsoft version of the Ruger 10/22 and even though I have no way to confirm this, I would imagine many 10/22 after market accessories may actually work with the KJWork 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine. Everything works just like it would on a real 10/22 without the loud noise and ejecting shells.
Built on the very popular 10/22 platform so lots of people are going to be very familiar with this rifle and may want an Airsoft version they can shoot just about any time they feel like it.
Good weight and feel to it.
Blowback semi auto action with true single action trigger.
Lots of rail access points for tons of add on accessories.
Pop-up fully adjustable sights stay out of the way but are ready to go when needed.
Easy to adjust Hop-up.
Available magazines in both CO2 and Green Gas.
Adjustable AR styled rear stock with AR pistol grips.
Sling mounts included.
Works with standard Airsoft screw on flash hider or suppressors.
Awesome FPS and consistency.
Very accurate even at 50 feet, around a 3 inch 25 shot grouping.
Cons:
No full auto mode.
Higher capacity mag would have been nice.
Would be nice to have a higher capacity magazine for it.
Comments:
I am really impressed with the KJWork KC-02 Version 2 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine! It feel and shoots a lot like the real steel version but with less noise and recoil. For back yard shooting fun and practice you can not find a cheaper gun out there to simulate shooting your real 10/22 and of course this rifle used on an Airsoft field would be a perfect fir for almost any shooting environment since it is light, compact, accurate and powerful. I think I found my newest favorite Blowback Airsoft Rifle :)
My Vimeo Table Top Review of the KJWork KC-02 Version 2 10/22 Gas Blowback Airsoft Carbine:
Action: Semi auto, single action only with blowback.
Ammunition Type: 6mm plastic BB's.
Ammunition Capacity: 16 round full size drop out magazine.
FPS: 370.
Trigger Pull: The Single Action Only trigger pull on the Umarex Elite Force Blowback CO2 Airsoft Race Gun is what you want when looking for a gun made specifically for IPSC styled shooting. The trigger is nice and light with a very short take up and crisp release. Exactly what you would be looking for when wanting to shoot accurately and quickly as in with IPSC competition shooting!
Accuracy: I have not done a field test or shooting video for the Umarex Elite Force Blowback CO2 Airsoft Race Gun so far, I am just waiting for the weather to get a little bit better but that should be soon! I woudl expect this pistol to get close to 400 fps on a warm day and pretty decent shots pre CO2 with its shorter blowback action and magazine design that seals the Airsoft BB in the breach. We will have to wait and see ot be sure...
Build Quality: The Umarex Elite Force Blowback CO2 Airsoft Race Gun is well built, it's pretty much entirely metal except for the grips and part of the full size magazine. It weighs in at a hefty 2.5 pounds so be prepared for a relatively heavy pistol but with good balance that will offset the weight of it. The tolerances are very good with very little slide wiggle the slide spring is nice and firm and the slide catch release seems to function really well, I like that the slide racking handle can be switched to either side of the gun depending on your shooting preference.
Realism: The Umarex Elite Force Blowback CO2 Airsoft Race Gun is not based on any one gun that I am aware of but overall looks the part of a real gun with all the working parts and features of a semi auto pistol of this type. You will find a full size drop out magazine is sprung to eject with force when you press the magazine release which is great for IPSC shooting. The slide catch/release will also lock the slide back on the last shot and with rails top and bottom you have several options for adding accessories.
All metal construction - good weight and very solid feeling gun.
Heavy snappy blowback action, good recoil spring tension.
Fit and finish is really nice.
Well balanced, so even with heavy blowback the gun should stay on target.
Really light, short and smooth single action trigger, for quick follow up shots.
Can take the sight rail off and install one of the two included adjustable open sight options.
Expect it to get a decent amount of shots per CO2 because of the limited blowback action and magazine design.
Would make a nice IPSC trainer.
Cons:
Comes with a red tip but may be able to take it off.
Not sure about the hop-up setup, believe it has hop-up but no way to adjust it that I could find.
Has that white waring instruction labeling on the slide, at least it is in very small print.
Comments:
Overall the Umarex Elite Force Blowback CO2 Airsoft Race Gun is a really nice competition shooting pistol and I am looking forward to getting some shooting time in with it to see if it performs as good as I believe it will. I am also hoping with it's slightly shorter blowback action and magazine design that not only will it get good fps but also a reasonable amount of shots per CO2. At this point I am not sure if am going to put a Red Dot on the sight rail or take the sight rail off and go with open metal sights, either way I pretty sure to expect fast and accurate shooting with this IPSC inspired Race Gun.
My Vimeo Video Review for the Umarex Elite Force Blowback CO2 Airsoft Race Gun:
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol is like the original 1911 semi auto pistol a single action only trigger. That said the Colt M45 CQBP SAO trigger is notably longer than a true 1911 trigger would be but still pretty decent overall. There is a fair bit of take up but once you get to the release point the trigger weight is about a medium pull and should allow for pretty fast action shooting with not too much finger fatigue.
Accuracy: I have not shot this "version" of the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol but I have high expectations that it will get much better fps and CO2 efficiency than the similar looking KWC versions out there. 400 fps for a blowback is pretty good and if it can get about 5-6 magazines worth of shots that would be close to double of what a KWC 1911 blowback gets! In terms of accuracy only time will tell when the weather perk sup here a bit and I can get outside and make some shooting videos...
Build Quality: I am very impressed with the build quality for the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol. In many ways it may even be better than the KWC 1911's as it seems to have a much more durable finish and the mechanical parts fit together very snug with virtually no slide wiggle at all. This little rather inexpensive 1911 blowback BB pistol should last you a long time and perform well doing it.
Realism: Up to now I have been almost preferring the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol over the KWC Blowback 1911 series but when it comes to realism the tables turn a little bit in favor of the KWC 1911 version. On first look it is hard to tell them both apart so yes they both look and feel very much like real steel 1911 pistols. Once you get into some more of the mechanical aspects the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol does make some compromises choosing to take away a little bit of the realism in favor of increasing performance. These area are the range of motion of the blowback action. On the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol the slide range is a bit shorter which will save on CO2 usage and the magazine is a stick mag setup which again allows for a more enclosed system again taking advantage of all the CO2 being used. Most of the mechanical parts work as you would expect them to on a real 1911 with the exception of the grip safety. The barrel is even nicely recessed ti make the barrel opening look like a real 45 auto. Lastly the trigger even though it is a true SAO trigger does extend out from the gun a lot more than a true 1911 trigger would.
Build quality and finish seem really good, excellent tolerances.
Nice snappy blowback action with a pretty heavy recoil spring.
Overall Accurate 1911 tactical styled replica in most ways.
Does have a single action only trigger, but is longer than most.
Fully Colt Licensed.
Like the white dot sights, machined hammer, ambidextrous safety and accessory rail.
Cool that the Alan key is built into the handle.
Has a believable recessed barrel.
Finished coating seems to be more durable than the actual KWC versions.
Warning instructions are color matched and not so intrusive.
Cons:
Trigger action is notably longer than a real 1911 trigger but is single action only.
No working grip safety.
Not easily field strippable.
Does not have a full size drop out metal magazine but rather a metal stick mag.
Comments:
I can never seem to get enough of the Blowback 1911 BB pistols when I have the opportunity to review them. Most of them have been just different reskinned, rebranded and redistributed version of the original KWC 1911 so it was kind of nice to get the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol since it offers that 1911 look with blowback action and from the looks of things it should have improved performance in the shooting department. If you have been after a Blowback 1911 BB pistol but wanted one with some more power and that you can get a decent amount of shots out of a single CO2 then the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol may be just what you are looking for.
My Vimeo Videos for the Umarex Colt M45 CQBP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol:
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Gletcher GOLD APS Stetchkin is nice in both double and single action modes. Double action is fairly light as the hammer spring tension is moderate. The blowback operation will of course pre-cock the hammer allowing for single action shooting on almost all of your shots but the trigger pull length remains the same in both single and double action. The only difference is that in single action mode, the first part of the trigger pull, or should I say the take-up portion is much lighter until it gets to the hammer release point where you will notice more pressure and a short crisp release point.
Accuracy: I have already done a field test shooting review for the standard blowback Gletcher APS Stechkin which other than the finish is the same gun and will perform exactly the same. Make sure to checkout that shooting review for more info on how the Gletcher APS performed. In summary, I was able to get very close to the claimed 400 fps even on a rather cool early spring day (under 10 degree Celsius). I also shot with around a 2 inch 10 shot grouping from my standard target setup of 30 feet back in a semi rested position.
Build Quality: The Gletcher GOLD APS Stechkin CO2 Blowback BB Pistol is well made, the Gold and black etched finish looks really nice but may not be to everyones personal taste, kind of a love it or hate situation when it comes ot Gold guns ;) The fit is good, not a lot of slide wiggle and pretty much the entire pistol is metal including the frame, slide, trigger, slide catch-release, safety, hammer, magazine and inner barrel. The only plastic parts would be the grips, outer barrel and some internal seals and o-rings.
Realism:The GOLD CO2 BB Gletcher APS is a 1 to 1 replica of the Stechkin Soviet Military sidearm, all the mechanical parts function just like you would find on the real steel version other than the full auto mode located on the safety, which has been disabled, perhaps for the European markets where full auto airguns are not allowed. The barrel opening and the stick magazine are the real only tell-tale signs that this is the airgun version rather than a real Stechkin.
Pros:
Come in a nice Velvet lined Wooden Box.
Gold Plated with etching )either love it or hate it)
Very solid and weighty gun. Mostly all metal.
High capacity 22 round all metal stick magazine
Blowback operation is pretty heavy, slide locks back on last round.
Operational parts all work like they should (slide catch, safety, hammer, elevation adjustment, mag release)
Field Strippable.
May be able to attach a stock on it?
Shooting performance, good trigger pull, around 400 fps and got about a 2 inch grouping from 30 feet away.
Cons:
No reassessed barrel opening.
Would have liked to have seen full size drop out metal magazine on this gun.
Full auto feature disabled on safety.
Gold version is a lot more expensive than the standard blowback version. ($349 versus $179)
Comments:
When I saw this pistol in the Gletcher catalog, I did not realize how large it actually was, I was expecting the Gold Gletcher APS Stechkin to be a bit larger than the Makarov but it really does dwarf the Makarov. Being that it is a large pistol it does have some weight to it but it does not feel heavy for its size. The grips are long front to back but not overly thick side to side so even medium sized hands should be OK shooting this BB air pistol. I am really happy to see another historic airgun added to the available Replica Airguns at our disposal and it's a bonus that we also get this one with blowback operation. You do have your choice when it comes to what you are looking for in terms of finish and operation, there is of course the APS GOLD blowback BB Version being reviewed in this video, the standard black/grey none blowback APS BB version, the black/grey blowback APS BB version which again is mechanically exactly the same as the GOLD. If your prefer Airsfot you can even find a Gletcher APS Blowback Airsoft model to fit your needs. All you have to decide is which one is for you!
My Vimeo Table Top Video of the Gletcher APS Stechkin CO2 Blowback BB Pistol:
I try and make it to my local gun show which is held in Chilliwack BC about this time each year. It is put on by the Historical Arms Collectors Society of BC and there are generally a lot of used long guns (rifles) some pistols, lots of accessories, knives, hunting gear, knick·knacks and even some antique items. I tend to be looking for airguns or blank guns that are rare or a good deal.
This year I came across a few items that caught my eye. The first item was a Daisy replica 4.5mm BB pistol, I am not a big fan of Daisy replica gun in general as they are usually a far cry from the originals but this Daisy Powerline Model 400 was actually a really good copy of a Desert Eagle in size and looks. Sure it had a lot of plastic in it but it was made in Japan and even being around 20 years olds was holding up really well. This Daisy Powerline 400 even had Blowback which back then was not all that common.
The Daisy Powerline 400 BB Desert Eagle has a 20 round removable magazine that fits along the top of the barrel and it has a claimed fps. It is almost all high grade plastic with the exception of the single action only trigger, safety, hammer, barrel and several internal parts.
The next interesting item I found was a little compact 8mm blank shooter originally made in West Germany. So this blank gun is close to 30 years old. The SM Model 110 8mm Blank Pistol kind of reminds me of my EKOL Tuna in terms of size and functionality since both have the same half slide and magazine release system.
The SM Mod 110 8mm Blank Pistol is front venting and pretty much all metal with reinforced steel areas, it has a 5 round single stack magazine and shoots in single action only.
My last purchase for this show was a new item, here in Canada we generally are not allowed much in the way of items specifically labeled for self defense. There are some work arounds for instance we can carry a knife as long as it is not concealed entirely and we only intend to use it as a tool. We can also carry pepper spray again only for use on animals. Generally speaking we have not been allowed stun guns or tasers here in Canada and even importing them can land you in a lot of trouble! Again it seems a work around has been made, as long as the Stun Gun or Taser is at least 480mm in length then it is not considered a concealable weapon and as long as you have it out on display and only intend to use it on animals that may be a threat to you then all is good :)
The Stun Gun I purchased is basically a baton with a flashlight on the front and a 1 million volt taser on the front of it. You have several options with this device if harm is eminent. You can try blinding the threat with the built in flashlight which is not all that powerful but good for finding your way in dark areas, you can give the attacker a whack with the baton baseball bat style and if none of that is working well let em have the 1 million volt sandwich! We should be getting some of these Stun Baton Flashlights in our Canada Replica Airguns Store at some point so stay posted for that item.
Some more of my Personal airgun pistols for sale! I am showcasing here on the Replica Airguns website and over on the Replica Airguns YouTube channel a series of videos I am making for the purpose of selling some guns out of my personal collection. I simply have to make room for the new guns I will be testing and reviewing for everyone, my collection has gotten a little bit out of hand and needs to be thinned down a bit :)
In this 6th Mike's Personal Guns For Sale video, I am offering three of my Airsoft pistols, the super popular Dan Wesson 6 Inch Silver in pretty much brand new condition complete with the box, manual, speed loader and shells. I also have tow rather hard to get Airsoft guns that are in somewhat limited working condition and need a little TLC. But the simple fact that they are not easily obtained here in Canada does bring up their value a little bit.
Make sure to watch my above YouTube video to see these Airsoft Pistols I am selling and instructions on how you can take part in the sale and purchase of them. By the way I am only selling to Canadian residents since shipping cross borders is a little sketchy.
Here is a list of the Airsoft Pistols I am selling from my personal gun collection:
Yes, I have more of my personal guns for sale, now we are getting into the pistols! I am showcasing here on the Replica Airguns website and over on the Replica Airguns YouTube channel a series of videos I am making for the purpose of selling some guns out of my personal collection. I simply have to make room for the new guns I will be testing and reviewing for everyone, my collection has gotten a little bit out of hand and needs to be thinned down a bit :)
In this 5th Mike's Personal Guns For Sale video, I am offering some of my pellet pistols in a variety of models ranging from some classic Crosman SAA .22 caliber revolvers to more modern CO2 blowback pistols like the Umarex Beretta PX4 Storm
Make sure to watch my above YouTube video to see these Pellet Pistols I am selling and instructions on how you can take part in the sale and purchase of them. By the way I am only selling to Canadian residents since shipping cross borders is a little sketchy.
Here is a list of the Pellet Pistols I am selling from my personal gun collection:
Type: BB air pistol. Manufacturer: Umarex - KWC. Model: Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911. Materials: Pretty much all metal build. Weight: 2 pounds. Barrel: 4.38 inchesBrass, non-rifled. Propulsion: CO2 x1. Action: Semi auto blowback, single action only. Ammunition Type: 4.5mm Steel BB's. Ammunition Capacity: 18-19 rounds. FPS: 320.
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Umarex Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911 is like all the other KWC made CO2 full blowback 1911's, it's exactly what you would expect from a real 1911 single action only pistol which helps to make this replica 1911 a great trainer. So in other words the trigger pull is super short, super light with very little take-up and a nice crisp break.
Accuracy: I have not shot this "version" of the Umarex - KWC 4.5mm BB 1911 but it will undoubtedly perform exactly like all the others. I can expect decent under 2 inch groupings from 30 feet out and will get a little over 300 fps on a full CO2 cartridges. Depending on how fast I shoot off my magazines, I should expect to get around 3 good mags and if I slow things down a bit I should get a forth magazine so anywhere from 50-70 good or so shots per CO2 out of the Umarex Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911.
Build Quality: Very good, with almost all metal construction, good weight and craftsmanship, the KWC 1911 line of pistols have proven themselves over time and even though some of the original first run units had some CO2 valve issues, this seems to have been fixed over the years. You will find most of these KWC pistols in general have a rather thin coating for a finish and so they tend to wear a bit on the high spots but with this weathered Umarex Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911 that really isn't a concern!
Realism: This is as close as you can come to the look, weight, feel, and action of the real 1911 in virtually almost every way including the ability to field strip this pistol! All the mechanical parts work just like they do on a real steel 1911 including the grip safety. I'm not sure what more you could ask for? The Umarex Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911 even has that real gun wear and tear look to it which in my opinion even adds to the realism.
Extremely realistic airgun replica of an original Colt 1911 A1 styled 45 auto.
All metal construction - Good weight and solid feeling gun.
Would make an excellent training gun as it functions just like the real steel 1911 45 handgun.
Blowback action is very firm adding to the realism of shooting this weapon.
Field strips just like the real 1911 45 auto.
True 1911 Single action only trigger, excellent pull, very smooth and light.
Working grip safety.
Colt Licensed by Umarex
Weathering gives this pistol a very authentic look to it.
Warning instructions are nicely out of the way.
Cons:
It goes through CO2 very fast as do all the KWC full blowback pistols.
Sights are non-adjustable.
Umarex decided to label the safety, perhaps for legal reasons but it detracts from the finish.
Comments:
You would think by now I would be getting tired of reviewing yet another variation of the KWC made 1911? Nope! The Umarex Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911 with it's Umarex Colt licensed and Weathered appearance adds just enough to respark my interest in these awesome CO2 Blowback 1911 replicas and every time I pick one up I get a little excited and want to go out and shoot some rounds through one :) If for some reason you have not picked up one of these 1911's to date then make sure to grab the Umarex Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911 before they are all gone!
My Vimeo Videos for the Umarex Colt Combat Vet Limited Edition 1911 BB Pistol:
I am showcasing here on the Replica Airguns website and over on the Replica Airguns YouTube channel a series of videos I am making for the purpose of selling some guns out of my personal collection. I simply have no more room for the new guns and in some cases I either have duplicate guns or very similar versions so there is no need to have both. Some guns I am less attached to and as I already stated I need to make room for some of the new stuff I will be reviewing and or buying for myself.
In this third Mike's Personal Guns For Sale video I am offering four BB rifles, three of which have full auto or at least burst mode ability and the fourth BB rifles is more of a Shotguns with the ability to shoot three BB's at once. Most of these BB rifles are really hard to get here in Canada now since one is not made anymore and the two are simply not currently being imported into Canada.
Make sure to watch my above YouTube video to see these four BB rifles I am selling and instructions on how you can take part in the sale and purchase of them. By the way I am only selling to Canadian residents since shipping cross borders is a little sketchy.
Here is a list of the BB Rifles I am selling from my personal gun collection:
Another preview video with some pistols from Umarex, ASG and Gletcher. Two of these Airguns I got to see whiel I wa sin SHOT Show this year so it was nice to be able to spend a bit more time with each one now that I have them in person for review :)
Lets start off with the ASG Dan Wesson 715, mine happens to be the Stainless version in 4.5mm Steel BB. What an upgrade over the original Dan Wesson Revolver and I thought those where already really good! The all new ASG Dan Wesson 715 is super solid coming in close to three pounds with its mostly solid metal construction.
Next up is the Umarex Combat Vet 1911 which is essentially a KWC 1911 distributed and Colt licensed via Umarex. The Umarex Combat Vet 1911 is a limited edition product made to look weathered and used and it does look amazing!
Lastly the Gletcher Stechkin in a Gold finish shipped in a real wood box with velvet lining. This is the same Airgun as the Gletcher APS but blinged out a bit, the Gold finish is lined with black etching to really make this gun look unique.
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol is pretty decent overall. Unlike the original 22LR ISSC M22 that is single action only, the BB version shoots on both single and double action. When shooting in double action, the trigger pull is a little bit heavier since the hammer is not pre-cocked but shooting in single action does require full trigger pull length since the first stage of the trigger pull chambers a BB into the breach area. The second stage when shooting in single action releases the hammer.
Accuracy: I have only shot the Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol briefly, and only using a free standing position shooting at some pop cans. I did notice the Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol shot a little bit low at 20 feet but was well centered side to side. The BB's seemed to travel pretty quick and the blowback action was snappy and allowed for some pretty decent rapid fire action. I will be following up this table top review with a field test shooting video down the road.
Build Quality: I was impressed with this pistol right out of the box, being an owner of the real steel 22LR version, I was actually rather surprised at how accurate of a reproduction in terms of build quality the Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol was. The BB ISSC M22 has a good weight and feel to it and metal and plastic parts in pretty much all the same places you would find them in the 22LR shooting version. The plastic frame feels solid and well made while the metal slide has very close tolerances and the black satin finish looks good and seems to be wearing pretty well.
Realism: Again as an owner of the first generation real steel 22LR ISSC M22, and placing these guns side by side, they are nearly undistinguishable other than the changes Glock had ISSC make to the current versions so yes there are some cosmetic differences between my first generation M22 and the current version of this replica BB ISSC M22. That aside if you are an owner of the 22LR ISSC M22, then you are going to have to have one of these Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol to go along with it for even cheaper cost per shot then 22LR ammo. In terms of working parts, everything is the same except for the de-cocker since the BB model de-cocker is moulded into the slide and none functioning. I wish the Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol was easily filed stripable but I guess you can not have everything :)
Pros:
Really great overall replace of the 22LR ISSC M22.
Metal and plastic parts in all the same places as the 22LR ISSC M22.
Full blowback operation with single action trigger.
Full size drop put metal magazine that holds the CO2 and BB’s
Almost all mechanical parts work the same as the 22LR ISSC M22. (exception of slide safety)
ISSC m22 licensed.
Adjustable rear sigh for windage.
Accessory rail for addons.
One of the closest 4.5mm Steel BB pistols to a Glock that we have available to us.
Cons:
Does not seem to field strip at least easily.
Slide safety is module into slide and none functioning.
Comments:
All in all this may just be my new favorite blowback BB pistol, I obviously like the design since I already own the 22LR version and it does look a lot like a Glock so that may be a benefit to you Glock lovers out there. The Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol really does seem to have a lot going for it... Blowback operation, a full size drop out metal magazine that holds the CO2 and BB's, decent fps and accuracy, an adjustable rear sight, working parts where they are supposed to work on the real steel version and that Glock look and feel but without the worries of Glock coming after you for violations of their copywrite since this is a licensed ISSC M22 replica.
My Vimeo Video Review for the Air Venturi ISSC M22 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol:
In this 2016 SHOT Show Interview I talk with Bob Li from Action Sport Games. Bob shows me some of the new products this year from ASG. Some of ASG's newer pistols are the Dan Wesson 715, the CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow, the CZ P-09. New to the rifle line is the CZ Bren 80, also a couple of sniper rifles, the M40A5 and M40A3. ASG is also coming out with a an Inferno HPA version of their CZ Scorpion EVO 3A1.
The ASG Dan Wesson 715 has ot me my favorite product from ASG, you need to hold it in your hand to really understand how solid this pistol really is at close to 3 pounds. Everything about it is an improvement over previous Dan Wesson models including the trigger and hammer action, crane setup and the more actuate frame length with the new more compact internal CO2 valve. The ASG Dan Wesson 715 will be shipping in 4.5mm Steel BB, 6mm Plastic Airsoft and .177 caliber pellet versions.
ASG's two new Full blowback CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow, the CZ P-09 pistols should be coming out shortly, both will be available in 4.5mm Steel BB and 6mm Plastic Airsoft. Both pistols feature a metal slide and frame with full size drop out metal magazines and will have CO2 and Green Gas magazine configurations. The CZ P-09 will have a threaded barrel and barrel protector.
In this 2016 SHOT Show Interview I talk with Nichol Goines from Umarex USA. Nichol and I discuss some new and somewhat revised products from Umarex like the Full Blowback Smith & Wesson M&P40, the soon to finally be released Beretta Model 92 A1, a new Pellet version of last years Colt Single Action Army Revolver and a reappearance and revision of the Walther PPK CO2 Blowback BB pistol.
Last year Umarex introduced their Colt Single Action Army CO2 BB Revolvers and I would say last year they where on of my highlight airguns for the show. They have been selling like gang-busters! One question people have been asking is if there will be a pellet shooting version? Well now there is and like the Steel BB version the pellets load from the back of the shell making it super easy to reload the removable brass shells. The new Pellet SAA Revolver also has a rifled barrel to help with accuracy.
M&
I would have to say this years gun highlight well at least from Umarex is their new Smith & Wesson M&P40 full blowback CO2 BB Pistol. It is a perfect copy of the real steal version complete with a full size drop out magazine and full Beretta licensing. I really hope this one ships soon and does not get delayed like the Beretta Model 92 A1 introduced last year and still yet to be shipped :(
Speaking of the Beretta Model 92 A1 CO2 Blowback BB pistol. It is finally getting released this February and like the S&W M&P40, is a virtual identical replica of the original Beretta Mod. 92 A1 complete with full blowback, a full size drop out magazine and of course all the trades and licensing in all the right locations.
Last and not least but still worth noting is the CO2 Blowback BB shooting Walther PPK. It kind of dropped out of productions which is a real shame since it was the replica BB pistol that got all of this started for me several years back and to this day is still a lot of fun ot shoot! Even James Bond went back to the PPK for the latest 007 movie! Well it's back and this time Umarex got rid of the ugly CO2 tab and replaced it with a discreet Allen key screw. Saves us all from doing the CO2 screw mod :)
In this 2016 SHOT Show Interview I talk with Dani Navickas from the Airgun division of Sig Sauer. Dani and I discuss Sig's new line of CO2 Blowback Pellet rifles and pistols. Dani talks about some of the behind the scenes information that went into the development and manufacturing of Sig's new line of CO2 Airguns.
Sig CO2 P226 and P250 Air Pistols along with their Sig MPX and MCX Air Rifles have been developed in house by Sig.Sig has been working very closely with a Japanese manufacturer to make sure that every stage of development is to Sig's high standards. The new Sig CO2 Blowback rifles and pistols are made to match the real steal version in almost every way including dimension, weight, functionality, materials used and even trigger pull.
Sig's new Sig MPX and Sig MCX Pellet Rifles have a brand new patented belt fed 30 round pellet magazine that is indexed via the internal blowback action of these rifles smoothing out the trigger action. The Sig P226 and Sig P250 pistols use a double ended 16 round pellet magazine similar to what you would find on Umarex's PX4 Strom blowback pellet pistol.
Look for Sig's new line of CO2 Blowback Pellet Airguns coming out shortly.
This is my SHOT Show 2016 Teaser Video! You will get to see some new gun highlights from companies like Umarex, ASG, Crosman, Sig Sauer, KWA and ISC. I will be following up this video with some interview videos very soon so do make sure to check back for those uploads. All I can say about the show is it’s huge! So much to see, so much walking and too much to take in…
ASG:
As always, ASG had some new products this year. The all new Dan Wesson 715 357 Magnum shell loading Revolver! This gun feels absolutely amazing in the hand and will be available in Steel BB, Airsfot and even Pellet shooting versions. Also new are the CZ P-09 and CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow Full Blowback BB and Airsoft Pistols.
Crosman:
Big at Crosman this year was their PCP Airbow, Crosman put a lot of focus on this product and even had a lot of crossbows on display to go with their new PCP Airbow. Crosman also introduced their low cost entry level Benjamin Maximus PCP rifle in .177 and .22 calibers offerings. Not really much in the way of replica pistols from Crosman this year, but then again last year was kind of the same?
Sig Sauer:
I finally made it to the Sig Sauer Booth this year to checkout their new CO2 Pellet gun line. All new Sig Airguns are made true to size and weight with similar trigger actions as their real steel versions. The Sig MPX is their more compact (shorter barreled) pellet shooting CO2 rifle with internal blowback and belt fed 30 round magazine. The Sig MCX is the longer barreled rifle version but built much the same as the MPX. Sig also introduced two new pellet shooting CO2 Blowback Pistols, the P226 and the P250. Both use similar double ended rotary magazines as the Umarex PX4.
Umarex:
Umarex always seems to have some new exciting Airguns products to offer at SHOT Show. The PPK is back with a few updates including no more ugly CO2 tab sticking out of the bottom! And yes the Beretta Model 92A1 will finally be shipping soon, I believe in February! My favorite product this year from Umarex would have to be the Full Blowback, Full size drop out magazine S&W M&P 40 CO2 BB Pistol. Umarex released yet another 1911 on the market, this version does come with a stick mag and sports pretty high fps and more shots per CO2 then the KWC based 1911’s. The super popular Colt SAA Revolver is now available in a pellet shooting version with a rifled barrel :) Umarex had on display another low cost revolver, the ultra futuristic looking Brodax CO2 BB Revolver.
KWA:
KWA always has really nice high quality products to showoff at there booth each year, we may even start carrying some of KWA's products this year, fingers crossed on that one… New to the KWA line are some AEG rifles with simulated blowback action, I really liked the Blowback AEG AK they had on display. KWA also released a new Airsoft shell loading revolvers that had some of the nicest looking brass and aluminum shells. On display under a glass cover was a very solid Gas Blowback Thompson Machine-gun with real wood stock, it was absolutely gorgeous!
ISC:
ISC known for their top quality AEG internals, had their full line of high quality Airsoft rifles on display. And new this year to ICS was their first ever Airsoft pistol, the blowback BLE Alpha. The BLE should be out mid year and looked and felt really nice. The trigger on it was super short and light.
I have some really awesome Interview videos I’m working on, I will be uploading them shortly so stay tuned for those…
When I say Airguns, I am referring to pretty much all BB, Airsoft, Pellet, Paintball and even Blank guns for most of the topics listed here.
Do’s:
Treat your Airgun just like you would a real gun. If something goes wrong, perhaps the outcome will not be as severe but do you really want to take a trip down to your local emergency ward to get a BB or Pellet removed?
Always assume your airgun is loaded, for some reason it always seems those empty guns are the ones that do the most damage.
Be discrete, If it looks like a gun other people will think it is a gun so don’t flash your airguns around in public. Keep it in a case when transporting and shoot it in an area that will not alarm other people.
Always wear eye protection when shooting your Airgun. Do you really want to shoot your eye out? No Joke!
Be aware of your surroundings like windows, hard objects that could make your ammo bounce back at you. Make sure you are shooting your Airgun in a safe direction at all times, know your target and beyond.
Use Airguns to teach others and learn how to safely and effectively shoot a gun. Airguns can be less intimidating then a real gun (Not so loud and very little recoil) and make for great start out and transitions guns.
Use Airguns to get more inexpensive trigger time and become a more experienced shooter. Airguns cosy only pennies per round to shoot and can be shot in way more areas than a real gun can, practice makes perfect so get shooting!
Use Airguns in areas where real guns may not be allowed or safe to use. Again, Airguns can be shot in all kinds of places, in your back yard or even in a properly setup indoor home range.
Use Airguns with adequate power for safe and humane pest control where real guns may be prohibited.Airguns are quiet and less likely for the bullet to travel long ranges which makes them ideal for close range pest control in areas where real guns are too loud and to powerful.
Don’ts:
Do not assume because it is an airgun it is not dangerous or simply a toy. Many Deaths have been caused by Airguns along with a lot of pain and suffering so treat your Airgun with respect. It is not a toy or you would find them in the toy department at your local store along with yo-yos and stuffed animals.
Do not point or shoot at people unless of course you are using an Airsoft gun in an Airsoft field or facility. Yes Airsoft guns are meant to shoot at each other (with appropriate attire like eye protection and full body clothing), but steel BB and Pellet can cause serious injury especially at close range and on direct skin contact.
Do not leave your Airgun loaded, you never know who is going to come across it and accidentally discharge it. Remember, a loaded gun is a dangerous gun in the wrong hands. You may know better than to assume the gun is undulated but children and even adults without any gun training will most definitely handle the airgun without consideration of the danger it poses.
Do not use an Airgun for self protection. See my related video. Simply put, Airguns are not practical for self defense because they rarely have enough Stopping Power. The ones that do have enough power need to be pre-charged and in most cases are only single shot meaning if you miss or don’t get the job done no the first shot then you are done.
Do not use an underpowered Airgun for pest control. See related video. Using a low powered BB pistol for pest control is cruel, you will only injure the animal making it suffer unnecessarily. Use a high powered pellet rifle to get the job done.
Do not take your gun apart, in most cases this will void the warranty and the reality is that airguns rarely need to be cleaned since no dirty gun powder is used. lead pellet rifles may require occasional barrel cleaning to keep the rifled barrel free of debris.
Do not over oil your Airgun, a little goes a long way and too much oil will just attracted dirt, use the right airgun oil and just enough to keep part functioning smoothly.
Do not over pump an Airgun. Over pumping an Airgun can cause damage to valves and seals and in a worse case situation a rupture the air pressure reservoir or even cause the airgun to explode!
Can I use Airsoft BB's in my BB Pistol? I would have to say this is by far the number one question I get asked in the comments section of my Vimeo videos. I have made several videos where this question gets addressed within the video but so far to date I have not made a stand alone video just covering Airsoft BB use in BB Guns.
So here it is, and now I have a video I can link to this so very common question, if you where wondering about this yourself than please watch my YouTube Video on this topic as it goes into a fair amount of detail about it.
The short answer to this question is no, you can not use 6mm Airsoft BB's in a 4.5mm Steel BB Pistol or Rifle. For the simple reason that 6mm is larger than 4.5mm and so the physical diameter of a6mm Plastic Airsoft BB is just to large to fit inside of a 4.5mm Steel BB magazine or barrel.
People have commented about using a 4.5mm plastic Airsoft BB in a 4.5mm BB gun and yes this could in theory be an option but I discuss why I feel this is not a good idea based on size and mass.
In this video I feature my top five favorite BB pistols for early 2016. That said there are lots of other BB pistols I truly love and enjoy but I had to pick 5 so these are them! You may notice that many of them are blowback, I do like the blowback guns after all and this is my top 5 pick so naturally many of them will have blowback action.
Here is a list of my top 5 guns featured in this video not necessarily in order of choice:
With the popularity of the KWC - Cybergun 1911 Blowback CO2 Pistols and how super realistic they are in so many ways, it is no surprise that people often ask me if they can replace the original grips with grips made for a real 1911.
The short answer is yes you can! You will have to be prepared to remove just a little bit of material from the backside of both grips near the bottom of the handle where there is an area that has been flared out to accommodate the CO2. Not really a big deal, you can use a Dremel for the quick and easy approach or even some sand paper if you don't mind taking a little more time.
