Entries in Rifle,Field Test

What is an Uncontrolled Firearm in Canada?

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This Article and Video expresses my views and opinions on this matter and should not be taken as legal advice.

Main points covered:

  • Uncontrolled Firearms do not require a Firearms License within Canada to own and operate.

  • What is an Uncontrolled Airgun and Airsoft Gun?

  • What is an Uncontrolled Blank Gun / Starter Pistols?

  • What about Fully Automatic Airguns and Airsoft Guns?

  • What about Replica Guns?

NOTE: Controlled Firearms require a POL (Possession Only License) , PAL (Possession Acquisition License) or R-PAL (Restricted Possession Acquisition License) within Canada to own and operate. 

MEMORANDUM D19-13-2

Firearm – a barreled weapon from which any shot, bullet, or other projectile can be discharged and that is capable of causing serious bodily injury or death to a person, and includes any frame or receiver of such a barreled weapon and anything that can be adapted for use as a firearm.

“Uncontrolled”firearms are those devices that, although falling within the definition of a firearm in the Criminal Code, are exempt from specific legal requirements of the Firearms Act and its regulations, as well as from other legislative provisions. “Uncontrolled” firearms should not be subdivided into any of the non-restricted, restricted, or prohibited classes. The following types of firearms are deemed “uncontrolled”:

Flare, blank, rivet and industrial guns: Any device that is designed exclusively for signaling, for notifying of distress, or for firing blank cartridges or for firing stud cartridges, explosive-driven rivets or other industrial projectiles, provided that the importer intends to use it only for the purpose for which it is designed.

NOTE: (Toy guns and starter pistols do not generally qualify as firearms. However, some toy or model guns and starter pistols may be designed with very realistic mechanisms or appearances (e.g., color, size, scale, translucency) and resembling a real make and model of a firearm. In such cases, they may be considered replica firearms even if they are made of plastic, die cast zinc, or other material.)

Low muzzle velocity/energy guns: Any barreled weapon that is not designed or adapted to discharge projectiles at a muzzle velocity exceeding 152.4 meters per second (500 feet per second) and at a muzzle energy exceeding 5.7 Joules, or to discharge projectiles that are designed or adapted to attain a velocity exceeding 152.4 meters per second (500 feet per second) and an energy exceeding 5.7 Joules. Both thresholds of 152.4 mps and 5.7 Joules must be exceeded for the firearm to be considered “controlled”. This requirement exempts firearms that fire below the threshold velocity with a standard projectile, but exceed the threshold velocity when fired with a high-velocity projectile. 

Airsoft guns and certain types of paintball guns or markers may qualify as a replica firearm, if the muzzle velocity of the projectile does not cause serious bodily harm and their external features are clearly designed to resemble a specific and readily identifiable make and model of a firearm. To be considered a firearm, within the meaning of the Criminal Code, an airsoft gun must have a muzzle velocity in excess of 111.6 meters per second (366 feet per second).

NOTE: This memorandum used to state when using a .20 gram BB but does not specify this BB weight anymore?

NOTE: The term air gun is a colloquial term referring to BB or pellet guns. Such guns operate either as spring- powered, gas-powered, or electrically powered. If the muzzle velocity of the air gun is less than 152.4 mps (500 fps)/5.7 joules but still able to cause serious bodily injury to a person, it may be considered an “uncontrolled” firearm. Airsoft guns and certain types of paintball guns may qualify as a replica firearm (see paragraph 49 of this memorandum).

Replica firearms:

“Replica firearm” is defined as any device that is designed or intended to exactly resemble, or to resemble with near precision, a firearm, and that itself is not a firearm, but does not include any such device that is designed or intended to exactly resemble, or to resemble with near precision, an antique firearm.

For a device to be a replica firearm it must meet all three requirements:

  • (a) it cannot be a firearm, meaning it does not discharge a projectile with sufficient energy to cause serious bodily injury or death to a person. If the device is a firearm, then it cannot be a replica firearm (and vice versa);

  • (b) it must resemble exactly, or with near precision, a real existing firearm of an identifiable make and model. With respect to visual examination, note that the maximum observing distance is one at which the equivalent make and model of the firearm can be identified. This distance will vary from one firearm make to the next. For example: A Luger pistol has a very distinctive silhouette as compared to other makes and is therefore more readily identified from further away. The examination of the object is something more than casual, but less than detailed. The device does not need to be so close that markings are identifiable; and

  • (c) it cannot be designed or intended to exactly resemble, or to resemble with near precision, an antique firearm. 

RCMP Website "Air Guns"

1. Air guns that are "Controlled" Firearms for purposes of both the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code

These are air guns with both a high muzzle velocity (greater than 152.4 meters or 500 feet per second) and a high muzzle energy (greater than 5.7 joules or 4.2 foot-pounds). The "muzzle velocity" is the speed of a projectile at the instant it leaves the muzzle of a gun, normally expressed in meters per second or feet per second. The "muzzle energy" is the energy of a projectile at the instant it leaves the muzzle of a gun, expressed in joules or foot-pounds. Air guns need to meet both standards to be classified as "Controlled" firearms for purposes of the Firearms Act.

These high-powered air guns are subject to the same license and registration requirements as a conventional "Controlled" firearm. Owners and users are also required to store, transport, display and handle them safely in accordance with the regulations supporting the Firearms Act.

Usually, the manufacturer's specifications are used to determine what muzzle velocity and muzzle energy an air gun was designed to have. This information may be available in the user's manual or on the manufacturer's website. If the information is not available, individuals can call the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000 and ask to speak to a firearm technician to find out if the air gun is considered to be a firearm for purposes of the Firearms Act.

High-powered air rifles are generally classified as non-restricted firearms. However, the classification depends on the exact design of the air gun. Air rifles manufactured to resemble an assault rifle could be non-restricted, restricted or prohibited depending on the exact model imitated. High-powered air rifles would also be prohibited firearms if fully automatic or if they have a sawed-off barrel. They could also be restricted firearms if they have a folding stock that reduces the overall length to less than 660mm. 

Additional thought on this subject: Even though Uncontrolled Firearms are not governed by the same laws that apply to Controlled Firearms within the Firearms act and do not need to be handled or stored similar in the same way you are required to handle, transport and store a Controlled Firearm, we need to treat our Uncontrolled Airguns, Airsoft Guns and Blank guns with care and go over and above what is expected when had handle, transport and store them.

Categories: Airsoft, BB, Blank Gun, Full Auto, Gun Law, Gun Safety, Non Airguns, Paintball, Pellet, Pistol, Real Gun, Revolver, Rifle, YouTube Video Tags:

Umarex EBOS 4.5mm Steel BB Full Auto Fun

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Perhaps the last of my 4.5mm Steel BB Dull Auto Fun Video? We'll see? Today I take out my Umarex EBOS (Electric Burst of Steel) 8 Round Burst BB Machine Gun and again take aim at a bunch of clay pigeons I set up 30 feet away. Even thought the EBOS does not have the highest rate of fire with only 500 rounds per minute, it does get the job done because it stays true on target and really proved to be very accurate allowing me to even trim off the smallest bits of clay pigeon stuck in the edges of the holders.

The rate of fire on the Umarex E.B.O.S. almost reminds me of what you would hear or expect from an AK 47 type machine gun.

Near the end of this video I try my luck at shooting some of the clay pigeons out of the air shotgun style but failed horribly :( Perhaps I should give by modified 1200 rounds per minute Drozd Blackbird a go at it :)

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Review, Rifle, Scope, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: EBOS, Umarex

Umarex Steel Force 4.5mm Steel BB Modified Full Auto Fun

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Only a few more Full Auto Fun Videos left to do for you, todays features the Umarex Steel Force which is basically an updated version of the Steel Storm but instead of having an H&K styled outer shell, the Steel Force is based around the popular AR 15 series and like many modern AR 15's, the Steel Force has an adjustable stock which really helps with target acquisition and accuracy.

Like my other Full Auto Fun Videos, I take out a bunch of clay pigeons from about 30 feet away. The Umarex Steel Force proves to be very accurate and CO2 efficient (got about 300 shots from the pair of 12 gram CO2's) but is a bit of a pain to reload the spring fed 30 rounds magazine when the 300 round BB hopper is full.

All in all if you'er looking for a low cost and super fun BB machine gun with a high rate of fire, good CO2 efficiency, awesome pinpoint accuracy and pretty decent power, then pick yourself up one of our Umarex Steel Force BB Guns!

Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Review, Rifle, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: Steel Force, Umarex

KWC Mini UZI and M92 Beretta 4.5mm Steel BB Full Auto Fun

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This one is a bit of a revisit since I already did Full Auto Fun Videos for both my Cybergun GSG 92 and Cybergun Mini UZI, both of which I had to do the conversion mods (GSG 92 Full auto Mod Video - Mini UZI  Full Auto Mod Video) to allow them to shoot in full auto modes.

The good news is that out of the box the KWC Mini UZI and KWC M92 both shoot in selectable semi auto and full auto modes. And if you didn't already know, the KWC versions are virtually the same guns since KWC makes them for Cybergun. The only real difference being the KWC version does not have the licensing or white lettering on the BB guns and of course the KWC versions are full auto ready to go.

So with that said, enjoy my YouTube Full Auto Fun Video of the KWC Mini UZI and KWC M92 Full Auto ready 4.5mm Steel BB CO2 Blowback Replicas.

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: Beretta, GSG 92, KWC, M92, UZI

Umarex Walther SG 9000 Shotgun 4.5mm Steel BB Full Auto Fun

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Alright, so todays Full Auto Fun Video may be stretching things just a bit but I figured that since my Umarex Walther SG 9000 does have the ability to shoot 3 rounds with each pull of the trigger that we'll give it the benefit of the doubt and include it in this round of Full Auto Fun Videos.

The Walther SG 9000 is a kind of different looking airgun, the back half looks like a Walther Pistol while the front half is more of a tactical styled shotgun. And like a shotgun you can shoot multiple BB's with one shot. You actually have teh option of shooting single shot or three shot burst. In single shot mode, the Walther SG 9000 is pretty peppy shooting at around 500 fps on a fresh and warm 88 gram CO2. When you switch the SG 9000 over to three shot burst mode, it does slowdown somewhat closer to the 250 fps range so not really that great for any serious penetration.

But I figured since I was shooting clay pigeons which are made for shotgun use, why not use a BB styled multi-round shotgun on some of them! All in all the Umarex Walther SG 9000 got the job done...

I am sad to say that Umarex does not seem to make the Walther SG 9000 anymore so if you're looking for one you may have to settle for a used on if you can find an owner willing to give it up.

Umarex Steel.jpg
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto Fun, Pistol, Review, Rifle, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: SG9000, Umarex

Large Umarex Order Just Arrived in Canada - Lots of Stock on Hand

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Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Full Auto, Pellet, Pistol, Replica Airguns News, Revolver, Rifle, Semi Auto, Single Shot, Spring Piston Tags: Umarex

Umarex Steel Storm 4.5mm Steel BB Modified Full Auto Fun

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Today's Full Auto Fun Video features the Umarex Steel Storm CO2 (Internal) Blowback Semi Auto and 6 Round Burst BB Gun. In my books any gun that can shoot at least 3-6 rounds for every pull of the trigger is full auto in my opinion. I tend to shoot in short bursts even if the gun is truly full auto since holding the trigger down till the mag is empty just means you have a lot of down time reloading on your hands. I prefer short controlled bursts because they are more accurate and you can make corrections if need be. You also use less CO2 giving the gun and CO2 a chance to warm up a bit between bursts.

The Umarex Steel Storm has been in my collection of a while now and was the first out of the box full auto BB gun I reviewed on my YouTube Channel. Version 2 of the Steel Storm is the Steel Force which shares many mechanical attributes to the Steel Storm but the Steel Force (externally) is modeled after the AR platform and has the addition of a multi-position AR styled stock which does help with target hold and accuracy.

I will be shooting the Steel Force in an upcoming Full Auto Fun Video so stay posted for that one!

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: Steel Storm, Umarex

ZMZ Tyrex PPA-K-01 4.5mm Steel BB Full Auto Fun

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Yes! More Full Auto Fun Videos on the way and to kick of this week I shoot my ZMZ Tyrex PPA-K-01 Full Auto BB Gun. If you're not aware of the background on this very hard to get ahold of Airgun, I bought it new from another collector and imported it into Canada. I Paid an arm and a leg for it because the Tyrex PPA-K-01 is really hard to find here in Canada and the US, new or used.

The ZMZ Tyrex PPA-K-01 is a super close copy of the Kedr PP-91 (9 x 18 mm Makarov), also made in the same Russian ZMZ factory. So like my Baikal Makarov, the BB version and real steel version are made side by side and both guns use weapons grade steel and some parts from the real guns. Nothing of course that could be converted to a real gun.

As with my other Full Auto Fun Videos, I shoot up a bunch of clay pigeons and record all the fun using several cameras from several angles and points of view. The ZMZ Tyrex PPA-K-01 Blowback CO2 Full Auto BB Gun has a very high rate of fire and sounds like a real machine gun but much quieter of course. It is also surprisingly accurate as you will see in this Full Auto Fun Video!

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: TYREX PPA-K-01, ZMZ

KWC Cybergun GSG 92 4.5mm Steel BB Modified Full Auto Fun

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You guessed it, another Full Auto Fun YouTube Video! And another great Blowback BB gun from the past dusted off and brought out for some more shooting fun :)

You may remember my Cybergun GSG 92 CO2 Blowback 4.5mm Steel BB Pistol that I made several video reviews of, including a how to modify it to shoot both in semi auto and full auto modes. Well the good news is our new KWC Model M92 unlicensed versions (no ugly warning lettering either) now come with the semi and full auto selectable feature so no need to modify, just buy one and your ready to go!

With that said this video is me actually shooting my original Cybergun / KWC Licensed GSG 92 version that I modded to shoot full auto. It was giving me a bit of trouble today but it seemed to work out the kinks near the end.

In an upcoming Full Auto Fun Video I do plan to bring out a new KWC full auto ready M92 and Mini UZI to see how these factory full auto 4.5mm BB guns shoot out of the box.

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Modification, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: Cybergun, GSG 92, KWC

Umarex PPK 4.5mm Steel BB Modified Full Auto Fun

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Some more Full Auto Fun Videos coming at you and make sure to check my previous ones out too!

In this Full Auto Fun Field Test Shooting video I bring out my original Umarex Walther PPK Blowback CO2 BB Pistol. The PPK I converted to full auto and that started it all off by being my first YouTube video upload. Wow, that was a while ago now!

I do have to say, modifying the PPK to Full Auto is not recommended, mine originally worked well but the heavy blowback in full auto eventually broke the firing pin setup and I lost it somewhere in my back field. I had to Macgyver a bolt in place to kind of work but now my Full Auto Modded PPK shoots out of control, what I mean by this is when I press the trigger, it does not stop shooting until all the BB's are gone. Safe, I don't think so!

My suggestion is to leave the Umarex Walther PPK as is, it truly is a an awesome CO2 Blowback BB replica with some really decent blowback recoil in a small airgun.

 
Categories: BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Modification, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: PPK, Umarex, Walther

Baikal Drozd Blackbird 4.5mm Steel BB Gun 1200 rpm Modified Full Auto Fun

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Full Auto Fun video number three this week and this one is perhaps the craziest one! When you take a Drozd Blackbird that already has a 800-1000 round BB magazine, convert it to 1200 rounds of full auto, add a custom JimC Barrel to it, some bulk CO2 and a bunch of other cosmetic accessories... Well you get the most ridiculous full auto BB gun you can ask for.

Since I had an extra 800-900 BB's more than I am used to when making these full auto videos, I decided to add a few additional targets over and above the clay pigeons I have been using so far. I picked up a nice fairly heavy gauge Santa tin and a rather solid hard wax candle from the dollar store that proved to add some drama to this Full Auto Fun video!

Make sure to also watch my first two Full Auto Fun videos:

If you like what you see in this video and want an absolutely crazy BB gun, then checkout our Replica Airguns Store where we Sell the Drozd BB gun and some add ons for it!

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Bulk Air, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Modification, Review, Rifle, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: Drozd, Drozd-Blackbird

RAP4 RAP5 MP5 4.5mm Steel BB Modified Full Auto Fun

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Video number two in a summertime series I'm calling "Full Auto Fun". My first video featured the KWC/Cybergun CO2 BB Blowback Mini UZI. The KWC Mini UZI has lots of kick and is a bit hard to figure out where exactly the sweet spot is but once you find it, it really tares up the targets in full auto mode!

In this "Full Auto Fun" video I bring out my RAP4 - RAP5 MP5 Full auto BB Rifle. The RAP5 MP5 started out life as a .43 caliber paintball gun but I bought it converted in the factory to 4.5mm Steel BB. RAP4 converts it by adding a barrel sleeve adaptor and includes some plastic casings that allow you to place 4.5mm Steel BB's into a kind of donut shaped shell that is then placed into the 21 round magazines. The plastic Donut BB shells eject from the gun like a real shell casing which is super cool!

Like my KWC Mini UZI Full Auto Fun video, I shoot up a bunch of clay pigeons but this time using my RAP4 - RAP5 MP5 4.5mm Steel BB Full Auto Rifle which I found to be very accurate but perhaps a bit thirsty when it comes to CO2 usage. Some bulk air would be a nice combination with this BB shooter, maybe in another video...

Buy Full Auto BB Guns in the Canada Store

Buy Full Auto BB Guns in the US Store

Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Bulk Air, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Review, Rifle, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: MP5, RAP4, RAP5 4.5 BB

KWC Cybergun Mini UZI 4.5mm Steel BB Modified Full Auto Fun

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This "Full Auto Fun" video focuses on my KWC/Cybergun 4.5mm Steel BB CO2 Blowback Mini UZI BB Gun, where I kick of a short series based around shooting a bunch of 4.5mm Steel BB machine guns! Sounds like fun cause it is fun!

This KWC/Cybergun Blowback Mini UZI comes in a variety of versions, 4.5mm Steel BB and Airsoft versions, it also comes in RWS and KWC Distributed models.

In this video I basically shoot a bunch of clay pigeons positioned in various locations and film it using 4 different camera angles to spice things up a bit.

I also mention some upcoming videos where I will be shooting my RAP4 MP5 and Baikal Drozd Blackbird Full Auto BB guns so make sure to watch those video when I upload them later on this week!

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Full Auto Fun, Modification, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: Cybergun, KWC, UZI

More Full Auto BB Gun Videos on the Way - Update Video

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I had so much fun getting my modded Drozd Classic Full Auto BB Gun out the other day and shooting it, that I thought I would make some more Full Auto videos for you! So this upcoming week I will be taking a look at some of the following BB guns:

Stay tuned... Not sure exactly what I am going to do in terms of shooting tests and comparissons but I do know it will be fun :)

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, Bulk Air, CO2, Field Test, Full Auto, Pistol, Rifle, YouTube Video Tags:

Most Powerful Air Pistol Shootout

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In this "head to head to head" pistol shootout I compare three of my more powerful, or you could say effective air pistols against each other. Shooting at some pop cans from about 30 feet away to see how destructive each one is. I don't generally recommend air pistols for pest control simply because they tend to be less accurate and powerful than rifles, especially out at the longer ranges where a magnified scope is required and notably where the pesky vermin like to hang out.

I would have to say out of the three tested in this video comparison, the Webley Alecto in .22 caliber and the Modified Drozd Full Auto BB Gun would for sure get the job done at closer ranges. The Webley Alecto simply because it can hurl a heavy grain .22 caliber lead pellet right around the 500 fps mark which will take down small pests, again at close ranges.

My second choice or even first choice depending on how active the pest are would be my modified full auto 1200 rounds per minute Drozd that hurls 4.5mm Steel BB's at over 500 fps (under 4.2 foot pounds) at a rate of 20 BB's per second! A 4.5mm Steel BB traveling at 500 fps will penetrate fur and feathers very well and with most of the 20 BB's hitting a target in a matter of 1 second, that is going to humanly put a small to even medium sized pest down for sure. And yes the Drozd becomes a pistol when yuo take the rear stock off ;)

My last choice for the job is the Xisico XSP180 in .177 caliber since like the Webley Alecto it is only a single shot, so you got to make it count and being that it has less overall energy than the Webley Alecto again I would prefer the Alecto over the XSP180.

Watch my "head to head to head" Vimeo video to see how these three pellet pistols compare:

Categories: .22 cal, 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Bulk Air, CO2, Comparison, Field Test, Full Auto, Modification, Multi-pump, Pellet, Pistol, Review, Single Shot, Spring Piston, YouTube Video Tags: Alecto, Baikal, Drozd, Webley, XSP180, Xisico

Webley Tempest Ultimate Back Packer Pellet Pistol Review

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A classic air pistol with its roots going as far back as the 1920's, the Webley Tempest still holds its own with todays modern sprig piston air pistols. And perhaps in one category (Back Pack Pistol) it may even outshine most of them!

Even though for the most part this website and YouTube channel are dedicated to replica style airguns, there are still many of us who plain and simple like all types of airguns and both appreciate and at times even need more of a single purpose target / hunting airgun for either pest control or taking with us while in the back country.

If you plan on spending some time in the wilderness and may even be required to fend for yourself in terms of food, you would, I am sure appreciate something like the Webley Tempest in your backpack. It will add an additional 2.1 pounds plus the weight of a tin of lead pellets but you never know, it could even save your life if you get lost or injured and need to camp out till help arrives.

The really great part about the Webley Tempest is that it is considered an uncontrolled firearm here in Canada because it just squeezes under our Canada limits in terms of fps and power so you can legally pack it around with you while out hiking, camping, backpacking or what have you. With that said I feel the Webley Tempest still has enough fps, foot pounds of energy and accuracy to wrangle up some small game at close range.

In this YouTube video I demonstrate the effectiveness of the Webley Tempest at taking down 6 "small game" sized targets at a distance of 30 feet or so shooting free hand. I also put a couple of rounds through the Chronograph using some RWS 11.9 grain lead pellets to show you that it has some decent power for such a small compact spring piston air pistol.

Categories: .22 cal, 4.5mm / .177 cal, Field Test, Pellet, Pistol, Review, Single Shot, Spring Piston, YouTube Video Tags: Webley

Umarex TDP 45 TAC CO2 BB Pistol Full Review

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Type: BB air pistol.

Manufacturer: Umarex USA.

Model: TDP 45 TAC

Materials: Pastic outer shell.

Weight: 1.4 pounds (566 grams)

Barrel: Metal non-rifled (4.25 inches).

Propulsion: CO2 x 1.

Action: Semi auto non-blowback, double action only.

Ammunition Type: 4.5mm BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 19 round metal stick magazine.

FPS: 410.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Umarex and TDP 45 TAC is medium to heavy but since it is a double action only trigger, this is to be expected. There is a fair amount of take up with the entire pull being about 8-9 pounds with the release point happening right at the very back of the pull, you get a bit of a clicking sound warning right before it releases. If you are used to shooting other lower priced double action triggers where the barrel protrudes out of the front of the gun when you pull the trigger then you will know what to expect with this this style of DOA trigger as the setup is pretty much exactly the same.

Accuracy: Since the TDP 45 TAC comes with a laser, I opted to use the laser over the open sights even though you have the choice of using open sights as their is an open channel under the sight rail allowing you to see both the rear and front sight pretty clearly. Of course you can mount a scope or red dot sight on the sight rail if you choose to. During my Field Test Shooting portion of this review I would have to say I got around a 2 inch 8 shot grouping but considering I actually took 10 shots, the extra 2 shots spread the grouping out a bit to around 4-5 inches. I do have to recommend you keep a close eye on the laser battery door as mine had a tendency to open up mid shooting. perhaps some black tape is in order? In terms of FPS performance, my Umarex TDP 45 TAC shot really close the claimed 410 fps coming in at 397 with my 5 shot chronograph testing using a brand new CO2. You can expect to get higher feet per second performance on a warmer day since temperatures on my test day where not overly warm.

Build Quality: TheUmarex TDP 45 TAC is built on a two sided plastics shell which you will find has all mechanical parts moulded into it with the exception of the trigger, safety and magazine release. Again, most of the build materials on the gun and the TAC accessories are plastic with the exception of some internal parts like the stick magazine, the barrel and the trigger. Because the gun is fairly light weight, even a hard drop would probably not cause to much harm with the fairly durable plastic and you won't have to worry about any paint wearing off ;)

Realism: The TDP 45 TAC CO2 BB Pistol is not actual replicas of any specific gun in production that I know of, it is styled after todays modern mid to compact sized semi auto pistols but it is hard to pinpoint any one specific gun. The TDP TAC 45 does look like a real gun but it's function is based more around what the easiest way is to build a BB gun rather than how can we make this gun function as close to a real gun as possible. That said it is very efficient and simple in operation which should make it very reliable in the long run.

Available From: The Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

  • Very low cost, at $60.

  • Nice combination of lots of shots per CO2 with strong FPS and overall decent accuracy.

  • Universal metal stick magazine works in a variety of guns, can mix and match.

  • CO2 tab is fairly well hidden.

  • Comes with sight rail, laser and mock suppressor accessories, some could even be sued on other guns?

  • Construction screws are less obvious (Smaller and discrete).

  • Tried and true firing mechanism that works and is reliable.

  • I like the SA177 style CO2 hatch that opens and pivots.

Cons:

  • Mostly all plastic shell.

  • Not a lot of actual working parts except for the trigger, magazine release and magazine. All else is molded in to the plastic.

  • Double action trigger is a bit long and heavy which can effect accuracy.

  • Battery cover on my laser could be tighter and less likely to open up accidentally.

Comments:

For $60 you get a lot of fun and versatility for what you are spending. You could even take some of the Tactical accessories off like the sight rail and laser and sue them on some of your other air pistols with rails. No the Umarex TDP 45 TAC is not the most realistic or highest quality airgun out there but I bet you will get tired of shooting it before it wears out on you because it has such a simple internal firing mechanism. You can change the look by either taking some of the accessories off or adding even more, the choice is up to you!

Watch my YouTube Table Top and Field Test Reviews for the Umarex TDP 45 TAC CO2 BB Pistol:

 
Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, CO2, Field Test, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: TDP 45, TDP 45 Tac, Umarex

Umarex Beretta PX4 Storm Blowback Pellet Pistol First Gen Versus New Head to Head Showdown

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I originally reviewed my first generation Umarex PX4 Storm CO2 Blowback Pellet Pistol back in August of 2010. Mine was actually one of the first PX4's to come into Canada. Since it has been almost 4 years since I first got my hands on this pellet pistol, I though it might be worth taking a revisit of it and comparing a first generation version to a current generation version of the Umarex PX4.

Cosmetically they are really close, I found it hard to tell them apart visually, My first generation had perhaps a slightly lighter colored slide? Other than that they look identical. When I loaded them both up with pellets I did notice that my 4 year old PX4 magazine was tighter in terms of loading the pellets, So in other words, the new Umarex PX4 magazine has slightly larger diameter holes. I don't think this really made much of a difference while shooting, it's just a bit easier to load the newer magazines.

In terms of shooting performance, both Umarex PX4 Storms performed very similarly, getting almost the exact feet per second rating on my Chronograph. (First generation had 363 average fps versus current version with 357 average fps). By the way I was using 7 grain flat head RWS pellets for both my Chronograph and target testing.

Both pistols also shot really nice groupings, form side to side there was about a 1.5 inch spread but vertically the groupings seemed to get more into around the 3 inch spread range. This could be perhaps because of shooting heavy grain pellets and the variation in fps which will make a heavy grain pellet drop a bit. My first generation PX4 did seem to shoot a bit higher on target then my current generation PX4 which seemed to like to shoot right in the bulls eye area.

Both pistols have a really nice snappy and hard hitting blowback action especially using a new CO2, they are also a bit on the louder side so be aware of this when shooting in residential areas. You can expect to get around 4 decent magazines or 64 shots per CO2 but there will be some power drop near the end of the CO2.

Overall the Umarex PX4 Storm CO2 Blowback Pellet Pistol is a great looking replica of the real steel PX4 and also performs very well in terms of power, accuracy and shots per CO2 for such a hard hitting blowback pellet pistol. It is is also one of our best priced Pellet Pistols in my books for value versus cost spent.

Watch my Vimeo Video Umarex Beretta PX4 Storm Blowback Pellet Pistol First Generation Versus New Head to Head Showdown:

Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, BB, Blowback, CO2, Comparison, Field Test, Pellet, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: PX4 Storm, Umarex

KWC P-08 Luger CO2 Blowback BB and Airsoft Pistol Field Test Shooting Review

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Make sure to also checkout my full Table Top Review where you will find more details and specifications for the KWC Luger P-08 Airsoft replica pistol which is virtually the same gun as the 4.5mm BB version with the only real difference being the ammo type and the amount of rounds per magazine (21 rounds for the 4.5mm BB version and 15 rounds for the 6mm Airsoft version).

I have also already made a full Field Test Shooting Review for the Airsoft version of this CO2 Blowback Pistol where I got very similar results using slightly heavier .25 gram Airsoft BB's so again, make sure to checkout that YouTube Video Filed Test Review.

Basically in this YouTube video, I shoot the 4.5mm Steel BB version of the KWC P-08 Luger head to head against the Airsoft Version to see how they compare in terms of Feet Per Second speed and Accuracy from30 feet away from a paper target using a semi rested shooting stance. As expected the heavier 4.5mm Steel BB's shot a bit slower but did seem to have a slight advantage in the accuracy department.

Watch my YouTube Field Test Head to Head Shooting video of the KWC Luger P-08 CO2 Blowback Replica Pistols to see how they both compared:

Buy the KWC Luger P-08 in the Canada Store

Categories: 4.5mm / .177 cal, 6mm, Airsoft, BB, Blowback, CO2, Field Test, GBB, Pistol, Review, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: KWC, Luger P08

Blowback Airguns Versus Non-blowback Airguns 2

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This topic of Blowback Airguns Versus Non-blowback Airguns comes up often so I thought I would address it a second time around since I get a lot of new visitors and subscribers daily who may not have watched my first video explanation on this topic. You can also checkout my first video on this subject since there may be some stuff I missed out in this video second video ;)

There are really two types of people asking or commenting on Blowback Airguns Versus Non-blowback Airguns. The first type of person who genuinely wants to know which is best and for what reasons. Then there is the other kind of person who makes a narrow minded statement that one type is clearly better than the other type, based on their own preferences and interests but not considering that there are other people out there with different opinions and preferences than them. You know who you are and we all know you are not going to change cause that would require an open mind...

Here is a list of the Pros and Cons I go over for each style of Airgun:

Pros:

  • Blowback guns simulate recoil.

  • Blowback guns can have better and more true triggers compared to their real steel counterparts.

  • Blowback guns can be better suited for action shooting.

  • Blowback guns are better as prop guns.

  • Blowback guns are generally more realistic in terms of mechanics.

  • Non-blowback guns generally use less CO2 per shot.

  • Non-blowback guns generally have higher fps.

  • Non-blowback guns can be more accurate.

  • Non-blowback guns can be more reliable.

  • Non-blowback guns can be less expensive.

Cons:

  • Blowback guns generally get less shots per CO2.

  • Blowback guns generally have lower fps.

  • Blowback guns can be less accurate.

  • Blowback guns can be less reliable.

  • Blowback guns can be more costly. 

  • Non-blowback guns do not simulate recoil.

  • Non-blowback guns do not have true single action only triggers.

  • Non-blowback guns generally have heavier triggers that slow down shooting performance.

  • Non-blowback guns are generally not as good for prop use and or training.

  • Non-blowback guns generally are not as realistic compared to their real steel counterparts. 

Watch my Vimeo video where I go into detail on Blowback Airguns Versus Non-blowback Airguns again ;)

Categories: Airsoft, BB, Blowback, CO2, Comparison, Full Auto, GBB, Gas, Pellet, Pistol, Rifle, Semi Auto, YouTube Video Tags: