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.
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:
Trigger Pull: The ASG Dan Wesson 357 Revolver has a smoother trigger than the previous non 715 Dan Wesson Revolvers. There seems to be less of that friction while the cylinder rotates past the spring engaged inner barrel. Even the Hammer has a nicer fell to it with less side to side wiggle. Single action is really nice with a very short take up and light release point.
Accuracy: I have not had a chance to test out the ASG Dan Wesson 715 6 Inch Silver CO2 BB Revolver so far since the outside whether has been rather cold and wet. In terms of accuracy I would expect at least a 1-2 inch grouping from 30 feet out and the clamed fps of 430 seems to be in line with what we should see from the 4.5mm BB shooting Dan Wesson 715. I guess we will have to find out later on when I do my Field Test Shooting video to be sure...
Build Quality: I thought the previous generation Dan Wesson Revolvers where built really nice but the new Dan Wesson 715 takes this up several notches higher. All you need to do is pick this gun up and immediately you are in a state of wow! You almost need to ask yourself if it is in fact the Real Steal Dan Wesson 715 357 Magnum Revolver it feels that good. ASG has beefed up the barrel assembly to a solid component that adds a lot of forward weight which would be just like what you would expect from the 357 Magnum shooting version. To balance it all off the forward weight, the grips section is also reinforced with metal underneath the Hogue Styled rubber finger grips which again are another huge improvement over the plastic pistol grips found on previous models of the ASG Dan Wesson's. The stainless finish is of course awesome and this guns simply looks and feels great!
Realism: Again referencing the new ASG Dan Wesson 715 6 Inch Silver CO2 BB Revolver to it's predecessors, the Dan Wesson 715 is a true replica of the Dan Wesson 715 357 Magnum Revolver in almost every aspect and not just the Dan Wesson name. I could tell you everything that was the same but it's simply much easier to point out the only real difference I was able to point out and that would be the two pins that connect the barrel assembly to the frame of the BB version of the Dan Wesson 715. Not a deal breaker by any means and the pins really don't take away from this gun in my opinion.
Another great shell loading revolver, perhaps one of the nicest modern BB revolvers to date!
Almost all metal design, super heavy, feels like a real gun in the hand.
Lots of detail in this gun, very well made, fit and finish is excellent.
Dan Wesson Licensed and an excellent replica overall.
Adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation.
Rubber Hogue style finger grips, huge improvement over previous Dan Wesson grips.
Well hidden CO2 screw and Allen key built into the removable grip.
Much improved hammer and trigger action, smoother trigger and less wiggle in hammer.
Barrel opening is very realistic, even has simulated rifling.
Safety design is well hidden and easy to use.
Cons:
Two pins to attach the barrel assembly to the frame are not in line with the real steel version.
Trigger still has a bit of that initial friction in double action mode because of the spring loaded internal barrel.
Comments:
I was already a big fan of the Dan Wesson line of Revolvers, this new 715 version of the Dan Wesson takes it to a whole new level! In terms of the modern shell loading CO2 Revolvers out there the ASG Dan Wesson 715 6 Inch Silver CO2 BB Revolver is by far my new favorite. ASG completely redesign their new ASG Dan Wesson 715 6 Inch Silver CO2 BB Revolver basing it entirely on the real steel version and capturing the quality, look and feel nearly exactly. if you already have a Dan Wesson Revolver and think that perhaps you can pass the new version by, well I would think again or you may be missing out on one of the best BB Revolvers out there at this time.
My Vimeo Video Table Top Review for the Dan Wesson 715 CO2 BB Revolver:
Ammunition Type: 4.5mm steel BB's. or .177 cal. pellets.
Ammunition Capacity: 6 rounds.
FPS: (BB 410) (Pellet 380).
Trigger Pull: Trigger pull on the John Wayne Duke Colt SAA BB and Pellet Revolver is the best I have ever come across in an airgun. Being that these Single Action Army Revolvers are single action only, most of the work is done while you pre-cock the hammer. The trigger pull is under 2 pounds and has virtually no take up with a crisp release. I love the ratcheting sound as you pull back the hammer just like using a real SAA Revolver!
Accuracy: I have not yet tested these John Wayne Duke Colt SAA BB and Pellet Revolvers so far but expect the BB version to perform for the most part just like the Umarex only versions I tested previously. Here are my notes from my previous testing:
"I tested both 4.5mm steel BB's and 4.7mm Lead ball BB's in the Umarex Colt Single Action Army Shell Loading BB Revolver. With the Steel 4.5mm BB's I shot just under a 2 inch 6 shot grouping when shooting from a 30 foot distance using a semi rested position (Sand bag up front, standing in the back). The shots where pretty well center hitting the paper target just a little bit high, they did seem to stray a little more left and right rather then up and down. When I switch ammo to the 4.7mm Lead BB's I got a similar 2 inch grouping but they hit the target a bit lower and tended to shoot tighter from side to side with more variation up and down, perhaps because the lead BB's did not seem to shoot at a vary consistent velocity. My Chronograph testing for the Steel BB's was right around 400 fps while the Lead BB's being heavier shot a bit slower at just under 300 fps."
Build Quality: The John Wayne Duke Colt SAA BB and Pellet Revolvers have a mostly all metal construction other than the plastic grips and any seals. The fit and finish is excellent with a great overall weight in the hand. Whether you get the Nickel or Weathered version. The mechanical action of the hammer and trigger feels just like it would on a real single action army revolver.
Realism: In terms of replicating a real steel Colt Single Action Army Revolver, these guns are absolutely amazing replicas. It's really hard to tell the airgun version from the real steel version, except for the smaller in diameter shells and the discreet safety switch located under the frame. Even the barrel is nicely recessed and has some fake rifling twists in it to give the appearance of a large caliber round. The CO2 is well hidden with the Allen key built into the handle so no ugly CO2 screw tab hanging down.
Still the best airgun reproduction of the Single Action Army Revolver, a very accurate replica of the real steel old west version.
Recessed barrel has the look of a large caliber bullet.
Great weight and feel in the hand.
Shell loading design that loads from the back so no need to remove shells if you wish not to.
Hammer and trigger action is about perfect, no take-up, very crisp and super light (under 2 pounds).
Finish on both the Nickel and Blued is very nice.
Colt and John Wayne Duke licensing.
Very well concealed CO2 with built in Allen key.
Discreet safety location.
If you prefer pellets over steel BB, now you have the option.
Cons:
Still has the warming instruction on the right side of the barrel but not super obvious especially on the Nickel version.
Real version would shoot 45 caliber, dummy shells are actual closer to 357 so a bit smallish.
Wood grips to me look a little fake up close but the John Wayne emblem kind of makes up for it.
Comments:
Shell loading BB and Pellet revolvers have been out for a while now and have changed the way many of us feel about airgun revolvers. Airgun revolvers used to be kind of overlooked because they where not the most exciting replica airguns out there but now we have not only the new Dan Wesson 715 shell loading revolvers but also these Colt Single Action Revolvers with Colt and John Wayne Duke licensing on them available in both BB and pellet shooting versions! There is something special about these old cowboy day classic revolver that makes them so elegant and just a real work of art you can not only own and look at but also take out and shoot whenever the spirit moves you to do so!
My Vimeo Table Top Review for the John Wayne Duke Colt SAA BB and Pellet Revolver:
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 Chip Hunnucutt from Crosman Corporation. Chip was eager to show off Crosman's new Airbow which is a essentially a hybrid PCP Air Rifles combined with a Crossbow. SO take away the bow and replace the power source with a 3000 PSI compressed air system that is capable of shooting standard archery arrows at 450 fps with 160 foot pounds of energy using 375 grain arrows.
The Crosman Airbow on a full 3000 PSI charge can deliver 8 consecutive shots @ the regulated 450 fps. The Airbow also weighs in at 7 pounds and being that it is a Bullpup design it is only 33.5 inches long so nice and compact for an arrow shooter.
Since the power is generated by the PCP compressed air system there is no heavy cocking rope so a simple lift of the ambidextrous cocking bolt is all that is needed to charge the Crosman Airbow. The Airbow also comes standard with a CenterPoint® 6x40 mm scope specially designed with the Airbow in mind.
Since the Crosman Airbow is technically an under 500 fps airgun, it should be considered an uncontrolled firearm here in Canada which means no PAL license will be required to buy and own the Crosman Airbow in Canada. In terms of using the Airbow for hunting as it is not a bow but rather an Airgun, that is yet to be determined here in Canada.
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.
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…
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.
I'm getting close to uploading 600 videos now over on the Replica Airguns Vimeo channel, so there are bound to be a lot of similar questions and popular discussions. In this Replica Airguns Vimeo Video I address what I feel are my Top 10 Most Common Airgun Questions and Discussions.
Whether you like it or not, most of us have come across an Airgun with an ugly orange tip on it at some point. In most cases you will find the intrusive orange or red tips on Airsoft guns that shoot plastic BB's, in some cases you will even find them on Airguns that shoot either lead pellets and/or steel BB's.
It really comes down to where you live as to what your local gun laws have determined is required for your area. You may even live in a region where Airguns and Airsoft guns are not allowed at all! So for you a red or orange tip on the front would be welcome if it would allow you to own an Airgun or Airsoft gun. What about the entire gun being painted a bright color, well that is the case for some folks so again having a red or orange tips may not be as bad as it originally seemed...
In Canada where I live, we used to only be allowed Airsoft guns that had clear sections as our replica gun laws are very strict and all black Airsoft guns would have fallen iinto the "replica" category if they did not have large clear plastic see-through sections on them. This clear section law was revised somewhat over the last several years to allow for all black Airsoft guns here in Canada. It was determined that many Airsoft guns with higher fps limits could cause a serious injury to a human, making them less of a toy in the eyes of the law and more of a weapon. Because of this, Airsoft guns that are capable of shooting a .20 gram plastic BB at a velocity of 360 fps or "higher" are now considered to be similar in the eyes of the law to a regular steel BB or lead pellet shooting Airgun. In Canada, Pellet and Steel BB guns are actually considered firearms of a sort so this allows the higher fps Airsoft guns to be all black since it can not be a replica of a firearm if it is in fact considered to be a firearm by law.
The long and short of all of this is that here in Canada we do not require our Airsoft guns to have orange or red tips since they are considered more or less to be just like any other Airgun and our Airguns do not have red or orange tips either.
Getting back to the title of this article "No Orange Tip On Your Airsoft Gun! Are You Insane?" I often get folks from the US giving me heck for removing the orange tips from my Airsoft guns or asking me why my Airsoft guns don't have them in the first place. These people even state that I could get in a lot of trouble for this! Perhaps they think I live in the US or that US laws govern Canada as well? I am not sure but I can say for the record that I am not breaking any laws at least here in Canada where I live.
I know in the US that wholesalers and retailers by law have to sell Airsoft guns with the affixed orange tips on them, once the end user receives that gun and depending on which state they live in, it may or may not be legal to remove the orange tip. Again, you will need to look into your local state laws as they are different from state to state in the US.
In this Video Review I show you around the G&G CM16 Raider and Carbine AEG Airsoft Rifle's. Since these AEG Airsoft AR Rifles are a bit large to showcase using my traditional Table Top location I move into my gym and take each gun out of its box to have a good look at them. I talk about some of the main features and specification. The main features being these G&G CM16 AR15 / M16 AEG Airsoft Rifles are all really well priced but also very well made for their rather low overall cost. They do have a primarily all Nylon Fiber build even in the receivers but they still have a nice 4.6 to 5.7 pound weight to them, and once dressed up with a few accessories they come in at a perfect weight that is not too heavy to carry around in just about any game situation. The Nylon material in some way is a better choice in terms of getting scratched and dinged since they will not mark up as easily as painted metals will.
Ammunition Capacity: 17 round full size metal magazine.
FPS: 380 using .20 gram BB's.
This is a Mini Review for the KWC/Cybergun Colt M1911 A1 CO2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol. I have already reviewed other KWC version of this all metal realistic CO2 blowback pistol in both 6mm Airsoft and 4.5mm Steel BB and in a variety of different finishes so if you are interested in a more detailed write up for the Cybergun Colt M1911 A1, you can check out the below links where I have reviewed many variations of virtually the same blowback CO2 airgun made by KWC.
Ammunition Capacity: 15 round full size metal magazine.
FPS: 300+
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol is I would have to say one of the nicest 1911 single action triggers I have tested so far. The take-up is very slight with an extremely light trigger pull required to release the hammer. Any lighter and I would say it would be too light and perhaps prone to accidental firing.The three hole tactical trigger extends out a little further than some 1911's but feels secure on the finger.
Accuracy: At this point I have not shot the ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol but have high expectations based on the overall quality of this pistol and form other reviews I have read on this Airsoft 1911 replica. According to the manufacturers claimed fps, we should get somewhere right around 300 fps. The ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol has an adjustable rear sight for windage and we can take care of elevation using the adjustable hop-up so zoning in the Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 to shoot dead center on target should not be too difficult.
Build Quality: The ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol is one of those Airguns that really catches your eye, and once you pick it up and hold it in your hands you discover that not only does it look really great but it also feels really great in your hands! The tolerances of the parts are excellent, everything mechanical is smooth without any friction and you can even see the texture of the metal grain through the quality matt black powder finish.
Realism: The ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol is a a fantastic replica of a real steel MEU SOC 1911 used by the US Marine Corps' Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). The balance and weight really make this 1911 Airsoft pistol feel like your holding the real deal, all the mechanic parts function as they would compared to the original and the ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol is fully field stripable.
Excellent quality, durable black powder coat matte finish .
Enhanced Pro-Grip with brass marine inserts
MEU SOC 1911 Licensed.
Three hole tactical trigger with skeleton hammer.
Comes in a hard shell case with Gemtech Outback II 5-inch silencer and lanyard.
Rail for adding accessories.
Cons:
FPS is kind of low for Canada Market so not one we can regularly get in stock.
A bit on the pricy side.
No option of CO2 magazine.
Comments:
With all the BB and Airsoft 1911's out there what makes the ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol stand out from the rest. First off it feel the most believabel when holding it in your hand, it seems ot have that perfect weight and balance that is often hard to replicate in an Airgun. With features like enhanced Pro-Grips with brass marine inserts, MEU SOC 1911 licensing, three hole tactical trigger, ambidextrous safety, super smooth and light single action trigger, White dot adjustable sights and the included hard shell case with lanyard and Gemtech silencer you can not go wrong with the ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol.
My Vimeo Video Review for the ASG Socom Gear US Marine MEU SOC 1911 GBB Airsoft Pistol:
Action: Semi auto non-blowback, double action only.
Ammunition Type: Steel BBs 4.5mm.
Ammunition Capacity: 21 rounds
FPS: 394 fps/ 120 m/s.
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KWC Metal Slide CQBP M45 A1 Non-Blowback CO2 BB Pistol was about medium to hard but I have definitely experienced heavier trigger pulls on some guns. It is nice that the trigger is in the style of a 1911 and not your typical lever styled trigger like you will find on some 1911 wannabe's. I imagine if the CQBP M45 A1 has a lever style trigger it would have more leverage and be a bit lighter.
Accuracy: I have not shot the KWC Metal Slide CQBP M45 A1 Non-Blowback CO2 BB Pistol but expect it to perform similar to the Cybergun Sig Sauer GSR Sigarms I reviewed a while back since both guns have similar internals so for now until I do my dedicated Field Test review you can read my Cybergun Sig Sauer GSR Sigarms Review: "Accuracy was decent but not outstanding, I got around a 2.5 inch grouping from a 20 foot away free standing position, shooting just to the left and high on the target. I did find that I was able to zone in a bit better with the Cybergun GSR as I got used to the trigger. I also put the Cybergun Sig Sauer GSR through my Chrony Chronograph and got very close the manufacturers 397 claimed feet per second, actually starting off well above it and settling down to around the 370 FPS mark. My 8 shot average on a new CO2 was actually 422 FPS."
Build Quality: You will find a pretty nice balance of metal and plastic on the KWC Metal Slide CQBP M45 A1 Non-Blowback CO2 BB Pistol. The metal slide, magazine barrel and some literals give it a really decent weight in the hand and the fit and fish feel good overall. The trigger and hammer are not the best aspects of the gun in terms of quality as they are both plastic and both kind of made more for show and less for function.
Realism: The KWC Metal Slide CQBP M45 A1 Non-Blowback CO2 BB Pistol looks and feel the part of a M45 1911 A1 including a full size drop out metal magazine, working magazine release and safety. The slide catch release is none functioning and so is the hammer which does not cock back for single action shooting. It would have been nice to have a single action trigger and a working slide to finish off this pistol but it is meant to be more of an entry level pistol at the end of the day.
Should have good FPS and lots of shots per CO2 based on my 4.5mm BB version testing!
Rail for mounting accessories.
Nice white dot sights.
Recessed barrel give it a more realistic look.
True 1911 style looking trigger even though it is double action only.
True 1911 working safety.
Cons:
No blowback - slide does not move either.
Hammer moves but does not cock so no single action shooting.
Non adjustable rear sight.
Trigger action is bit heavy and long so it’s not going to be the fastest action shooter.
Comments:
If you're looking for a lower cost well made 1911 in that classic A1 style but with a little bit of updating like having a Picatinny rail and tactical sights then the KWC Metal Slide CQBP M45 A1 Non-Blowback CO2 BB Pistolmay just be right for you. So it doesn't have blowback or a working slide, on the other hand it has lots of metal on it giving it good weight and feel and with less moving parts there will be less to go wrong down the road. You can also expect to get fps into the 400 range with a decent amount of shots per CO2 so the trade off not having blowback may be worth it for this reason. All in all a nice airgun in the under $100 category.
My Vimeo Videos for the KWC Metal Slide CQBP M45 A1 CO2 Air Pistol:
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KWC Mac 11 M11 is double action only and is rather long and a bit firm so you will get a bit of a finger workout especially when shooting a full 39 rounds from the 4.5mm steel BB version. There is no blowback operation so this is a double action only pistol.
Accuracy: The accuracy and true feet per second performance will be tested when I do my future Field Test Shooting Review shortly (weather permitting).
Build Quality: Overall the KWC Mac 11 M11 CO2 BB - Airsoft Pistol is built fairly well as long as you don't mind the all plastic build. to be honest if you where to drop this all plastic pistol on the ground it would most likely just bounce a couple of times no worse for wear since it is kind of light weight and all. If it was an almost all metal build it would weigh in a lot more and the drop onto a hard surface could easily break the zinc alloy metal parts. That said there is some metal on the KWC Mac 11 M11 CO2 BB - Airsoft Pistol and that would be the folding - sliding stock and of course some internal parts. The rear fold out portion of the stock is actually hardened steel!
Realism: As a replica of a real steel Mac 11 M11, the KWC Mac 11 M11 CO2 BB - Airsoft Pistol looks bang on since it is 1 to 1 scale and at least in terms of looks is virtually identical ot teh real Mac 11. In terms of function, that is a different story since the KWC Mac 11 M11 CO2 BB - Airsoft Pistol does not have many working parts other than the trigger, safety and magazine release. The selector switch, bolt charging handle and bolt are all molded into this gun and their only purpose is to look good! The overall weight is rather light too since most of this Mac 11 pistol is ABS or plastic.
Pros:
First 4.5mm Steel BB Mac 11.
1/1 scale replica definitely looks the part.
Full size drop out magazine that holds the CO2 and BB’s.
High capacity 39 rounds magazine.
Built in metal and steel retractable stock.
Decent fps.
Available in both 4.5mm Steel BB and 6mm Plastic Airsoft versions.
Cons:
Pretty much all ABS, kind of light weight.
No blowback or many working parts.
Kind of long and heavy trigger.
Pretty much everything is moulded into this gun.
Comments:
Too be honest when I first saw the box for the KWC Mac 11 M11 CO2 BB - Airsoft Pistol I was a bit excited, that was until I opened it up and found out I was looking at a pretty much all plastic gun with few working parts and no blowback operation. But after holding it and giving this air pistol a good look over I have to say I am warming up to it a bit more now. After all it is the first Mac 11 M11 4.5mm steel BB pistol that I know of and it 100% looks the part so if you are looking for a replica Mac 11 then this will fill that purpose for sure. Even though it is almost all ABS plastic, this airgun feels solid seems to be really well made. The steel and metal stock is a nice addition and so would have been a metal magazine but overall for a low cost replica BB and Airsoft shooter you do get your moneys worth.
My Vimeo Video Review for the KWC Mac 11 M11 CO2 BB - Airsoft Pistol:
