A while back I made a full Table Top Review and Field Test Shooting Review for my sample - pre-production KWC Mauser M712 Broomhandle CO2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol. Well we finally got the finished product in our Canada Replica Airguns Store and not only in the 6mm Airsoft version but also the 4.5mm Steel BB versions!

I most likely will not be doing another table top review for the KWC Mauser M712 Broomhandle CO2 Blowback BB and Airsoft Pistol since I already made a fairly comprehensive Table Top Review of my sample - pre-production Airsoft unit. The only real difference I could find visually is the markings on the left side of the receiver indicating the pistol is made by KWC in Taiwan and the Caliber it shoots.

I will however be making a side by side Field Test Shooting Comparison Video to see if the production Airsoft version shoots the same as my pre-production model and also how the 4.5mm steel BB version compares in terms of fps and accuracy side by side.

We also have magazines for both of these KWC pistols in our Canada Store!

Make sure to watch my Vimeo Update Video where I show these two very realistic KWC Mauser M712 Broomhandle CO2 Blowback pistols in detail:

Buy the KWC Masuer M712 in the Canada Store

Buy the KWC Masuer M712 in the US Store

Type: Airsoft revolver.

Manufacturer:KWC.

Model:357.

Materials: Mostly metal with some plastic construction.

Weight: 2 pounds (900 grams).

Barrel: 2.25 inches, non-rifled.

Propulsion: 12 gram CO2.

Action: Revolver, single & double actions.

Ammunition Type: 6mm plastic Airsoft BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 6 rounds.

FPS: 360+.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KWC 357 2.5 Inch CO2 Airsoft Revolver is good in both single and double action, even better than the Dan Wesson and S&W 327 TRR8 shell loading revolvers, most likely because the spring tension that pushes the inner barrel to make contact with the cylinder is noticeably lighter on the KWC 357's. Even the hammer is smoother and has less wiggle, just a better trigger and hammer mechanism overall.

Accuracy: This is yet to be determined but I did notice on the KWC Airsoft versions of their shell loading Airsoft Revolvers, that they do have a built in preset Hop-up by way of a small rubber bar that goes along the top of the barrel just inside the rear portion. This will create some backspin which will keep the Airsoft BB's trajectory more level but should also help them stay more accurate in general as compared to a plastic Airsoft BB that is not spinning but rather just floating through the air.

Build Quality: The KWC 357 2.5 Inch CO2 Airsoft Revolver being mostly metal has a very good build quality, perhaps even better than the Dan Wesson and S&W 327 TRR8 shell loading revolvers, even the weight of the KWC 357 is noticeably more! The only real plastic or rubber I could find was in the grips and the shell tips. Fit and finish was also good with no noticeable wear or sloppy workmanship.

Realism: The KWC 357 2.5 Inch CO2 Airsoft Revolver overall is a close copy a the real steel 357 styled revolver. I did notice the rear portion of the receiver (between the rear cylinder and hammer) to be a bit longer perhaps to accommodate the CO2 valve length, but other than that this pistol is super close to the original 357 styled revolver it is based on. Again being all metal gives this CO2 Airsoft revolver very realistic weight and feel and the loadable brass shells make using this gun almost exactly like using a real shell loading revolver but for much less cost per shot and of course a lot less recoil on the hands that a real 357 magnum or even when shooting 38 special shells for that matter ;)

Available in the:Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

• Shell loading revolver adds to the realism!

• Mostly all metal design.

• Pretty all the parts work as they would in a similar real steel revolver of this type.

• Good overall weight, Very dense because of the shorter barrel.

• Should have good overall power, accuracy and shots per CO2 (based on Colt Python testing).

• Fully adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation.

• Well hidden CO2 Screw.

• Recessed barrel.

• Not much white writing on the gun.

• Nice easy Trigger pull in both single and double action.

Cons:

• Short 2.25 inch barrel will rob power but the Dan Wesson style long barrel Airsoft revolvers are know to be a bit hot for some Airsoft games so this may be a good thing.

• Grips may be a bit large for people with small hands.

• All black sights with no white dots are not great on dark backgrounds or low lighting.

Comments:

The KWC 357 2.5 Inch CO2 Airsoft Revolver is yet another addition to the increasing lineup of shell loading revolvers available today in both Steel BB and Airsoft versions. The 2.5 inch reviewed here is meant to be the compact version with its snub nosed barrel but I would have to say it is not a small gun at all coming in at 2 pounds and with rather large grips and a pretty large cylinder to pack around. But then again, that may be just what you are looking for? The shorter barrel will lower the fps a bit which may bring it back in line with the requirements of some Airsoft fields and the addition of the built in preset Hop-up, this pistol should shoot pretty well out at medium and even longer ranges.

My Vimeo Table Top Review for the KWC 357 2.5 Inch CO2 Airsoft Revolver:

Buy Airsoft Pistols in Canada 

Buy Airsoft Pistols in the US

Buy theKWC Black 2.5 Inch Airsoft Revolver

Type: BB Airsoft Pistol.

Manufacturer: KWC.

Model:Model 226-S5 (Sig Sauer X-Five).

Materials: 99% all metal build.

Weight: 2.75 pounds.

Barrel: 4.33 inches, brass, non-rifled.

Propulsion: CO2 x1.

Action: Semi auto blowback, double and single action.

Ammunition Type: Airsoft 6mm plastic BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 25 rounds

FPS: 390

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KWC Model 226-S5 Sig Sauer CO2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol is what you would expect from a blowback pistol with true single action capability. nice and light with a short take-up in single action and also decent when shooting in double action which for the most part you will not be doing since the blowback pre-cocks the hammer for single action shooting.

Accuracy: This is yet to be determined since I have not conducted my Field Test Shooting review for the KWC Model 226-S5 Sig Sauer. Based on my previous review of the Cybergun branded and licensed Sig X-Five 4.5mm Steel BB version, it should do well with heavy blowback, reasonable power but not a lot of shots per CO2.

Build Quality: Very good, pretty much an all metal construction, good weight and craftsmanship, slide wiggle is minimal, fit and finish is good. As with many of the KWC airguns that use an electromagnetic powder coating, the finish looks great but is thin so it does wear off on the high posts and where metal on metal movement takes place.

Realism: Compared to the real steel Sig Sauer X-Five, the KWC version is pretty close, although it does have a bit different looking slide in terms of the groves or slide serration's, and of course there is no Sig Sauer licensing on the KWC version. You also do not get the ugly white warning instructions so there is a bit of a trade off here and the KWC version also comes with a fully adjustable rear sight which is nice if your aim point is off a bit. Over all the KWC Model 226-S5 Sig Sauer CO2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol is super realistic with its full blowback operation, full size drop out metal magazine and ability to filed strip just like the real steel Sig Sauer it replicates.

Available From: The Replica Airguns Store

Pros:

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

• Heavy blowback action.

• Accurate X-five replica without the Sig Licensing or white warning instructions.

• Awesome training gun.

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

• Has the fully adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation.

• Nice high capacity full size drop out metal magazine.

• Fully field strippable.

Cons:

• Top loading magazine only.

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

• Finish is prone to wear on the high spots and metal on metal areas 

Comments:

I am really looking forward to my Field Test Shooting video for this Airsoft pistol, the KWC Model 226-S5 Sig Sauer is a nice big heavy pistol with lots of blowback, right up my alley! I am hoping the hop-up will keep this gun in the same accuracy zone as the 4.5mm Cybergun X-Five version, I may just have to test them head to head to find out? If you're a Sig Sauer fan like me, and require a solid useable Airsoft pistol for gaming or just plinking, the KWC Model 226-S5 Sig Sauer CO2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol should do the job well and at a price point that is very reasonable.

My Vimeo Videos for the KWC Model 226-S5 Sig Sauer CO2 Blowback Airsoft Pistol:

Buy the KWC Model 226-S5 in Canada 

Buy Airsoft Pistols in the US

Type: BB air revolver.

Manufacturer:KWC.

Model:357.

Materials: Mostly metal with some plastic construction.

Weight: 2.75 pounds (1218 grams).

Barrel: 5.5 inches, non-rifled.

Propulsion: 12 gram CO2.

Action: Revolver, single & double actions.

Ammunition Type: 4.5mm steel BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 6 rounds.

FPS: 400fps.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the KWC 357 6 Inch CO2 BB Revolver is good in both single and double action, even better than the Dan Wesson and S&W 327 TRR8 shell loading revolvers, most likely because the spring tension that pushes the inner barrel to make contact with the cylinder is noticeably lighter on the KWC 357. Even the hammer is smoother and has less wiggle, just a better trigger and hammer mechanism overall.

Accuracy:Based on my results shooting the Umarex Colt Python 357 which is essentially the same gun in a different finish. The results I got shooting my 6 round group from a 30 foot out semi rested position where good overall. Vertically there was about a 2 inch spread while horizontally there was about a 1 inch spread. I did find the plastic tips on the brass shells seemed to be a bit tight at first and this is when I did most of my Chronograph and target shooting. I believe the tightness effected the consistency of the FPS which also effected the accuracy especially up and down. I did get one shot out of the Umarex Colt Python 357 well over the claimed 400 fps but again the fps was rather erratic most likely because of the snug BB fit due to shell break-in.

Build Quality: The KWC 357 6 Inch CO2 BB Revolver being mostly metal has a very good build quality, perhaps even better than the Dan Wesson and S&W 327 TRR8 shell loading revolvers, even the weight of the KWC 357 came in close to a half of a pound more! The only real plastic I could find was in the grips and the shell tips. Fit and finish was also good with no noticeable chrome wear or sloppy workmanship. It will be interesting to see how the Chrome finish wears over time...

Realism: The KWC 357 6 Inch CO2 BB Revolver overall is a close copy a the real steel 357 styled revolver. I did notice the rear portion of the receiver (between the rear cylinder and hammer) to be a bit longer perhaps to accommodate the CO2 valve length, but other than that this pistol is super close to the original 357 styled revolver it is based on. Again being all metal gives this CO2 BB revolver very realistic weight and feel and the loadable brass shells make using this gun almost exactly like using a real shell loading revolver but for much less cost per shot and of course a lot less recoil on the hands.

Available in the:Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

• It's a revolver with actual shells! Give you the feeling of loading and shooting a real revolver.

• Mostly all metal design.

• lots of detail, well made, Chrome looks nice, not sure if it will ear better than the black finish?

• Good overall weight, heaviest out of all the shell loaders.

• Should have good overall power, accuracy and shots per CO2 (based on Colt Python testing).

• Fully adjustable sights for windage and elevation.

• Well hidden CO2 Screw.

• Recessed barrel.

• Nice easy Trigger pull in both single and double action.

Cons:

• Grips are a bit rough.

• Grips may be a bit large for people with small hands.

• Black rear sight may not be great on dark backgrounds or low lighting.

Comments:

The ASG Dan Wesson shell loading revolvers reintroduced me to the joy of loading and shooting a revolver which up until that point was not that realistic of an experience when using a BB or Pellet revolver. The KWC 357 6 Inch CO2 BB Revolver like the Umarex Colt Python 357 has taken it up a notch by adding just a bit more overall weight, a smother trigger and hammer mechanism and styling this revolver on the Classic 357 magnum platform. And all of this for even less than the cost of the original Dan Wesson shell loading series CO2 BB revolvers. If you're a revolver fan, make sure to grab one of these, the Chrome finish is really eye catching and would make a great addition to your revolver collection for sure.

My Vimeo Table Top Review for the KWC 357 6 Inch CO2 BB Revolver:

Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in Canada

Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in the US

Some more CO2 pistols I will be doing Table Top and Field Test video reviews for in the near future. Some of them I have already reviewed in different caliber versions, either 4.5mm Steel BB or 6mm Plastic Airsoft.

From KWC I show off two revolvers styled after the 357 and if you watched my Umarex Colt Python 357 Review then you will notice the similarities between these KWC made revolvers since they are all made by KWC. The Model 357 6 inch version is finished in Chrome and made to shoot 4.5mm Steel BB's while the KWC Model 357 2.5 inch shoots 6mm Plastic BB's and is in all black. At this time I do not have these KWC revolver listed in the Replica Airguns Canada Store but should have them listed fairly soon...

I also showcase three CO2 6mm Airsoft semi auto pistols from ASG that I have already reviewed in their 4.5mm Steel BB equivalents. The ASG CZ 75 P-07 Duty Non-blowback, the ASG CZ 75 D Compact Non-blowback and the ASG Bersa BP9CC Blowback.

Make sure to watch my quick Update Vimeo Preview Video for these fine CO2 pistols to see them up close and personal...

Buy Umarex Colt Python in Canada

Buy Umarex Colt Python in the US

Buy ASG CZ 75D Compact CO2 Pistol in Canada

Buy ASG CZ 75D Compact CO2 Pistol in the US

Buy ASG CZ 75 P-07 in Canada

Buy ASG CZ 75 P-07 in the US

Buy ASG Bersa BP9CC in Canada

Buy ASG Bersa BP9CC in the US

Type: BB air pistol.

Manufacturer:Umarex.

Model:Magnum Research Baby Desert Eagle.

Materials: Mostly plastic with internal metal parts.

Weight: 1 pound.

Barrel: 4.25 inches, metal non-rifled.

Propulsion: CO2 x 1.

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

Ammunition Type: 4.5mm steel BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 15 rounds - Internal spring fed magazine.

FPS: 420.

Trigger Pull: The trigger on the Umarex Baby Desert Eagle is double action only, it is a very long trigger that has a medium to heavy pull weight with a very long take up and unpredictable release point. Shooting accurately and controlled will take some time in the saddle so to speak but can be achieved. This pistol is really for plinking at pop cans and such, shooting off hand for fun. My full Field Test Shooting Review to follow shortly...

Build Quality: The Magnum Research Baby Desert Eagle is pretty much all plastic with some internal metal parts. The only actual working external parts are the trigger and the cross bolt safety. The slide catch, hammer, slide mounted safety and take down lever are all moulded into the plastic of the gun and are none functional. Even the magazine is internal so no need for a magazine release here! In the case of the Baby Desert Eagle, perhaps less is more since there is very little to break off or go wrong with this simplistic BB shooter ;)

Realism: This is a very close replica in terms of looks only (not to scale) to the real actual Magnum Research Desert Eagle with licensed trademarks and all. Keep in mind this is the "Baby" version so it is significantly smaller and lighter than the Pellet shooting full size Magnum Research Desert Eagle which could actually be a benefit to those with smaller hands. But again if we are simply talking about "looking like" a Desert Eagle than the Umarex Baby Desert Eagle does look the part, well except for the strange looking slide trigger.

Purchased this form: The Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

• Price is right at around $50.
• Will fit smaller hands much better than the full sized Desert Eagle.
• Has both a top and bottom picatinny rail for all your accessory mounting needs.
• Magnum Research Licensed.
• Not bad in terms of power, accuracy and CO2 usage combination.

Cons:

• Mostly all plastic.
• Very few actual working parts, only the trigger and cross bolt safety.
• Trigger is very long and kind of unpredictable.
• If you decide to mount the included top picatinny rail, you will not be able to use the pistols built in iron sights anymore.
• Unsightly screw holes on the left side of this air pistol.
• No drop out magazine of any type.

Comments:

OK, so I'm rarely thrilled with the lower budget plastic super simple BB pistols but they do have their place. The tend to work well and stay reliable since there are fewer parts and less mechanical gizmos to get messed up. When the shooting begins and the steel starts to fly, they point the same and they hit your target just the same and all for a lot less out of pocket fun. On the plus side the Umarex Baby Desert Eagle is a pretty decent looking Desert Eagle copy all be it a much smaller version so if you've always wanted the big boy version with it's super huge handle and rather steep price point, well now you can get it in a size and price reduced version that just may be all you really need...

Watch my YouTube Video Review for the Umarex Magnum Research Baby Desert Eagle:

Buy the Baby Desert Eagle in the Canada Store

Buy the Baby Desert Eagle in the US Store

Here is my follow up Shooting Field Test to my ASG STI Duty One Non-blowback Table Top Review. During this Field Test Shooting video review I not only shoot my Non-blowback STI Duty One version but I also compare it to the Blowback ASG STI Duty One to see if fps and accuracy are effected when adding Blowback to the equation? I shoot 5 rounds through my Chronograph with both guns to get an average fps and I also step back 30 feet and setup resting my hands on a sand bag and standing in the back for a fairly secure shooting stance. I did my standard 10 shot grouping for my accuracy test from 30 feet away.

Overall both guns performed similarly and as expected the Blowback did effect the fps but not as much as I expected it to? I was expecting the Non-blowback STI Duty One to be at least 50 fps faster but it was only around 20 or so. I am fairly certain since the fps os so close between the two guns, that you will get more shots form a CO2 out of the Non-blowback ASG STI Duty One since there is no CO2 being used to make the slide recoil back and forth. In the end the Non-blowback STI shot an average fps of 373 while the Blowback version shot an average fps of 356.

When it came to accuracy, both guns performed about the same getting about a 2 inch group from 30 feet back. The Blowback STI did spread the BB's out more from side to side perhaps because of the slide recoil while the Non-blowback ASG STI Duty One seemed to shoot Horizontally tighter.

Personally since both guns shoot almost as high of fps and both STI Duty One's seem to be about the same accuracy wise. Why not just go with the blowback version since you will be shooting in single action most of the time which allows for a faster and lighter trigger pull. The only real downside to the Blowback STI Duty One is perhaps a bit more CO2 usage but you can still expect to get around 100 shots per CO2 which is very good for a CO2 blowback pistol.

Buy the STI Duty One NBB In Canada

Buy the STI Duty One NBB In the US

Here is my follow up Shooting Field Test to my Umarex CP88 Competition Table Top Review. During this Field Test Shooting video review I not only shoot my CP88 Competition version but I also compare it to the non Competition CP88 version to see if fps and accuracy are effected when adding the longer barrel? I shoot 5 rounds through my Chronograph with both guns to get an average fps and I also step back 30 feet and setup resting my hands on a sand bag and standing in the back for a fairly secure shooting stance. Since the Umarex Walther CP88's have an 8 shot rotary magazine I went with an 8 shot grouping for my accuracy test from 30 feet.

Overall both guns performed similarly and as expected the longer barrel CP88 Competition had the higher fps with 424 average versus 347 average, but what was surprising was how much faster the CP88 Competiton shot. Right around 80 fps more which is significant considering there is only 2 inches more of added barrel length to the Umarex CP88 Competition version. I am thinking that perhaps my CP88 Competition test model was tuned a bit better at the factory?

When it came to accuracy, both guns performed about the same getting about 1 inch group from 30 feet back. This was not a surprise since barrel length has less effect on accuracy than most people think.

Both guns are a pleasure to shoot and will not only perform great shooting close up but if you go with the higher fps Umarex Walther CP88 Competition you will be able to shoot much further out because of the rifled barrel and decent fps performance.

Buy the CP88 Competition in the Canada Store

Buy the CP88 Competition in the US Store

Type: BB air pistol.

Manufacturer: ASG.

Model:ASG STI Duty One 1911 Non Blowback.

Materials: Metal slide and polymer frame.

Weight: 1.8 pounds.

Barrel: Metal non-rifled.

Propulsion: CO2 x 1.

Action: Semi auto blowback, single action.

Ammunition Type: 4.5mm BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 20 round magazine.

FPS: 407.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the ASG STI Duty One 1911 Non Blowback is fairly light in both single and double action. Take-up is the same in both modes but when in single action mode most of the trigger pull has little to no resistance until you get to the break point near the end where the hammer is released.

Accuracy: In an Earlier review I shot the Blowback version STI Duty One 1911 air gun at a target from 20 feet away in a free standing position, and it performed well getting a 1.5 to 2 inch grouping right in the center of the target. The rear sight is adjustable for windage which is always nice to have just in case you are shooting a bit to the left or right. For me there was no need to adjust the sights. My Chrony testing with an eight shot averaged result was 373 fps - very decent for a blowback pistol! It will be interesting to see how this Non Blowback version performs since there is more CO2 going to the BB and less gun movement without the Blowback operation.

Build Quality: ASG did a great job designing and making the STI Duty One 1911 Non Blowback BB gun, they didn't really compromise on anything other than going with a polymer frame! With that said all that important parts like the Slide, Slide Catch, Safety, Mag Release, Hammer, Barrel and Magazine are all metal. The fit and finish as with all the ASG air guns is very good!

Realism: The ASG STI Duty One 1911 Non Blowback version is a close replica to the real steel STI 1911, the only real giveaway is the trigger design, as a true 1911 trigger is not your typical lever type. Even with the different type of trigger the STI Duty One is a very good replica complete with STI licensing and trademarks.

Purchased From: The Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

• No Blowback action but does have a working slide and slide catch.

• Adjustable rear sight for windage.

• Shoots in both single and double action.

• Good quality control, very well made, fit and finish is good.

• Should have good power and accuracy like the blowback version, perhaps even a bit better.

• May have even better CO2 usage than the already good blowback version.

• Metal drop out magazine.

• Good STI Replica.

• Holds really well in the hand.

Cons:

• Trigger is not true to the real steel 1911.

• No working grip safety like a real 1911.

• Polymer frame rather than a metal frame.

• CO2 can be hard to get out.

Comments:

In terms of comparing the Non Blowback version of the ASG STI Duty One 1911 to the Blowback version without actually shooting it, they are pretty much identical except for the double and single action trigger found on the Non Blowback version. Even the slide seems to work the same. The big difference will be when I shoot the Non Blowback ASG STI Duty One. Will it shoot with a lot more FPS and will the reduced slide movement give it more accuracy? I am assuming yes to both of these question but I guess we will all have to wait and see when I do my official Shooting Field Test Comparison...

Watch my Vimeo Video Review for the ASG STI Duty One Non Blowback CO2 BB Pistol:

Buy the STI Duty One NBB In Canada

Buy the STI Duty One NBB In the US

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.

This YouTube video was made to touch upon the tragic shooting and death of a young man at the Beavercreek Walmart in the US. The tragedy was the result of poor judgment and misunderstanding of the situation that started with John Crawford (22) deciding to walk around a Walmart store with a very realistic looking replica Air Rifle. Subsequently in the midst of all the excitement as customers ran out of the store, Angela Williams (37) had a medical emergency that also cost her her life. 

Below is an outline of YouTube video that follows:

John Crawford 22 Years old was shot  by police in a Beavercreek Walmart while holding a Crosman MK-177 Pellet BB gun.

Another death as a result: Angela Williams, 37, was with her 9-year-old daughter and suffered a medical emergency and died as a result as people attempted to flee the store amongst the panic.

John Crawford is Survived by: LeeCee Johnson, 22 Mother of Crawford's children (Believe he had 2 children)

NOTES: 

• Walmart US keeps these guns on shelf in the box generally, but not locked up or behind glass.
• In Canada Most places keep even Airguns behind locked glass. 

The weapon (Crosman MK-177), which can shoot both pellets and BBs, had been removed from its original packaging, was this done by John Crawford or was it already unpackaged when he picked it up?

Ronald Ritchie made the original 911 call, I listened to two of the police 911 phone call recording and he seemed to be talking level headed and not making it out to be anything more than what he saw which was a black man walking around a Walmart with what looked like a real rifle. John Crawford was holding the rifle while he had his phone between his shoulder and ear, John was fiddling with the rifle and looked to be trying to load it. Ronald Ritchie said John was periodically pointing it at people (which may or may not have been intentional).

LeeCee Johnson, 22, who identified herself as the mother of Crawford’s children, said she was talking to Crawford on her cell phone at the time of the shooting:

“We was just talking. He (John) said he was at the video games playing videos and he went over there by the toy section where the toy guns were. And the next thing I know, he said ‘It’s not real,’ and the police start shooting and they said ‘Get on the ground,’ but he was already on the ground because they had shot him,” she said. She added she “could hear him just crying and screaming” and said officers “shot him down like he was not even human.”

First and Foremost, this event is very tragic and my condolences go out to the families and friends of John Crawford and Angela Williams.

Questions we need to ask ourselves:

• Why was John Crawford walking around the Walmart with what looked like an "assault rifle" in a very public location?
• With all the public shootings these days, why would you walk around a public Walmart with what looks like a very real and threatening rifle, similar to the kinds used in these types of shootings in the past?
• Why did the police seem so quick to shoot John down? Where they a bit eager or hyped up? It would be very interesting to see the surveillance video for this tragedy?
• Why are very realistic Airguns on open display and so easy to attain? Keep in mind even a regular break barrel Airgun looks like a real rifle to most people.

What is so damaging about all this:

• This will add "ammunition so to speak" for bureaucrats and authorities to question if Airguns should look realistic, or if they now need to have bright colored markings all over them so people will assume they are not reel? Or perhaps outlaw them completely or make them very hard to attain for the average person.
• Now the general public will have yet another reason to have a negative view on Airguns. I fear that putting more restrictions on airguns is just a stepping stone to more restrictions on real guns and more restrictions on our rights overall.

What ever happened to common sense? It has become uncommon these days…

 Based on how easy it is for a person to get their hands on very realistic looking Airguns in most US based retail stores, I am surprised this tragedy has not happened already, or more often.

Would you walk around your neighborhood with what looks like an Assault rifle? So why walk around a Walmart with one?

Unfortunately we can not protect everyone from themselves, the more failsafes we put in place, the less reasonability people have for themselves and the more responsibility it seems is placed on businesses, government, organizations, parks and events…

We even need warning labels on our coffee telling us it's hot, or to not put poison in our mouths, there are railing and barriers around any bit of water or slight ledge.

Society is programing people to think less fore themselves and trust that everything is going to be OK.

Well it's not true, there is still something called survival of the fittest no matter how many safety nest are in place.

We need to spend more time teaching our kids how to act and behave and how to think for themselves and not be so dependent on everyone else to protect them from themselves. Don't  leave it up to the TV, movies, video games or even their just as oblivious friends. 

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:

• Make sure to checkout my Table Top Review for the Umarex PX4 Storm:

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:

Buy PX4 Storm in Canada   -   Buy PX4 Storm in the US

Some updates to share with you, first off we have the KWC Luger P-08's back in stock. And that would be for the 6mm Airsoft and 4.5mm Steel BB versions. get them while you can, our last batch ran out fast!

I also show off the Umarex TDP 45 Tac which is the tactical version of the TDP 45 and comes with the additions of a threaded barrel that houses a removable mock silencer, a sight rail for adding a red dot scope and a removable laser. All of this for around $60 so great value for sure!

I also wanted to revisit the Umarex PX4 Storm Blowback Pellet Pistol since I reviewed this gun way back and my personal Umarex PX4 Storm was one of the first to enter Canada and as I saw with the Umarex CP99 Compact, Umarex made some slight tweaks to it and improved the overall performance. So perhaps a side by side comparisons in order, first generation versus present generation.

I also mention the ASG Bersa Thunder Pro 9 because I actually forgot I had reviewed it and was going to review it again. Guess I am either getting old and losing losing my mind or I have made way too many videos and can not keep track anymore, perhaps a bit of both, anyways ignore that part of the video, you can already watch my Table Top Review and Filed Test Review for the ASG Bersa Thunder Pro 9.

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 ;)

In this Vimeo video, I go over a common question I get pertaining to the recoil effect of Airguns and Blank Guns. Many people want to know if Airguns and Blank Guns have similar recoil effects to a Real Guns and if so, how much recoil will you feel from an Airgun or Blank Gun?

The short answer is yes, there is some recoil with both Airguns and Blank Guns since whenever there is a force in one direction there will be a somewhat similar force in the opposite direction creating what we feel as recoil. With Airguns since the force from the CO2 or compressed air is rather small in comparison to that of the gun powder blast from a Real Guns or even a Blank Gun, the recoil is very slight. Blank Guns have similar gun powder charges to a Real Gun and so the recoil is more noticeable but unlike a Real Gun, a Blank Gun does not really push against a sizable object like a bullet, a Blank Gun only pushes against the air in front of the barrel which has very limited resistance and so there will be much less felt recoil from a Blank Gun than the recoil from a Real Gun pushing on a heavy grain bullet.

With semi auto Guns like Blowback Pellet and BB Guns and semi auto Blank Guns, there is also the momentum and mass of the slide to consider as it moves backwards and forwards which also gives the effect of recoil and in the case of an Airgun accounts for most of the recoil felt by the shooter.

Watch my Vimeo video on this subject where I go into much more detail and explain the effect of recoil when shooting Airguns and Blank Guns:

This may be a bit controversial for some people who don't like the thought of using an gun for hunting or extermination of unwanted pests. But weather or not it is accepted by all, it is a practice that many people still embrace including myself when done in a humane way.

Let's start off by addressing this topic by asking some questions and filling in some of the answers. Keep in mind I go into much more detail in my Vimeo video below.

What is the reason that you need to Shoot or Hunt an Animal?

Are you shooting an animal out of need or just for fun, sure there is a thrill in the sport of hunting but after taking down your prey, the animal should not be killed in vain as the meat should be eaten. There are also times when pesky critters get into your gardens, tree farms, feeding stations garbages and who knows what else? I personally think shooting an animal that has not done you any harm or that you don't plan on eating is not ethical. So question your motives wisely?

Can you use an Airgun for Hunting and or Pest Control?

The short answer is yes! As long as you choose the correct Airgun for the job, one that has enough power and accuracy to get the job done in a humane manner. Using an underpowered or inaccurate gun of any type for the chosen target will lead to the animal being wounded and possibly getting away to suffer unnecessarily.

What about Pistols versus Rifles?

Given the choice, a rifle will always be your best bet, rifles tend to be more accurate since they are more stable to hold and the fact that the sights are further apart which improves the guns accuracy. Most rifles also allow for enhanced sighting systems like red dots or magnified scopes for even further accuracy improvements. There are some pistols made specifically for hunting and target shooting that can be accurate but I would limit their use to shorter ranges.

What about Pellet guns versus BB guns?

BB guns in general are not meant for hunting or pest control, and in most cases they are underpowered and not as accurate as their pellet shooting counterparts, especially out at longer ranges where most pests keep their distances to. If you plan on doing some hunting and or pest control, please invest in an adequate pellet rifle to get the job done humanly.

What type of Ammo is best for Hunting and Pest Control?

There are lots of types of pellets available, pointed, rounded, flat, hollow-point and even pellets that have nylon tips. At the end of the day, use the pellet that is the most accurate in your Airgun because shot placement will win over pellet shape any day of the week. The reality is that as long as that pellet hits the target with adequate velocity, it doesn't matter what shape it is, it's more than likely going to pass right through the animal.

What is the lowest FPS that I can use?

I would rather ask the question, what is the highest fps I can get away with since more fps will give you more margin for error, since it will have a flatter trajectory and will do more damage even if your shot is off a bit. An experienced shooter could make a kill shot on a small pest even with a 400 fps airgun but the shot would have to be perfect and the range would have to be close. Of course when shooting larger game, you will need larger caliber pellets with higher velocities. Also when using a high velocity airgun you need to consider what is beyond your target, if you miss, where is that pellet or bullet going to end up? You need to make sure you do not injure anyone by mistake as pellets/bullets can travel a long distance.

How large of an Animal can an Airguns Kill?

This is really dependent on the Airgun being used, Airguns come in many different calibers, from .177 right up to .50 caliber, some PCP Airguns can even take down a deer! You need to do your research and make sure the Airgun you choose has both the power and accuracy you need for the intend prey.

Where can I use an Airgun for Hunting and or Pest Control?

This is a question you need to ask your local authorities as laws and hunting regulations are different just about everywhere. Even shooting pests on your property may require a permit so be careful to obey your local laws.

Some "not so new" CO2 Blowback 4.5mm Steel BB Pistols from Umarex, but still popular Replica BB guns that have received a lot of attention and to be honest have to date not had a real "proper" Field Test. So why not put the Umarex SA177 and Umarex HPP side by side for yet another installment of Head to Head Shootouts!

Right off the bat I have to say that one of these very fine Blowback Air Pistols has been retired by Umarex. Word on the street is that some suits from a company that sell real steel semi auto pistols that kind of share a similarity to the Umarex SA177 may have applied some pressure to Umarex and somehow the mold got broken and guess what... No more Umarex SA177's :(

On a positive note, you can still get the Umarex HPP which in my opinion was always a better shooter with a much heavier and snappier blowback along with a very smooth trigger. And yes we have it the HPP for sale in our Canada and US Replica Airguns Stores.

Getting back to this Field Test Head to Head Shootout for the Umarex SA177 and HPP CO2 Blowback 4.5mm Steel BB Pistols. I tested them both out on the Chronograph shooting 5 rounds in each gun using a brand new 12 gram CO2 in combination with 5.1 grain Umarex Zinc Coated Steel BB's. The SA177 average a bit higher at 395 fps while the HPP came in just a hair lower at a respectable 372 fps average.

In terms of accuracy from 30 feet out using a semi rested position (sand bag in the front, standing in the back), Both guns wanted to shoot just a bit to the left and they both had a definite internal tighter group that was about 1.5 inches with some strays that came outside opening the groups up to around 3 inches or so. Both BB Air Pistols worked flawlessly with no problems, again the Umarex HPP for me was more enjoyable to shoot with it's heavy blowback and lighter trigger over the SA177. You can also expect to get around 100 or even more shots out of a single CO2 cartridge.

Make sure to checkout my initial Table Top comparison video for these two Umarex Blowback BB Pistols, it goes back a few years for sure :)

Buy Umarex HPP gun in Canada   -   Buy Umarex HPP in the US

I was waiting for a magazine for my ASG STI Duty One 1911 to show up so I could finally do this "Head to Head" Field Test Shooting Review Video for the ASG STI Duty One versus the ASG CZ 75 P-07 Duty versus the ASG Bersa BP9cc. All of which are Blowback CO2 4.5mm Steel BB pistols.

This Shooting Field Test went fairly well and all guns performed as expected, I did have one slide lock back on a loaded magazine with my ASG STI Duty One 1911 and one failure to lock back on the last shot with my ASG Bersa BP9cc, but it did eventually lock back.

During the Chronograph 5 shot per pistol test I got fairly similar fps from all three guns with the STI Duty One getting the highest of 372 average fps, the Bersa BP9cc getting runner up with 353 average fps and the CZ 75 P-07 Duty trailing the field just a bit with a 346 average fps.

During the target portion of this Field Test Shooting Review from 30 feet back in a semi rested position, again the pistols shot fairly similarly with all of them getting pretty close to 2-3 inch groupings. I did have a double shot right after my slide lock back on the STI Duty One as I pressed the trigger twice, once when the slide was locked back and again when I released it, this chambered two BB's into the barrel making the gun shoot a bit low for that double shot. With that negative one against the STI Duty One 1911, I did however find it the most pleasing to shoot! It had the best blowback action and the smoothest trigger, plus I just like holding and sighting in 1911's :)

The CZ 75 P-07 had the next hardest blowback with the Bersa BP9cc coming in second in the trigger department. All of these CO2 blowback BB pistols should get somewhere around 100+ shots pre CO2 if you take your time a bit between reloading magazines.

Buy ASG BB Pistol From the Canada Store - Buy ASG BB Pistols from the US Store

I finally got some brand new Umarex pistols to share with you in this Vimeo video, all three of these CO2 4.5mm Steel BB pistols have blowback and use full size drop out magazines. They also all share single action only operation.

The Umarex Makarov Ultra (Legends Series) is an all metal pistol with very heavy blowback and a long but fairly smooth and medium pull single action trigger. Everything works just like the real steel version including the slide catch/release and safety. It is also fully field strip-able.

The Beretta 84 FS (Cheetah) also has a decent blowback feel but the trigger was a bit heavier on this model, perhaps the trigger will break in a bit over time? Still a really great full metal and fully licensed CO2 Blowback BB shooter with awesome weight to it. The Beretta 84 FS is fully field strip-able and has a working slide catch/release and safety.

Lastly I show you the Umarex Mauser C96 Boomhandle (Legends Series), although much of the external materials are plastic, there is lots of metal throughout like the barrel, bolt, rear sight, hammer, safety, trigger and most of the drop out magazine, giving this pistol a good overall weight to it. The blowback is super fast and crisp with a nice short and light single action trigger making rapid fire very quick.

Umarex Makarov Ultra CO2 Blowback 4.5mm BB Pistol 

• Full metal

• Blowback operation

• 4.5mm Steel BB

• 12 Gram CO2

• Single action only trigger

• Fixed sights

• 3.5 inch smooth bore barrel

• 1.4 pounds

• 16-17 round magazine

• 350 fps

Umarex Beretta Mod. 84 FS CO2 Blowback 4.5mm BB Pistol

• Full metal

• Blowback operation

• 4.5mm Steel BB

• 12 Gram CO2

• Single action only trigger

• Fixed sights

• 3.6 inch smooth bore barrel

• 1.5 pounds

• 16-17 round magazine

• 360 fps

Umarex C96 Mauser CO2 Blowback 4.5mm BB Pistol

• Metal & plastic

• Blowback operation

• 4.5mm Steel BB

• 12 Gram CO2

• Single action only trigger

• Adjustable rear sight

• 5.5 inch smooth bore barrel

• 1.8 pounds

• 19 round magazine

• 380 fps

Buy Umarex BB pistols in Canada - Buy Umarex BB pistols in the US