What is a Blank Gun?

The best way to describe a Blank Gun is to imagine it as a real gun in just about every way except one… There are no dangerous bullets flying out the front of it. That’s right, a Blank Gun just like a real gun uses a brass or metal shells, loaded with a primer and gun powder, but for what ever reason reason, some rocket scientists forgot to put a bullet at the end of the Blank shell. 

Why Would You Want a Blank Gun?

Isn’t the entire purpose of a gun to shoot something? So why on earth would you buy a gun that doesn't  shoot anything at all, what purpose would it serve? Even Nerf guns, water guns, potato guns all shoot something…

One way to look at a Blank Gun is to imagine it as a cap gun, but for grown ups. Similar to how kids like to shoot their cap guns because they go bang and sparks and smoke fly out of them, Blank Guns do the same thing but on a much grander scale and in most cases they look and sound a lot more like a real gun than a cap gun does.

So Blank Guns don’t actually do the main function of a real gun (that is to shoot a bullet), but they do look and sound the part of a gun. So how could this be of practical use to anyone?

Signalling Devices:

First off, have you ever heard of a Starter Pistol or a Flare Gun? Blank Guns have been historically used to signal the start of races. Many Blank Guns also have the ability to shoot flares by adding a flare adaptor to them so a person can shoot a flare into the air to signal distress if they are lost or hurt.

Gun Handling and Training:

Since many Blank Guns look, operate and feel almost exactly like real guns, Blank Guns are a great place to start out when training a person on proper gun handling and operation. If they make a mistake while using a Blank Gun, the consequences are far less severe than with a real gun. There is also much less kick from a Blank Gun so shooting a Blank Gun is less scary or intimidating for new shooters.

Dog Training:

Dogs used for police, military and hunting are required to stay calm around loud noises like gun shots, trained dogs also need to get used to the presence of guns and even how to attack the gun hand of a person who could be a potential threat. Again using Blank Guns in this training situation is a much better option than using a real gun for obvious reasons.

Movies, Video TV and Stage:

Introducing live ammunition on a movie set would be ridiculous, there is absolutely no need to shoot a bullet in this type of situation. Blank Guns make perfect stage props since they again look the part and sound the part without the dangerous bullets flying all over the place…

Collectors:

Many collectors want to own guns but for reasons like gun restrictions in their area, they may not be able to own a real gun or certain types of real guns. Blank Guns can offer a person with heavy gun restrictions in their area the ability to own similar Blank Gun versions. Perhaps they can own real guns but just simply don’t want to go through the licensing and registration hassle of owning a real gun. Blank Guns can generally be purchased for far less money than a real gun which is appealing to collectors who in many cases may not even shoot them.

Celebration:

In places like Turkey, people celebrate holidays and events by shooting Blank Guns into the air, at one time they actually shoot real guns, but people where getting injured or even killed by the falling bullets. Because of this, Blank Gun production became an industry in places like Turkey as Blank Gun manufacturers like EKOL, Retay and Zoraki (also know as ATAK Arms) are Turkish companies.

So now you know some of the reasons why a person would want to own a Blank Gun. I have Blank Guns and I also own real guns too. One reason is because there are many Blank Guns I own that I can not own in their real steel versions because of Canadian gun restrictions so obtaining a similar version in a Blank Gun allows me to own these models.

If a Blank Gun is not for you, then by all means get a real gun, but please understand that there is a place for Blank Guns, and in those environments, a Blank Gun is actually a better choice than a real gun.

First off let’s get one thing straight! What I’m looking for in a BB gun is more than likely going to be way different than what someone else is looking for in what they think is the “Best BB Gun” available.

Many people will determine the Best BB Gun as the BB gun that has the highest price tag, usually you get better quality the higher the price goes up but not always, there are times when perhaps you are paying for a name brand or cosmetic add ons that don’t always make the gun better or the best.

On the other hand, some people will determine the best BB gun as the one that is the least cost since they may not have a lot of money to spend, and an expensive BB gun is a BB gun that that person would not be able to afford or even own, far from an ideal or the Best BB Gun for them.

Many people only look at the specifications to determine if that particular BB gun is the outright best BB Gun. One specification that people seem to fixate on is how powerful is the BB gun in question? If it has the highest FPS then surely it must be the best BB Gun! That Pop can never saw it coming! What about cost of operation, so things like reliability and how many shots per CO2 you can get out of a BB gun. All important features to consider when picking out the Best BB Gun!

Style is another important part of what makes a BB Gun the Best option for you, are you wanting a classic BB Pistol? Perhaps a Modern BB Gun, Maybe even a BB gun that you can not get in your area because of gun laws? Style is a very individual preference and what looks good to me may look terrible to someone else.

One aspect that is very important to me, is realism, does the BB Gun operate the same and does it have similar metal and plastic parts as the real steel version? Does the BB gun I am considering have blowback operation and a true single or double action trigger like it’s big brother? What about a full size drop out magazine and the ability to field strip the BB Gun?

Some people want their BB gun for simple backyard good old fun shooting and so as long as it shoots pretty straight and works as it’s supposed to, then that is all they care about. Many real steel shooters want a BB Gun to operate exactly like their real steel version, so they can practice with it to get in more trigger time when going to a gun range is not an option.

Of course there are aspects like Reliability, Performance, Fit and Finish, Licensing and Build Quality that all determine what makes the Best BB Gun and again it really depends which of these qualities are most important to you that will determine which BB Gun is the best BB Gun.

So how do you determine which is the Best BB Gun? Make a list of what you are looking for in a BB Gun. Attributes like Cost, Performance, Build Quality, Style, Realism, Availability…

Once you have narrowed down your Best BB Gun list, get as much information on each BB Gun you are considering, to narrow the list down even more. There are tons of Youtube videos you can watch for your Best BB Gun final short list to help you determine your ultimate choice.

So please don’t ask me what the Best BB Gun is? I can not even tell you which one I like the best since my wish list changes from day to day…

Not Airsoft:

First off we are not talking about 6mm Plastic Airsoft Guns but rather 4.5mm Steel BB versus .177 caliber Pellet.

Same but Different:

Generally speaking a BB CO2 Pistol and a Pellet CO2 Pistol are very similar, they just shoot a bit different types of ammo, that will determine a couple mechanical differences in both guns. You may come across a CO2 Pistol that can shoot both Pellets and BB's but these are not as common.

Magazine Types:

The fist main difference is usually the magazine design, since lead pellets don’t stack on top of each other very well compared to steel BB’s, action CO2 BB and Pellet pistols will have a very different types of magazine designs. Pellet CO2 Pistols will generally use a rotary type magazine while BB Pistols will use a stick or stacked ammo magazine. In terms of realism, a stick or stacked magazine is better suited than a rotary magazine. Some Action Pellet Pistols will have what looks like a stick magazine, but the stick will actually have two rotary magazine on either side. You will often find higher capacity magazines in BB CO2 Pistols since Rotary magazines usually only offer around 8 rounds (16 on a double sided stick style).

Another downside to a rotary magazine is knowing when you are out of ammo, a rotary magazine does not allow for this, it will just keep turning around and around no matter if there is ammo in it or not, so you need to listen to the the sound of the CO2 gun to determine when a rotary type magazine is empty. BB Action shooters do not have this problem since in most cases the magazine BB spring follower acts exactly the same as real steel gun follower locking back the slide on the last shot, stopping any follow up shots from happening.

Ammo Size:

Steel BB’s traditionally only come in 4.5mm which is the same as .177 caliber. Lead pellets can come in a myriad of sizes, the most comma being .177, .20 and .22 caliber but they can go as large as 50 caliber for PCP air rifles used to hunt even large game.

Barrel Rifling:

Another common difference between BB and Pellet CO2 Pistols is the rifling inside the barrels. Lead pellets need to spin in order for them to shoot straight. Steel BB’s on the other hand fly pretty true thought the air weather they spin or not. Rifling is most often not used in steel BB pistols because the hardened steel can damage the rifling and since there is little to no benefit in adding rifling to a BB guns barrel in terms of accuracy, then why even have it. Pellet pistols with their softer lead ammunition need to have the rifling in order to create the spin that keeps the pellet true and straight while in flight.

Accuracy:

Even though many BB CO2 Pistols can shoot accurately at close to medium ranges, they are not as accurate as a Pellet CO2 Pistol, especially as the distance become greater to your target. Not only does the spinning of the pellet help accuracy, but also the added mass of the lead pellet keeps them from being as effected by cross winds and airborne debris.

Hunting and/or Pest Control:

In most cases I do not recommend using a pistol for pest control because, plain and simple they are harder to shoot accurately. This is because there is no stock on a pistol to help steady the gun, and the front and rear sight are much closer together on a pistol than compared to rifle sights which means there is more margin for error when signing in a target. Pistols are generally lower powered than rifles which also plays a roll when considering a pistol for pest control since it may not have enough power to get the job done humanly. That said, there are pellet pistols deigned with power in mind, usually these are spring piston, or pressurized air powered air guns which can have a lot more power than a standard CO2 BB or Pellet Pistol.

Pistols versus Rifles:

This is not the forum for a full pistol versus rifle comparison. I can tell you that you will find a lot more pellet rifles than your will find BB rifles, they both exist but for the most part rifles are geared more towards target shooting and hunting. Most of the BB rifles available would be styled after replicas so the focus is not necessarily on power and or accuracy in these models.

Abundance:

In terms of Replica Action Shooters, BB Pistols outweigh the Pellet pistols by a land-slide. BB’s just work better in action pistols because the round hard steel ammo operates much easier and more reliably than the softer lead pellets, at least for action shooters. And the point of Replica Action Shooters is not so much power and accuracy but more so towards rapid fire good old back yard fun shooting.

Which is Best?

Well… Neither one is best, it just depends what you are looking for. 

• Do you want accuracy at longer ranges - if so maybe get a Pellet CO2 Pistol.

• Do you want more realism in terms of magazine loading and your slide locking back on the last shot - then you may be in the market for a BB CO2 Pistol.

• Do you want more power down range - heavy pellets are going to hit harder and truer than lighter Steel BB’s.

• Do you want trouble free shooting - hard steel BB’s rarely miss-feed or misfire compared to softer Lead Pellets especially in action shooters.

The best is what’s best for you and not always what's best for me…

Type: Blank revolver.

Manufacturer:RÖHM.

Model:Little Joe Belt Buckle.

Materials: Mostly metal with plastic grips.

Weight: .3 pounds (134 grams).

Barrel: Front firing.

Propulsion: Gun powder.

Action: Revolver, single action only

Ammunition Type: .22 caliber crimped blanks (6mm Flobert).

Ammunition Capacity: 5 rounds.

FPS: NA.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull for the Little Joe blank revolver is single action only, you must pre-cock the hammer first to rotate advance the cylinder and ready the hammer to fire. I very short medium weight trigger pull with virtually no take-up is required to fire this tiny revolver at that point.

Accuracy: NA.

Build Quality: Even though in general blank/signal guns do utilize scaled down metals like zinc alloy (not high pressure gun steel), the ROHM line of blank pistols are made very well and many of the internal mechanical parts, pins and screws are solid steel. The fit and finish is excellent and when I tested my none belt buckle Little Joe it shot flawlessly for me. Don't expect much recoil from the small acorn .22 rounds.

Realism: The ROHM Little Joe Belt Buckle 6mm Flobert Blank Gun is not a true replica of any real steel revolver in production but it does look a bit like the North America Arms NAA22s Mini-Revolver chambered in .22 short. North America Arms even has a belt buckle version of their own!

ROHM Guns Available in the: Replica Airguns Store

Pros:

• It’s a blank gun that fits into a belt buckle!

• German made Quality.

• Like the satin or stainless finish.

• Pretty much all metal gun with some steel in a few areas.

• Front firing revolver that will fir a flare adaptor.

• Uses inexpensive 22 Acorn blanks (6mm Flobert)

• Kind of rare in Canada, cool if you own one :)

Cons:

• Hard to get the Belt Buckle version here in Canada.

• Not sure about legalities actually wearing the belt buckle in Canada?

Comments:

I already thought the standard ROHM Little Joe Blank firing mini revolver was a really cool gun, to actually find one that fits into a belt buckle is even cooler! I wish we had these for sale in our Canada Replica Airguns Store but it's probably best we don't since I know some people will decide to wear theirs which is bad news since it's only a matter of time before a call is made and a lot of explaining is in order... The good news is we do sell the none belt buckle version of the Little Joe .22 Caliber (6mm Flobert) Mini Revolver in our Canada Replica Airgun Store along with many other ROHM German quality blank pistols so check them out for sure!

My Vimeo Table Top Review for the ROHM Little Joe Belt Buckle 6mm Flobert Blank Revolver:

Buy ROHM Little Joe Belt Buckle in Canada

Buy ROHM Little Joe Belt Buckle in the US

Spring is on it's way and here are our top three replica guns for Spring 2015.

Free Shipping On All Orders This Weekend Only!

Don't forget all our items are shipped from within Canada. No customs, no duties, no brokerage and no hassle.

Some of you have been waiting on back orders and to also make new orders of ASG products, we just received an ASG order so many ASG items are now back in stock! Any back orders will be taken care of first and then new orders will be processed, as always, stock is limited especially on certain items so act fast!

More guns to show off! Good for you and me! In this update video I show you some very interesting guns indeed! As many of you are aware, the Baikal Makarov MP-654K CO2 4.5mm Steel BB pistol has been really hard to find new here in Canada, making the price of used ones escalate up into the $700+ price range for one in as new condition. Well for those looking to buy a Baikal Makarov MP-654K we have located some and have them for sale now in our Canada Replica Airguns store (Very limited supply). These are the 2013 PM new design models with the narrow grips and mags, they also have the recessed barrels and cut out extractor. We sell them in the blued version only.

Another CO2 BB pistol that has been out of stock for some time is the EKOL ES series. I reviewed the ES 55 CO2 BB Pistol a while back but until now have not been able to show off the ES 66 Series which is more browning high power looking in design. The good news is we have both the ES 55 and ES 66 CO2 4.5mm Steel BB Pistol in stock in our Canada Store. These guns are mostly metal with full size drop out metal magazines that hold the CO2 and BB's, they also shoot in both single and double action and have pretty decent power! We are now selling both the ES 55 and ES 66 series of guns in our Online Canada Store.

I've looked at several Gletcher Airguns over the last little while and finally got my hands on the Gletcher APS Blowback CO2 BB Pistol which is a replica of the Russian Stechkin Soviet Military sidearm introduced back in the 50's. It's kind of a bigger brother version of the Makarov, i was surprised at how large it actually was when i got my hands on it! The real steel version had the ability to shoot in both semi and full-auto but my Gletcher APS 4.5mm BB replica only shoots in semi auto. Again, checkout the full line of Gletcher Products in our Canada Replica Airguns Store.

Last but not least I have a neat little 22 crimped blank pistol to show everyone. What makes it unique is the fact that it fits inside a belt buckle! We do see the ROHM Little Joe 22 caliber crimped blank pistols in our online Canada Replica Airguns Store but not this belt buckle version, kind of a one off I got form my supplier, I will be keeping it ;)  Make sure to watch my ROHM Little Joe Video Review and see all the ROHM products available in our Online Store.

Buy Gletcher Steel BB Soviet in Canada

Buy Gletcher Steel BB Soviet in the US

Buy EKOL ES 66 CO2 BB Pistol in Canada

Buy Baikal Blued Makarov CO2 in Canada

Buy Rohm Little Joe Ultra in Canada

Type: Pellet air Revolvers.

Manufacturer: ASG.

Model:Dan Wesson 6 and 8 inch Pellet.

Materials: Mostly Metal Design.

Weight: 2.25 - 2.3 pounds.

Barrel: Metal rifled (6 Inch Sliver - 8 Inch Black).

Propulsion: CO2 x 1.

Action: Revolver, single and double action.

Ammunition Type: .177 caliber pellets.

Ammunition Capacity: 6 rounds.

FPS: 426+.

Trigger Pull: The ASG Dan Wesson Pellet Revolvers have predictable triggers with the single action being a bit more consistent since the take up is short, and the release is fairly light. Double action mode is very usable without a lot of extra pressure required. I found I just wanted to shoot this gun in single action mode because it felt more natural being that it is a six shooter.You also want to take your time shooting since loading the pellets into each shell and then the shells into the cylinder takes a bit of time.

Accuracy: This is yet to be determined since I have not to date had the opportunity to get outside and shoot these Pellet firing Dan Wesson's. Based on the exceptional results I got shooting my Dan Wesson Steel BB versions from 30 feet away, I should be abel to crack an inch or two 6 round grouping if my shooting is on. In terms of fps performance, ASG claims the pellet versions to shoot around the same velocity as the steel BB versions. With that in mind, this should give the Pellet shooting Dan Wesson's the advantage for raw power, since the lead pellets are heavier than steel 4.5mm BB's.

Build Quality: Like the entire Dan Wesson Revolver line from ASG, the pellet series is no exception and the fit and finish is very good. Most of the revolver is metal with the exception of the grips which are a plastic with a bit of a rubberized texture to them. The modified rifled barrels are made out of hardened steel and similarly so are portions of the newly designed pellet loading shells. Overall these are improvements to the quality of the Pellet shooting Dan Wesson Revolvers over the BB and Airsoft Dan Wessons.

Realism: The ASG Dan Wesson revolvers are as close as you can get to a real six shooter. Loading and ejecting actual shells into the cylinder makes you feel like this gun is much more then an unassuming airgun! If you want that real revolver experience than a shell loading Dan Wesson is the way to go, and the addition of a rifled barrel and lead pellets to the Pellet firing version should make the shooting experience even better.

Purchased From: The Replica Airguns Store.

Pros:

• It's a revolver with actual shells! Gives you the feeling of a real 6 shooter.
• Almost all metal design.
• Lots of detail in this gun, very well made, fit and finish is very good.
• Should have good power and good accuracy. Even better than the BB versions!
• Adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation.
• Barrel and shell redesign are a big improvement over the BB shooting versions.

Cons:

• Has a plastic CO2 screw tab.
• Loading pellets does take longer than the BB versions.
• May use more CO2 per shot than the BB versions because of heavier ammo. 

Comments:

Since I can't comment too much on the shooting experience these Pellet Dan Wessons will offer, I can say I am impressed with how ASG did the redesign of the inner barrel and pellet loading shells. It is obvious that ASG didn't just grab some parts of the shelf and quickly modify a BB version to shoot Pellets. ASG did it right and you can see the new adapted parts are of high quality and are even an improvement over the BB versions in many ways. On paper the Pellet shooting Dan Wesson's should be more accurate especially out at further ranges than the BB shooting Dan Wesson's and the Pellet versions should also hit the target with more force since they shoot a heavier projectile at around the same fps as the 4.5mm Steel BB version.

My YouTube Video Review for these Dan Wesson Pellet shooting Revolvers:

Buy Dan Wesson Revolvers in Canada

Buy Dan Wesson Revolvers in the US

Yes! Some new guns for you, and that's always a good thing for everyone, especially me since I get to play with them! I have been waiting a while to get my hands on some of the .177 caliber pellet shooting versions of the Dan Wesson Revolvers. I was actually introduced to them nearly a year ago at the last SHOT Show back in January of 2014! That's a long wait for sure...

The Pellet version Dan Wesson's look really good, the quality of the pellet shells is top notch and even the redesigned inner rifled barrels look to be very high quality. ASG did not just do a quick part swap, they really though out how they wanted everything to fit together. I am looking forward to seeing how well they shoot and will be Field Testing them both together so we can see how the barrel lengths play an effect on power and accuracy.

Next up we have two Gletcher pistols, both are classic semi auto shooters from the past, the Gletcher TT which is a Replica of the Russian Tokarev, and the Gletcher P08 which is a Luger copy. Both pistols are blowback and shoot 4.5mm Steel BB's.

Both pistols incorporate single action only triggers, metal stick magazines and working safeties, a real steel Tokarev normally would not have a safety other than the half cock hammer, Gletcher added in a discreet switch style safety on the right side of their TT. Again, I look forward to shooting both of these blowback pistols as soon as the weather picks up!

Buy Dan Wesson Revolvers in Canada

Buy Dan Wesson Revolvers in the US

Buy Gletcher Pistols in Canada

Buy Gletcher Pistols in the US

It's that time once again for an end of the year Gun Collection video. And no I will not be showing off all of my guns, to show and explain them all (Approximately 200 or so?) would simply take a really long time to make and a really long time for you to watch ;)

So like last years Gun Collection Video, I take a look at some of my favorite guns from 2014.

Here is a list of the guns featured in this Collection Video with links to their original reviews: 

• Umarex Makarov Ultra CO2 Blowback BB Pistol

• Umarex Beretta 84 FS CO2 Blowback BB Pistol

• KWC Mauser M1932 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol

• Umarex C96 Mauser CO2 Blowback BB Pistol

• ME8 General 8mm Blank Pistol

• Gletcher NGT CO2 BB Revolver

• Umarex Colt Commander 1011 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol

• Cybergun KWC Tanfoglio Gold Custom CO2 Blowback BB Pistol

• KWC P-08 Luger CO2 Blowback BB Pistol

• KWC 357 6 Inch Chrome CO2 BB Revolver

• Umarex Colt Python 357 CO2 BB Revoler

• Gletcher M1891 Sawn Off Mosin Nagant CO2 BB Rifle

• ASG CZ P-09 Duty CO2 Blowback Pellet Pistol

• Gamo MP9 CO2 Blowback Pellet Gun

My last Blank Gun Shooting video went really well, my iPhone 6 plus 720p 240 frames per second slow-mo video worked awesome and so did my newly acquired ME8 General 1911 Front Firing 8mm blank pistol.

I was hoping my Bruni Mod. 92 Top Venting 8mm PAK Blank Pistol would also perform just as well and as luck would have it, it did :) I did notice on the last round the shell kind of stayed in place and got re-chambered, not really sure what happened there but all 4 rounds fired which was my main goal and of course I caught it all in slow-motion HD!

Enjoy my Shooting Test Video of the Bruni Mod. 92 Top Venting 8mm PAK Blank Pistol and if you have not already checked out my Table Top Review of the Bruni Mod. 92 then make sure to do so.

Buy Blank Guns in the Canada Store 

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I was really looking forward to not only shooting my recently acquired Front Firing ME 8 General 1911 8mm PAK Blank Pistol and making sure it worked as promised, but I also want to checkout the new 720p at 240 frames per second slow motion video feature on my new iPhone 6 plus!

Everything went pretty much as expected, all rounds chambered, fired and ejected without a hitch. No slide lock back on the last round but this blank gun is not designed to do that so I was not expecting this to happen :)

Enjoy my Shooting Test Video of the Front Firing ME 8 General 1911 8mm PAK Blank Pistol and if you have not already checked out my Table Top Review of the ME 8 General, then make sure to do so.

Buy Blank Guns in the Canada Store 

Buy Blank Guns in the US Store

Type: Blank Pistol.

Manufacturer: Bruni.

Model:Mod. 92 (Beretta 92).

Materials: Mostly Metal with some steel parts.

Weight: 2.8 pounds unloaded. (1274 grams)

Barrel: Top Venting. (No Red Tip)

Propulsion: Gun powder.

Action: Single and double action.

Ammunition Type: 8mm P.A.K. Blanks.

Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds.

FPS: N/A.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Bruni Mod. 92 Top Venting 8mm PAK Blank Pistol is fairly decent on both single and double action with a fairly long take-up in double action and of course a much shorter lighter take-up in single action mode.

Accuracy: NA.

Build Quality: The overall build quality of the Bruni Mod. 92 Blank Pistol is good, mine does show some wear since it is an older previously owned blank gun but for the most part the wear and tear is cosmetic only, the mechanical parts all seem to be in excellent working order. Most of this blank shooter is made out of a zinc based metal with a few steel parts, mainly the screws, pins and springs. But it has an impressive weight to it! The grips seem to have been replaced with wrap around rubber grips that may actually be for a real steel Beretta M92.

Realism: The Bruni Mod. 92 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol is a very realistic looking Beretta 92 in terms of overall looks and true to scale size and weight. Most of the parts work as you would expect them to on the real steal version including the double and single action trigger, safety, locking slide catch release and magazine release button. The only exception really is the fact that this version is top venting so there is a small hole just in front of the breach that allows the full discharge of the blank round to escape out the top of the blank gun. The barrel is actually fully plugged but seems to have been partially drilled out to give the impression of being a front firing gun.

Purchase from: A private collector.

Pros:

• Well made, materials fit and finish is all very good even though very little use of hardened steel.

• 15 round double stack magazine is nice hi-capacity.

• For a used gun it is in very good working condition, some minor wear mainly on finish.

• Barrel has been partially bored out to look like a front firing gun.

• Grips have been replaced with what looks to be real Beretta grips.

• It's a very close Beretta Model 92 replica!

• Made in Italy.

Cons:

• Top venting instead of front firing

• No actual take down lever for easy field striping

• Finish is a bit worn.

Comments:

In terms of being a very accurate Beretta Model 92 replica, the Bruni Mod. 92 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol is very close in almost all areas. Sure I would have liked it to of been front firing but the reality is, I rarely get around to shooting my blank guns. My blank pistols are mostly for show and since actual replica only guns are prohibited, being a blank gun skirts around our Canada laws allowing for ownership. Don't forget we sell the ROHM Blank guns here in our Canada Online Store and they are very good quality guns so check them out if you are in the market for a blank shooter.

My Vimeo Full Video Table Top Review for the Bruni Mod. 92 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol:

Buy Blank Guns in the Canada Store 

Buy Blank Guns in the US Store

Type: BB Revolver.

Manufacturer:Gletcher.

Model: NGT Silver (Replica of Nagant M1895 Revolver).

Materials: Metal & plastic.

Weight: 1.54 pounds (700 grams).

Barrel: 4 inches, smooth bore (Steel inner barrel).

Propulsion: 12 gram CO2.

Action: Revolver - single and double action.

Ammunition Type: 4.5mm Steel BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 7 rounds.

FPS: 361fps (110m)

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Gletcher NGT Silver CO2 BB Revolver is nice and crisp in both single and double action, there is virtually no trigger wiggle and the trigger pull is decent in double action while much longer and of course nice and light in single action as expected. You will want to pre-cock the hammer for accurate single action shooting but have the option of shooting double action for any action shooting you may want to do. Keep in mind you will have to individually reload each round.

Accuracy: I have not done any shooting so far with this Gletcher revolver due to some pretty awful weather conditions. I expect it will shoot nice since it has a fairly long sight radius and the open iron sights are conducive to precise shooting.

Build Quality: The Gletcher NGT Silver CO2 BB Revolver is really well made, you can tell by it's solid weight for a fairly small pistol, all of the mechanical parts feel smooth and responsive. Everything that would be metal on the real M1895 Revolver is metal including the solid one piece cylinder. Yes the grips are imitation wood but this is to be expected. The sliver finish looks great and I like the black contrasting parts that really highlight this gun.

Realism: I've have not had the opportunity to actually put my hands on a real steel Nagant M1895 Revolver but from the photos I have viewed online, the Gletcher NGT Silver is very accurate in terms of being a BB replica. Of course the shells fit steel BB's internally and the barrel has been downscale to shoot 4.5mm Steel BB's but other than that it is very difficult to tell it from a real Nagant M1895 Revolver. Even the barrel opening is recessed and looks true to scale for the original rounds used in this revolver and you can remove the one piece cylinder similar to the real version.

Pros:

• Beautiful Silver finish.

• Very solid and weighty gun.

• Hammer and trigger actions are very crisp, virtually no wiggle. 

• CO2 is well hidden.

• Recessed barrel looks great.

• 7 round cylinder instead of 6 like the other shell loading.

• Cylinder can be removed.

• Shoots in both signal and double action.

• Grip is nice and small so great for shooters with small.

• Shooting performance pros yet to be determined…

Cons:

• Non adjustable sights. (Perhaps like original)

• No speed loading on this one, one shell at a time, so make your shots count.

• Shooting performance cons yet to be determined…

Comments:

The Gletcher NGT Silver CO2 BB Revolver is yet another addition of shell loading revolvers like the Dan Wesson and KWC 357 based revolvers, with the exception that the Gletcher NGT is more of a blast from the past and even though it comes in at a much more compact size, it holds an additional round! Another note worthy point is the fact that Gletcher has somehow figured out a way to reduce the CO2 release valve giving the Gletcher NGT a more true to scale frame size, I am talking about the distance between the hammer and the cylinder. This allows for a more realistic and true to dimension replica which in this classic revolver is super important.

My Vimeo Table Top Video of the Gletcher NGT Silver CO2 BB Revolver:

Buy the Silver Gletcher NGT in Canada

Buy the Silver Gletcher NGT in the US

Buy the Gletcher NGT in Canada

Buy the Gletcher NGT in the US

Type: Blank Pistol.

Manufacturer: ME.

Model:ME 8 General 1911 (Colt 1911 A1 Replica).

Materials: Mostly Metal with some steel parts.

Weight: 2.9 pounds loaded. (1355 grams)

Barrel: Front firing. (No Red Tip)

Propulsion: Gun powder.

Action: Single action only.

Ammunition Type: 8mm P.A.K. Blanks.

Ammunition Capacity: 10+ rounds.

FPS: N/A.

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the ME 8 General 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol is exactly what you would expect from a single action only 1911 styled semi auto pistol, short and light. But not super light, it's far from a hair trigger, perhaps more of a medium pull weight for a 1911 SAO.

Accuracy: NA.

Build Quality: The overall build quality of the ME 8 General 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol is really very good, nothing fancy at all going on with this pistol and a lot less actual moving parts than you would find on a real steel 1911 so much less to go wrong but the metal quality and fit and finish are very good overall. You will not find a lot of actual steel in this gun other than the magazine, screws, pins and springs but again the metal is good quality and the ME 8 General 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol even sports real wood grips.

Realism: The ME 8 General 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol is a very realistic looking 1911in terms of overall looks and true to scale size and weight. As mentioned already, many of the parts are not operational but actually moulded into the gun. Like the Safety, side trigger mounted magazine release and back strap safety. You will find the actual magazine release on the bottom of the pistol grip and even thought the slide catch release is operational, there is no spring assist to lock it in the up and open position when the magazine is empty so if you want to lock the slide back you will need to manually do this.

Purchase from: Private collector.

Pros:

• Well made, materials fit and finish is all very good even though very little use of hardened steel.

• 10+ round single stack magazine is very hi-capacity.

• For a used gun it is in very good condition, not many rounds through it and well kept.

• Front firing and came with flare adaptor.

• Real wood grips.

• Made in Italy.

• It's a 1911!

Cons:

• Slide catch release, must be engaged manually.

• Many working parts are simply moulded into the gun.

• Not easily field strip-able.

Comments:

So the ME 8 General 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol is not the most accurate replica of a 1911 in terms of all parts being operational but it hits the major ones for me like: It's front firing, the slide will lock back, it has a true 1911 SAO trigger and for the most parts it looks and works like a 1911. Finding 1911 blank guns here in Canada is super hard and I am a big fan of 1911's so when the opportunity to pickup this gun came around I was interested even if it was not cheap. Blank guns are getting harder and harder to find here in Canada and I guess that's what is making them so appealing. Don't forget we sell the ROHM Blank guns here in our Canada Online Store and they are very good quality guns so check them out if you are in the market for a blank shooter.

My Vimeo Full Video Table Top Review for the ME 8 General 8mm P.A.K. Blank Pistol:

Buy Blank Guns in the Canada Store 

Buy Blank Guns 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 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

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.

Hey everyone, we just got a really large Umarex order in our Canada location so if you have been waiting on some product from Umarex we should have most items in stock now...

Some of the more popular Umarex items these days are:

• Umarex Steel Force 6 Round Burst CO2 BB Rifle
• Umarex Steel Storm 6 Round Burst CO2 BB Gun
• Umarex H&K MP5K-PDW CO2 BB Rifle
• Beretta PX4 Storm CO2 Blowback Pellet / BB Pistol
• Desert Eagle Black Magnum Research CO2 Blowback Pellet Pistol
• Umarex Browning Buck Mark URX .177 Break Barrel Pellet Pistol
• Beretta FS M84 Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
• Colt Python 6 Inch CO2 Steel BB Revolver
• Colt Commander 1911 Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
• Umarex Legends Luger P08 CO2 BB Pistol
• Walther PPS CO2 Blowback BB Pistol
• Umarex Legends C96 Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
• Legends Makarov Ultra Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
• Umarex HPP Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
• Umarex Walther P38 Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
• Walther CP99 Compact Black Blowback CO2 BB Pistol
• Walther PPK CO2 BB Blowback Pistol