This is already an annual arrangement with Tomo of X-Fire/PDI-Japan who is providing as a report of the latest product airsoft releases from Tokyo Marui that were unveiled during the Shizuoka Hobby Show 2010. There are 9 new products from Tokyo Marui, 8 being airsoft guns, and one is their own Bio BB release. Though what is presented here are 4 items, with three for potentiial development of PDI-Japan Upgrade parts in the near future. Now, let's learn more of what they have reported for our airsoft readers and our thanks to Tomo and X-Fire/PDI:

"RECCE RIFLE

The 1st introduction is 'M4 Called as RECCE RIFLE'. The spec is almost the same as the New generation Sopmod. The additional is CNC-made Handguard is like the 'Daniel Defence' & changed the method of fixation of the outer barrel. Because this one is adopted with the "Free floating system" as the real one. Besides changable the size of the outer barrel. When use long, you put the outer barrel to gas block,want short,put the muzzle directly instead of the outer barrel. So inner barrel is by gas block, not full size.This model has no sights.

Put the outer to gas block or put the muzzle directly. MAGPUL & RALUE & other products are just display. Almost real products can be installed.

PRO HUNTER

This model is just VSR but it's REAL SHOCK.Tokyo Marui think this series are for the begginer.

The assembled the scope.The stock is 2 colors as usual VSR-10 series.All silver parts are plate processing.

Tokyo Marui said 'Using the VSR real shock, user will get shock after shooting.But the scope is a little heavy so it's reduced the shock compared to VSR real shock.'

GLOCK18C & LONG MAG

The new pistol was GLOCK18C.Semi & fully auto action are perfect! 1,200 shot per min.

The long 50BB capacity magazine will be released for TM GLOCK18C & GLOCK17.

NIGHT WARRIOR & LONG MAG

This pistol is an original government by Tokyo Marui. TM MEU & DESERT WARRIOR are mixed. The flame color is not painted,they changed a casting color.The body - stamp is 'NIGHT WARRIOR' & chamber stamp is 'NW'. The hammer is same as MEU, it's a Delt shape.THe bushing & outer barrel are plate processing. The rail is based 'picatinny' for TM desert warrior. If you detach the rail,you'll find 2 line hole of the body. The 40BB capacity long magaizne will be released for NIGHT WARRIOR and any other TM government model.

PX4 CUSTOM (NOT RELEASED)

Tokyo Maruiplans to make new GBB Pistol,PX4 custom. Last time, this is just clay but this time, it's colored. It's good for us that this gun has some grip panels, so regardless of the hand size, it will be comforable."

This is already an annual arrangement with Tomo of X-Fire/PDI-Japan who is providing as a report of the latest product airsoft releases from Tokyo Marui that were unveiled during the Shizuoka Hobby Show 2010. There are 9 new products from Tokyo Marui, 8 being airsoft guns, and one is their own Bio BB release. Though what is presented here are 4 items, with three for potentiial development of PDI-Japan Upgrade parts in the near future. Now, let's learn more of what they have reported for our airsoft readers and our thanks to Tomo and X-Fire/PDI:

"RECCE RIFLE

The 1st introduction is 'M4 Called as RECCE RIFLE'. The spec is almost the same as the New generation Sopmod. The additional is CNC-made Handguard is like the 'Daniel Defence' & changed the method of fixation of the outer barrel. Because this one is adopted with the "Free floating system" as the real one. Besides changable the size of the outer barrel. When use long, you put the outer barrel to gas block,want short,put the muzzle directly instead of the outer barrel. So inner barrel is by gas block, not full size.This model has no sights.

Put the outer to gas block or put the muzzle directly. MAGPUL & RALUE & other products are just display. Almost real products can be installed.

PRO HUNTER

This model is just VSR but it's REAL SHOCK.Tokyo Marui think this series are for the begginer.

The assembled the scope.The stock is 2 colors as usual VSR-10 series.All silver parts are plate processing.

Tokyo Marui said 'Using the VSR real shock, user will get shock after shooting.But the scope is a little heavy so it's reduced the shock compared to VSR real shock.'

GLOCK18C & LONG MAG

The new pistol was GLOCK18C.Semi & fully auto action are perfect! 1,200 shot per min.

The long 50BB capacity magazine will be released for TM GLOCK18C & GLOCK17.

NIGHT WARRIOR & LONG MAG

This pistol is an original government by Tokyo Marui. TM MEU & DESERT WARRIOR are mixed. The flame color is not painted,they changed a casting color.The body - stamp is 'NIGHT WARRIOR' & chamber stamp is 'NW'. The hammer is same as MEU, it's a Delt shape.THe bushing & outer barrel are plate processing. The rail is based 'picatinny' for TM desert warrior. If you detach the rail,you'll find 2 line hole of the body. The 40BB capacity long magaizne will be released for NIGHT WARRIOR and any other TM government model.

PX4 CUSTOM (NOT RELEASED)

Tokyo Maruiplans to make new GBB Pistol,PX4 custom. Last time, this is just clay but this time, it's colored. It's good for us that this gun has some grip panels, so regardless of the hand size, it will be comforable."

Catchy title isn't it? But it's no joke that there's actually a product available that achieves the Glock meets 1911 result. Defense Review produces photos about the Lone Wolf 1911-Style Glock 17/22 (G17/22) Pistol Frame (Polymer Grip Frame) with Extended Beavertail Tang which gives you the hybrid look and feel of both popular handguns. Don't you worry, it will not make your pistol look like a frankengun.

Lone Wolf developed the Lone Wolf 1911-Style Glock 17/22 Pistol Frame with Extended Beavertail Tang to give owners of both Glocks and 1911 pistols the who want the "grip and angle consistency" which gives them an easy transition from a 1911 to a Glock 17/22 without having to refamiliarize themselves.

Do you think it's a good idea? Depending on how you prefer your pistols to be. But if you're a purist, then it might not be a good idea in the first place. But if you're the practical shooter wanting convenience, then this is something that you might welcome.

Now, we're looking towards and airsoft version of this accessory. Click on the photo below to read the rest of the story and more photos at Defense Review:

It has been quite a while since we last read a meaningful airsoft DIY project at  Instructables. This one does get out attention as it helps airsoft players recycle broken airsoft magazines and turn them into BB holders while in the skirmish field. This mainly about high capacity magazines so you can have enough bbs for a magazine when it's needed. So don't throw those magazines away, they will still come in handy, and you can fill up those M4 magazine pouches with enough magazines and still look the part rather than with BB bottles.

Click on the image below to proceed with the DIY process.

­Cidasoft is making raves in the airsoft industry with their Cidasoft grenades which are the safest to handle for airsoft players, though we would not recommend you trying to handhold the grenade inside it while attempting to detonate it with BBs inside as the videos are for demonstration purposes. I have been corresponding for sometime now with Micha, the owner of Cidasoft, and perhaps the only airsoft manufacturer in the Far East who is not Chinese nor Japanese, nor Korean, as he is originally from Holland. Now, let's get to know him more and his company.

This is a Taiwan made product [Cidasoft Grenade] but I was surprised when I found out that you’re European so first of all please tell me how did you end up in Taiwan?

I married a Taiwanese. We met while we were both traveling in India. After having both lived in Taiwan and Europe we decided that we wanted to settle down in Taiwan.

I guess your love for airsoft started on the island. Do you still remember your first encounter?

Yes, it is. Although when I was still in Holland I was a member of a gun club for 6 years. I had a .22 pistol (Pardini Fiocchi SPE) and a .22 rifle (a replica of an AR-15). In Taiwan it is not possible to use or own these types of weapons (fire arms). This is when I found out about airsoft and I joined a local airsoft team. I don’t remember my first game or how it felt to get shot for the first time. But I do remember that I borrowed a team gun the first few times and that soon after I bought my first AEG rifle.

What is your way of airsoft? (you can talk about your team, your loadout, places you guys go, favorite brand, favorite gun, etc..)

In English my team is called, Students Force. Although not all people in this team are students (anymore).

I prefer not to carry too much gear with me because that will hinder me when I play airsoft and it is also too hot in the summer. I always play with my M4 and I also carry a backup pistol, which is a Glock 19. Most of the time I also carry my airsoft hand grenade. Unfortunately I can’t always use the grenade because people who live nearby where we play might call the police because it’s too loud when it goes off.

We usually play in abandoned buildings, factories or old military buildings (bases).

My favorite brand is Tokyo Marui because they make good quality products. My favorite guns are, M4, TAR-21, Dragunov sniper rifle, Mini Vulcan (way too much money and not practical in an airsoft game), and Glock pistols.

Now let’s talk about your invention a bit. What made you come up with the idea of this grenade and what is the CidaSoft Hand Grenade?

The basic idea of how this grenade works is not original. There used to be another grenade which works in principle like the CidaSoft grenade. The difference is in the delivery system of the baking soda, also called the detonator. The grenade works with citric acid, baking soda and some water. This mixture will make CO2 and the pressure will make the bottle explode.

Where does the brand name “CIDASOFT” came from?

CI comes from citric acid, DA comes from baking soda and SOFT comes from airsoft.

Taiwan makes almost anything so I guess it wasn’t that hard to find a manufacturer. How long did it take to get the first fully functional prototype?

Yes, Taiwan has many small and medium factories. Although it did take some time to choose one of those many factorie, it took me 3 years from the first initial idea to a product that was ready for sale.

There are several different hand grenades available for today’s airsofter but none of them(as far as I know (There used to be the AG-01, but I believe that it is not available anymore) works like yours. Please explain what the advantage of your product is.

First of all, it is affordable. It gives off a nice bang. You might not feel it hit you but you certainly will hear it. The spoon or handle doesn’t fly off and it doesn’t weigh much.

The detonator is basically a plunger and it starts a chemical reaction by releasing baking soda into the main compartment (bottle). How reliable is this detonator? How quick will the bottle explode? What happens if the grenade lands upside down?

If the detonator is prepared properly then it is quite reliable. There is always a chance that the grenade won’t go off. The grenade is 98% or more reliable if it is prepared properly.

Sometimes it can go wrong:

• When the plunger rubber doesn’t have a good seal. Always bend this rubber before putting the orange tube in place and blow into it to see if it is airtight.
• The washer ring (the rubber ring between the detonator and the bottle) is missing. This way pressure can’t build up in the bottle.
• The bottle has been screwed on too loosely. The pressure will escape from the bottle.

Use 12gram of citric acid + 20ml water if the temperature is 25 degrees Celsius or more, 18gram + 25ml water if the temperature is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius and 24gram + 30ml water if the temperature is between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. Don’t use the grenade if the temperature is lower than 15 degrees Celsius. In this case you would need more citric acid and water and you would only get an 80% chance that the grenade will go off.

And always read the user guide. All the above is explained there.

By the time the grenade lands the spring operated valve has already pushed out the baking soda and the pressure is already getting higher.

How far I can possibly throw one of these? What’s the weight of the loaded unit?

My friend threw the grenade ones more than 15 meters in an above hands move. This way of throwing is not recommended though. The grenade may go off by the impact if the ground surface is hard, like concrete. Throwing it under hand or rolling it would be better. I have also once thrown it over a door because the other team was on the other side. The grenade worked fine and it took out one member of that team. The grenade weighs about 100gram when it is ready for use. This does not include bbs.

You’ve uploaded some videos on YouTube demonstrating how safe this grenade is and let me tell you I am pretty impressed. Did your product ever cause any injuries? In that video you are holding the grenade on your open palm while demonstrating its safety but what happens if someone wraps his/her finger over the bottle while it goes off? I’m just trying to figure out how foolproof your idea is.

The grenade has never caused any injuries but you’ll need to be a little careful when you remove the bottle neck from the detonator and when you use the bottle neck remover tool because it is sharp.

­Well, you are right. I wouldn’t like to demonstrate the grenade while holding the grenade very tight without a tactical glove. Please take into consideration that this is something that explodes. Would you hold on to a fire cracker? I would run away from it and I would do the same when someone would throw this grenade at me. I never had a team member trying to throw back on of these grenades, most of the time they just try to run away. Even if the grenade fails to explode or isn’t near someone when it explodes it is a great way to scare the other team.

My advice is to always wear face/eye protection and tactical gloves when using these grenades.

I already figured it out that keeping the mixture balanced is important if I want effectiveness. What’s the maximum amount of BBs you can launch out of the bottle? What happens if I put more baking soda in the bottle? What happens if I load 0.40g BB in the bottle?

I would say not more than 100 bbs. The green lid, which separates the baking soda from the citric acid water mix, might not open if it is obstructed with bbs.

More baking soda in the orange tube will give a shorter “fuse” time.

I never tested it with 0.40gram bbs. I guess that they will not fly so for because they are heavier.

If the bottle lands in the middle of a medium-sized room (let’s say there is no furniture in there) what’s the chance of not getting hit by any of the BBs? If this grenade goes off near a person will it leave any stain or mark on gear/clothing?

I have had pieces of plastic from the grenade fly more than 10 meters away. The issue is not of getting hit by a bb or not. The issue is that most likely won’t feel it if a bb hits you. The speed of the bbs is to slow and most airsofters wear tactical clothes. The use of this grenade would be better if you use the rule that you’re out [or call your hit] when it goes off within 3 meters near you.

Yes, there is a chance that you might get some stains on you gear or clothes. If so, then those stains consist of a citric acid, baking soda and water mix. These are usually small drops which can be cleaned easily. Usually my clothes and gear get dirtier from just playing airsoft.

Did you ever try to figure out the initial speed of the BBs leaving the bottle?

No, I never did.

How many times can I re-use the detonator?

I have 1 detonator which I have used for about 100 times. But that is no guaranty that each detonator will last that long. If the grenade would be thrown too hard and it would hit a wall in a wrong way the detonator can get damaged. The good thing is that damaged parts can be replaced.

Is it possible to use any other bottle with your detonator? You know that’s the first thing people will try.

No, unless you can find a bottle which is very similar. Most likely the detonator will get damaged because the bottle is too thick. It took a lot of time testing to find the right thickness of this bottle.

How can people access your product? Do you have a retailer in the US or Europe? (website, payment method, shipping times, shipping method, etc..)

At present there are no retailers yet outside Taiwan. So people can buy the grenade directly from my website, www.cidasoftairsoft.com Payment is via PayPal only. I ship only via Taiwan Post to keep the shipping costs low. Shipping by DHL etc will make the sipping cost up to 3 to 4 times higher. Shipping should take about 2 weeks and all shipments are registered and insured.

Are you planning to release other airsoft goodies or do we have to be patient for a while?

Yes, I am but you’ll need to be patient for some time.

­

More interesting coverage on the seizure of the the WE gas blowback rifles imported by the Airsoft Northwest Outlet by the ATF. While we have pulled tidbits of information from various sources regarding this issue, now Pajamas Media, has come out with a three-part series that questions the ATF, mainly the ATF in Tacoma, Washington, on their competence in determining that these airsoft guns can indeed cause "devastating ramifications."

In their story: Agents of Incompetence: ATF Seizes Gun Shipment Labeled ‘Toys’ — But They Really Were Toys, Pajamas Media takes more time to address the issue asking people with knowledge on airsoft guns, and real steel weapons if the ATF is right in its assertion that the WE GBB-Rs can be converted into real steel assault rifles.

In Part 1. Pajamas Media takes the ATF and CBP to task when they seem to misinform the general public in their declarations to media that the guns released were toys. KiroTV says "“Automatic Rifles Labeled As Toys Seized In Tacoma" as based on the CBP's announcements. They were really airsoft guns, which for those in the airsoft community, are considered toys, and not real steel rifles labeled as toys. With this, the issue gets muddled as the ATF agrees with CBP that these have "devastating ramifications."

In Part 2. Pajamas Media seeks answers to the ATF assertions that they can be converted into real steel assault rifles by asking other professionals. After asking those in the know, they say that "The ATF has thus far failed to show anyone evidence that they were able to easily convert one of the confiscated WE Tech Airsoft Rifles taken from Airsoft Outlet Northwest into a weapon. There has been no information that they attempted to test fire any conversion they may have attempted, or what the results of that test may have been. All requests for specific comment to the public affairs officers of both the ATF and U.S. Customs have gone unanswered."

In Part 3. Is it really an example of bureacratic incompetence? They question the arrogance, inconsistency, and incompetence of those involved and contacting the ATF on what makes them say that these toy guns are dangerous to the civilian population as they assert that these can be converted and getting no definite answers from the them. The same ATF agent who was seen in the news showing one seized WE GBB-R (and clumsy at showing his expertise), Kelven Crenshaw "is a former assistant director demoted and moved for incompetence, reprisals against his own employees, and regulation violations."

Pajamas Media ends their story with:

It would seem that the CBP and ATF have painted themselves into a corner.

They either must admit that their officers and agents made a serious mistake after a pattern of serial unprofessional behavior that verged on punitive abuse, or they must attempt to shut down the entire distribution chain of all similar Airsoft products being imported into the country and attempt to confiscate the thousands already on the market.

The latter would come at tremendous taxpayer expense and make these agencies even more of a laughingstock than they are now.

Well, they have been laughing stock ever since this story erupted as far as we in the airsoft community are concerned.

Now going back to the previous event that happened on the other side of the pond just right before the IWA & Outdoor Classics 2010. Tim Elwood presents the After Action Report of the 1st North Atlantic Airsoft Expo for those who were not able to attend the event, and you can read the day to day account made by him... "The 1st ever North Atlantic Airsoft Expo is now almost a week gone into history. Everyone seemed to have a great time. I do not have the definitive attendance numbers, but it should have been in the 5-600 range.

The vendors I spoke with were all well pleased and are planning to be there next year.

­Your help in getting them back is easy. Send an e-mail thanking the one's that were there and email the guys you want to see next year. It is VERY rare as a vendor that you get a thank you, just a few that can be taken to the boss will go a long way in showing that it is cost effective for the vendors to be there.

Check out Thumpys blog for some great vid's he is posting up from the show
at http://thumpmaster6.wordpress.com/."

Here are the other links at Tim's Blog of days 1 to 3 of the NAAE 2010.

• NAAE Day 1
• NAAE Day 2
• NAAE Day 3
  

Most of the time I was hanging out with the SRC team and we had three dinners together but I never actually covered their booth here. I would like to correct that and tell you guys: Whistler finally finished the whole line of their MP series. The last problematic piece was the rubber hand guard over the MP5 SD silencer but now that’s out of the way too. Now all these great AEGs are already available (probably your best bet is Airsoft Global but they don't usually t carry the whole range) and took these guys many many long overtime hours to actually even be on the show this year.

Solid built, great gearbox and strong motor are all nice selling points. It won’t be compatibel with the TM aftermarket furniture because this MP-5 is close to the real gun in terms of dimensions, feel and looks.

The IWA went down quiet or at least I did not witness events like things happened at the ShotShow....until I visited the 5.11 booth. I placed my visit to the last day of the show but it proved to be a bad idea. Sales reps were grumpy because (and I am sorry to say this) of stupid people. Some visitors thought that 5.11 will sell their stuff at the end of the show so people stormed the booth like if it was a Black Friday sale. This was going on in several waves and some waves of lemmings caused the security to show up on horseback and stomp them to the ground (just kidding). But seriously if you’re going on a trade show I understand you buy some precision ammo or equipment under the shelf but doing this over 5.11 is pathetic.

After all the negative memories it was time to visit some friends who I never actually met before. Mil-Force and PDI are long time friends of our magazine so it was about time to finally meet them face to face. Optimus Prime already did the introduction over an email so the Mil-Force staff was waiting for me. Mil-Force teamed up with Airsoft One from Belgium who is their retailer in Europe.

Mil-Force is widely known in the airsoft community as the makers of affordable and reliable gear. Leo Kung and Emily kindly showed me their latest products starting with a vest/chest rig which comes with weapon retainer. This retainer serves as your one-point sling and it is attached to the back of the vest. As you can see it on the pictures this vest has plenty of pouches and pockets to stash your goodies and I especially like the admin pouch and dual pistol mag pouch on the top front. The close up picture will show you that the whole thing is indeed the usual Mil-Force quality.

Next up was the coyote brown two-day backpack with MOLLE front and sides which is also a recent product just like dual 2x mag pouch with multicam-like color pattern. Expect more and more pouches popping up with this pattern as the demand rises over the Multicam. A dump pouch with the same pattern was already displayed right above the new butt stock sniper pouch (right handed version only).

Their Desert Eagle holster is probably the most spacious one I’ve ever seen and it allows you to holster a silenced Desert Eagle with light or laser attached under the barrel in case your legs are strong enought to carry gazillion tons during a war game. Last but not least, there is something for travelers and PMCs alike: secret money belt which wraps around your waist between underwear and pants so no one will find your money when you are getting mugged but if you’re wearing the latest 5.11 pants then the lemmings I mentioned earlier will probably want them with your money and then the secret will be revealed. I spent great time at their booth and I would like to thank the Mil-Force stuff for their warm welcome and kindness.

The Blackhawk! lineup is closer to my heart than 5.11’s. I was surprised that I found their booth at all because last time I heard is that the brand will be sold but I couldn’t confirm these rumours during my visit. Hiking shoes for PMC administrators were highlighted as new products from the company.

I was sorry to hear that Blackhawk ditched the Vibram sole, probably they wanted it cheaper and without the license, who knows. The most interesting they offer is the triple layer solution which includes a softshell a fleece jacket and a hardshell and the first two can serve as an inlay for the hardshell (they are all sold separately). The hardshell got a matching pair of pants too with reinforced knees but bottoms and inner side of legs aren’t reinforced.

Also heavy duty plate carrier solutions were on display as well just like backpacks, shooting mats, slings and entry tools. The Director of Marketing was very informative and they know about the existence of airsoft and they frequently receive feedback from our community. I would like to meet the guy who sent them an email asking for a cut finger operator glove. Seriously, you can’t cut off the finger yourself? But I got a message for you from Blackhawk: they will have a cut finger solution, but you forgot to tell them that you are right or left handed.

ITW Nexus can be familiar to all of you who ever tried to replace a plastic buckle on their vest or pouch. This company is one of the world leaders on the field of buckles, interlocks, rivets and other plastic parts. Pretty quietly they had Fast Mags on display in 4 different colors but only these won’t make the little booth interesting. Attention GBB users: protecting your expensive  magazines just became easier and more stylish! The US branch of ITW just came up with a rubber sleeve what you can slide over your mags protecting it from damages during CQB games. The sales rep couldn’t confirm the arrival date nor the MSRP but it will be available soon in the EU and US. It will come out in at least 5 color options: some kind of camo (like the one on the picture), sage, OD, black, Tan. It provides firm grip, enough protection and works perfectly with fast mags. Sometimes the smallest booths are holding the biggest value.

The EU distributor is located in Italy. I am planning to contact ITW’s operations manager and get more details for you guys pretty soon, and maybe I can get a couple of sample units what we can try on different brand magazines.

One of the “poshest” showroom belonged to Vega Holster and the whole place looked like a fashion accessories boutique and not a tactical accessories showroom. The Italian staff was too busy laughing around and drinking coffee but I didn’t blame them since it was the last day of the fair. I cannot serve you any details really so I’ll let you figure it all out based on the pictures.

At TruSpec I found this soft mask what can be interesting for some although I have no idea how it works when you actually start breathing under the neoprene. The idea itself deserves a cookie at least. It would be great to have any info on it just to see how it works because I prefer soft masks over hard ones but ventilation with these ain’t easy.

When I say Aimpoint then you say red dot for M4 and M16. Well, in Sweden they think totally different. I was expecting an showroom full of US camouflage and pictures of US soldiers with their standard issue firearm. Although they had a couple of blue plastic M4s equipped with the sights we all know, they weren't the main attraction there. Aimpoint focused on their latest line of red dots: the Hunter.

First, I thought these are finally low powered compact scopes but they’re just awful long and unusually looking red dot sights with various optic diameters. Two large screens displaying images of red dot massacre. Award winning shooters were scoring wild boars and other cute animals with nothing but red dot. The Aimpoint sales rep explained that a powered scope will only confuse you because of the parallax issue, and all the Aimpoint red dots are parallax free and can be accurately used up to 300 yards (of course if you know your trajectory). Majority of the shots during hunting occur between 50 and 150 yards and this is the ideal range for a parallax-free red dot. The brightness/dot size can be adjusted with the two rubber buttons on the top of the scope and of course the slogan of Aimpoint lives here as well: Always On Always Ready.

Battery life is another great advantage of Aimpoint optics, just imagine not turning your red dot off after a game and it still serves you the next weekend and the next one, and for about a year. Now that you know all this it’s time to sell the family silver to buy one.

Speaking of optics I had to check an lower priced segment as well and that was Burris. I really wanted to check their fixed 3x powered AR compact scope but that was the only thing the company forgot to wrap up before they left the warehouse. I couldn’t really do anything with the rest because their open turret versions are still too expensive for airsoft use and I already own a FastFire reflex. I was standing there for at least 10 minutes without anyone showing up but then again: no one tends to care a couple of hours before closing so I have no other info for you other than the Burris website would tell you.

Let’s get back to airsoft related things and see what PDI brought to the show. 

First I thought I was at a wrong booth because there wasn’t only airsoft. I did not know that PDI also got contract with the Japan government and major companies for industrial security. Remote controlled markers and industrial cannons filled up one side of the PDI booth. Tomo quickly explained the situation and guided me to the other half of his place where I was able to see the excellent work that he does.

The main thing about his work is tolerance and that tolerance is as close to zero as possible. His stainless steel inner barrels are well known for their outstanding precision. He also offers three different kind of high quality cylinders for bolt action rifles. We agreed that Popular Airsoft will test his inner parts in an L96 later on and he urged us to face his inner barrel with a well known brand so expect to read about this Japanese brand in our magazine. Tomo is capable to make anything by request and it can be an external part as well. His front end kit showed excellent quality in both machining and anodizing.

He said that he achieved great result in getting the same color back every time regardless the size of the parts and the quantity he makes. Tomo gave me a lot of advice how can I best keep my fps constant. He is more like a bolt action guy while I am an AEG dude so we both had stuff to share but his knowledge certainly overpowered mine. I hope one day I can live with his invitation and visit him in the land of the precise.

Quality eye protection is very important when BBs flying around. While cheaper knock offs will protect you against BBs but on the other hand they either give you bad game experience (extensive fogging or uncomfortable) or they not optically correct and extensive use will damage the eyes.

One of the leaders in quality eye protection is Revision and their Desert Locust is the best known and most worn by airsofters. Revision brought their latest goggle with a strange name: Wolfspider. It is slightly slicker than than the Locust with improved field of view and even lower profile. The bad news is: the MSRP is over $150. The selling point here is the improved ballistic protection which is 3x the ANSI standard. This new goggle is capable of stopping a ¼ inch steel ball traveling 888f/s.

This might be overkill for airsoft so I will stay with my Locust and just order some replacement lenses. Other than the Wolfspider, the displays had the full line of the Revision products plus some eye candy. There was a full face, helmet mount protective solution on display which looked quite impressive so as the goggle shields with bullet marks on them.

It’s a nice effort from Revision to show up at IWA with their own booth and not just sending a retailer who knows nothing about the company itself, but Jillian, the Director of Market Development was kind enough to give me all the information I needed.

Revision knows that airsoft players like the Locust and GI imitators often wear it on war games, now we just need to tell them to offer a cheaper Wolfspider without the extreme ballistic protection so we can still aford it. To cheer me up Jillian gave me some re-usable dry clothes what will help to keep my Locust fog free. I hope I can find some time over the weekend to try these.

Wiley X jumped on the laser protective lens issue with their new shooters glass. The US Military has a rising number of eye injuries caused by aiming devices like PEQ boxes and some of these injuries caused permament eye sight loss. First ESS came out with a laser protective goggles and their website even shows the wavelengths what the glass will filter. As of the Wiley X it’s a secret and you have to be a government official to find out but I am guessing they make them by request and based on wavelengths used by the ordering unit. The new shooter glass has civilian version as well and it comes with smoke, clear and light rust (not amber!) lenses.

How many people want to know the latest KRISS/Airsoft rumors? We hope there will be some hints down the line. Optimus Prime is actually impatient now as there has not been an airsoft replica of this in production.

I could easily take care of Leapers like this: 4x32 compact scope with MSRP of $17!! But my life isn’t that easy because Mr. Xie bombarded me with loads of info. This brand is known well in the US as the maker of entry level tactical accessories.

Usually I’d say I won’t trust a scope that cheap but it’s only airsoft so if it works then give it to me cheap and Leapers usually works and this is why they are still in business. Their accessories are made for real steel but most of them can be used on airsoft as well. Their all time best seller (last year 2,000 a month) is a 30mm red dot usually sells for $25.

They have dozens of different scopes: one for everyone. Their longest eye relief scope is 5.5 inch, their highest powered scope is 50x, they have a red dot with detachable 2x zoom. Compact scopes and dots will come with two (!!!) different height ring mounts.

While the Leapers scopes won’t look like Trijicons or Aimpoint but they are surely work and probably they are the cheapest ones. Leapers flashlights were news to me, but Mr. Xie brought me up to speed very quick. LED and regular powered flashlights are both available although only LED lights were on display. All the LED lights are regulated to provide long runtimes and cool surface. Weapon mount ring and pressure switch included with the bigger models.

The biggest thing here probably the grip+flashlight solution. Made out of aluminum, serves as a front grip on 20mm rails and the front side has a decent LED light. Leapers pistol flash lights are equipped with a rotating plate (instead of a flip switch) what will act as an on/off switch. You still want some more? An aluminum 7 inch quad rail for M4 priced at $64 sounds pretty convincing for me. These rails will be available in four colors. Just hit up www.leapers.com if you still need something else.

The last day was intense and I still couldn’t check out all the things I planned in advance. The next I know everyone was packing up and the whole thing was over quicker than it started.

I was fortunate enough to enjoy nice people’s company like Whistler and the SRC crew, 0.20 Magazine crew, Smog Baden team, Mil-Force team, Airsoft Innovations and of course the TWINS.

See you guys next year!

These things aren’t that much airsoft related but they are definitely cool. Barrett was sporting three of their guns. And they were carefully placed on the counter so no one will actually walk inside their showroom but customers with fat government wallets. Their black rifle (AR-15) was shown with an Aimpoint Micro: Plain Jane but don’t let that fool you because this one is using gas rod system instead of the traditional DGIS system we got used to on our M4s and M16s.

Of course there was the heavy hitter all time favorite .50 cal demolition rifle and its younger brother the Bravo 98 .338 Lapua. If you ask me I rather have this as an airsoft sniper and skip the fifty as it is. “An elegant weapon for a more civilized age.”

Then off I went to see the Benelli MR1 as well but all I’ve seen was a million fingerprints and a glassy background what made hard to take excellent photos of this beauty. On the other side of the display they put up the Vinci which is claimed to be the fastest loading lowest kicking 12 gauge of the world. All I know about that part is that they all looked nice.

Leupold makes fine optics for people who can afford it. I got a decent salary for my day job but I still find it hard to justify a $1000 dollar scope.

Looking through these scopes is a different thing and I urge everyone to try it at least once. Crystal clear vision with the finest reticles available. I told the sales rep that I am after something low powered and equipped with open turret knobs (Leupold call it M2 turret) and he pointed out that the new MR/T scope is just what I need. Its reticle is claimed to be the fastest one for the job and it was developed for the AR guys. I ask one thing from China makers and that’s the copy of this scope under $100.

Savage Arms is the maker of “boring” bolt action rifles but now they got something what could make me drop my beloved M4. Their 10 BAT/SK (what a name) is just simply mean. To my knowledge there is no available airsoft version of this .308 Winchester with its 24” barrel. It would be awesome to get my hands on one of these and I wish I’d known about it earlier because I then it would be in our  Sniper Survey as an option. The fact that their $2000 dollar rifle was laying on a box of catalogs didn’t even bothered the staff so who am I to argue.

I thought I’ve seen all the camo patterns but Beretta (and Gore-Tex) was capable to deliver something what still makes me dizzy and they named it “The Science of Nothing”. Well, why it’s not free then? Just look for a high res version and you’ll be able to see the “witchcraft”. Digital camo at its best. The material might be waterproof and breathable but the first bush will tear it to pieces. I got PJs built tougher than this.

Last but not least a .308 HK which could be a very stylish accessory of any designated marksman on the field. Umarex, please roll out with this and don’t let us wait or is it out already and I just missed it?

Now here we go with the awards:

Best airsoft related product could be the Evolution Airsoft LR300 but I am afraid we can’t give out an award to a non-existing product (although our award is nonexistent too) so the award goes to the B&T MP9 at the ASG booth and the Impact grenade from Airsoft Innovations. HOT HOT HOT. I cannot decide which one is hotter: Me want all!!

Best non-airsoft product is the massive MUT from Leatherman. This tool will have three versions and one was developed for (and with) the EOD units and it includes a C4 plunger, blast cap crimper, bore cleaner, pin pusher and other goodies.

Best airsoft booth should have been Umarex but they kept most of the stuff behind displays, next runner-up is ASG but they were waaaay too hot for this award because of the TWINS so the award goes to Bohemia Airsoft because they were brave enought to bring in a dirty nasty UAZ which occupied half of their space. Let me tell you some names in that area: Glock, CZ, Meopta, Mars. Kudos to you guys pulling this off!

Best non-airsoft booth. Now this is a hard one and of course all the big names tried to be very stylish this year probably spending thousands of “Eurobucks” on dry wall and paint. It goes to CZ. The balance of content and design just amazed me so much that I even forgot to take a picture of the whole showroom, but please trust me on this one.

Best gun........... It can be engraved, golden plated, finger print reading, heart beat sensing custom made cannon but nothing can top the Citadel MIG 22. I’ve found it at the booth of the Arms Corporation of the Philippines. It’s by far the best design of the show and it’s truly unique with the choice of color. Mr. Commodore George S Chua (EVP of ARMSCOR) thought I was joking when I told him how much I like this weapon, but this was the easiest decision of the last four days and I am not even open for a debate. I just can’t wait to obtain my .22 license.

Best Kodak moment of the show: The bosses of ICS, G&G and SRC in one place reviewing SRC AEG’s (I ran into problems with the translation of their review so expect this in a later issue).

I still have plenty pictures and a couple of things to write about so expect one more load. I will go through the offerings from Leapers, PDI, Milforce, Revision Eyewear and others.

This is my last night in Nurnberg so let me enjoy the rest of it please.

The second day was a bit busier than the first or maybe I was a bit dizzy by the German beer after going out with Whistler of SRC after the first day was concluded. There's still a lot of people on the second day and no signs of the event peaking yet. I took time to check out what King Arms through X Guns of Denmark presented at the booth. King Arms and their European distributor are sharing a booth in Hall #3 at IWA. X Guns not only carries KA products but they also have G&G, Magpul, Ares and TM (handguns only). 

They were still unboxing new goodies because some boxes were held up at by the German customs agents. One of these boxes were holding a gas blowback rifle M4 made by King Arms. X Gun representatives stated that the M4 is based on the Western Arms M4 Gas Blowback Rifle  so magazines and internal parts are compatible with aftermarket parts. The European version will be calibrated to 330 fps using green gas but tuning them won’t be an issue if they are in fact compatible with WA ones. 

How about some handy and practical Zombie exterminator? Yep, a sawed-off M79 is coming your way very shortly. So as the AK grenade launcher. Both of these are very good in quality but unfortunately I wasn’t able to try them.

(Editor's Note. Popularairsoft is covering the IWA & Outdoor Classics 2010 for the full five days so expect reports from Dom in the following days.) My first IWA as a journalist. Luckily it´s indoors as almost the entire Europe got a nasty snowstorm a couple of days ago which is pretty unusual in March. It´s supposed to be Spring but instead of sunshine, freezing cold was waiting for me in Nurnberg, Germany.

Massive amounts of people stormed the gates of the “Messe” (the name of the event hall) on the first day. Some of the booths were so busy that I didn’t even try to get close, I still have four days to see everything.

My very first booth was G&G where I was introduced to the new line-up: FN2000, FNC, Galil, M14 EBR and other goodies. 

The first good news: G&G pushed down the weight of the EBR to 4.5kg and that was achieved with a one-piece machined receiver/front rail. Bad news within the good is that the gearbox won’t be compatible with other brands because it was slightly modified. I will go back to the G&G booth one more time and then I will get into the details a little more but for now here is a Kodak moment for you.

The gentleman on the picture is the project leader of the original real steel FN2000 from FN Herstal and he was taking down the airsoft version. I asked him about the build quality but he just gave me a solid nod and took off. The G&G boss was satisfied that his product passed the first real QA test.

Get ready for more pictures because this is just the beginning.

The continuing story on the ATF-CBP confiscation of the airsoft guns in Tacoma, Washington is keeping airsoft forums abuzz, whether in the US or at some international airsoft forums where pundits (or even insta-pundits) try to bring some sense to the discussion. Whether they are chairsofters or really well-versed in the mechanics of airsoft guns vis-a-vis use as real steel weapons when converted, that's for you to conclude. But for now, we would love to see the ATF fire a round from a converted WE GBB-R that can produce "devastating ramifications".

For all we know, the WE GBB-R might just explode in the hands of an ATF agent if they try to convert and fire one. Now, that will be a case of "devastating ramifications."

The aggrieved party to this, Airsoft Outlet Northwest, has been trying to make its case. In this instance, they have come out with a statement regarding their predicament in the airsoft business, since most airsoft retailers around the world, not only in the US, are dependent on airsoft imports from the Far East, given that they do not have their own home grown airsoft manufacturer, and it's more lucrative to import the cheaper airsoft replicas from Asia.

In their statement, "Airsoft: And Industry Without Standard", Benjamin Martin details the history of their business what they are exasparated with all the hassles of importing airsoft guns.

Airsoft Outlet Northwest has learned the hard way about all the unpredictable rules that come along with importing Airsoft replicas. When we started importing AEG's from G&P late 2006 we only knew of one obvious rule to importing, the replicas had to have blaze orange tips to indicate that they were in fact nothing more than toys. The more product we brought in the more we discovered that the rules were very malleable and arbitrary. We had one shipment from G&P come in and the inspecting CBP Agent held them because the AEG's had trademark infringed bodies, but he allowed us to come in and deface the trademarks so that we could bring in the replicas legally. The agent was kind, understanding, and a former Marine who was genuinely interested in our product. We learned from our mistakes and ensured that all future overseas orders wouldn't include trademark infringed AEG's. Our faith in the importation process and working with CBP was solid, we figured as long as we imported replicas with orange tips and that were free of illegal trademarks then we wouldn't have anything to worry about.

With the ATF adamant that the replicas have potentially "devastating ramifications" in statements released to the media by the Port Director of Tacoma, Airsoft Outlet Northwest had this to say:

This statement that these replicas could shoot live ammo with a few internal changes alone is absolutely ludicrous! I doubt these CBP agents, let alone ATF agents, bothered to notice that these Airsoft replicas lack feed ramps to load real ammunition; so it would be physically impossible if someone wanted to use the WE TTI M4 as a whole unit to shoot live ammo. I'm not a machinist, but I can assume that it takes a little longer than 'a short period of time' to mill a precise feed ramp for an aluminum barrel that doubtingly could withstand the 62,366 psi that a 5.56mm NATO round can put off. As a side note, the average velocity of a 5.56mm NATO round is 940 meters/sec, the average velocity of one of these Airsoft replicas is 137 meters/sec. To me that doesn't sound like the Airsoft M4 could handle firing any sort of real ammunition.

Now we at Airsoft Outlet Northwest, being the rational individuals we are, went out and had a gunsmith check the true compatibility of these replicas and found the following information:

• The WE TTI M4's lack any sort of functional gas tube which is integral to an AR15's operation
• The upper receiver of an AR15 fits onto the lower of the WE TTI M4
• The stock trigger pack in the WE TTI cannot strike the firing pin of a AR15 bolt
• The body of the WE TTI lower is several mils thinner than an AR15 lower, and shims would be needed for any AR trigger pack to work
• The trigger pack of an AR15 appears to be able to fit onto the lower receiver of a WE TTI M4, one of the AR15 trigger pack retaining pins is impossible to insert without major modification, and the hammer isn't operable with the WE TTI lower.

So essentially these Airsoft replicas cannot even operate an AR15 trigger pack without heavy modification with a precise tooling system operated by someone who knows the specific measurements to drill and tap the WE TTI lower receiver.

To me this doesn't sound like it's feasible within "a short period of time".

What does this mean to the guys running the business that everything is arbitrary and the CBP and ATF do not have a proper set of rules and standard that can be followed to ensure that the importation are done in good faith and a legitimate airsoft business can go about its legitimate business. The items are not being smuggled for any underground arms business, but to serve the local airsoft community that is growing leaps and bounds over the years.

In the end, it's about a business being destroyed by some callous bureaucrats who have lost their common sense, and hiding behind some big words of "protecting the people" by being vigilant of watching the borders and ports of entry of weapons that can be brought upon people with "devastating implications". They have not shown proof that the WE GBB-Rs can fire live rounds.

They might as well ban kitchen knives from all american homes since they too have potentially "devastating ramifications."

You can join the discussion at Airsoft Outlet Northwest here. If you want to support them, then just contact the CBP Director at the address and contact information they have provided in that page.

Just take note that these are rebranded airsoft guns made by KWC, not really a home-grown airsoft brand with UK manufacturing. But anyway, it's the trend among retailers of airsoft guns. Just slap your name on any product allowed by manufacturers in Asia... "BB GUNS UK has launched a new airsoft brand for the UK market - BlackViper. The brand will provide bb guns and airsoft guns and accessories to the UK market.

The BlackViper brand will concentrate on high quality spring, gas and electric airsoft models in transparent or 2 colour ABS plastic. The leading UK mail order airsoft retailer BBGunsuk.co.uk offer transparent airsoft so that users dont need a UKARA license, and the guns cannot be mistaken for a real gun or replica. BB Guns UK sell Blackviper, Cybergun, and ASG supplied ranges with many branded and unbranded models.

• Airsoft catching up with paintball
• Airsoft Overview
• Airsoft is an activity used primarily for recreation or sport wherein replica firearms shooting 6mm or 8mm plastic rounds are used for personal collection, gaming (similar to Paintball)

What are AIRSOFT / BB guns? BB guns use air and spring power and are intended for general fun target practice using 6mm plastic bb's. BB guns are totally harmless providing safety rules are observed.

Airsoft skirmish games vary depending on location, budget, and the quantity of participants but often range from short term skirmishes and organized scenarios, it is much like paintball in its game play, strategy, tactics and scenarios. Airsoft is rapidly catching up with paintball in terms of popularity. The advantage of airsoft over paintball is a lower coat base and bb guns are easier to use and maintain, and lots of bb gun consumers enjoy using their guns in the back garden for target practice. "

(via PR web)

Copyright infringement is always an issue when making replica firearms since most airsoft manufacturers base their designs on real steel products, thus not only trademarks are licenced, but even the design of the product must get approval from the original manufacturer, if that is the case. We always get news of court cases, or threats of court cases every year. The big one was the Magpul Masada which was built by A&K.

And this is not only with airsoft manufacturers, even the real steel manufacturers encounter issues when releasing a product that looks similar to a competitor's product.

Such is the case with the American Tactical Imports (ATI) GSG-522 which on first impression is an MP5 of H&K which was the court case on the first place. So in order to have peace of mind, ATI made some changes. According to the Firearms Blog:

It turns out H&K had initially sued them over a long list of complaints. Most of these, the trade dress infringement being the sole exception, were thrown out of court. By simply making some design changes to avoid the GSG-5 being confused with the H&K MP5, ATI has been able to bring the gun back into the market under the GSG-522 name. The GSG-522 design was signed off by H&K and no royalties are required to be paid.

At Weapons Cache, a few more details:

Where H&K got to take their ball and go home, part of the agreement was that with a few changes to the look of the gun, GSG could continue to manufacture and ATI could continue to import a mechanically identical gun with subtle exterior changes to differentiate the gun from the original licensed MP-5 design, now to be made by Umarex.

Well, we know of one airsoft manufactuter which is about to release something that follows the same pattern. We were expecting them to release the product last December, but it may seem that they changed their minds and maybe do some more "subtle exterior changes" to make it look like they are not infringing on someone else's original design and avoid litigation and licensing issues.

This should have been relegated to the Latest News Section, but poring over the comment section, the story is not just about an approved indoor airsoft site. Though there's the usual exchange about promoting violence to kids in the state, some of the significant look beyond the usual gun violence debate, and see it as something that would be very helpful to the local economy.

Said to be the only one of its kind in Connecticut, the local planning authority has approved the facility. Besides the emptying of big commercial facilities during these tough times, airsoft games organisers are making these empty buildings earn something. Just like The Mall in Reading in the United Kingdom.

An indoor airsoft facility, reportedly the first in the state, has won Planning and Zoning Commission approval.

The facility will occupy a portion of the former Sav-Mor Market at 540 Main St., near the intersection with Court Street.

Airsoft uses detailed replicas of actual guns to shoot plastic pellets. It has been described as being similar to paintball, but not as messy.

The application was submitted to the PZC by Joseph Dudash, a New Britain resident who is also an airsoft equipment supplier.

In outlining his proposal, Dudash told the commission that there is no other indoor airsoft facility in the state. There is an outdoor facility in Wolcott.

In his application, Dudash described airsoft as “similar to paintball. Same principles, but with airsoft equipment. Cleaner, cheaper and quieter.”

Town Planner Craig Minor said he understands airsoft “is something both kids and adults enjoy doing.”

Read more at the Middletown Press website.

This indoor airsoft site is now known as Area 52. It is expected to open this mid-February 2010. So if you're in the New England area, then you might as well check this out. New York City players would especially welcome this.

Pinoy Airsoft folks sent us their latest video review, which they say was about three years in the making, so this should be a solid review of this AEG given that long time frame. A very well done video review made by these guys, so better watch the video below. Optimus Prime had one of this, and he had a butt stock problem where the cover always falls off. Performance was so-so, and yeah, he hates putting tape over the rear end.

What's their verdict? Just watch it. Just one big comment from us, we prefer a better voice over than this one, it's a little bit jarring to our ears.

­

With the total gun ban implemented for the national elections in the Philippines. Many airsoft players are left with just being stuck to 1 or 2 sites where they are allowed to store their airsoft guns and play there while they sit it out until the mid of June 2010 for the gun ban to expire. However, this does not deter them from petitioning the country's Supreme Court to exempt airsoft from the gun ban.

Enan Orceo of the DENR-Askal team and head of the Eastern Bloc Alliance/Eastern Rizal, and a lawyer himself petitioned the Supreme Court to hear the arguments of the airsoft player why they should be exempted from the election gun ban. Citing sections from the Philippine Constitution and that the Election Commission's resolution in including airsoft in the ban "In including airsoft gun within the meaning of firearm, the subject resolution in effect criminalizes the sport and playing the game make it irrelevant if one’s possession of airsoft gun and their replica/imitation is now covered by prohibited acts notwithstanding that there is still no law that governs the use thereof."

The airsoft players in the Philippines are in no hurry for the Supreme Court to rule on this. But they have been given fair notices that it will be considered. With this, it also sets a precedent that may eventually pave the way for the repeal of the L0I 1264 which was promulgated by the late dictator, Ferdinand Marcos, and will fully legalise the use of airsoft.

We wish them all the luck and support in this effort. Though news this week coming from the Philippines is that the head of the Quezon City Police, which is the largest police force in the country, wants to institutionalise the total gun ban, as it is the present gun ban is helping in bringing down criminality involving the use of guns in his area. Now, the airsoft players will need to cross the fingers that the whole police institution would not be considering this after the elections.

Full text of the Supreme Court Petition here.

Click the link on "QC cops want to institutionalize total gun ban".