I decided to do my Field test of the Gletcher M1891 Sawn Off Mosin Nagant Rifle a little different than my standard filed tests. I pretty much already did a similar Field Test for the M1891 during Table Top Review and if I used the same methods for testing I would most definitely have gotten the same results. Which by the way where a 1.75 inch group from a full 17 round magazine shooting from 30 feet back, and an average of 430 feet per second.

As you know, I have been utilizing clay pigeons in many of my shooting videos so I thought, why not have some more fun and set up a bunch of miscellaneous targets at a variety of distances ranging from 30 feet, right up to 80 feet, and see what I can hit shooting the Gletcher M1891 shooting a couple mags of 4.5mm steel BB's.

As it turned out I think I did much better than when I tried to shoot my Steel Force at targets set up long range. Anyways, watch the video, I tried to make it fun and interesting and even setup 4 cameras this time to catch all the action!

Buy Gletcher 1891 Mosin Nagant in the Canada Store

Buy Gletcher 1891 Mosin Nagant in the US Store

Type: BB Rifle.

Manufacturer:Gletcher.

Model: Gletcher M1891 (Replica of Sawn Off Mosin Nagant "Obrez").

Materials: Metal & plastic.

Weight: 5.7 pounds (2.6kg).

Barrel: 5.5 inches, smooth bore (inner barrel).

Propulsion: CO2.

Action: Bolt - single shot - single action.

Ammunition Type: 4.5mm Steel BB's.

Ammunition Capacity: 16 rounds. (I was able to fit 17 rounds in the magazine)

FPS: 394fps (120m/s).

Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the Gletcher M1891 is single action only, the bolt cycle does most of the work setting up the loading of a BB into the chamber and pre-cocking the bolt spring. The take up is minimal and the release is about medium to light weight. The bolt snaps forward firmly and with a nice clanking sound, you can even feel the weight of it as it moves forward.

Accuracy: I did take the opportunity to do a quick pre-test with my Gletcher M1891. I shot several rounds through my Chronograph and averaged around 430 fps which is a bit higher than the claimed 394. I also shot a couple of magazines at a paper target standing 30 feet back using a semi rested position and was about to get a 1.75 inch 17 round group which is pretty good considering I found it kind of unusual to hold the Gletcher M1891 in this manner. The Gletcher M1891 does take some getting used to since you hold it like a rifle but do not rest it against your shoulder for stability.

Build Quality: The Gletcher M1891 is really well made, you can tell by it's robust weight and how solid the action feels when you draw the bolt back and release it the first time. Everything that would be metal on the real Mosin Nagant is metal on the Gletcher M1891 including the full size dropout magazine that holds both the BB's and CO2. Yes the stock is imitation wood but in some ways it is harder than real wood and may actually hold up better. The finish looks great and I like the silver bolt, as with most electromagnetically coated finishes, the coating is not thick so it will wear off in the high spots fairly easily. Some touch up can solve this problem fairly easily.

Realism: I've never actually put my hands on a real steel Mosin Nagant Rifle but from the photos I viewed online, the Gletcher M1891looks really accurate in terms of being a BB replica. Of course the magazine has been adapted to fit CO2 and BB's but once placed in the gun it is nearly impossible to tell it from a real Mosin Nagant, or I should say a sawn off version of one. The weight of this rifle (5.7 pounds) gives it the feeling of genuineness. The only real giveaway is the imitation wood stock which looks pretty good considering. I have read online that a real Mosin Nagant stock can be adapted to fit the Gletcher M1891 so that would indicate that it is fairly true in size and construction to a real Mosin Nagant Rifle.

Pros:

• Very Unique BB gun.

• A piece of history you can shoot in your back yard.

• Mostly all metal gun.

• Nice heavy 5.7 pound weight to it.

• Adjustable rear sight, at least for elevation.

• Nice single action trigger.

• Bolt action feels great and has a firm release.

• Full size drop out metal magazine that holds both the BB's and the CO2.

• More fps than claimed and decent accuracy, I expect to get lots of shots out of a single CO2 because of the magazine design.

Cons:

• Stock is plastic but looks good considering.

• No real way to adjust windage and the rear sight does wiggle a bit from side to side which could throw off the aim.

• Electromagnetically coated finish may be prone to wear in the high spots.

Comments:

The Gletcher M1891 is one of the most interesting BB guns I have had the opportunity to review, it has history, it's kind of a pistol and kind of a rifle at the same time and in this sawn off configuration it looks both old school and modern. I could almost see it being used as the perfect zombi gun ;) Getting away from it's unique looks, the Gletcher M1891 performs very well, shooting a respectable 430 fps with accuracy that surprised me since I found it a bit hard to hold at first. There is something very gratifying about having to work a bot or lever or the hammer on a single action revolver that makes each shot just that much more precious! If you're looking for that ultimate eye catcher that people will have to take a second look at than this is the one for you.

My Vimeo Table Top Video of the Gletcher M1891 Mosin Nagant Replica BB Rifle:

Buy the Gletcher M1891 Mosin Nagant in the Canada Store

Buy the Gletcher M1891 Mosin Nagant in the US Store

I often get asked about using a 4.5mm Steel BB gun for pest control and to be honest I really don't think a BB gun is the right tool even at close range to properly and humanly take care of pests when need be. A much better tool is a high powered pellet rifle in just about any caliber as long as you have taken the time to practice your shot placement at a variety of ranges.

Pellets on the other hand, since they are shot out of a rifled barrel are generally super accurate, even within an inch or so at long ranges. Steel BB's on the other hand will do OK within 20-30 feet but once they get to the farther out ranges, they tend to drift a lot, making it very hard to predict exactly where they are going to go...

So I thought I would back up my words with a real world test by taking an average mid priced BB rifle and taking aim at some clay pigeon targets setup about 100 feet away. Watch my YouTube video to see how my Umarex Steel Force did shooting in semi auto at 100+ feet out.

Umarex Steel Force Used for this Test:

• 12 gram CO2 x2

• 4.5mm Steel BB's

• AR/M16 Replica

• Semi auto & 6 Round Burst, Single Action Only

• 300/30 Round Hopper/Magazine

• 430+ FPS

• Plastic with some Metal Construction

Buy the Umarex Steel Force in Canada - Buy the Umarex Steel Force 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy the Umarex Steel Force in Canada

Buy the Umarex Steel Force in the US

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

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

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

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

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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 

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

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

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

• KWC CYBERGUN MINI UZI 4.5MM STEEL BB MODIFIED FULL AUTO FUN

• RAP4 RAP5 MP5 4.5MM STEEL BB MODIFIED FULL AUTO FUN

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

Buy the Drozd BB Guns in the Canada Store

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

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

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

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

• Full Auto Modded Umarex Walther PPK

• Full Auto Modded Cybergun GSG 92

• Full Auto Modded Cybergun UZI

• Full Auto TYREX PPA-K01

• Full Auto Burst Umarex Steel Strom

• Full Auto RAP5 MP5

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

Buy Full Auto BB Guns in Our Store in Canada

Buy Full Auto BB Guns in Our Store in the US

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

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

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

Pros:

• Blowback guns simulate recoil.

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

• Blowback guns can be better suited for action shooting.

• Blowback guns are better as prop guns.

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

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

• Non-blowback guns generally have higher fps.

• Non-blowback guns can be more accurate.

• Non-blowback guns can be more reliable.

• Non-blowback guns can be less expensive.

Cons:

• Blowback guns generally get less shots per CO2.

• Blowback guns generally have lower fps.

• Blowback guns can be less accurate.

• Blowback guns can be less reliable.

• Blowback guns can be more costly. 

• Non-blowback guns do not simulate recoil.

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

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

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

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

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

We have just added the Swiss Arms 4 inch & 6 inch Full Metal Revolvers to the US Store, these are basically teh KWC made guns licensed through Cybergun with the Swiss Arms licensing so you can check out my Umarex Colt Python 357 since it too is the same base gun made by  KWC.

Here are the specs for these Shell loading 357 styled CO2 4.5mm BB Revolvers.

6 Inch Barrel Length Model

• FPS: 410
• Mag Capacity: 6 rounds
• Power CO2
• Length: 11.42 inches
• Weight: 2.67 lbs
• Full Metal, Rubberized Plastic, Textured Grips
• Rotating Cylinder, Manual Safety, Working Ejector Rod
• Single & Double Action
• Includes: 1 Gun, 6 Realistic Shells, 1 Speed Loader

4 Inch Barrel Length Model

• FPS: 344
• Mag Capacity: 6 rounds
• Power CO2
• Length: 9.44 inches
• Weight: 2.39 lbs
• Full Metal, Rubberized Plastic, Textured Grips
• Rotating Cylinder, Manual Safety, Working Ejector Rod
• Single & Double Action
• Includes: 1 Gun, 6 Realistic Shells, 1 Speed Loader

First off, make sure to checkout my Table Top Review for the Umarex Colt Python 357 CO2 BB Revolver so you can get the specs and details on this fine shell loading BB pistol.

In this Field Test Shooting Video I do my traditional Chronograph test where I shoot a series of 4.5mm Steel BB's using a brand new CO2 cartridge to see what kind of real word Feet Per Second performance I can get out of the Umarex Colt Python. On this day I averages right around 390 fps which was very close to the claimed 360 fps form Umarex. The temperature was right around 24 Celsius or 75 Fahrenheit so it was neither cold or hot.

Moving on with the Accuracy Shooting Test, I set myself up 30 feet away using a semi-rested stance (Sand bag up front, standing in the back) I got one of my best ever 6 shot groups from the Umarex Colt 357, coming in at just under 1 inch. During my previous pretest, the Umarex Revolver did well but seemed to spread out a bit vertically, this may have been due to the plastic tips on the shells needing to break in for a more consistent BB fit.

The Umarex Colt Python 357 has taken it up a notch by adding just a bit more overall weight than most comparable shell loading BB revolvers, a smother trigger and hammer mechanism and styling this revolver on the Classic Colt Python platform. If you're a revolver fan, make sure to grab one of these and if you're not a revolver fan, this pistol may just change your mind :)

 Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in Canada

Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in the US

• Watch my official Field Test Shooting Video for the Umarex Colt Python 357.

Type: BB air revolver.

Manufacturer:UmarexUSA.

Model: Colt Python 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 Colt Python 357 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 Umarex Colt Python 357. Even the hammer is smoother and has less wiggle, just a better trigger and hammer mechanism overall.

Accuracy: 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 Umarex Colt Python 357 being mostly metal, you would expect it to have a decent build quality and I am happy to say it does, perhaps again even better than the Dan Wesson and S&W 327 TRR8 shell loading revolvers, even the weight of the Colt Python 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 paint wear or sloppy workmanship.

Realism: The Colt Python 357 CO2 BB Revolver overall is a close copy of the real steel Colt Python 357. 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 revolver it is based and licensed on. Agin 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, fit and finish is very good.

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

• Good overall power, accuracy and shots per CO2.

• 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.

• All black sights not great on dark backgrounds.

• FPS seemed to fluctuate a bit 

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 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 Colt Python 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 and if you're not a revolver fan, this pistol may just change your mind :)

My Vimeo Table Top Review for the Umarex Colt Python 357 CO2 BB Revolver:

Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in Canada

Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in the US

In this Vimeo Update Video Preview I show you around two brand new Umarex CO2 BB pistols, the Umarex Walther PPS and the Umarex Colt Python 357, both recently added to our online Replica Airguns Store.

The Umarex Walther PPS is a full licensed CO2 BB Blowback replica of the real steel super compact Walther PPS and it compares well to the ASG Bersa BP9CC that I reviewed earlier and by the way ended up being one of my favorite compact air pistols. That said I think the Umarex Walther PPS is the new king! It is even more compact yet has great fps for a super small CO2 pistol, shot very accurate even from 30 feet out and has more blowback recoil than the larger Bersa BP9CC!

Here are some of the specifications for the Walther PPS CO2 Blowback 4.5mm BB Pistol:

• Velocity: 350 fps

• Length: 6.4”

• Barrel Length: 3”

• Weight: 1.2lbs

• Magazine Capacity: 18 Rounds

• Power: 12 gram CO2

• Ammo: 4.5mm Steel BB

• Material: Metal and Plastic

• Action: Blowback Single Action Only

Umarex added another shell loading revolver to their collection, the fully licensed Colt Python 357 and again this revolver uses CO2 and shoots 4.5mm Steel BB's that are preloaded into 6 included brass shells. Out of all the 4.5mm shell loading revolvers to date, I have to say the Colt Python 357 is the heaviest coming in at just under 3 pounds. The trigger hammer combination is also very smooth and it has a fully adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation.

Here are some of the specifications for the Colt Python 357 4.5mm BB Revolver:

• Velocity: 400 fps

• Length: 11.75”

• Barrel Length: 5.5”

• Weight: 2.75lbs

• Magazine Capacity: 6 Rounds

• Power: 12 gram CO2

• Ammo: 4.5mm Steel BB

• Material: Almost all Metal

• Action: Single and Double Action

Watch my Vimeo Preview Video of the Umarex Walther PPS and Colt Python 357 BB Pistols:

Buy the Umarex Walther PPS in Canada

Buy the Umarex Walther PPS in the US

Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in Canada

Buy the Umarex Colt Python 357 in the US

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

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

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

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

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

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

What about Pistols versus Rifles?

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

What about Pellet guns versus BB guns?

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

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

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

What is the lowest FPS that I can use?

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

How large of an Animal can an Airguns Kill?

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

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

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

In this Comparison Video I go through the benefits and shortcomings of CO2, Spring Piston and Pump Airguns. I focus mainly on Airguns but there is a bit of a crossover with Airsoft guns.

All three systems (CO2, Spring, Pump) create pressure that forces the ammunition with a high force out of the barrel. Similar to how gun powder is the source of energy for a bullet.

Here are some basic statements that best describe CO2, Spring Piston and Pump Airguns.

CO2 Airguns:

• CO2 Airguns use the expansion of CO2 gas to create the pressure required for the ammo.

• CO2 Airguns generally store enough CO2 for multiple shots per cartridge.

• CO2 Airguns have a limit as to how much power they can produce since CO2 has a set vapor pressure of 850 psi, or about 56 bar at room temperature which is around 25 C or 77 F. CO2 Gas also requires a warm environment to expand so warmer temperature and longer barrels help with power.

• Some CO2 guns can also use pressurized air tanks in place of CO2.

Spring Piston Airguns:

• Spring Airguns use the release of a pre-cocked spring and plunger system to compress air to power the ammo.

• Spring Piston Airguns require the cocking of the spring between each shot so they are single shot only.

• Spring Airguns are limited to how much effort is humanly possible to cock the spring into position. If you make the spring to strong then not everyone will be able to use the Airgun effectively. Too week of a spring and the Airgun will lack power.

• Spring Piston Airguns are known for having a fair amount of recoil and vibration when the spring moves both forward and backwards quickly inside the Airgun.

• Spring Airguns can use either a mechanical spring or a gas spring.

Pump Airguns:

• Pump Airguns (either Single or Multi-Pump) store air pressure in a chamber that when released, powers the ammo.

• Most Pump Airguns require at least 1 or more pumps, often up to 10 pumps for each shot and you generally only get one shot per set of pumps. Not to be confused with PCP Airguns (Pre Charged Pneumatic) which have large pressure tanks that are recharged with a high volume of pressurized air that is capable of shooting multiple shots per charge.

• Pump Airguns are also somewhat limited to how much effort is humanly possible since the higher the chamber pressure, the harder it will be to pump the Airgun. 

Misc Airguns:

• Generally speaking both Spring and Multi-Pump Airguns have more potential power than a CO2 guns since CO2 has a set peek pressure limit.

• Pump and CO2 Airguns are know to have very little recoil since the pressure is stored in a chamber and then released by a valve. No slapping back and forth of a large internal spring.

Pros:

CO2 Airguns:

• CO2 Airguns allow for multiple shots per CO2 cartridge for more realistic action shooting.

• CO2 Airguns do not require any human effort to charge the gun other than loading the CO2 and Ammo into the Airgun.

• CO2 Airguns allow for true semi auto shooting ability. 

Spring Piston Airguns:

• Spring Airguns have the potential for high velocity since the larger and stiffer the spring, the greater the output force.

• Spring Airguns do not require anything other than your ammunition, typically either a Pellet or BB.

• Spring Airguns are mechanically very simple which makes them very reliable and less expensive to produce than other types of Airguns. 

Pump Airguns:

• Pump Airguns have the potential for high velocity since more pumps equals greater output force, only limited by the users strength and the pressure rating of the Airgun.

• Pump Airguns do not require anything other than your ammunition, typically either a Pellet or BB.

• Pump Airguns have next to no recoil which makes them very easy to shoot and highly accurate.

Cons:

CO2 Airguns:

• CO2 Airguns require the purchase and use of CO2 or they simple do not work.

• CO2 Airguns are very susceptible to temperature changes, especially cold temperature since CO2 needs a warm environment in order to expand. Cool down effect also plays a role in power output.

• CO2 Airguns have a maximum set amount of power output.

Spring Piston Airguns:

• Spring Airguns require the pre-cocking of the spring for each shot.

• Spring Airguns can take some getting used to since the spring recoil/vibration requires a very lose grip (Military Grip) to shoot accurately with them.

• Spring Airguns should not be stored pre-cocked since this can damage the spring, less so with gas spring versions. 

Pump Airguns:

• Pump Airguns require pre-pumping to pressurize the air chamber for each shot.

• Pump Airguns, especially Multi-Pump Airguns take the most amount of human effort for each shot.

• Pump Airguns need to stored with at least one pump in them or the seals can get damaged over time.

In this Comparison video I go through the benefits and shortcomings of both Blowback and Non-Blowback Airguns. I focus mainly on Airguns but there is a definite crossover with Airsoft guns.

Here are some basic statements that best describe both Blowback and Non-Blowback Airguns.

Blowback Airguns:

• Blowback Airguns usually have a movable slide that moves back and forth with each shot.

• Sometimes the blowback operation is internal (Internal bolt) so there may not be an external moveable slide.

• Some CO2 is used to move the slide rearwards in a Blowback Airgun.

• The Blowback motion of the slide with some blowback airguns can also cock the hammer or internal striker allowing for true single action trigger pull. But not always!

• Some Blowback airguns have the potential for full auto capabilities since they can have a true semi auto action.

• There is some noticeable recoil from the Blowback action simulating the recoil of a real gun.

Non-Blowback Airguns:

• Non-Blowback Airguns can have fixed or movable slides but they will not cycle back and forth with each shot.

• Non-Blowback Airguns tend to have less working parts since no Blowback valves are required or even a moveable slide.

• There are some Blowback and Non-Blowback Airguns that field strip similarly to their real steel counterparts but this is most commonly found in Blowback Airguns.

• Non-Blowback Airguns require the shooter to cock the hammer for single action shooting or use a double action trigger pull for semi auto like performance.

Pros:

Blowback Airguns:

• Blowback Action causes a noticeable recoil which makes the airgun feel more realistic.

• Blowback Airguns in some cases have true semi auto action with true single action triggers which mimic the authenticity of the real steel versions of the guns they replicate much better making them better training tools.

• Having some recoil makes blowback Airguns potentially better training tools.

• Blowback Airguns look really cool when shooting them  and are great action prop guns.

Non-Blowback Airguns:

• Non-Blowback Airguns tend to have less working parts so less to go wrong and more reliability.

• Non-Blowback Airguns can be more accurate since the recoil from the blowback is not a factor.

• Non-Blowback Airguns have more potential power and more shots per CO2 since no CO2 is robbed for the blowback operation.

Cons:

Blowback Airguns:

• Blowback operation can rob some of the power and will also rob how many shots you get from the Airgun.

• Blowback Airguns are effected even more by cold weather and the cool down effect.

• The recoil from Blowback Airguns can effect accuracy for some shooters.

Non-Blowback Airguns:

• Non-Blowback airguns are generally double action when shooting semi auto and so the trigger pull will be longer and heavier.

• Non-Blowback Airguns do not replicate the recoil action of a real gun.

• Non-Blowback Airguns do not look as cool to shoot and are not as good of an action prop gun.

Is an Airgun Good for Self Defense? Another one of those questions I get asked fairly often that's a bit hard to answer in a few sentences... Not all of us have easy access to a 9mm pistol or even a rifle but many of us can get our hands on an airgun fairly easily and they look real enough, I guess that is one thing they have going for them.

But what if the mere sight of what looks like a gun does not scare an intruder off? If you where hoping that would be enough, you may just be out of luck and what if you just brought an Airgun to a "real" gun fight? You are going to be drastically "outgunned" pun intended and here's why. A 4.5mm Steel BB weighs about 5.1 grains and generally you are looking at about 2-3 foot pounds of energy from a CO2 BB gun. Even a .177 caliber lead pellet is only marginally heavier at around 7-8 grains and if you're really lucky you might just get 4 foot pounds of energy out of a CO2 pellet pistol.

So let's take a look at a fairly conservative "real pistol" rounds, the 9mm. The 9mm rounds come in different bullet weighs but you can get a 120 grain 9mm in a plus p ammo with as much as 400 foot pounds of energy and even with that much raw power, many people claim that a 9mm round does not always have enough stopping power to put down a person even when shot multiple times center mass. It just depends what vital organs or arteries you hit that determines if he gets lucky or you get lucky.

Your 5.1 grain 4.5mm Steel BB is not going to do anything if it hits any type of clothing and even if you find some flesh it's just going to piss off the intruder.

My suggestion is to consider a bat or a golf club or a really big knife or just about anything other than an airgun because if the sight of the airgun replica does not scare an intrude away then you are really buggered.

Keep in mind that you need to abide by any laws regarding the use of self defense in your areas. Even just physical force could be considered a crime and at the end of the day you are ultimately accountable for your actions.