In this Table Top Review we’re taking a close look at the Sig Sauer P229 CO2 Blowback Pellet Pistol. This is the tabletop portion only, no shooting in this review as my Field Test Shooting Video will follow later on.
If you’re familiar with the Sig Sauer ASP P226 platform, the P229 version is the same general system in a more compact package, with one major upgrade: it’s optics-ready!
Magazine: 16 rounds (twin 8-shot rotary clips, loaded on both ends)
Barrel: Rifled inner barrel
Sights: White dot sights
Safety: Manual safety lever with de-cocker function
Claimed Velocity: up to ~380 fps (real-world varies with temperature and cadence)
Shots per CO2: roughly 50–60 (varies with temperature/cadence)
Weight: 35.2 oz / 1.0 kg (2.2 lb)
Overall Length: 7.7 in (P229)
Optics: optics-ready slide / SIG AIR reflex-sight mounting provision
Muzzle threads: M14x1 CCW
In the Box
P229 CO2 blowback pellet pistol
Manual
Sight/plate parts for the SIG AIR reflex mounting setup (for red dot use)
P226 vs P229 - What’s Different?
These two share the same general operating system (CO2 blowback, DA/SA, rotary-mag that works with pellets/BBs), but the P229 version changes a few important things:
Key Differences
Size: P229 is shorter (7.7 in) vs P226 (8.25 in).
Weight: P229 is lighter (35.2 oz / 2.2 lb) vs P226 (~39.1 oz).
Optics: P229 is optics-ready (SIG AIR reflex mounting provision); P226 platform is typically not.
Muzzle threads: P229 uses M14x1 CCW (P226 commonly uses a different thread direction/size).
Bottom line: if you liked how the P226 handled and performed, the P229 should feel very familiar, just more compact, with the bonus of being set up for a dot.
Walk-Around & Handling
The P229 has that classic SIG profile and a very “real pistol” feel in the hand, helped by the mostly-metal build and full weight.
Notable features and controls:
DA/SA trigger system: long/heavier first pull in double-action, then lighter single-action after the slide cycles.
Safety + de-cocker lever: functions like the real-steel concept — you can decock the hammer and run it DA/SA.
Accessory rail: for a light/laser (training-style setup).
Optics-ready slide: set up to accept the SIG AIR reflex-style mounting system (sight sold separately).
CO2 System and Magazine Notes
One of the standout features on this platform is SIG’s cam-lever, tool-less CO2 loading system, designed to make cartridge swaps quick and easy.
The magazine is a 16-shot design using twin 8-shot rotary clips. Practical tip: make sure pellets are seated properly in the rotary clip so they don’t hang up during cycling.
Pros
Mostly metal build with realistic weight and solid feel
Compact P229 size (shorter than the P226)
DA/SA trigger + functional safety/de-cocker system
Blowback action for realism/training value
Rifled inner barrel (pellet accuracy potential)
Tool-less cam-lever CO2 loading system
Optics-ready slide (big upgrade over older-style setups)
Accessory rail for light/laser
Cons
Fixed/non-adjustable sights
CO2 performance is temperature + cadence sensitive (rapid fire cools the system and drops power)
No last-round hold-open on this style of rotary-mag system
Rotary clips require good pellet seating to avoid occasional feeding issues
Final Thoughts
The Sig Sauer P229 blowback pellet pistol is a very “SIG-like” training/plinking platform: realistic controls, DA/SA operation, snappy blowback, and a compact duty-pistol footprint. The biggest tabletop takeaway is the optics-ready slide, which makes this version feel more modern than older CO2 pellet pistol designs.
Field test shooting (chronograph + accuracy) will follow in the next video.
Available in our Canada Replica Airguns Store. Also check out:
I stopped by the Blue Line booth and Connor showed me a line of peppered gel deterrent products they’re hoping to bring into Canada as dog-spray style options (with stronger versions available in the U.S., depending on regulations).
The key difference vs typical pepper spray: these use a jet/propulsion system that fires a more directed stream, designed to reduce blowback and improve placement.
JPX2 Gen 2 (2-shot)
Takes a 2-shot cartridge; each trigger pull fires one shot.
The cartridge is replaceable after use (Connor emphasized it’s essentially disposable once fired).
Connor said range is about 20 ft; manufacturer specs cite roughly 5–23 ft depending on conditions.
4-shot option (JPX4-style)
Connor also showed a 4-shot version aimed at law enforcement markets, but they’re hoping it can be available more broadly as well.
Guardian Angel 4 (compact 2-shot)
A small two-shot, pocketable option with a simple safety and clip—intended as a quick, lightweight grab-and-go device.
Connor also mentioned optional laser sight accessories for better aiming, and that all versions are around the same practical range envelope.
If these can be brought in cleanly for Canada, they look like a good fit for a store + review pipeline: JPX2 Gen 2 for the main feature set, JPX4 for the multi-shot crowd, and Guardian Angel 4 for people who want something ultra-compact and simple.
I caught up with Mark at the Umarex booth to check out a stack of new releases for 2026, ranging from backyard BB “fun guns,” to a major upgrade for the Thompson, plus a dual-fuel hunting/pest-control PCP concept and some serious less-lethal / training options.
Storm Line BB Rifle (dual CO2, full auto): A traditional, “tamer-looking” BB rifle that’s anything but tame.
Capacity: 400-round main reservoir + 25-round ready magazine
Action: Full auto
Vibe: Affordable, high-volume backyard fun, while keeping the styling less “tactical,” which could help for markets like Canada.
Ridge Tech Lever Action (CO2): Lever actions are hot, and this one leans modern while staying simple and budget-friendly.
Feed system: 8-round magazine + 120-round reservoir built into the mag
Use case: Tin-can plinking and family backyard sessions, “CO2 Red Ryder for adults” energy.
Thompson M1A1 Drum Magazine Upgrade: The #1 request finally landed: a drum mag for the Thompson.
Capacity: 400 BBs
How it runs: Wind as needed to keep feeding similar to Airsoft High cap magazines
Best part: The drum magazine is planned to be sold separately and should work with the older stick-mag Thompson versions too, so existing owners can upgrade without buying the whole gun again.
Outpost (25 cal) “Dual Fuel” PCP Concept: One of the most interesting items in the booth, a platform aimed at practical use over pure plinking.
Power source: Runs on a nitrogen cartridge or as a traditional PCP-style setup out of the box
Caliber: .25 only
Design notes: Side lever, folding stock for compact carry, onboard spare-mag storage (prototype shown)
Positioning: Built for small game / pest work and “preparedness” minded buyers
Canada angle: CO2 use (if supported) could drop velocity, but in this form it sounded like it may currently be on the “too fast for Canada” side, so detuned / CO2-focused variants were discussed as a possibility.
S68 (68 cal, CO2, ~16J): Compact launcher format with real punch for its size.
We made it to the Barra Booth here at SHOT Show 2026 and once again I caught up with Jacob to check out what’s new for 2026, lots of “modern western” energy this year, plus some serious PCP development and even a very functional slingshot.
New “cowboy” premium single-action revolver (PCP cartridge-powered): Unlike most revolvers in this category that run on CO2, this one uses refillable air cartridges (small pressure chambers) filled to ~2000 PSI. You load a pellet into the nose cone, charge multiple cartridges at once using a charging manifold (up to six at a time), then drop the loaded cartridges into the cylinder just like shells.
Caliber shown: .22
Hand pump fill estimate: roughly ~10 pumps (quick top-offs), with a tip to pump → degas → pump againfor more consistent cartridge pressure.
Frame/version: brass frame first, with other versions planned.
Positioning: premium / highest-quality cowboy-style item in their lineup; made in Italy.
Early price talk: roughly $400–$500 range (with cartridges), but still TBD.
1866 CO2 Lever Action – Tactical version (launching this year): Built off their popular CO2-powered 1866 lever action (two CO2 cartridges in the buttstock, shells load into the gun, lever cycles and ejects).
Updates: black stock, M-LOK fore-end, larger Picatinny section, and paracord wrap on the lever for comfort.
Calibers: .22 is the focus (with .177 also planned/available).
New slingshot (with internal grip magazine): A compact, foldable slingshot that stores ammo in the grip and feeds by gravity—engineered so it releases one steel shot at a time.
Uses flat bands (easy to swap/upgrade for strength/velocity).
Sighting: built-in sight plus fiber optic references for left/right-handed use and different ranges.
Replica-style break barrels (AK + M16 formats): Two new break-barrel rifles styled after an AK and an M16 with non-functional replica controls, but standard break-barrel operation.
Sights/optics: adjustable iron sights plus Picatinny rail for optics.
Calibers mentioned/planned: .177 / .22 / .25.
New PCP platform: “300Z” (pre-production prototype in hand): A more serious, modern tactical PCP design with:
Rotary magazine (prototype shown in .30 cal, 8 rounds)
Power testing target: up to ~80 ft-lb in .30 cal
Notes: barrel shroud look—not a suppressor; Canada discussion included licensing/detune possibilities.
Updated PCP: “270Z” (built off the 250Z, redesigned internals): A redesigned system meant to feel more like a traditional bolt action, with increased plenum volume (machined from a solid block of aluminum) targeting ~20% more power than the 250Z.
Features: adjustable cheek rest, M-LOK fore-end
Timing: Q2 target for the 270Z; Q3 target for the 300Z.
Jacob also emphasized an ongoing push toward higher workmanship, better materials, and improved performance, and it shows, especially in the new premium western revolver and the next-gen PCP lineup.
We visited the ASG booth with Bob (his 13th SHOT Show) to check out what’s new for 2026, with several updates aimed at Canadian buyers.
New budget AR AEG line (April/May target): three versions planned (all-polymer, polymer receiver w/ metal rail, and all-metal). Target pricing is about $150 USD (polymer) and $210–$220 USD (all-metal). Includes battery + charger, plus two springs (one outdoor/Canada-legal and one ~330 FPS), with easy spring swaps. Some models include an ETU.
GL06 40mm launcher: an older favorite that keeps selling, highlighted for its durable build, long barrel, and long firing pin designed for better reliability with a wider range of shells.
Canada-focused HPA solution (in development): ASG is working on an HPA setup to help gas blowback models meet Canada’s import threshold (they referenced 367 fps) so more options can be brought into the country.
Canada version P-10 CO2 (March/April target): updated with a higher-velocity valve aiming around ~380 fps, making it Canada import legal. Comes in black and FDE, full blowback, and includes an optics plate for red dots.
Blaster BBs refreshed: BB lineup is consolidated into Blaster / Alpha Blaster (premium) / Beta Blaster (budget/field), with options like bio and tracer. US availability is expected early February.
I just got back from SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, and let me tell you, it was an action-packed trip! Over on our channels, we’ve just dropped a fast-paced highlight reel that captures the best moments of our week long stay.
The SHOT Show took place at the Venetian Convention Center, and you’ll see plenty of footage capturing the scale and energy of the event itself: busy show floors, massive booths, indoor and outdoor areas, and the overall atmosphere of one of the largest firearms and shooting-sports events in the world, with Airguns and related gear naturally woven throughout.
But it’s not just airguns, we’ve got slices of Vegas! You’ll catch us strolling Fremont Street, lounging poolside, and soaking up those iconic Vegas vibes between interviews. Whether you’re here for the Airguns or the atmosphere, this video’s got it all, music, cuts, the show floor, and a taste of Las Vegas. Check it out now and immerse yourself in the SHOT Show experience!
I was in Las Vegas last week for SHOT Show, filming content for Replica Airguns, but I wanted to post a quick update so you know what I was up to.
I went to SHOT Show to connect with people in the industry and record a bunch of interviews with vendors and companies, Airgun and aintball brands included (and more). I ended up filming about seven interviews, and now that I’m home I’ve got a lot of great footage to go through.
I was in Vegas with my buddy Steve (the guy behind the camera). Once the filming was wrapped, we spent some time enjoying the city after a busy week. We also did a few things outside of SHOT Show, because if you’re in Vegas, you might as well experience it.
In this video, we’re at the Montecristo Cigar Bar inside Caesars Palace, winding down with a nice port and a cigar.
Stay tuned,now that I’m back, I’ll start editing and posting those interviews. If you want to watch the SHOT Show interview series, head over to Replica Airguns or watch on our Vimeo and YouTube channels as I post them…
This isn’t an airgun, but it will show up in a least some of my airgun videos, you just won’t usually see it. The DJI Neo 2 is my new AI camera drone that I’ll be using for outdoor shooting segments, walk-around tests, and any time I need moving shots without a camera operator.
Up until now I’ve been using the original DJI Neo and the HoverAir X1 Pro Max. The HoverAir still has slightly better pure video quality, and the original Neo had decent AI features, but together they meant more gear to carry and more batteries to manage. The Neo 2 is the first drone that can realistically replace both for what I do on this channel.
I picked up the Fly More Combo, which includes the Neo 2, the RC-N3 controller, three batteries, a charging hub, and the antenna/transmitter module pre-installed. With three packs I can get roughly 35–40 minutes of real-world flying, which is more than enough to cover a shooting session.
The biggest upgrade over the original Neo is the two-axis gimbal. Instead of cropping the image to keep the horizon level when the drone tilts in the wind, the camera physically moves side-to-side and up/down. Combine that with updated processing and you get up to 4K 60 fps (and even 100 fps in 4K), which is perfect for smoother tracking shots when I’m walking, moving between targets, or doing action-style footage.
The Neo 2 is also loaded with sensors and obstacle avoidance: fisheye cameras on multiple sides plus a front LiDARunit. It does a great job of seeing trees, branches and other obstacles and routing around them, which is exactly what I need when I’m focused on shooting and talking, not flying.
For control, I can either use the phone app for quick AI “follow me” and smart shots, or the RC-N3 for longer-range, more traditional drone flying and higher altitude shots. There’s also a very cool gesture control system (I call it “Jedi mode”) where I can move the drone up, down, left, right, closer or further just by using hand signals, no need to stop recording or dig through menus.
Bottom line: you probably won’t see the DJI Neo 2 in many of my videos, but you’ll definitely see what it captures. It lets me add smoother tracking shots, aerial views and more dynamic angles to my Replica Airguns content, all without needing a dedicated camera person. For a solo creator who films a lot outdoors, it’s a very handy tool to have in the bag.
I tested another Steambow model in this Field Test Shooting Video, the Steambow AR Series M10 Tactical Crossbow. Like my other Crossbow Field Test videos, I recorded the Chronograph velocity while I was shooting the target so there was no need for separate segments, everything was done in one go with four cameras rolling. I didn’t put a dedicated camera on the Chronograph because I wanted a camera on the target; my camera glasses generally pick up the chrono readings anyway. I only have so many cameras, but everything recorded as planned. If you want the full specs and a closer look at the M10, watch my dedicated Table Top video.
Steambow quotes about 190–200 fps for the AR Series M10. My six chrono readings were 189, 191, 189, 189, 190 and 191, which worked out to a 190 fps average. Using the included 142-grain, 6.5-inch aluminum bolts produced roughly 11.4 foot-pounds of energy, so both velocity and FPE were basically on target with Steambow’s numbers. That’s adequate for small pests, but humane shots always come down to accuracy, you’ll want head or shoulder placement, and I’m not ready to declare any compact crossbow a guaranteed solution for that. Test accuracy for yourself.
For accuracy I shot six rounds at a paper target 30 feet downrange from my usual seated in the back, hands rested up front shooting position. The first shot from the Steambow AR Series M10 Tactical Crossbow was a few inches low, so I adjusted my point of aim up and ended up with an impressive 1-inch, 4-shot group just left of center. One bolt missed the target entirely, could have been me or a bad bolt (I’ll blame the bolt on that one). Still, for a compact crossbow this was an excellent result, comparable to some pellet rifles.
Overall the Steambow AR Series M10 Tactical Crossbow performed really well. I like the cocking and bolt-feeding system, cocking is simple: shoulder the stock, press the release, then pull the front down using the foregrip for leverage. Even with the higher power of this model you don’t need a lot of strength, and with practice follow-up shots can be quick. I’d add a red dot to the rail to help dial in accuracy and buy a few extra bolts for target practice and hunting. The M10 is one of Steambow’s pricier offerings, but it also has the highest ammo capacity and the most customization options. If you want the ultimate compact crossbow setup, the ability to preload multiple bolts and have extra 10-shot magazines on hand makes the M10 the one to consider.
I’ve tested a few compact crossbows before, but nothing with a multi-bolt loading system like the Steambow setup I’m testing in this video. As with my other Crossbow Field Test videos, I recorded Chronograph velocity at the same time I was shooting the target so I didn’t need two separate segments, I did it all in one pass with lots of cameras rolling. I didn’t dedicate a camera to the Chronograph for this test because I wanted a camera focused on the target; my camera glasses usually capture the Chronograph readings for me. I only have so many cameras, but everything was captured fine. If you want to learn more about the specifications and details of the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II, then watch my dedicated Table Top Video located here.
Steambow lists 180 fps as the claimed velocity for the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II Tactical. I consistently measured right around 160 fps, pretty close to the claim. Using the included 142-grain, 6.5-inch aluminum bolts my chrono readings ranged from 159 to 164 fps, averaging 163 fps, which is very consistent. That produced about 8.4 foot-pounds of energy, so both velocity and FPE were a little under Steambow’s stated numbers. That’s enough for small pests, but humane shots depend on accuracy, you’ll want head or shoulder placement, and I’m not fully convinced this bow is always up to that task. You’ll need to judge its accuracy for your own use.
On elevation (up and down) the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II was fairly accurate. Where it struggled more was windage: I had to aim noticeably to the right to move bolts toward the bullseye. The sight is very basic (a single fiber-optic post just behind of the Picatinny rail), which likely contributed to the windage issue. Despite that, I managed a roughly 4-inch group at 30 feet, with one bolt behaving like a flyer.
Overall the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II performed well. I really like the cocking and bolt-feeding system — cocking is easy by shouldering the stock, pressing the release, then pulling the front of the bow down using the foregrip for leverage. You don’t need to be super strong to do it, and with practice you could get very quick at follow-up shots. I’d definitely add a red dot to the rail to help dial in accuracy, and I’d buy a few extra bolts for target and hunting. The AR-6 Stinger II is pricier than some basic models, but the ability to preload multiple bolts in the built-in clip and unleash six shots in seconds makes the extra cost worth it to me.
I recently started testing out the new DJI Osmo Nano, and while this camera may be marketed as an action/vlogging camera, I immediately saw how it could become a real asset for creating Replica Airguns review videos. On my channel, I’m always filming from multiple angles—close-ups of the guns, tabletop shots, and shooting demonstrations. The Nano’s small size and magnetic mounting system open up a lot of creative possibilities that larger cameras just can’t manage.
Why the Osmo Nano Fits Airgun Reviews
The DJI Osmo Nano is compact, lightweight, and extremely versatile. Thanks to its built-in magnets and the wide range of mounts that DJI includes in the box, I can attach it just about anywhere—on a target stand, a tripod, even a piece of metal in my indoor range. For my type of reviews, where I often want a stable angle on the gun while still moving around myself, this is a huge advantage.
Another big plus is that the Osmo Nano is not just flexible but also delivers great image quality. It records in 4K with 10-bit color and even offers a D-Log mode for those who want to fine-tune their footage in post-production. That’s a level of control you usually don’t get from such a small device.
Key Specs
Here are a few highlights worth noting:
Resolution & Color: Up to 4K recording, 10-bit color, and D-Log for advanced color correction.
Stabilization: Rock-solid electronic stabilization, so even handheld or mounted-to-moving-objects shots stay smooth.
Magnetic Design: Attach it quickly to mounts, gear, or almost any surface.
Lightweight Form Factor: Easy to carry, position, and experiment with new camera angles.
DJI Osmo Nano vs. Insta360 Go Ultra
A lot of people will naturally compare the Osmo Nano to the Insta360 Go Ultra since they’re both in the same category. But from my testing, DJI’s camera has some strong advantages:
Lower Price: The Osmo Nano is much more affordable.
Included Accessories: DJI packs in more mounts and options straight out of the box.
Color Flexibility: With 10-bit recording and D-Log, it offers a lot more room for dialing in your footage.
For someone like me who’s already juggling multiple cameras during a review, having a cost-effective and flexible option like this makes a lot of sense.
Final Thoughts
The DJI Osmo Nano may be tiny, but it’s built with creators in mind. For airgun reviews, it allows me to set up angles I wouldn’t normally capture, without having to invest in another full-sized camera or rig. Smooth footage, great color, and the freedom to mount it just about anywhere—it’s a perfect addition to my setup.
If you want to see it in action, check out my video where I share some first impressions and show real-world examples of what the Nano can do.
This is one camera I’ll definitely be adding into the mix for future Replica Airguns reviews.
I also got a few accessor items from a company called GEAR STOCK, Some CO2 in 12 and 88 gram along with some 6mm aluminum Airsoft BB’s. A very cool rechargeable red and green laser that comes in a nice hard shell case and it has a picatinny rail on the bottom she you can stack a second accessory under it.
Here are some links and specs for the Airguns I show off in this mystery box video:
Before I get into this Field Test Shooting Video for the Bug-A-Salt 3.0, make sure to watch my Table Top Video Review for it where I go into more details and specifications along with some nice close up video of it. In this Field Test Outdoor Shooting Video I test out the Bug-A-Salt 3.0 on some wrapping paper (Wrapping Tissue Paper) from various distances to see what damage the Bug-A-Salt 3.0 does to it. You do really need to get in pretty close to see significant damage, but if you where a small bug you would at bare minimum be stunned and immobilized waiting for that fatal kill shot.
I was hoping to go on a kind of Bug Safari Hunt out in the yard, so I did a dry run without my cameras running and I quickly found out that bugs in the wild are extremely elusive. They much prefer the comfort of your home which is of course the ideal location for using the Bug-A-Salt 3.0, but not great for shooting a video…
I was not able to record velocity or accuracy for that matter using the Bug-A-Salt 3.0 as it is more like a salt shotgun but as fate would have it, one very unlucky fly did land near by while I was recording, and it met its fate for the sake of this video. I also vaporized some butter cups (These are small yellow flowers that grow wild in the grass). All in all I was able to showcase the effectiveness of the Bug-A-Salt 3.0. My advice is to get in nice and close if you want a one shot kill, or you will have to take some follow up mercy shots.
I am making this video for both my channels (GetFitOver40 & Replica Airguns) since I will be using the HoverAir X1 ProMax in my Video making process to capture video in a way that only an AI Drone can. I do like to share with my audiences some of the tech I use behind the scenes to make the videos a bit more interesting.
There is a ton to talk about and show when it comes to the HoverAir X1 ProMax which is why this video is a bit on the longer side. I really wanted to talk about what I like about this amazing flying video system, and of course show the super high quality video it takes.
The purpose of this video is not so much to go over all the specifications and details, or to compare it to other similar products, but rather to go over what I like about it, and why I decided to get one for myself. About a year ago I ordered the HoverAir X1 Pro when it was being crowdfunded, but I backed out of my order when the DJI Neo came out, mainly because the DJI Neo was first to market, and it can also fly in true FPV mode which really appealed to me. I am glad I got the Neo as it has been so much fun, and will be keeping it mainly for its FPV flying and versatility.
Why did I decide to get myself the HoverAir X1 ProMax? There is really nothing out there right now that can take as high quality video (8k) in such a small and portable package. I love the AI flying modes but it is also nice you can use the Beacon with the Joysticks to control it just like a regular Drone.
For me it was the ultra high video quality, the faster tracking speeds, and the ability to use it like a standard drone since all my other drones are more or less FPV drones. Oh yah, I also got a crazy deal on it over on Marketplace (About half price).
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull on the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun is a Single Action Only trigger that requires you to work the pump action to load salt and prepare the hammer to fire in Single Action. There is a little bit of takeup and then a medium trigger pull weight that is about right for a pest control tool like this, as you do not want a super light trigger that could go off unintentionally. When you work the action using the pump, the real sight also pops up not only so you can use it but also to indicate that the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun is loaded and ready to fire.
Accuracy: So far I have not fired or tested out the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun as it is not the time of year for bugs just yet, so that portion of my review is going to have to wait until at least spring time when the bugs and flies come out in full force. I will not be making my traditional Field Test Shooting Video where I shoot at a Paper target setup 30 feet away, or even testing out the velocity in fps as the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun is only rated to shoot up to 3 feet away and I’m not sure how a blast of salt would even be read by a Chronograph or if that information is even important for a fly exterminator like this. I will be making some sort of shooting video for the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun when I am able to find bugs to blast…
Build Quality: The BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun is made out of mostly plastic with I assume some metal working parts internally. Even the internal barrel is plastic since you are only shooting salt. The BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun does feel solid and the working parts like the pump action, trigger and safety feel durable enough. The salt hopper lid may be a bit flimsy and if that breaks I’m not sure how one would keep the salt in the hopper?
Realism: The BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun is not a replica gun to speak of, it kind of looks like a pistol grip pump action shotgun but there is really no way I feel anyone would mistake the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun for a real gun, this is probably good since you may want to keep it out lying around in your house for when you may need to do some bug blasting.
Pros:
Very unique product, not a lot of competition in the market.
Makes eliminating flies and bugs a lot more fun, would be fun at get togethers or parties.
Fairly well built, feels solid and durable.
Low cost to operate, only requires table salt.
Can get up to 80 shots per loaded salt hopper.
Can shoot flies up to 3 feet away.
Easy to access cross bolt safety.
Auto pop-up rear sight lets you know it is loaded and ready to fire.
SAO Trigger is relatively decent.
No bug guts mess to cleanup.
Cons:
Not suitable for larger bugs with hard exoskeletons like wasps or larger. Really only meant for flies.
Not a toy as it could be assumed it is. So be careful around kids as an eye shot could be very painful and cause injury.
Price is a lot more than a fly swatter that also gets the job done.
Comments:
If you hate flies as much as I do and would like a more sportsman like way to eliminate them rather than your standard fly swatter that basically mushes the fly into a bloody mess on what ever surface you mash it into. Then perhaps something like the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun may be just perfect for you. I am hoping it works as good as the advertising says it does. Based on some of the reviews I have watched it seems ideal for flies but may not so good for larger insects with hard exoskeletons. You are going to pay a lot more for the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun than a dollar store fly swatter will cost you, but I can guarantee you will have a lot more fun using it and no need for the messy bug juice clean up after a kill shot.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Mark from Umarex again at SHOT Show 2025 and Mark went over some of the new products from Umarex coming out this year. Make started of by showing me two new MOS (Modular Optic System) Gen 5 Glocks in a Glock 17 and Glock 19 versions. Both come with Umarex based red dot sights but you can change them up for something different if you choose to down the road. We then took a look at the new Umarex AER16 AR AEG Rifle in 4.5mm Steel BB rather than 6mm Airsoft similar to the Barra e400 that came out last year. In a nutshell it is a battery/spring operated 4.5mm Steel BB Full Auto AR Replica. Mark then showed us some A&L AK based AEG Airsoft Rifles they are now distributing that feature Full steel body construction with high-quality real laminated wood handguard and skeletal folding stocks. These are one to one in terms of size and weight adn very detailed. We then finished up the interview taking a look at the Legends Saddle Lever Action Shell Loading Rifle and the Umarex Smith & Wesson Competitor Shell Loading revolver.
I spoke with Jacob from Barra and he went over a lot of new products adn updated products Barra is introducing this year. We discussed some new PCP Air Rifles with Canada import options, Jacob went over some new updates to their 1866 Muti-pump BB and Pellet Lever Action Rifle, and he went over Barra’s Gen 2 400e AEG BB rifle which include a higher capacity magazine, an increased velocity and unproved internal tolerances for smoother BB flow. Lastly Barra is introducing high grade 4.5mm BB’s that a re procession ground to be more uniform for improved accuracy and better BB feeding. Great for full auto guns.
It was nice to run into ASG (Action Sports Games) right away and talk with Bob for ASG. Bob always has a great understanding of the ASG product line and each year I Interview him and find out all the news and updated product in the ASG lineup. This year Bob’s goes over the new ASG CZ P-10 C CO2 Blowback BB Pistol, the Action Army C1 Pro Bolt Action CO2 Airsoft Rifle, ASG’s new Frag Impact Sound Grenades, along with some new additions to the Shadow 2 Series of Airsoft Pistols. Was a great start to this years SHOT Show 2025!
I’m back from SHOT Show 2025 Las Vegas and finished transferring and uploading all the video from all the cameras we shot it all on. We had a great time, we met a lot of great folks at the booths and it’s now time to put it all together and make some videos for everyone so I can share the experience!
I always like to put out a “Teaser Video” with some quick clips of the entire experience including some of the travels, a bit of the resort we stayed at, shots of Vegas and of course lots of the SHOT Show 2025 experience along with the booths we visited. Enjoy this quick preview and stay posted for my upcoming Interview Videos shortly…
Type: Multi-Ammo Pistol. Distributer:Alies Airguns. Model:GEM. Materials: Mostly metal with some plastic build. Weight: Barrel dependent. Total Length: Barrel dependent 3.5 inches (89mm) with BB and Airsoft Barrels. Barrel: Barrel dependent 2 inches (51mm) with BB and Airsoft Barrels Propulsion: 8 or 12 gram CO2 (12 Gram CO2 required adaptor sold separately). Action: Break Barrel / Single shot. Ammunition Type: 4.5mm Steel BB's / 6mm Airsoft BB’s (Can also purchase .117 Pellet, .50 & .43 cal Paintball, 9mm Arrow Barrels) Ammunition Capacity: 1 round. FPS: up to 400 using 4.5mm Steel BB’s.
Trigger Pull: The Alias GEM Multi Ammo Mini CO2 Airgun is a true single action only pistol that requires the pulling back of the hammer for each shot. This does give it a very nice trigger action that is short to medium in length with an easy release. The makeup is about medium for a single action trigger with a bit of an unpredictable release as there is no point in time that you feel it breaking on you. This can be good or bad depending on how you like your triggers as it is hard to tel when ti will actually release but the smoothness makes it a good trigger overall in my opinion
Accuracy: I have not shot the Alias GEM Multi Ammo Mini CO2 Airgun at all so far as it requires 8 gram CO2 and so I am waiting on the 12 gram adaptor for it before I can even give it a quick try. I will be making a full Field test Review for it swapping between a bunch of barrel options to see how each barrel adn ammo type performs in terms of power adn accuracy so stay posted for that video down the road a bit.
Build Quality: Build quality for the Alias GEM Multi Ammo Mini CO2 Airgun is very good with an almost all metal build other than the front and back sights, the trigger, the safety adn the barrel release. I kind of wish these parts were also metal as the rest of the Airgun is so pristine! The weight of this pistol feels very dense as it is so small yet has a good weight. The fir and finishes is all very good with the chrome finish on most parts and even the inclusion of what I believe are real gem stones on each side of the grips. The mechanical parts are also smooth and precise.
Realism: As far as I know the Alias GEM Multi Ammo Mini CO2 Airgun is not a replica of any production real steel gun that I am aware of. It looks to me like some sort of futuristic compact laser pistol? In terms of gun shape and what we are use to in terms of what a gun is it checks most of the boxes but it is it’s own design for sure.
Pros:
Super compact design, probably the smallest Airgun available.
Multiple quick change barrel and ammo options.
Mostly all metal build, very high quality materials.
Nice smooth and light SAO trigger.
Able to also use 12 gram CO2 with optional adapter.
Comes in different colors (red or black).
Decent velocity up to 400 fps depending on ammo type.
Eye-catching chrome and gemstone detailing make it a collector's piece.
Cons:
Uses 8 grams CO2 standard, harder to get and more expensive.
Only a single shot, not an action shooter.
On the pricy side at over $300 Canadian.
Comments:
I have to say that the Alias GEM Multi Ammo Mini CO2 Airgun is not going to be for everyone as the price point is up there a bit for such a simple single action gun. That said it is super unique and the quality adn design is top notch. It may in fact be the smallest CO2 Airgun on the market adn you can literally put it in your front pocket easily. That combined with all the barrel and ammo options makes it super flexible if you plan on shooting a variety of different ammo types. Like I said in the video you may even be able to get away with buying it as a gift for your wife or girlfriend since it technically can be defined as being jewelry with the imbedded Gem stones in the grips. That may be a bit of a stretch unless she is also an Airgun fan.
