View fullsize

In this table top review, we’re taking a close look at the Air Venturi Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot Spring BB Rifle. While this is technically a “table top” review, lever-action rifles like this are always a bit easier to show off in-hand due to their length and proportions.

This model fits into a long lineage of classic lever-action BB rifles, alongside well-known options like the Daisy Red Ryder and the Marlin variants from Crosman and Umarex. These rifles all share a similar concept, simple, spring-powered, lever-action BB guns designed for training, plinking, and beginner shooters, but each brings its own subtle differences in materials, styling, and features.

Key Specifications

• Model: Air Venturi Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot

• Type: Lever Action Spring Piston BB Rifle

• Caliber: 4.5mm Steel BB

• Power Source: Spring (No CO2 Required)

• Velocity: Up to 350 FPS

• Magazine Capacity: 550 Round Internal Reservoir (Gravity Fed)

• Action: Lever Action

• Safety: Cross Bolt Safety

• Barrel: Smoothbore

• Stock: Stained Solid Wood

• Construction: Primarily Metal with Some Plastic Components

• Weight: Approx. 3.3 lbs

• Overall Length: ~36.25 inches

• Optics Rail: Removable Weaver/Picatinny Style Mount

First Impressions & Build Quality

The Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot stands out with its classic Western styling, enhanced by engraved Annie Oakley branding on the wood stock. It’s a step above many entry-level BB rifles thanks to its real wood stock and metal lever, giving it a more authentic and durable feel compared to fully plastic alternatives.

Most of the rifle is metal and wood, though there are a few plastic components:

• Trigger

• Front sight (on the newer version)

• Adjustable portion of the rear sight

• Removable scope rail

Overall, it feels solid in the hands, lightweight, and well-balanced, especially for younger shooters or anyone new to lever-action rifles.

View fullsize

How It Works

This is a spring-piston, lever-action BB rifle, meaning:

• No CO2 or gas is required

• Each shot is powered by cocking the lever

• BBs are stored in a large internal reservoir

• You must tilt the rifle upward to gravity-feed BBs into position

With a 550-round capacity, you can shoot for quite a while before needing to reload, your arm will likely get tired before you run out of ammo.

Handling & Usability

This rifle is clearly designed with accessibility in mind:

• Lightweight (3.3 lbs) makes it easy to handle

• Shorter length and pull fits smaller shooters well

• Moderate cocking effort is manageable for beginners

• Lever action slows firing rate, adding a safety advantage for new users

Rifles like this are excellent for training because:

• They are easier to aim than pistols

• They encourage controlled shooting

• They are not overly powerful

Even for experienced shooters, these are simply fun and inexpensive for backyard plinking.

Sights & Optics

Out of the box, the Air Venturi Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot Spring BB Rifle includes:

• Fixed front sight (plastic on newer version)

• Adjustable rear sight (elevation only)

One notable feature is the removable Weaver-style rail, allowing you to:

• Mount a red dot or scope

• Or remove it for a more traditional look

Keep in mind the rail is plastic, so care should be taken when mounting optics.

View fullsize

Comparison to Similar BB Rifles

This rifle sits in the same category as:

• Daisy Red Ryder – The original classic

• Umarex Marlin Lever Action – Slightly more adult-oriented design

• Crosman Marlin (older models) – Direct Red Ryder competitor

All of these:

• Use lever-action spring systems

• Have internal BB reservoirs

• Shoot in the ~300–350 FPS range

The Annie Oakley version distinguishes itself with:

• Better visual styling

• Wood and metal construction

• Optional optics mounting

New vs Older Annie Oakley Version (Key Differences)

If you come across different versions, here are the main distinctions:

Newer Version:

• Longer barrel

• Plastic front sight

• Larger loading port (easier to load)

• Metal Lever

• Brighter, more polished wood finish

View fullsize

Older Version:

• Shorter barrel

• Metal front loading system (rotating port)

• Metal front sight (more durable)

• Plastic Lever

• Slightly darker, more matte wood

Both should perform similarly, but the newer version is a bit more refined with that quality all metal lever.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to handle

• Real wood stock and metal lever construction

• Large 550-round capacity

• No CO2 required (low maintenance and inexpensive to shoot)

• Removable optics rail for flexibility

• Classic Western styling with Annie Oakley branding

• Great for beginners and younger shooters

Cons

• Plastic front sight (new version)

• Lower power compared to CO2 rifles

• Rear sight only adjustable for elevation

• Slightly higher price than some entry-level similar BB rifles

• Less realistic than shell-ejecting lever-action models

Final Thoughts

The Air Venturi Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot is a well-built, visually appealing lever-action BB rifle that blends classic styling with modern usability.

It’s ideal for:

• Beginners and younger shooters

• Backyard plinking

• Anyone wanting a simple, reliable and fun BB rifle

While it doesn’t aim for full realism like higher-end shell-ejecting models, it delivers where it matters, ease of use, affordability, durability, and fun factor.

Available at:

• 🇨🇦 ReplicaAirguns.ca

• 🇺🇸 ReplicaAirguns.us

Also check out ReplicaAirguns.com for additional articles, photos, and video reviews.

View fullsize

Today’s unboxing, we’ll call it the March 2026 Unboxing Preview!

I had no idea what was in this box, and honestly, I like it that way. It makes every delivery feel a bit like Christmas. A box shows up from the warehouse, I crack it open, and my job is to let you know what’s inside and what might be coming soon to the store. A lot of the time these are products we’ve never carried before. Not always, but usually there’s at least something new or unexpected in the mix.

As usual, getting into the box was its own little challenge. Good thing I had my “box cutter “ handy. Once I finally got through the packaging, it was clear right away this one had some interesting stuff inside.

What was in the box?

View fullsize

1) Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot BB Rifle

First out of the box was something a little different: the Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot.

This one is brought to you by Air Venturi / Western Justice, and it’s essentially a Red Ryder-style lever action BB rifle with some nice Western-themed touches. Right away, it stood out with the stained solid wood stock, wood forearm with engraving, and engraved Annie Oakley artwork.

Here are some of the listed specs and features:

• Ammo: .177 caliber / 4.5mm steel BBs

• Action: Lever cocking, spring piston

• Barrel: Smoothbore

• Overall Length: 36.25 inches

• Capacity: 550 BBs

• Claimed Velocity: Up to 350 FPS

• Weight: 3.3 pounds

• Max Shooting Distance: 212 yards

Once I opened it up, it definitely gave me that familiar Red Ryder / Marlin Cowboy vibe, but it feels like it may be just a bit bigger overall. Maybe a slightly longer stock, maybe just a bit more substantial in the hands. I’ll have to compare it side-by-side with a Red Ryder later to know for sure.

A few things I noticed right away:

• It has a metal lever

• Metal frame

• Metal barrel

• A plastic muzzle tip

• A rear sight that appears adjustable

• And surprisingly, a Weaver-style rail on top for mounting an optic

That top rail is actually a nice touch. You could absolutely throw a small scope on this if you wanted to, and why not? It makes for a fun little plinker, and the engraving gives it some real visual appeal too.

I’ve always had a soft spot for these little lever-action BB rifles. They’re just fun. They’re simple, classic, and a great way to introduce younger shooters to safe rifle handling. Rifles like this tend to be a bit easier for beginners since they’re not as quick to wave around as a pistol.

So yes, this one looks like it should be a lot of fun, and I’ll be doing both a Tabletop Review and a Field Test Shooting Review on it soon.

View fullsize

2) .68 Caliber Nylon Balls (100 Count)

Also in the box was a pack of 100-count .68 caliber nylon balls.

These feel noticeably heavier than the rounds I was using in my earlier T4E TC68 review. The previous ones were around the 2.8 to almost 3 gram range, and these new ones feel more like they’re getting up into the high 3 gram to 4 gram area.

That added weight could make them especially interesting to test in the TC68, since more projectile mass can sometimes translate into more energy on target, even if velocity comes down a bit.

So these should be fun to test out, and as it turns out, they may have arrived for a very good reason…

3) Steambow B08 / .68 Caliber Rubber Ball Crossbow Platform

This was the big surprise in the box, and definitely the highlight item.

If you watched my SHOT Show coverage, then you may remember this one from the Steambow booth. It’s a really cool product: basically a magazine-fed rubber ball shooting crossbow-style launcher in .68 caliber.

I had already gotten a chance to try it at SHOT Show, and Steambow was great about letting us check it out there. So it was pretty exciting to see one show up here for review.

Some of the box highlights:

• Detachable magazine

• 8-shot capacity

• .68 caliber projectiles

• Includes 25 foam balls

• Comes with a 35-pound limb

• AR-style adjustable buttstock

• Protective shooting glasses included

This product has a lot going on in the box. Once I opened it up, there were multiple components and accessories packed inside, including:

• Main body / receiver section

• Foregrip

• AR-style buttstock

• Upper receiver section with included magazine

• 35-pound limb

• Bow string and related accessories

• Lubricant / wax for the string

• Mounting hardware and tools

• Protective glasses

• 25 included foam balls

There’s definitely going to be some assembly involved before I can do a full review, so that will be part of the tabletop video.

The main unit itself feels solid and substantial. It has some good weight to it, and overall it looks like a very cool design. The included 35-pound limb should offer a decent balance between usability and performance. At SHOT Show we were only using a lighter 25-pound setup, which was very easy to draw, great for casual target practice, but obviously not the high-performance option.

One of the things I like about this platform is that it gives you that crossbow-style shooting experience while using reusable .68 caliber balls. That can make it easier and cheaper to shoot compared to bolt-style systems, where each arrow or bolt can get expensive fast, especially if you miss the target and damage one.

And since I now also have those heavier nylon .68 caliber rounds from the same box, I should be able to test both the included foam balls and the heavier options to see how they compare.

This one should make for a very interesting review.

Final Thoughts

So that was the March 2026 mystery box. We’ve got two very different products here:

• The Annie Oakley Lil’ Sure Shot, which looks like a fun, classic lever-action BB rifle in the Red Ryder tradition

• And the Steambow B08 / .68 Caliber Rubber Ball Crossbow Platform, which is something a little more modern, tactical, and definitely unique

Both of these are getting the full treatment, so expect Tabletop Review and Field Test Shooting Review videos for both products.

The Annie Oakley should be a blast to shoot, especially if it performs anything like the other Red Ryder-style guns I’ve reviewed over the years. And the Steambow system looks like it could be a really practical and fun way to enjoy crossbow-style shooting without the cost and fragility of traditional bolts.

I’ve still got a few earlier products to finish up as well, but I’ll be getting to these as quickly as I can.

Thanks for watching another Replica Airguns video. Don’t forget to subscribe, and check the links in the description for products available in our Canada and US stores.

For Canada, visit ReplicaAirguns.ca
For the US, visit ReplicaAirguns.us

And if you’re looking for other products including Airguns, BB guns, pellet guns, airsoft guns, blank guns, and accessories, be sure to check out both stores as well.

View fullsize

In this Field Test Shooting Review I’m taking a look at the Umarex T4E TC68 .68 caliber paintball / less-lethal marker to see how it performs in terms of velocity, accuracy, and overall shooting experience.

I have already done a Table Top Review covering the specifications, features, and overall purpose of the TC68, so make sure to check that video out if you want the full breakdown of the gun itself. This field test review is focused strictly on real-world performance.

For this test the TC68 has been de-restricted, meaning the adjustment screw has been modified slightly so it can reach its full potential. Even with this adjustment it should still remain legally compliant here in Canada, since the velocity will remain under the 500 fps threshold.

For ammunition I used .68 caliber nylon rounds:

• Black rounds: approximately 2.8 grams

• Yellow rounds: approximately 2.6 grams

The TC68 in this test is powered using dual 12-gram CO2 cartridges, rather than the larger 88-gram CO2 cylinder, which will affect both shot consistency and total shot count.

View fullsize

Velocity Testing

For the velocity portion of the test I fired several shots through my chronograph.

Chronograph readings were somewhat tricky to capture at first, but once everything started working correctly I was able to record several shots.

Example readings included:

• 476 fps

• 463 fps

• 453 fps

• 445 fps

The velocity dropped slightly during the test, which is expected when using dual 12-gram CO2 cartridges, as they cool down fairly quickly during rapid shooting.

The slightly heavier 2.8-gram black rounds were also used for some of the shots, which can contribute to minor changes in velocity compared to the lighter 2.6-gram rounds.

Even with that drop, performance was still strong and suggests the TC68 could likely reach high-400 fps velocities with a fresh CO2 setup or an 88-gram CO2 cylinder, which provides much greater gas capacity and improved consistency.

View fullsize

Accuracy Testing

For the accuracy portion of the test I set up a paper target down range and loaded roughly 20 rounds into the magazine.

The first test consisted of 10 shots in semi-automatic mode using the heavier black nylon rounds. A red-dot optic was installed on the TC68 for aiming, though it had not been sighted in or adjusted beforehand.

Results were quite respectable for a marker shooting heavy .68 caliber rounds.

• Overall grouping was approximately 4 inches

• Most shots landed within a 2.5–3 inch cluster

• One shot landed slightly low outside the main group

Considering the optic was not adjusted and this was essentially a right-out-of-the-box test, the accuracy was quite good.

Full-Auto Shooting Test

After the semi-auto accuracy test I attempted a full-auto burst test, but quickly discovered the CO2 had been depleted.

After installing fresh CO2 cartridges, the full-auto test was repeated with approximately 20 rounds loaded.

The TC68 does not have an extremely fast rate of fire, but it still delivers a solid stream of rounds when the trigger is held down.

View fullsize

During full-auto fire:

• The gun remained fairly controllable

• Rate of fire was moderate but effective

• CO2 cooling became noticeable during sustained bursts

A fresh target confirmed that the TC68 was still accurate enough for defensive-style shooting, keeping the majority of rounds within the main target area even during burst fire.

Power and Energy

Using approximately 2.8-gram nylon rounds traveling around 475 fps, the TC68 is producing significantly more energy than its factory-rated 16-joule output. Closer to 30 joules!

The modification performed simply allows the power adjustment screw to reach its full depth, allowing the marker to operate closer to its maximum potential.

While exact energy figures will depend on projectile weight and velocity, the TC68 in this configuration appears capable of producing considerably higher energy levels than stock, while still remaining under the 500 fps legal limit in Canada.

Shooting Impressions

Overall the Umarex T4E TC68 proved to be a solid and reliable platform during testing.

Some observations from the field test:

What I liked

• Strong velocity potential

• Good accuracy for a .68 caliber marker

• Full-auto capability for rapid follow-up shots

• Compatible with multiple CO2 power options

Things to consider

• Dual 12-gram CO2 cartridges cool down quickly

• Larger 88-gram CO2 cylinders will provide better consistency

• The gun includes multiple safety mechanisms that require familiarity

The TC68 includes three levels of safety, which helps prevent accidental discharge but does require some practice to become comfortable with the controls.

View fullsize

Final Thoughts

The Umarex T4E TC68 performed well in this field test.

Velocity was strong, accuracy was respectable for a .68 caliber marker, and the full-auto capability adds an interesting dimension to the platform.

With proper setup and a fresh CO2 source, the TC68 has the potential to deliver high-energy shots while still remaining within Canadian legal limits.

Overall it’s a very capable paintball / less-lethal marker and definitely an interesting option for those looking for a high-power .68 caliber platform.

• Buy the Umarex T4E TC 68 Less Lethal Paintball Rifle in Canada

• Buy Paintball Guns in the US

View fullsize

Type: .68 Cal Paintball / Training Marker Rifle /Less Lethal
Manufacturer: Umarex (T4E / Training for Engagement)
Model: T4E TC68
Made In: Taiwan
Materials: Polymer exterior with internal metal components (metal flash hider + various metal controls)
Weight: 2.5 kg (5.52 lb)
Overall Length: 84 cm (33")
Barrel: Approx. 31 cm (12") smoothbore (.68 cal)
Power Source: 2x12g CO2 (in-stock dual system), 88g CO2, or HPA (via included adapter)
Action: Semi-auto and full-auto
Ammo Type: .68 Cal paintballs, rubber balls (including heavier core types), powder/dust/chalk balls, glass balls, pepper balls (where legal), and First Strike–style shaped rounds (magazine-fed)
Ammo Capacity: 20-round spring-assisted magazine (plus hopper-fed option with included adapter)
Claimed Velocity Range: 240–480 fps (adjustable; depends heavily on ammo weight and air source)
Energy (Context): Marketed around 16J “out of the box,” with higher output possible via the built-in adjustment system (jurisdiction-dependent and often tamper-restricted)

View fullsize

Trigger Pull
The TC68 uses a semi-auto style trigger that feels closer to a single-action pull (it needs to work this way to support full-auto). The break is straightforward and predictable, and it suits the “training marker / utility” role well.

Accuracy

This table top review is focused on features, build, and usability. Accuracy testing and chronograph results are better handled in a field test once ammo weight is confirmed (rubber vs. paintball vs. hard plastic rounds will all change results). Initial “gut feel” shooting suggests the factory setting is already pushing hard for a training marker, with performance feeling consistent with the advertised 16J class.

Build Quality

The TC68 is largely polymer on the outside, but it doesn’t feel like a toy. The weight is substantial, controls feel solid, and the overall package is clearly built for training and repeated handling. You’re getting a robust platform designed to run multiple air sources and a wide range of .68 caliber projectiles without needing a bunch of aftermarket parts just to get started.

Realism / Ergonomics / Controls

Visually and ergonomically the TC68 leans into an AR-style layout:

• AR-style grip geometry (and AR-compatible grip fitment style)

• Full-length Picatinny top rail

• M-LOK on the handguard (sides and bottom) for lights, foregrips, etc.

• Ambidextrous selector (Safe / Semi / Full)

• Ambidextrous magazine release

It does not have real-steel operating controls like a charging handle or functional bolt/dust cover, this is a marker, not a firearm replica mechanism, but from a distance it reads like a modern sporting rifle pattern, which matters for training applications and general “presence.”

Safety systems are layered:

1. A “quick pierce / activation” setup (pressurizes the marker only when you choose)

2. A cross-bolt style safety that controls readiness to fire and can also depressurize when switched back (you’ll hear it vent)

3. Standard safe selector switch position

View fullsize

Air Source Flexibility (CO2 + HPA) and Included Hardware

This is one of the biggest selling points: it ships with a lot of the “bits and pieces” that usually cost extra.

You can run:

• Dual 12g CO2 (the configuration shown in the review)

• 88g CO2 (full-length stock configuration)

• HPA via included adapter (plus an alternate stock option that works well with compact tanks)

The included quick-pierce style setup is practical: you can stage the marker with CO2 installed without continuously bleeding gas, then activate it only when needed.

View fullsize

Feeding Options: Magazine-Fed or Hopper-Fed

Out of the box you get:

• A 20-round spring-assisted magazine designed to load easily (the spring can be held back during loading, then feeds when inserted)

• A hopper adapter system (hopper not included, but the adapter is), letting you run higher-capacity paintball-style feeding for volume use, especially relevant if you pair HPA + full auto

The magazine also supports First Strike–style shaped rounds (magazine-fed only), expanding the use-case options for training and scenario work.

Sights / Optics

No sights are included, no irons, no basics, nothing. That’s the odd omission on an otherwise “complete” kit. Plan on adding:

• a red dot (often easiest), and/or

• irons that sit higher, or a riser setup, depending on your preferred cheek weld and optic height.

View fullsize

Pros

• Multiple air source support (2x12g CO2, 88g CO2, or HPA via included adapters/stocks)

• Quick-pierce / staged-gas concept is practical for readiness without constant leaking

• Semi-auto and full-auto capability

• Adjustable power/velocity range to suit different training and ammo types

• Magazine-fed or hopper-fed flexibility (adapter included)

• Accepts First Strike–style shaped rounds (magazine)

• AR-style ergonomics and lots of accessory mounting (Picatinny + M-LOK)

• Strong “presence” and serious performance feel for a .68 platform

• In Canada especially, it fills a niche many users are actively looking for (training/marker/home safety versatility)

Cons

• Pricey in Canada (around the ~$600 CAD range at the time of the review)

• No sights included (you must budget for at least basic aiming equipment)

• Maximum performance potential may be restricted by factory tamper measures and local rules (and you should not assume higher settings are legal where you live)

View fullsize

Comments

If you want a .68 caliber platform that can legitimately be configured for multiple roles, paintball, training, scenario use, home safety use, the Umarex T4E TC68 stands out because it’s versatile right out of the box. The “complete kit” nature (CO2/HPA readiness + mag and hopper options) is rare at this price point.

The Umarex T4E TC68 is in probably one of the most powerful “Rubber Ball”Airguns you can get here in Canada right now with the ability to even turn it up a notch (at your own discretion). With Canadian legal gun owners losing their rights to own regulated Firearms more and more each day, being able to acquire something that is not regulated may be the best option for non-Firearms Licensed holders and Firearms Licensed holders.

Field test follow-up (chronograph + practical shooting) will matter a lot with this one, because performance varies dramatically with projectile type and weight. That’s where it will be most interesting to quantify real fps and estimated energy across a couple common round types.

• Buy the Umarex T4E TC 68 Less Lethal Paintball Rifle in Canada

• Buy Airguns in the US

It’s been a little while since I’ve done an unboxing, so we’ll call this the February 2026 Mystery Box Unboxing Video.

First up: SHOT Show is officially wrapped on my end, interviews, teaser, the whole run. There should be a playlist available so you can binge everything in one place. Now that the heavy editing grind is done, I’m getting back into regular reviews, unboxings, tabletop breakdowns, and full field tests.

Also: we’re back on YouTube and I’m uploading like crazy. I’m moving the library over from Vimeo one-by-one (lots of clicks, lots of time). We’ve got roughly 1,300 videos total, and I’m already around 500 videos in, so if you’re hunting for something specific, use playlists and search because new uploads can get buried fast. If you can, subscribe and share the channel with other Airgun enthusiasts so we can build momentum again.

What was in the box?

View fullsize

1) SIG P229 (.177 Pellet, blowback)

I initially called it a P226, but it’s the P229 (compact). This is a pellet version (not BB), with:

• 16-round rotary stick magazine (8 per side)

• Blowback, semi-auto

• Claimed 380 FPS

• 3.9" barrel, 7.7" overall length

• 2.2 lb, hefty all-metal feel (mag is plastic)

No slide lock-back due to the rotary setup, but it looks great in-hand. Tabletop and field test videos are coming, and I’ll run it on typical lead pellets to see real-world performance.

View fullsize

2) T4E TC68 (.68 cal, CO2/HPA capable)

This is the TC68 trainer that shoots .68 caliber rounds (rubber, powder, paint, pepper ball options depending on what you choose). Specs and highlights:

• Claimed 330 FPS and 16 joules

• 20-round magazine-fed setup

• Supports dual 12g CO2, 88g CO2, and HPA options

• Includes multiple configurations (stocks/adapters) plus a hopper-fed option

I’ll confirm operating modes, setup options, and performance in the upcoming tabletop and field tests.

• Buy the Sig Sauer P229 Pellet Pistol in Canada

• Buy the T4E TC 68 Paintball Rifle in Canada

View fullsize

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.

  • Power: 12g CO2

  • Magazine: 6-shot standard, extended option mentioned

  • Ballistics talk: Roughly ~360–380 fps with a ~46-grain projectile (as recalled in the interview)

  • Ammo pairing: Steel-core “core defense” style rounds were emphasized for hard impact; pepper options depend heavily on local rules.

• HDX 68 “Shotgun Style” (68 cal): A higher-capacity, higher-energy format.

  • Capacity: 16 rounds

  • Energy: ~36 joules mentioned

  • Use case: Home / business defense in jurisdictions where these products and ammo types are legal.

• HDC 68 (M4/Rifle Style, CO2, adjustable): A configurable platform that can run mag-fed or hopper-fed.

  • Tuning: Adjustable velocity

  • Feeding: Magazine or hopper (round ammo works well; shaped rounds can be used depending on orientation)

  • CO2 options: 88g CO2 or adapters for 12g

  • Why not nitrogen (yet): Too much pressure without regulation, risk of damaging projectiles in the barrel.

• New Ruger-Branded 1911 (CO2 blowback): A dressed-up 1911 variant with extra detail.

  • Notable features: Flared magwell, two-tone finish, extended beavertail, competition-style touches

  • Appeal: A strong trainer option for 1911 fans, great feel, realistic handling, and that classic 1911 cycling character.

• Competition-Style CO2 Pistol (single-shot): A purpose-built target/competition format with modern mounting options.

  • Loading: Single-shot

  • Ergonomics: Competition grip + competition styling

  • Mounting: Built-in rail (no “upgrade it just to mount stuff” hassle)

  • Caliber shown: .177, with the obvious question of a future .22 variant.

Watch the Full Interview Video:

View fullsize

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:

  • Folding stock, 1913/Picatinny rear, dual gauges, 2-stage trigger

  • Externally adjustable regulator

  • Ambidextrous side lever (convertible)

  • 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.

Watch the Full Interview Video:

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.

Watch the Full Interview Video:

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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…

View fullsize

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.

• Buy the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun in Canada

• Buy the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun in the US

Before I get into this Field Test Video Review for the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol, make sure to watch my Table Top Video for it if you want information like Specifications and Details along with some more closer up video of it. The Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol for some people will be a pretty entry level BB Pistol many might overlook but if you are simply looking for a Beretta 92 based Airsoft Pistol that is relatively inexpensive to buy and cheap to shoot. And if you don’t need quick semi auto shooting or anything ultra realistic, then the this Spring Airsoft Pistol could be an option for you.

In this video I test out the velocity, accuracy and I basic operation, so let’s get started with the velocity or fps portion of the testing. I loaded up the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol with a full 12 rounds of .12 gram Airsoft BB’s in the drop out magazine. I shot 5 rounds through my Chronograph hitting the following fps: 285, 288, 289, 292, 289, which averaged 289 fps. Umarex claims a velocity of up to 260 fps which I shot a bit over, but if you do plan on using more standard heavier .20 gram Airsoft BB’s, that numbers going to drop a bit perhaps in the mid or lower 200’s.

View fullsize

I then placed a brand new paper target on my backstop 30 feet down range and proceeded to shoot a full 12 round magazine into it using a semi rested shooting position, hands rested on a sand bag up front and sitting on a stool in the back. This generally gives me good stability while performing these field tests but there is always some human factor to take into consideration. I did not get a super impressive grouping, the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol likes to fling Airsoft BB’s around a bit resulting in around a 7 inch grouping. You can see the BB’s curl as they fly through the air. Using heavier Airsoft BB’s should help tighten up the grouping somewhat, but for all intents and purposes I did get all the shots onto my paper target which would represent a person’s mid section well. So if you were using this simple Airsoft Pistol for some fun war games with your friends, you would be able to hit a person easily from closer in ranges.

The Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol is really made for having some fun close range war games with your friends or even shooting pop cans I would say within 20 feet or so. It works pretty good overall with consistent velocity and predictable accuracy even if it is not super accurate. The fact that it is a clear gun makes it a lot less intimidating and for those with parents sitting on the fence about allowing their kids to get an Airsoft Gun, this one may nudge them into the more willing category. So it may come down to the simple fact that you can get this gun or no gun, if your parents are the limiting factor?

• Buy the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol in Canada

• Buy the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol in the US

Type: Airsoft Pistol.
Distributer: Umarex.
Model: Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear.
Materials: Mostly plastic build.
Weight: .5 pounds (227 grams).
Total Length: 8.5 inches (21.6cm).
Barrel: 4.5 inches (114mm), non-rifled.
Propulsion: Spring.
Action: Repeater/Single shot.
Ammunition Type: 6mm Airsoft BB's.
Ammunition Capacity: 12 round drop out magazine.
FPS: 260.

View fullsize

Trigger Pull: The single action only trigger pull on the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol is actually pretty decent as all the work is mainly done cocking the hammer when you pull back the slide to preload the internal spring piston. There is about a half inch of take-up and then another quarter inch before you feel some tension on the trigger, and then about another quarter inch of pull where you can feel the pressure of the release. I would say overall it the weight is on the lighter side but the actual full length is long for a single action only trigger. There is no double action trigger so if you decock the hammer you can not shoot until the hammer has been cocked again.

Accuracy: I did quickly load up a 12 round magazine of Airsoft BB’s and give the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol a bit of a whirl to see what it shot and felt like. Airsoft BB’s did seem to get to the target fairly quickly, I did notice a few of them curve just a bit but they did all hit my paper target close to where I was aiming from 30 feet away. We will see how it shoots when I do make my Field Test Shooting Video for it down the road. I would say the 260 fps claimed velocity looks to be about right but again may actual Chronograph test will tell the true story.

View fullsize

Build Quality: The Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol is an almost all clear plastic built Airsfot Pistol with some scattered metal parts, like the the inner barrel, some springs and screws, and a chunk of metal in the magazine to give it some extra weight and balance. That said the actual fit and finish are good and it should hold up OK since an Airgun this light when dropped has very little mass which can protect it from damage in a fall or drop.

Realism: Again, being a mostly clear plastic Airsoft Pistol with an orange tip, makes this not so real looking as a Replica Airgun, but that is kind of the point here. It is realistic in terms of shape and design to that of a Beretta Mod. 92 FS but that’s about it, the weight is only about a quarter of the real steel version. The Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol is made as perhaps a first time Airsoft Pistol for a younger shooter that may have parents that don’t want them getting anything too realistic looking and potentially getting into trouble with it.

View fullsize

Pros:

• Fairly low cost and comes with 500 Airsoft BB’s to get you shooting right away.

• Full size drop size weighted magazine is nice.

• All the parts feel pretty tight, does not feel overly cheap, has some metal parts where they are needed, barrel, springs, weigght in magazine.

• Red dot on front sights helps with target acquisition.

• No CO2 required, just your Airsoft BB’s.

• Beretta licensing via Umarex.

• Slide operates as it is required to cock the spring piston.

• Hammer is actually operational, can be decocted.

• Makes a good beginner pistol for someone getting into the hobby that may not want a gun that looks super realistic.

• Not super realistic being clear and having a red tip, so parents may be more open to buying and using for younger shooters.

Cons:

• It is on the light weight side.

• Does have an orange tip.

• Being a clear gun obviously takes away from the realism but that is the point of this gun so as not be confused with a real gun.

• Loading is a bit finicky.

View fullsize

Comments:

There is a place for an Airsoft Pistol just like this. Something not too realistic but close enough to give a newer shooter an idea of what it might feel like to shoot a gun like this. The price of the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol is reasonable to purchase and the cost to shoot it is low as you already have a bunch of Airsoft BB’s included, so you can get to blasting cans right away. The fact that you have to rack the slide with each shot means it will take a while to get through the initial 500 rounds that come with it, so again there is some cost saving with a setup like this. I think it makes an ideal first target Airsoft Pistol for younger shooters with concerned parents that may just get them into the hobby.

• Buy the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol in Canada

• Buy the Umarex Beretta Mod. 92 FS Spring Clear Airsoft Pistol in the US

Type: Airsoft AEG Rifle.
Manufacturer: Specna Arms.
Model: SA-FX02 FLEX.
Materials: Reinforced Polymer, Zinc Alloy, and Steel Construction.
Weight: 4.7 pounds (2.1 kg).
Total Length: 30-33 inches (76-84cm).
Barrel Length: 12.5 inches (32cm).
Barrel: Metal non-rifled.
Propulsion: AEG.
Action: Semi and full auto single action only programable trigger.
Hop-up: Rotary adjustable hop-up via ejection port.
Ammunition Type: 6mm plastic Airsoft BB's.
Ammunition Capacity: 270 round full size drop out 9mm style plastic magazine.
FPS: 350-370.

View fullsize

Trigger Pull: The trigger on the Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle is typical of most AEG Airsfot rifles as it is essentially an off trigger that completes a circuit that signals the controller to use what every trigger programming has been setup by the user. What is unique with the Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifles is the ability for the user to fully program the trigger with various semi and full auto setting, along with an adjustable trigger point and even a pre-cocking adjustment. Specna Arms does give you a plastic card that has all the setting listed to make programing easier.

View fullsize

Accuracy: I have not shot the Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle or tested it out so far here in the Sea Can indoor shooting range, so I have no real idea in terms of accuracy or if it is close to the claimed 360 ish fps. I will be making a full dedicated Field Test Shooting Video for it shortly as soon as I am able to. This AEG Airsoft Rifle is specifically made for even advanced shooters so I would expect it to perform very well. Stay posted for that upcoming Field Test Shooting Video.

View fullsize

Build Quality: The Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle is made to be a light weight and easy to cary Airsoft Rifle that will not break the bank, but still includes a lot of higher grade materials and parts internally like a Metal V2 Gearbox and MOSFET ETU. The outer skin is mostly plastic but it is fiber reenforced for added durability. You do get a 6.03mm precision inner barrel for increased accuracy along with other metal parts like the Picatinny Rails, Charging Handle, Bolt Release, Flash Hider, Assorted Pins, Rings and Screws.

View fullsize

Realism: The Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle is built around an AR-15 (AR-9) based submachine gun (SMG). It is not built as a replica of any specific real steel model, but in terms of size and controls it operates much the same. It is lighter weight since the outer construction incorporates a lot of plastic but it still comes in at a decent weight for an SMG Airsoft Rifle.

View fullsize

Pros:

• Affordable yet very high quality product for what you pay. Perfect for all types shooters.

• Quality components throughout.

• Customizable trigger settings for sensitivity and shooting modes.

• Lots of color choices.

• 6 position rear stock.

• ESA™ quick spring change system makes spring changes quick and easy.

• Comes with two springs for potential indoor and outdoor usage.

• Plastic parts are fiberglass reenforced making them very durable.

• Quick release fully adjustable pop-up sights.

• No orange tips on our Canada Store versions.

• Lots of rial mounting options Picatinny rails top sides and bottom with M-LOCK.

• Metal V2 Gearboxes with metal gears and mostly all metal parts inside.

• Easy access to motor for any possible trouble shooting you may need to do.

View fullsize

Cons:

• Lots of plastic on this Airsoft Rifle makes it a bit light weight.

• Will need your own battery and charger setup.

• You will need a very compact battery setup with most Specna Arms models

View fullsize

Comments:

The Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle is specially built for beginners and more advanced users. How can this be? Well it is priced so someone getting into the hobby can afford it and see if this is something they might be interested in pursuing. Often times a first Airsoft Gun when priced lower is going to have a lot of compromises that can affect performance and use. With the Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle, this is not the case. So why would a more advanced user want something like this? Maybe they have already invested a ton of money into their primary weapon, but want something a bit different, or even something they can beat up a bit and not feel bad about it. But they still want an Airsoft Rifle that performs. Well the Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle kinda checks all those boxes. I hope I don’t eat my words when I make my Field Test Shooting Video so don’t let me down Specna Arms…

• Buy the Specna Arms SA-FX02 FLEX AEG Airsoft Rifle in Canada

• Buy Specna Arms Airsoft Rifles in the US

View fullsize

It’s been a while since I made a Field Test Shooting Video, probably well before I went to SHOT Show. I have been working on my SHOT Show 2025 Videos but those Interview Videos are all done and now it’s time to get caught up on some Field Test Shooting Video I have been wanting to make. So today I was able to make my Field Test Review Video for the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol and for some this is a pretty entry level BB Pistol many might overlook but if you are simply looking for a 1911 based BB Pistol that is super inexpensive to buy, and cheap to shoot, and you don’t need quick semi auto shooting. Then the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol Field Test Review could be an option for you. Make sure to watch my Table Top Review Video for the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol for Details, Specifications, Pros and Cons and some nice close up video.

In this video I test out both the velocity and accuracy and I guess to some degree the usability so lets get started with the Velocity or fps portion of the testing. I loaded up the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol with a half full hopper of 4.5 mm Steel BB’s, so around 100 BB’s which is way more than I needed and I shot 5 rounds through my Chronograph hitting the following fps: 191, 193, 188, 195, 197 which averaged 193 fps. Umarex claims a velocity of up to 240 fps which I think is a bit high as temperature is not even a factor with a spring piston Airgun, so warmer conditions will not really make much of a difference here.

View fullsize

I then placed a brand new paper target on my backstop 30 feet down range and proceeded to shoot 10 rounds into it using a semi rested shooting position. Hands rested on a sand bag up front and sitting on a stool in the back. This generally gives me pretty good stability while performing these tests, but there is always some human factor to take into consideration. I was not all that impressed with the grouping I got, the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol likes to fling BB’s around a bit. You an see them curl so maybe some miscellaneous spin is being added in the barrel but it is not a consistent spin so the BB’s kind of spray all over the target that ended up giving me around a 8 inch grouping. Usually I can get around a 2 inch grouping with a BB Pistol that is generally what I would consider to be good accuracy.

I wish the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol Field had hit closer to the 240 claimed fps and was also a bit more accurate as it would then be more usable at the 30 foot range I tested it at. I would suggest if you buy or own this BB Pistol, that you shoot it at targets closer in at 10-20 feet as the poor velocity and accuracy would be a lot less noticeable at these ranges and for that purpose it would be just fine. If you want a super low cost BB Pistol option that is also a decent looking 1911 Replica, and that you don’t need to go out and buy any CO2 to use it. Then take a look at one in our Replica Airguns Online Store. Heck, it’s only $19 US and $29 CAN right now!

• Buy the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol in Canada

• buy the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol in the US

View fullsize

Type: Pump Spring Piston.
Manufacturer: BUG-A-SALT.
Model: BUG-A-SALT 3.0.
Materials: Metal and plastic.
Weight: 1.5 pounds (680 grams).
Total Length: 21.5 inches (54.6cm).
Barrel Length: 8 inches (20.3cm).
Barrel: Plastic non-rifled.
Propulsion: Spring.
Action: Pump SAO.
Effective Distance: 3 feet.
Ammunition Type: Standard table salt.
Ammunition Capacity: 80 round hopper.
FPS: NA.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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…

View fullsize

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?

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

• Buy the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun in Canada

• Buy the BUG-A-SALT 3.0 Salt Gun in the US

This will be my final Interview Video for SHOT Show 2025. I did get to talk with someone from Crosman but the Daisy rep was not around totally with so I did my best to talk about a couple of the Daisy products that I felt were interesting. If you are not aware, Crosman and Daisy have now joined forces together along with Gamo, Benjamin and SPLATRBALL so all of these product were on display at the Crosman Daisy Booth. I focussed on the Crosman M1 Full Auto Carbine and their updated all black ST1 Full Auto BB Rifle. We then took a look at some of the Game Face Airsoft Products and then I performed my own Interview/Review for Daisy talking about the Woodland Trail Model 1911 and Model 25 Lever and Pump Action BB Rifles.

• Buy Replica Airguns in Canada

• Buy Replica Airguns in the US

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.

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…

• Buy Airguns in Canada

• Buy Airguns in the US

View fullsize

Type: BB air pistol.
Distributer: Umarex.
Model: DSX 45.
Materials: Mostly plastic build.
Weight: 1.25 pounds (567 grams).
Total Length: 9.25 inches (235mm).
Barrel: 4.5 inches (114mm), non-rifled.
Propulsion: Spring.
Action: Repeater/Single shot.
Ammunition Type: 4.5mm Steel BB's.
Ammunition Capacity: 13 round spring fed with 200 round BB reservoir.
FPS: 240.

View fullsize

Trigger Pull: The single action only trigger pull on the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol is actually pretty decent. I would say it has a short to medium length with only a little bit of light take up and then an easy release that has no additional friction. You will have to cock the slide back for each shot which also cocks the hammer back allowing for a true single action trigger. The trigger its self is not like a traditional 1911 trigger in terms of looks but it does work well.

View fullsize

Accuracy: I have briefly shot the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol so I could make some initial comments about its performance as it is a very new product to me. I will be making a full Field Test Shooting Video down the road but for now I can say it performed a lot better than I was expecting. The claimed 240 fps seems believable to me as shots at 20 feet hit the target with very little delay and even at 30 feet the delay was acceptable. In terms of accuracy, out of the box, for the most part hit the target at both 20 adn 30 feet very close to where I was aiming which is what you are hopping for.

View fullsize

Build Quality: Build quality for the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol is also better than I would expect from a $29 Canadian almost all plastic BB Pistol. Everything felt nice and tight and fit and finish was good in general. There is even some metal where they could have gone with cheaper plastic, for example it has a metal trigger and slide catch release that is actually the safety. Of course the barrel and some other internal parts are going to be metal along with screws and such.

View fullsize

Realism: The Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol is a fairly believable replica of a more modern 1911 45 caliber semi auto pistol. Other than it being mostly plastic and much lower in weight, at around 1.25 pounds, the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol does look the part with a working slide (for cocking the spring), a full size drop out magazines, a recessed barrel and a lot of detail in the finishing of it. I find it to be a little bit wider than a real 1911 would be in the grips and even the main frame and slide by just a bit.

View fullsize

Pros:

• Super low coast to buy and shoot, no CO2 required, just need 4.5mm Steel BB’s and away you go.

• Shoots pretty good, BB’s got to the target a lot faster than I was expecting them to and they shot where I was aiming in general.

• Decent looking Replica of a modern 1911 Semi Auto Pistol.

• Has a picatinny rail for adding accessories if you want to.

• Single Action Trigger is pretty decent, a bit of take up but medium light weight to it.

• Has a close to full size magazine that looks the part.

• Magazine has a 200 round hopper capacity with 13 rounds being loaded into the feeder at a time.

• Safety is worked into the slide catch release which adds to the realism in terms of looks.

• Recessed barrel for added realism.

• Actual working hammer you can de-cock if you want to for a bit of added safety.

View fullsize

Cons:

• Almost all plastic other than some internal metal parts like the barrel and spring and some other stuff I am sure.

• Takes a bit of effort to cock it which is required for each shot.

• Sights are not adjustable and are all black with no white dots.

• A bit beefy for smaller handed shooters.

View fullsize

Comments:

The Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol is a super inexpensive BB Pistol but don’t let that stop you from considering it to add to your collection. It has a lot going for it in my opinion. First off the price is super low to buy and to shoot, you only need a bunch of BB’s and you can shoot all day for a couple of bucks. It looks pretty believable as a 1911 Replica. The build quality and detail is a lot better than you should get for only $30 dollars here in Canada and when I quickly tried it out, it actually shot pretty hard for a spring BB Pistol and it seemed to hit the target right where I aimed even at 30 feet away. It even has a full size magazine that holds 200 rounds with a quick load 13 round spring feeding system to keep the fun going. Kind of a no brainer if you’re looking for a cheap and fun time.

• Buy the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol in Canada

• Buy the Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol in the US

This video was made right at the end of December 2024 but I am posting it in the new year so we will call it a late December video… That makes two Mystery Box Videos for December 2024 which means a lot of new products on my plate to review this new year. Hopefully I can get a bunch of them done before I head out to SHOT Show this year in a couple of weeks as I will have a lot of videos and interviews to post for SHOT Show as is always the case when I get back.

At least in this unboxing videos I can give you an idea of some of the new products we have in the Replica Airgun online Stores usually in both the Canada and the US Replica Airgun Stores. In this Unboxing Video I received 5 new products to show you. A Less Lethal Pistol and Spring Piston BB Pistol from Umarex, a Carbine Airsoft Rifle from KJWorks, a Multi-barrel super compact Airgun from Alias Airguns out of Canada, and Bug Exterminator from a company called Skell Inc. Here are some of the basics for each of them:

View fullsize

Umarex P2P HDP 50 Compact CO2 Paintball Gun

Type: Compact CO2 Training Rubber Ball Pistol.
Manufacturer: Umarex.
Model: P2P CO2 HDP Compact .50 Caliber Training Rubber Ball Pistol.
Caliber: .50 Caliber.
Ammo Type: .50 Caliber Powder Balls / Rubber Training Rounds.
Magazine Capacity: 4 Rounds.
Power Source: Single 8g CO2 Cartridge - 3 PCS INCLUDED.

View fullsize

Alias GEM Multi Ammo Mini CO2 Airgun

Type: CO2 Air Pistol.
Manufacturer: Alias Airguns.
Model: Gem.
Caliber: Multi Barrel Comes with 4.5mm Steel BB adn 6mm Airsoft.
Power Source: Single 8g CO2 Cartridge or 12 gram with adaptor.
Magazine Capacity: Single shot.
Buy the .50 Caliber Paintball Barrel Set: AA1002.
Buy the Rocket Barrel Set: AA1003.
Buy the 12 Gram CO2 Adaptor: AA1004.

View fullsize

Umarex DSX 45 Spring BB Pistol

Type: Spring Air BB Pistol.
Manufacturer: Umarex.
Model: DSX 45.
Ammo Type: 4.5mm Steel BBs.
Power Source: Spring Air.
Magazine Capacity: 13 Rounds (Rapid Load) with 200 Round Reservoir.

View fullsize

KJWorks MK1 Carbine Green Gas Airsoft Rifle

Type: Airsoft Rifle.
Manufacturer: KJ Works.
Model: MK-1 Carbine.
Power Source: Green Gas.
Action: Semi-Automatic.
Ammo Type: Airsoft BBs 6mm.
Ammo Capacity: 17 Rounds.

View fullsize

Bug-A-Salt 3.0 Insect Exterminator

Type: Pump Action Bug Exterminator.
Manufacturer: Skell Inc.
Model: Bug-A-Salt 3.0.
Ammo Type: table Salt.
Power Source: Spring Air.
Magazine Capacity: a bunch.