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In this review, we are looking at two crossbows that honestly shouldn’t really be compared, but that’s exactly why this comparison is interesting. On one end, we have the Steambow M10, a compact, magazine-fed, fast-shooting crossbow built for fun, training, and high repetition shooting. On the other, the CenterPoint AT400, a full-size, high-powered compound crossbow designed for serious hunting applications.

Aside from both launching bolts/arrows, these two platforms sit at completely opposite ends of the spectrum. The goal here is not to declare a winner, but to help you decide which one actually fits your use case, or if you might want both.

Key Differences Overview:

Steambow M10

The Steambow M10 is a compact repeating crossbow designed more for fun, training, and high-volume shooting. It uses a magazine-fed system that can hold 10 bolts, allowing for very fast follow-up shots. Depending on the limb setup, it can reach speeds of up to around 200 FPS and produce approximately 10 to 15 foot-pounds of energy. Its lighter draw weight options and easy cocking system make it beginner-friendly and much less physically demanding to use. Overall, the M10 is best suited for target shooting, casual use, and potentially small game with the right setup.

CenterPoint AT400

The CenterPoint AT400 is a full-size compound hunting crossbow built for serious power and hunting use. Unlike the M10, it is a single-shot platform that focuses on accuracy, penetration, and range rather than fast repeat shooting. It sends arrows downrange at about 400 FPS and delivers close to 150 foot-pounds of energy, putting it in an entirely different class. With its roughly 200-pound draw weight, it requires much more effort to cock and reload, usually with a rope or crank system. This makes it better suited for medium to large game hunting, where power and shot placement matter far more than speed.

Side-by-Side Summary

If you want something lightweight, compact, fast, and easy to shoot often, the Steambow M10 is the better fit. If your main goal is hunting and you need maximum power, longer range, and serious downrange performance, then the CenterPoint AT400 is clearly the more appropriate choice. Even though both are crossbows, they are built for very different types of users and very different shooting experiences.

Power & Performance

The biggest separation between these two comes down to raw power.

• The Steambow M10 delivers up to about 10–15 foot-pounds of energy, depending on limb configuration and bolt weight. It’s comparable to higher-end airguns or paintball-level power.

• The CenterPoint AT400, by contrast, produces close to 150 foot-pounds of energy and launches arrows at around 400 FPS.

That’s not a small difference, it’s an entirely different category.

Real-world comparison:

• M10 = backyard shooting, small game potential

• AT400 = deer, and potentially even elk with proper shot placement

This is essentially the difference between a BB gun vs a hunting rifle in terms of role and impact.

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Shooting Experience:

Steambow M10

• Magazine-fed (10 bolts)

• Extremely fast follow-up shots

• Break-action style cocking (very quick)

• Great for drills, repetition, and skill building

• Minimal effort required

You can realistically fire 10 shots in about 10 seconds, making it a very engaging and fun platform.

CenterPoint AT400

• Single-shot system

• Requires rope cocking or crank system

• Significant physical effort (200 lb draw)

• Slow reload (often 30–60+ seconds)

This is a deliberate shooting experience, not something designed for volume or speed.

Use Case Breakdown:

Steambow M10 – Best For…

• Backyard shooting (with proper backstop)

• Target practice

• Tactical-style drills

• High repetition training

• Casual and frequent use

• Lower-cost shooting (especially with rubber ball version)

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You can even use:

• Rubber balls (low cost, reusable)

• Lightweight bolts

• Indoor-friendly setups (with proper safety)

CenterPoint AT400 – Best For…

• Hunting (deer and potentially larger game)

• Long-range accuracy

• Maximum penetration and power

• Purpose-driven shooting

This is not a casual-use product, you typically bring it out when it matters.

Ease of Use & Physical Demand:

Steambow M10

• Very easy to cock (even at lower draw weights)

• Beginner-friendly

• Lightweight (~compact platform)

• Minimal fatigue

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CenterPoint AT400

• High effort required

• Needs cocking tools (rope or crank)

• Physically demanding

• Slower workflow between shots

Key takeaway:
Anyone can pick up and use the M10 easily. The AT400 requires more commitment, strength, and practice.

Size & Portability

Steambow M10

• Compact and lightweight

• Can be partially disassembled easily

• Backpack-friendly

• Ideal for mobile use

CenterPoint AT40

• Large, fixed structure

• Not easily transportable without a case

• Designed for field carry, not casual portability

Ammo & Cost of Ownership:

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Steambow M10

• Bolts are smaller and cheaper

• Rubber ball version = extremely low cost

• Less wear and tear overall

• High reusability

CenterPoint AT40

• Arrows are larger and more expensive

• More prone to damage/loss at high speeds

• Requires maintenance and replacement over time

Value Consideration:

Interestingly, both fall into a similar price range (~$400–$500), but value depends on usage frequency:

• M10 → Likely used often → Higher practical value

• AT400 → Used less frequently unless hunting regularly

If something sits unused, its value drops regardless of price.

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Who Should Buy Each?

Choose the Steambow M10 if you…

• Want fun, fast shooting

• Plan to shoot frequently

• Prefer low effort and ease of use

• Don’t need high power

• Enjoy tactical or training-style shooting

Choose the CenterPoint AT400 if you…

• Are hunting (especially deer or larger game)

• Need high power and penetration

• Value accuracy and range

• Don’t mind slower reload times

• Are comfortable with physical effort

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Final Thoughts

These two crossbows are not competitors—they are tools for completely different jobs.

• The Steambow M10 is about frequency, fun, and versatility

• The CenterPoint AT400 is about power, precision, and purpose

If anything, this comparison highlights that you may not need to choose one over the other, you might actually benefit from having both ends of the spectrum covered.

If neither fits perfectly, then the real answer may be to look for something in the middle.

Where to Buy

Both of these crossbows (or similar models) are typically available through:

• Buy Steambow M10 in Canada

• Buy CenterPoint AT400 In Canada

• Buy in the US

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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In this table top review, we take a close look at the Steambow B08 .68 Caliber Tactical Crossbow, a compact and versatile system designed for shooting rubber balls, paintballs, or foam projectiles. This model is particularly suited for controlled environments like indoor ranges (such as a sea can setup or even basement or backyard), thanks to its relatively moderate power and flexible ammunition options.

A full shooting test will follow separately, but for now, let’s break down the specifications, features, and what comes in the box.

Specifications

• Model: Steambow B08

• Caliber: .68 (rubber balls, paintballs, foam balls, etc.)

• System Type: Recurve crossbow

• Draw Weight: 35 lbs (standard included limb)

• Velocity: Up to 260 FPS (manufacturer claim)

• Energy: Approx. 7 ft-lbs (up to ~15 ft-lbs with stronger limbs)

• Magazine Capacity: 8 rounds (removable)

• Weight: Just under 4 lbs

• Length: 24.2 inches

• Width: 3.15 inches (body, excluding limb span)

• Height: 8.3 inches

• Materials: Fiberglass, metal, and polymer construction

• Stock: AR-style adjustable (6-position) with cheek rest and rubber butt pad

The B08 is distributed by Steambow GmbH (Austria) and is built on a modular platform compatible with other Steambow systems like the M10.

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Key Features

Modular Platform

One of the standout aspects of the B08 is its modular design. The lower receiver is identical to the Steambow M10, meaning you can swap uppers to shoot either:

• .68 caliber balls (B08 upper)

• Crossbow bolts (M10 upper)

This gives users flexibility to adapt the platform for different uses.

Quick Change Limb System

The included 35 lb limb is easy to swap out:

• Secured by a single bolt

• Can be upgraded up to heavier options (up to ~120 lbs available)

• Allows tuning for power vs. ease of cocking

Magazine-Fed Repeater System

• 8-round removable magazine

• Spring-fed system with follower

• Auto-loading mechanism (not semi-auto, but fast cycling)

The system works by “breaking” or pulling back the stock, which:

• Cocks the string

• Loads the next round

• Prepares the trigger

Cocking Mechanism

• Shoulder-supported operation

• Pull stock inward to cock

• Very easy with 35 lb limb

• Allows relatively fast follow-up shots once familiar

Sighting System

• Fiber optic front sight

• Rear alignment via top trough channel

While simple, it works well for close-range shooting. However, the included Picatinny rails (top and bottom) allow for:

• Red dots

• Scopes

• Tactical accessories

Build & Ergonomics

• Polymer lower with reinforced components

• AR-style adjustable stock

• Adjustable cheek rest

• Rubber butt pad

• Included foregrip (user-installed)

Overall, the Steambow B08 .68 Caliber Tactical Crossbow has a solid, lightweight feel while still maintaining good handling characteristics.

What’s Included in the Box

The B08 comes well-packaged with multiple internal boxes and includes:

• Steambow B08 main unit

• 35 lb limb

• Foregrip

• 8-round magazine

• 25 “foam” balls (closer to hard nylon in feel)

• Protective shooting glasses

• Allen keys (for assembly and adjustments)

• String wax

• Extra string

• Mounting hardware

• Instruction manual

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Note:
A small locking component for the upper assembly may come separate and is not clearly explained in the manual, but is required for proper function.

Operation Overview

• Load magazine with up to 8 rounds

• Insert magazine into front housing

• Cock by pulling stock inward

• Fire using single-action trigger

The ball is held in place by a simple groove and string system, guiding it forward during firing.

Performance Notes (Initial Impressions)

• Smooth and reliable operation

• Easy to cock with 35 lb limb

• Suitable for indoor shooting environments

• Compatible with various projectile types

Heavier limbs will:

• Increase velocity and energy

• Require more effort to cock

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Pros

• Lightweight and compact (under 4 lbs)

• Modular system (compatible with M10 platform)

• Magazine-fed repeater design

• Easy cocking with included limb

• Quick-change limb system

• Picatinny rails for accessories

• Comes with useful extras

• Quiet operation

• Reusable ammunition options

Cons

• Higher price point

• No traditional rear sight included

• Learning curve for efficient operation

• Included limb may feel underpowered for some users

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Final Thoughts

The Steambow B08 offers a unique blend of crossbow mechanics and tactical styling, combined with modular flexibility and relatively safe indoor usability. It’s especially appealing for users who want:

• A reusable ammo platform

• Quick follow-up shots

• Expandability with other Steambow systems

While the included 35 lb limb keeps it easy to use and accessible, upgrading the limb will unlock more performance potential for those looking for higher energy output.

Availability

Available through Replica Airguns:

• Buy the Steambow B08 .68 Caliber Crossbow in Canada

• US Archery Buying Options

A full shooting test and performance breakdown will follow in a separate review.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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)

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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

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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?

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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.

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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

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We stopped by the SABRE booth and spoke with Ashley about their Home Defense Pepper Launcher, specifically a second-generation version that (per Ashley) isn’t released yet. With less-lethal options getting more attention in Canada, I wanted to see what’s new, what specs we’re looking at, and whether it’s something we might be able to bring in for reviews and potential store availability.

What’s new with the Gen 2 (as described in the interview)

• “Quick Pierce” magazine system: Ashley demonstrated a faster “pierce and go” style setup, hit the control and you’re ready to aim.

• Pressure indicator: After piercing, an indicator pops out; as CO2 is depleted it retracts, giving you a visual cue that pressure is running out.

• CO2 release button: A control to vent the CO2, then remove the magazine.

Core platform details (current production specs for the .68 launcher family)

These are the commonly listed specs for the current .68 caliber SABRE launcher:

• .68 caliber projectiles

• 7-projectile magazine capacity

• Fiber optic sights (front/rear adjustable)

• Stated velocity up to ~350 FPS

• Range: direct impact effectiveness noted around 60 ft (18 m), with projectiles described as breaking/dispersion capability out to 175 ft (53 m)

Ashley also noted SABRE’s projectiles have a heavier payload than some competitors (in her words) to help with “strength” and accuracy.

Magazines, CO2, and shot count (from the interview)

• CO2 goes into the magazine

• 7 projectiles per magazine

• Two magazines per CO2 (so 14 shots)

Canada angle (what matters for importing)

• Ashley noted the current model is around ~20 joules, and said a Canadian version would likely need to be lower(depending on classification/import requirements).

• SABRE’s own online store states they do not ship internationally, including Canada (so any Canada availability would likely be via distribution/import channels rather than direct-to-consumer shipment).

If we can make the Canada piece work, this looks like a strong candidate for a hands-on review, especially because it’s .68 caliber, 7-round, and built around visibility (fiber optics) and ease of use.

• Buy Replica Airguns in Canada

• Buy Replica Airguns in the US

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We didn’t catch this one at the Steambow booth, we were out at the SHOT Show indoor range checking out Steambow again, Tyler walked us through their brand-new-for-2026 B08: a magazine-fed .68 caliber ball launcher/crossbow that’s just starting to hit availability.

• New B08 .68 cal “ball launcher” platform (2026): This is a .68 caliber system designed to run .68 spherical projectiles (paint, foam/nylon, and pepper/irritant-type balls were all discussed as compatible options, depending on local rules).

• 8-shot, removable, pre-loadable magazine: The B08 uses a spring-fed 8-round magazine that inserts at the front. Tyler’s demo made it clear you can pre-load multiple mags and keep shooting quickly.

• Simple, repeatable action (easy to learn fast): The manual of arms is very “repeat-and-go”: load the mag, cock it, shoot, then cycle and repeat. Steambow describes the system as their familiar AR-Series quick-tilt/quick-clamp style for fast reloading.

• Ships mild, but can be upgraded for more power: The one I tested was using a 35 lb limb, but it’s built to accept other AR-Series limbs (stronger options sold separately). Tyler specifically said swapping to a much heavier limb can turn it into a high-velocity setup (he referenced up to a 150 lb limb and around 300 fps in his talk).

• Projectile flexibility is the whole point: If you already have .68 cal paintballs or similar at home, that’s the target “ecosystem” this is built around (so long as they’re spherical).

• Important safety + legal reality check: Steambow is very explicit that once you move beyond the “low power + soft balls” envelope, the B08 can become very dangerous, they warn that harder/heavier projectiles (including steel balls) raise risks like severe injury/lethality and ricochets, and that irritant/pepper-type rounds may be legally restricted depending on country.

Tyler’s range demo made the main selling points obvious: magazine speed, easy operation, and a huge range of .68 ball options. If we can get it lined up for Canada, it looks like a very versatile multi use platform, especially for anyone who wants .68 cal fun adn then some, without relying on CO2 or HPA.

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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:

Today we’re looking at the A&K M1873R (the R version). There are a few different versions of this rifle in the lineup (some more compact, some more full-length), and the manual actually shows the variations so watch the video where I point that out.

This is a Table Top Review only, so we’re focusing on specs, details, and a walk-around. I was hoping to follow this up quickly with a Shooting / Field Test Video, but my sample has an issue: it’s leaking gas when I try to fill it (I tested with propane/green gas). I’ll need to sort that out first (repair or replacement), so the field test will have to wait until that’s resolved.

Here some links where you can buy the A&K M1873R in our Canada Replica Airguns and US Replica Airguns Stores

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Specifications

• Manufactured By: A&K – Made in China

• Type: Gas-powered airsoft lever action rifle (non-blowback)

• Ammunition: 6mm plastic airsoft BBs

• Power Source: Green gas / propane (internal gas reservoir)

• Action: Lever action / manual cycle (one shot per lever cycle)

• Capacity: 25-round internal magazine (side loading gate)

• Velocity: Approx. 350–400 FPS with 0.20g BBs (temperature/BB weight dependent)

• Hop-Up: Adjustable hop-up system

• Build / Materials:

  • Real wood stock

  • Metal receiver and barrel assembly

  • M-LOK handguard (tactical “modern western” styling)

  • Top Picatinny rail (optics ready)

  • Brass butt plate

• Controls / Features:

  • Enlarged lever loop (glove-friendly)

  • Integrated lanyard ring / sling hoop

• Weight: 4.8 lbs (2.18 kg)

• Overall Length: 27.2 inches (69 cm)

• Barrel Length: 8 inches (20.3 cm)

In the Box

• A&K M1873R rifle

• Mock suppressor (cosmetic)

• Speed loader (you’ll want this for loading the internal magazine)

• Tools / Allen keys

• Small bag of airsoft BBs

• Simple 1-page manual

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Manual Notes: Different Versions

The manual shows several versions of this lever action platform. Some are more compact and some are more traditional full-length lever rifles. There’s also a version that appears to run without the longer front barrel extension setup, which, honestly, is the version I’d personally lean toward since the included mock suppressor is mostly cosmetic.

Walk Around

This is a really sharp-looking rifle, it has that classic lever gun vibe thanks to the real wood stock and brass butt plate, but then it mixes in a modern tactical look with the M-LOK hand-guard and top Picatinny rail.

A few key points when handling it:

• No sights included: there are no iron sights on this rifle, so you’ll want to add your own optic (red dot, scope, or rail-mounted irons).

• M-LOK handguard + top rail: lots of freedom to build the look you want, keep it clean, or “tactical western” it up with accessories.

• Internal mag / side loading gate: loads like a real lever gun, through the side. The external profile stays clean (no big mag hanging out).

• Enlarged lever loop: easier to run with gloves or bigger hands, and it just looks right on this style of rifle.

• Sling / carry: it includes a metal lanyard ring / sling hoop, so carrying it is easy if you want it strapped while moving around.

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Mock Suppressor and Gas Fill

The included “suppressor” is mainly for looks. It does have an orange front, and it doesn’t function as a suppressor (it’s not extending the inner barrel either).

Important practical detail: you’ll need to remove the mock suppressor to access the gas fill valve, which means you’ll want to keep the included tool (or something similar like a washer/coin that fits) with you.

Issue With My Sample: Leaking Gas

My review sample is leaking at the fill area. It looks like someone may have tried to seal it (there appears to be silicone or residue), and there are a few scratches that make me suspect this unit could have been a return. I tried tightening it, but it still leaks and it may be stripped.

This is not what you should expect out of a normal new unit, but I want to mention it because it’s the reason I’m holding off on the field test until it’s fixed.

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Pros

• A lever action gas Airsoft rifle is just plain fun (and there aren’t tons of these around)

• Classic look with real wood + brass butt plate, but still has modern utility with M-LOK up front

• Feels solid in the hands (doesn’t feel cheap)

• Top Picatinny rail makes optics easy (and you’ll want optics since there are no sights)

• 25-round internal magazine keeps the outside profile clean

• Enlarged lever loop is great for gloves or cold-weather play

• Lanyard ring / sling hoop makes it easy to carry

• Speed loader makes loading fast once you get the hang of it

• You can run it more compact by skipping the mock suppressor (it’s optional)

Cons

• The internal 25-round magazine is awkward to load without the speed loader, don’t lose it

• Green gas performance is temperature sensitive, which can affect consistency in colder weather

• Not a fast follow-up shooter, you must work the lever for every shot (part of the charm, but it’s a limitation)

• You’ll need to add your own sights/optic (none included)

• The included mock suppressor must be removed to fill gas, which adds a little extra handling

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Final Thoughts

The A&K M1873R is a really cool “modern western” mashup, classic lever action styling with real wood and brass, but with M-LOK and a top rail so you can build it out however you want. Lever guns force you to slow down and actually enjoy the shooting experience, and that’s a big part of why they’re so popular (even outside of Airsoft).

Once I get the leak issue sorted on my sample, I definitely want to do the field test, because this is exactly the kind of unique platform that deserves to be shot and evaluated properly. On the table, it looks great, feels solid, and offers a lot of customization potential, you just have to go in knowing it’s lever-action manual cycling, it uses green gas/propane (so temperature matters), and you’ll need to add your own optic since there are no sights included.

• Buy the A&K M1873R M-Lock Lever Action Airsoft Gas Rifle in Canada

• Buy the A&K M1873R M-Lock Lever Action Airsoft Gas Rifle in the US

Type: Airsoft Rifle
Manufacturer: KJWorks
Model: M700 Take Down
Materials: Metal with textured synthetic stock
Weight: 7.5 pounds (3415 grams)
Barrel: Smooth bore barrel
Propulsion: Gas operated (Green Gas or Propane)
Action: Bolt
Ammunition Type: 6mm plastic Airsoft BB’s
Ammunition Capacity: 10–11 round metal magazine
FPS: Up to 450 FPS

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Trigger Pull: The trigger on the KJWorks M700 Take Down Gas Airsoft Sniper Rifle performs as expected for a bolt-action style hunting or sniper rifle. Most of the work is done when operating the bolt, leaving your trigger finger with a light, short, and crisp pull to release the firing pin. This shlep a lot keeping everything steady since you can relax your grip adn really focus on your shot placement.

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Accuracy: Be sure to watch my full Field Test Shooting Video for the KJWorks M700 Take Down Gas Airsoft Sniper Rifle to see its performance in detail. I only tested it indoors at my Sea Can range due to cold weather conditions, which aren’t ideal for gas guns. Shooting distance was limited to about 30 feet, but I plan to revisit this rifle outdoors in better weather for longer-range results. At 30 feet, the M700 produced a tight 1-inch grouping and averaged around 400 FPS using .25-gram Airsoft BB’s.
Note: I did encounter some magazine loading issues when fully loaded, BBs from the right side of the double-stack magazine occasionally jammed and didn’t feed properly into the breach.

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Build Quality: The KJWorks M700 Take Down Gas Airsoft Sniper Rifle feels solid and well-made throughout. The fit and finish are good, and all the mechanical components functioned properly aside from the occasional BB feed issue. I like the textured synthetic stock and soft rubber butt pad. This rifle features a lot of metal construction, including the bolt, inner and outer barrel, magazine, sling and bipod mounts, trigger and guard, Picatinny rail, and safety. It feels robust and well-balanced overall.

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Realism: The KJWorks M700 is modeled after the Remington 700 platform, giving it a very authentic hunting rifle look. The Airsoft version mimics the real firearm closely in both form and function. Since it’s powered by Green Gas rather than a spring, the bolt action is smooth, light, and realistic to operate. All the parts that would normally be metal or steel on the actual Remington M700 are also made out of Metal with the Airsoft version. The stock is also Fiber reinforced like the real stele version.

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Pros:

• Gas-operated bolt is far easier to cycle than a traditional spring-powered bolt rifle.

• Heavy use of metal parts throughout.

• Excellent balance and solid overall feel.

• Take-down design makes it easy to transport and store.

• Fiber-reinforced stock adds durability.

• Metal sling and bipod mounts for customization.

• Full-size drop-out metal magazine holds both gas and BBs.

• Easy-to-adjust hop-up screw.

• Ideal FPS for long-range shots without being overpowered.

• Consistent accuracy, good 30-foot performance should translate well to longer distances.

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Cons:

• No sights or optics included, you’ll need to add your own.

• Occasional magazine feeding issues, especially when fully loaded.

• Slightly higher price compared to most spring-powered bolt-action Airsoft rifles.

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Comments:
I’ve tested a few spring bolt-action Airsoft rifles before, and while those are simple (just load BBs and shoot), the gas-powered M700 offers a much smoother and faster bolt operation, perfect for quick follow-up shots. When seconds matter and targets are closing in, that speed can make a real difference.

The KJWorks M700 Take Down Gas Airsoft Sniper Rifle is a great ready-to-shoot platform out of the box and can be easily upgraded with a sling, bipod, and of course, a scope, since it comes without sights.

My review unit had a minor magazine issue, but I believe this was specific to the sample I received and not a widespread problem. Overall, it’s a very capable and well-built Airsoft sniper rifle that delivers solid power, realism, and usability.

• Buy the G&G RK Beta AK AEG Airsoft Rifle in Canada

• Buy the AK AEG Airsoft Rifles in the US

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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.

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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.

• Buy the Steambow M10 Tactical Recurve Crossbow in Canada

• Buy Compact Recurve Crossbow in the US

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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.

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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.

• Buy the Steambow AR-6 Stinger II Tactical in Canada

• Buy Compact Recurve Crossbow in the US

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I first reviewed the KJWorks M700P (the “P” for Power) back in 2018, so I was curious to see how the standard take-down version would perform. Ideally you’d mount a 3x (or higher) optic and test it at outdoor sniper ranges more typical for Airsoft sniper play, but the weather was rubbish for this session. Like last time with the M700P, I ended up doing the review inside my sea-can airgun range, which is fine for chronograph work but limits targets to about 30 feet.

For the indoor velocity test of the KJWorks M700 Take Down Gas Airsoft Sniper Rifle, I shot .25-gram plastic BBs through my Chrony. Over a five-shot string I averaged 403 fps, slowest was 400 fps and the fastest 406 fps, so reasonably consistent for a gas rifle. The gas mag was fully topped up with propane and the ambient temp was about 17°C (63°F). Lighter .20-gram BBs would of course register higher speeds, though in sniper builds you’ll often end up using heavier BBs than .20 g for better downrange performance.

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Using the same .25-gram BBs for a close-range accuracy test at roughly 30 feet, the M700 Take-Down put most shots into about a 1-inch group with one odd flyer out to the right, could have been a bad BB or user error. I ran the test with a simple red dot since the rifle ships with no sights and I only needed something quick on the Picatinny rail for close work. I also had trouble getting all ten rounds from the 10-round mag onto the target because of some misfeeds / misreads; I don’t recall the M700P exhibiting this behavior, so it may be a quirk specific to my test unit.

Overall the KJWorks M700 Take Down Gas Airsoft Sniper Rifle is a nicely executed sniper-style Airsoft rifle — very easy to dismantle and carry in a pack, reasonably gas-efficient, quiet, and powerful enough for the role. The feeding hiccup seemed to crop up when the follower was near the top of the stack (spring tension at its peak) and mainly affected BBs on the right side of the double-stack magazine — which makes me suspect a defect in my sample rather than a design choice. It doesn’t come with sights, so you’ll need to pick up a scope or optic, and personally I prefer the take-down model for its extra versatility.

• Buy the KJWorks M700 Take Down Gas Airsoft Sniper Rifle in Canada

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In this Field Test Shooting video for the Umarex Marlin Old West CO2 BB Revolver I check real-world performance: first I measure fps using a fresh standard 12-gram CO2 cartridge and 4.5 mm steel BBs through my chronograph. After that I hang a paper target at 30 feet and fire 10 rounds using the Single-Action-Only trigger to see what kind of grouping the revolver delivers straight out of the box. If you haven’t already seen my Tabletop Video Review for the John Wayne Marshal CO2 BB Revolver, watch that for full specs and close-up footage.

For the velocity test I put five shots through the chronograph. The slowest registered 345 fps and the fastest hit 416 fps, with an average of 403 fps, right in line with Umarex’s claimed 400 fps. Perfect for popping cans and casual plinking out to roughly 30–40 feet. The test was done inside a sea can at about 18°C (≈64°F), which gives a middle-of-the-road CO2 performance; warmer weather will typically push velocities higher.

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Next I set the paper target on my pellet trap at 30 feet. Using my usual semi-rested position (hands braced on a front sandbag and seated on a stool), I fired 10 rounds with the Marlin Old West. The group measured roughly 4 inches, a bit left and just slightly high from the bullseye — not far off and similar to the grouping I got with the John Wayne Marshal CO2 BB Revolver, although the Marlin’s velocity numbers were notably higher.

The Umarex Marlin Old West CO2 BB Revolver is an inexpensive, mostly-plastic Single Action Army style revolver. There’s a fair amount of polymer in the construction, but it still feels solid despite being on the lighter side. That lighter weight can make the gun feel a bit twitchy in the hand compared with heavier replicas, which can affect accuracy. At the time of this video the Canadian price was about $99, which makes it good value — especially since it loads 18 rounds quickly compared with traditional shell-loading revolvers, meaning more trigger time with less fuss. There are a number of similar replica revolvers available from our Replica Airguns stores in Canada and the US, so check our stock if you’re shopping around.

• Buy the John Wayne Marshal CO2 BB Revolver in Canada

• Buy the John Wayne Marshal CO2 BB Revolver in the US

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Type: BB Pistol.
Manufacturer: Distributed by Umarex
Model: Marlin Old West Revolver
Materials: Mostly plastic, some internal metal parts.
Weight: 1.2 pound (544 grams).
Total Length: 10.5 inches (26.6cm).
Barrel: 5.5 inches 14cm) metal non-rifled.
Propulsion: CO2.
Action: Revolver SAO.
Ammunition Type: 4.5mm Steel BB’s.
Ammunition Capacity: 18 round internal magazine.
FPS: Claimed 400.

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Trigger Pull: The trigger on the Umarex Marlin Old West CO2 BB Revolver is single-action-only, so you must cock the hammer before each shot. That removes most of the trigger travel and effort, giving the Marshal a short, light, and easy-to-manage pull. It’s ideal for deliberate, accurate shooting, but less suited to action-style rapid fire unless you’ve got a very fast thumb.

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Accuracy: I haven’t tested the Marlin Old West model specifically, but it should perform very similarly to the John Wayne Marshal CO2 BB revolver, they’re nearly identical aside from licensing, safety, and magazine placement. In my field test of the John Wayne Marshal it averaged closer to 360 fps rather than the claimed 420 fps and produced roughly a 4-inch, 10-shot group at 30 feet. You can watch that video here; I’ll hope to be posting a dedicated field test for the Umarex Marlin Old West soon.

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Build Quality: There’s not a lot to get excited about in terms of materials, the Umarex Marlin Old West CO2 BB Revolver is mostly plastic with some internal metal parts like the barrel, trigger, hammer, and CO2 components. It follows the common two-half, screwed-together budget construction, which looks cleaner on the side where the screws are hidden. At just over a pound it’s fairly light. With relatively few moving parts, it should be reasonably reliable; the mechanical components do what they need to do and feel suitably solid for the price.

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Realism: At first glance the John Wayne Marshal CO2 BB revolver resembles a Colt Single Action Army Revolver in shape and size, but it’s much lighter, about half the weight. The lack of real bullet openings in the cylinder (when viewed from the front) reduces realism. I’m used to the newer generation of revolvers with working cylinders and loadable, removable shells; those are pricier and hold fewer rounds, but they offer a much more authentic experience.

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Pros:

• A decent looking replica of a Colt Single Action Army Revolver.

• Single action only trigger is short and light and well suited to careful shot placement shooting.

• 400 claimed fps is about perfect for plinking at ranges up 30-40 feet.

• 18 round magazine has a nice high capacity and easy to load when empty.

• Should get lots of shots per CO2.

• Safety is well hidden underneath just in front of the trigger guard.

• I like the look with the all black receiver and simulated wood grips.

• CO2 Allen key is built into grip so always have it on hand and will not lose it.

• Marlin licensed and seems to be $50 less than the almost exact same John Wayne version.

Cons:

• Mostly plastic builds makes it a bit light in the hand.

• No fake shell holes in the front of the cylinder, could have added this for a more genuine look.

• Not a big fan of the clamshell plastic packaging.

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Comments:
The Umarex Marlin Old West CO2 BB Revolver is a solid choice if you want an old-west single-action cowboy BB shooter for less than the nearly identical John Wayne Marshal (it’s about $50 cheaper). If you want more authenticity, consider one of the shell-loading Single Action Army style revolvers, they cost more, shoot a bit slower, and carry fewer rounds, but they deliver a much higher level of realism.

• Buy the Umarex Marlin Old West CO2 BB Revolver In Canada

• Buy the Umarex Marlin Old West CO2 BB Revolver in the US

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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.

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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…

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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