View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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)

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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:

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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

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

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.

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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.

Replica Airguns takes a step back in time to share how everything began, long before the channel, website, and stores grew into what they are today. The journey started around 2006, just a year after YouTube first launched. At the time, online video was still in its infancy, with low-resolution clips, shaky footage, and minimal production quality being the norm.

Mike created the very first video simply for fun. It featured a modified Umarex Walther PPK BB gun that Mike had altered for full-auto shooting. Edited in iMovie on a Mac and uploaded in low resolution (under 640×480), the video wasn’t intended to be anything more than a casual experiment. However, after sitting online for a few months, it unexpectedly reached around 100,000 views, an impressive number for that era, when far fewer creators were uploading content and viral videos were rare.

That early success revealed something important: there was real interest in Airguns and BB gun content. From there, Mike purchased more Airguns (to his wife’s disapproval), more videos were created, and the foundation for a focused channel began to take shape. A few years later, the project became more serious, evolving into a dedicated platform and eventually transitioning into the Replica Airguns brand you see today!

Over time, the brand expanded into multiple websites, ReplicaAirguns.com, ReplicaAirguns.ca, and ReplicaAirguns.us, along with a large video library. Although the channel faced setbacks, including being removed from YouTube at one point, the content continued to live on through platforms like Vimeo and Rumble. Now, with nearly all videos being restored back to YouTube, the library is close to fully rebuilt.

The original video that started it all was thought to be lost for years, buried on old storage drives. Recently rediscovered, it has been enhanced using modern AI tools to improve clarity while still preserving its original look and feel. Despite its dated quality, it represents the true starting point of the Replica Airguns journey.

For viewers interested in Airguns, including BB guns, Airsoft, Pellet guns, and more, the channel and websites continue to offer extensive content and product availability across both Canadian and U.S. online stores.

View fullsize

In this Video I perform the field test shooting review for the SIG Sauer P229 pellet pistol. If you’re interested in the full specifications, features, and a closer look at the pistol itself, make sure to check out my tabletop review where I go over all the details on this gun.

For today’s test I’m going to be shooting SIG Sauer lead pellets, roughly 7–8 grains. Because these are standard lead pellets and not lightweight alloy pellets, they’re not going to produce the highest velocity numbers this pistol can achieve. With lighter alloy pellets you will definitely see faster readings.

You could also shoot steel BBs through this gun, but BBs sometimes don’t seal quite as tightly in the barrel as pellets do. When that happens, some of the CO₂ can slip around the BB as it travels down the barrel which can actually reduce velocity slightly. BBs also generally don’t carry energy to the target as well as pellets, so pellets are usually the better option for accuracy and performance.

With these pellets, I’m expecting roughly around the 300 FPS range, so let’s see how it actually performs.

View fullsize

Velocity Test

For the velocity portion I’m going to put five shots through the chronograph to see what kind of numbers we get.

Chronograph Results:

Shot Velocities: 320 FPS - 296 FPS - 303 FPS - 286 FPS - 277 FPS (Average of 296 FPS)

As you can see, the readings are right about where expected, generally around the 300 FPS mark, with a slight drop toward the last shot. That’s fairly typical for CO₂ powered blowback pistols, since some of the gas is being used to cycle the slide.

View fullsize

Accuracy Test:

For the accuracy portion I’ve set up my paper targets at 30 feet downrange.

The SIG Sauer P229 pellet pistol uses a dual rotary 8-round magazine, so instead of the usual 10 shots I normally use in these tests, I’m going to fire eight shots to keep things simple and consistent.

One thing I like about this pistol is the trigger operation. When you start the trigger pull, the first stage rotates the rotary magazine. This part of the pull is very light and smooth, so there’s very little double-action feel. Once that’s done, you reach the single-action hammer release, which is nice and predictable.

To keep the trigger as light as possible I’m going to pre-cock the hammer, which eliminates most of that initial rotation effort and gives you a much lighter break.

View fullsize

Accuracy Results:

After eight shots at 30 feet, the group measured approximately 1.5 inches.

That’s actually pretty good accuracy for a blowback pellet pistol.

The pistol was shooting slightly low out of the box, roughly about two inches low and just a little to the left at this distance. My aim point was just underneath the bullseye so I could see the target above the sights.

The sights on this pistol are fixed, so you can’t adjust them directly. The easiest solution is simply to aim slightly higher and a bit to the right if you want to hit the bullseye consistently at this range.

View fullsize

Sight Upgrade Options:

If you want more precise adjustment, you do have a couple of options:

• Install a slide-mounted red dot using the removable optics plate

• Add a laser to the accessory rail under the barrel

Either of those options would allow you to dial in your point of aim exactly where you want it, which is a nice upgrade path for this pistol.

View fullsize

Shooting Impression

The trigger feels really good, and the blowback action is solid and snappy, though not overly fast.

The slide actually has a bit of that heavier, slightly slower 1911-style blowback feel, which I personally like. Some blowback pistols cycle extremely quickly and can feel a bit artificial, but this one feels more substantial because of the heavier slide weight.

The pistol itself also has good weight and balance, coming in a bit over two pounds, giving it a very realistic feel in the hand.

Overall, it’s a solid, well-built pellet pistol, and like many of the SIG Sauer Airgun products, it feels like a lot of attention went into the design.

SIG doesn’t actually manufacture these Airguns themselves, they design them and partner with manufacturers to produce them, but the quality across their pellet pistols and rifles has generally been very good.

View fullsize

Final Thoughts

The SIG Sauer P229 CO₂ blowback pellet pistol delivers:

• Around 300 FPS velocity with lead pellets

• Realistic blowback action

• Good weight and handling

• Approximately 1.5 inch accuracy at 30 feet

• Multiple options for optic or laser upgrades

Overall, it’s a very enjoyable pistol to shoot and a solid option if you’re looking for a realistic blowback pellet pistol.

Don’t forget to subscribe, and check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

If you’re interested in buying Airguns, BB guns, Airsoft guns, Pellet guns, Blank guns, and Accessories, be sure to visit our online Canada and US Stores.

Available in our Canada Replica Airguns Store. Also check out:

• Buy the Sig Sauer P229 in Canada

• Buy the Sig Sauer P226 in the US

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

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.

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

In this Field Test Shooting Video I take a look at the KJ Works KP-19S. I’ve reviewed the KP-19 in the past, so this one should perform similarly, but it’s been a while and I wanted to get this one out for a proper range session.

I’ve already done a tabletop / close-up video for the KP-19S covering the specs, features, and up-close details, so if you want the full walk-around and all the technical info, make sure you check that out first.

For today’s session, I focused strictly on performance in the same basic field-test format: velocity testing, then a 10-shot accuracy group at 30 feet, and finally some overall shooting impressions.

Velocity Testing (Chronograph)

For the chronograph test, I ran 0.25g Airsoft BBs (not 0.20g), so expect the readings to come in a bit lower than what many people quote online.

My chronograph also decided to be difficult today, throwing “Error 2” messages and not registering shots consistently, so I had to keep working at it until it finally started giving me some readings.

Once it cooperated, I got five velocity readings:

• 312 fps, 304 fps, 293 fps, 288 fps, 284 fps:

• Average of 296 fps

A couple notes to keep things fair:

• If I had started the test with zero shots fired beforehand (the way I normally try to do it to maximize “fresh CO2” performance), the first shots could be a bit higher.

• Because this was with 0.25g BBs, if you ran 0.20g BBs, you’d likely see higher numbers, potentially into the low-to-mid 300s depending on conditions.

• This model also includes an extended barrel option that can push velocity higher, but I didn’t test it that way because most people run the pistol in its standard configuration (without a long exposed barrel sticking out).

Accuracy Testing (30 Feet)

For the accuracy test, I put a paper target at 30 feet and fired 10 rounds. The nice thing here is that the pistol should lock back on the last shot, so it makes it easy to confirm you’re done without having to count.

Results were excellent for a quick out-of-the-box test:

• With the exception of one flyer, everything was within about an inch

• The group was well-centered left-to-right

• Elevation was also very good without any sight adjustments

There isn’t much you can do for sight adjustment on this one unless you add a laser or optic, but you can tweak elevation slightly via hop-up, depending on your setup.

View fullsize

Final Thoughts

This pistol performed really well for me today.

The KJ Works KP-19S has that 1911-style trigger feel, light, short, and responsive, paired with a snappy blowback that makes it fun to shoot. Velocity was consistent once the chronograph started behaving, and the 30-foot grouping was far better than I expected without any tuning.

Aesthetically, it’s also a great-looking gun: a tactical, modern two-tone style with a double-stack magazine look that gives it that “2011 / hi-cap tactical 1911” vibe. If that’s the style you’re after, the KP-19S is a strong choice.

It should also work with most KJ Works tactical 1911 / double-stack style magazines, so if you already own similar KJ Works pistols, you may be able to mix and match mags. You can also run green gas magazines, but velocity will generally be lower. If you do choose to run the extended / threaded barrel setup, you can hide it with a mock compensator, but it will turn the pistol into a longer, bulkier package. Personally, I prefer it in the standard configuration.

Where to Buy

You can check this pistol out in our Canada Store (and possibly the US Store, depending on availability). I’ll include links where applicable, along with general store links where you can browse airguns, BB guns, airsoft guns, pellet guns, blank guns, and accessories.

Thanks for watching and reading, don’t forget to subscribe, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And yes, we’re back on YouTube after being gone for years. We’re re-uploading older content from Vimeo manually, so it’ll take a bit to get everything restored, but all new videos should be going up on YouTube as well going forward.

View fullsize

I had the chance to take the KWC 18 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol out for some shooting today to see how it performs. It’s a Glock-styled 4.5mm steel CO2 BB pistol with full blowback and selectable semi and full auto. It’s not an officially licensed Glock, but if you own (or have shot) Glocks, the controls and overall feel will be instantly familiar.

I’ve already done a close-up tabletop video for the KWC 18 covering specs and details, so if you want the up-close visuals and feature breakdown, make sure to check that out first.

For this session I concentrated solely on performance: a quick 5-shot chronograph run in semi-auto to record velocity, a 10-round semi-auto group at 30 feet, and then a full-auto mag dump to get a practical feel for controllability and “real world” accuracy—right out of the box (no tuning).

Velocity Testing (Chronograph)

For the chronograph testing, I ran five shots in semi-auto with a brand new CO2 in the magazine. The numbers came in at 293, 294, 282, 290, and 282 fps, for an average of about 288 fps. The spread was tight and the pistol felt extremely “snappy” while shooting, there’s a lot of pop in the blowback and you can feel it cycling hard.

One important note: this is a single-action-only style system, so you do need to rack the slide to cock it before it’ll fire (ask me how I know…).

View fullsize

Accuracy Testing (30 Feet)

For accuracy, I put a paper target out at 30 feet and fired 10 rounds in semi-auto. After a quick adjustment (the pistol was hitting very low at first), I aimed higher and got a roughly 3-inch grouping. The group was well centered left-to-right, but the pistol was still shooting noticeably low overall.

This is the kind of thing you’d simply keep in mind while shooting, and depending on the setup, you may be able to tweak elevation a little (but with steel BBs at short range, don’t expect miracles).

Full Auto (Mag Dump)

Then I loaded up and did a full-auto mag dump. As expected, it was basically spray-and-pray at 30 feet. The rate of fire is insane, and between that and the strong blowback, it was extremely difficult to keep rounds on target. I may have only landed a couple hits on paper.

Final Thoughts

All told, the KWC 18 is a really fun Glock-style blowback BB pistol if you want something that feels familiar in the hand and delivers a crisp trigger with serious recoil-like blowback. In semi-auto it’s manageable (even if it shoots low out of the box), but in full auto, at least at 30 feet, it’s more about the fun factor than practical accuracy.

• Buy the 18 CO2 Blowback Steel BB Pistol in Canada

• Buy 18 CO2 Blowback Steel BB Pistol in the US store

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

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

This isn’t an airgun, but it will show up in a least some of my airgun videos, you just won’t usually see it. The DJI Neo 2 is my new AI camera drone that I’ll be using for outdoor shooting segments, walk-around tests, and any time I need moving shots without a camera operator.

Up until now I’ve been using the original DJI Neo and the HoverAir X1 Pro Max. The HoverAir still has slightly better pure video quality, and the original Neo had decent AI features, but together they meant more gear to carry and more batteries to manage. The Neo 2 is the first drone that can realistically replace both for what I do on this channel.

I picked up the Fly More Combo, which includes the Neo 2, the RC-N3 controller, three batteries, a charging hub, and the antenna/transmitter module pre-installed. With three packs I can get roughly 35–40 minutes of real-world flying, which is more than enough to cover a shooting session.

View fullsize

The biggest upgrade over the original Neo is the two-axis gimbal. Instead of cropping the image to keep the horizon level when the drone tilts in the wind, the camera physically moves side-to-side and up/down. Combine that with updated processing and you get up to 4K 60 fps (and even 100 fps in 4K), which is perfect for smoother tracking shots when I’m walking, moving between targets, or doing action-style footage.

The Neo 2 is also loaded with sensors and obstacle avoidance: fisheye cameras on multiple sides plus a front LiDARunit. It does a great job of seeing trees, branches and other obstacles and routing around them, which is exactly what I need when I’m focused on shooting and talking, not flying.

View fullsize

For control, I can either use the phone app for quick AI “follow me” and smart shots, or the RC-N3 for longer-range, more traditional drone flying and higher altitude shots. There’s also a very cool gesture control system (I call it “Jedi mode”) where I can move the drone up, down, left, right, closer or further just by using hand signals, no need to stop recording or dig through menus.

Bottom line: you probably won’t see the DJI Neo 2 in many of my videos, but you’ll definitely see what it captures. It lets me add smoother tracking shots, aerial views and more dynamic angles to my Replica Airguns content, all without needing a dedicated camera person. For a solo creator who films a lot outdoors, it’s a very handy tool to have in the bag.

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

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

If you want the full tabletop details on the G&G RK Beta AK AEG, check my Table Top Video, it covers features, controls and build in close-up. For this Field Test Shooting Video I moved into the Replica Airguns indoor sea-can range to run practical checks: chronograph testing to measure real-world velocity with field-weight BBs, then live-fire accuracy checks in both semi-auto and sustained full-auto to see how it behaves under realistic use.

Starting with the chrono work, for the G&G RK Beta AK AEG Airsoft Rifle I ran seven shots through my Chronograph using .25-gram BBs (I usually test with the slightly heavier .25s because they better represent what players use in the field rather than ultra-light test rounds). G&G rates the rifle at about 390 fps with .20-gram BBs, so I expected a lower result with .25g ammo, which is exactly what I got. My seven-shot string read: 371, 372, 370, 371, 349, 369 and 370, an average of about 367 fps. Only one shot dropped below 350 fps and the rest clustered right around 370, so velocity was consistent and predictable for a field setup and close to the claimed 390 even with heavier rounds.

View fullsize

For accuracy I placed a fresh pepper target to my ammo trap at 30 feet and fired a 10-round semi-rested string: hands braced on a sandbag up front and seated on a stool at the rear for a repeatable hold. Out of the box, using the open sights, I put most shots into a tight ~1.5-inch group with just one flyer just outside the main cluster. Hits were slightly high and a touch right of center, not surprising given there’s essentially no refined rear sight on this sample, so I was eyeballing the aim a bit. I then switched to full auto and basically shot until the spring tension softened, well over 100 rounds went into the trap. As expected the group opened up under sustained fire, but impacts still concentrated in roughly the same zone as the 10-shot semi-auto grouping earlier, roughly a 3-inch spread overall. Imagine how much tighter those strings would get with a proper optic or red dot fitted.

My take: it’s refreshing to test out an AK-style AEG instead of another AR-variant, the G&G RK Beta AK AEG Airsoft Rifle feels beefier and more planted, and that solid construction pays off in handling and perceived durability. The chrono numbers and on-target accuracy with .25g BBs put the rifle right in the sweet spot for short-to-mid-range field work, and performance remained respectable even without a precision sighting system. You’ll want to add a red dot or other optic to unlock the rifle’s full potential, but if you’re after a compact, rugged AK AEG that shoots consistently and groups well under both semi and full auto, the G&G RK Beta AK is worth any extra outlay.

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

• Buy the AK AEG Airsoft Rifles in the US

View fullsize

If you want the complete specs and a tabletop walk-through for the G&G ARP9 3.0P AEG Pistol-Caliber Carbine, watch my Table Top Video where I cover build, controls and features in close detail. For this Field Test Shooting Video I moved into the Replica Airguns indoor sea-can range to put the G&G ARP9 3.0P AEG Pistol Caliber Airsoft Carbine through practical shooting checks, chrono testing for real-world velocity and live shooting to see how it groups in both semi-auto and full-auto. The sea-can gives a repeatable, controlled environment that’s ideal for comparing performance to other AEGs I’ve tested.

For velocity I ran six shots through my Chronograph using .25-gram BBs — I generally prefer the slightly heavier .25s for testing because they better represent practical use than lighter .20 gram rounds. G&G’s spec is about 380 fps with .20-gram BBs, so I anticipated a lower number with .25s and that’s exactly what I saw. My six-shot string read 344, 342, 342, 342, 341 and 341, which averaged out to 342 fps. Those readings were very consistent with multiple duplicates in the string, so the ARP9’s output was predictable and stable for an AEG running typical field BBs.

View fullsize

Next I moved to accuracy: I placed a fresh pepper target to the trap at 30 feet and shot 10 rounds from a semi-rested position, hands braced on a sandbag up front, seated on a stool at the rear for a stable, repeatable hold. The main cluster landed just left of the bullseye; the densest portion of the group was roughly 1 inch and the overall group measured just over 2 inches. That tells me the G&G ARP9 3.0P AEG Pistol Caliber Airsoft Carbine is more than capable of tight, repeatable groups when shot carefully. I then switched to full auto and ran a mag dump of about 58 rounds from a full rest. As you’d expect the group opened up and shifted a bit (likely from my hold changing during sustained fire), but most hits still stayed within approximately a 2-inch radius, which is impressive for a compact, high-rate AEG under sustained fire.

My hands-on impression is that the ARP9 3.0P hits a very useful sweet spot: it’s compact and maneuverable for CQB but doesn’t feel like it gives up accuracy or usable range compared to larger AEG platforms. With the factory wide-open rear aperture I was getting solid contact on target, putting a red dot or small optic on the top rail would tighten things further and make follow-ups easier. Power and consistency are right where I’d want them for a short-to-mid-range compact rifle, and while it’s not the cheapest AEG on the market it feels well made and worth the price for anyone after a versatile, high-quality compact AEG. If you want both a practical CQB carbine and a reliable field performer, the ARP9 3.0P is definitely worth considering.

• Buy the G&G ARP9 3.0P AEG Pistol Caliber Airsoft Carbine in Canada

• Buy AEG Airsoft Rifles in the US

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

• Buy Airsoft Sniper Rifles in the US

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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