Intel – AEX L.A. – 03.18.08

Haven’t had too much to report on recently. But this evenings visit was full of some nice surprises.

Magpul – Goodies

 

I usually never post what I score when I got to AEX, But since these are for a future project, I haven’t yet decided on, thought it be good to show them. The new Magpul PTS metal bodies are insanely nice. Trades are stamped into the body itself and trigger guard is integrated into the body. The CTR and MIAD in Flat Dark Earth color are not too far off the metal body which was a nice surprise.

Will post more as project progresses.

Classic Army – SCAR-H

This is the slightly larger CA SCAR that uses an SR-25 (7.62×51) size magazine. While this make no really difference in airsoft, except cosmetically, it’s a beefier feeling CA SCAR. But notice the trademarks. They’re not "Classic Army" trades any more.

Tokyo Marui – AK74MN

It was a little funny. Every time the TM AK74MN was placed back on the display rack, it would blend in with all the M4’s and M16’s and make it hard to find. It’s another solid Tokyo Marui build. This is a "Blowback AEG" (i.e. a fake bolt will cycle each shot). The fake bolt cycle was a bit short, but it worked flawlessly. Battery compartment is in the fore grip and will accommodate a mini type battery.The butt stock will fold over the the left as well, but not with a scope attached. FPS results averaged 300fps with .20 bbs.
VFC – AIMS

Honestly, I’m not sure why people like this AK except for the odd looks. The "coat hanger" stock and "donkey dick" fore grip just didn’t feel comfortable. But this is a "Blowback AEG" (i.e. a fake bolt will cycle each shot. You kinda see a trend here?). The one downside to the VFC model specifically is the fake bolt would not reset to the closed position each shot. Sometime it would stay half or partially open after a shot. FPS results were OK averaging 340 with .20 bbs.

King Arms – Troy Series

I haven’t been a big fan of King Arms products as of late. But their Troy series is quite impressive. I still question the workmanship of the internals, but these AEGs fired between 320-340 fps with .20 bb’s. externally, expect for a misspelling on the trademarks, the externals are solid. The fake bolt catch is a nice feature as well. But these are bargains compared to piecing your own Troy/Vltor/Tango Down airsoft parts together.

Classic Army – New Sportlines

2 new Classic Army Sportlines came into AEX. An MP5 A2 SEF and an M15A4. They are what you expect weight wise form a plastic bodied AEG. The MP4 was lighter then a TM MP5, but both seemed to be solid builds. Both only come in the value packs, which include: Sling, Shooting Glasses, Battery, Charger and BB’s. Still a great deal for a starter AEG @ $160.00.

 

 

Intel – AEX L.A. – 11.06.07

A few more tidbits o’ info.

Trigger Happy – M240

Deceptively light at around 10 lbs, but rock solid in build, the Trigger Happy M240 is an awesome AEG. It utilizes the VFC MK43 gearbox and shoots around 360 fps with .20’s.

Take down and features operate very closely to how a real M240 breaks down. Barrel assembly is easily removed to give acces to an anodized hop-up dial.

Tokyo Marui – Detonics

I’ve never been a big fan of compact handguns, but since it’s a Tokyo Marui and a new release, it was worth checking out.

I was suprised to see how compact the TM Detonics is compared to the Marushin Detonics.. The TM version is tiny.

It was a cooler evening in Socal and this chrono’d around 265 fps on Green Gas.

Maruzen – MP5K Charger

Open bolt gas blow back fun… But 134a only if you want to keep it reliable.

With 134a it single shot at around 220fps. Full auto it dropped down to 180fps ;(

 

 

Intel – AEX L.A. – 08.23.07

Yeah it’s been a while since I’ve reported on anything. Quite honeslty, I’ve either been buying stuff that I touch at the shop and posting direct reviews on them or just not seeing anything worth while to mess around with. But a few goodies I had to check out in the last few trips.

VFC – BAR 1919

It’s a great BAR replica. It’s deceptively light at about 9 lbs, it’s less then half the weight of a real BAR. This is a good weight difference example of building a gun in aluminum over steel. But it’s 1:1 scale and really only for people with big paws. This is a Metal and Wood build.

This one held around 365 fps consistently and it includes a high cap magazine.

But the $1700.00 price tag will probably keep this 1 AEG out of most peoples hands.

Classic Army – CA53

I’ve been waiting for this to show up for a while now.

Shot around the 325-335 fps mark. Beautiful reproduction of the early HK53 with SEF lower. Hope CA makes the HK53 with Navy Markings adn teh 3 shot burst one day.

Features: Metal Body, Metal Front Set, Steel Flash Hider, A3 Lower Receiver, One-piece Forgrip, Metal Hop Up Chamber, 450 Rd Hi-Cap Magazine, Spring- Loaded, Retractable Stock.

Classic Army – SA58 Carbine

The CA SA58 is a reproduction of the DSA SA58, which is a licensed copy of the FN-FAL. this is the Carbine version of the SA58. The build is solid with an all metal machined upper with integrated rail. The big suprise was the working bolt catch!

I was able to do a side by side comparison with the King Arms FAL Tactical Carbine. The CA version is a bit lighter even though more metal is being used. The CA SA58 has integrated top rail, the KA FAL does not. They do not use the same magazines.

The CA SA58 held around 295-310 fps and is a solid build.

Features: Real Firearm Trademark, Realistic Bolt Action, Unique Serial Number, 500 Rd Hi Cap Magazine,7mm Metal Bushing Gear Box, Fiber Fore-Grip, Stock & Hand Grip, CNC Upper Receiver with Scope Mount.

 

 

Intel – UFC, X47 Rail System

In Arms Magazine, 04/2007, there's an ad by the UFC (Union Fire Company), http://shop.ufc-web.com.UFC is the same company that has brought us the airsoft versions Magpul M93 and CTR stock systems.

The ad is showing X47 rail system for Tokyo Marui AK47's. This looks to be a proper copy of the TDI AK Railsystem used on the BHI SOPMOD AK's. (ICS came out with a similar looking rail system, but it can only be used on an ICS AK74 and it's not a 100% replica of the TDI Rail system) This rail system is made from 7075 Aluminum. Expected release is around "Middle of March 2007".

TM AK47 + UFC X47 + G&P 58* AK Conversion + VLTOR style stock + GWS SOPMOD Bolt and Selector = SOPMOD AK!!!


Chicks dig BHI SOPMOD Ak's!

Intel – First Factory Goodies 2007

Veteran airsoft shoppers know the First Factory brand. FF is 1 of the largest Airsoft retailers in Japan and they also manufacture their own goods. FF is well known for their custom rail systems and AEG conversions.


Yet another First Factory Meat Tenderizer!

I came across this in ARMs Magazine. 04/2007. This appears to be a new Armalite front end piece called the Judgment. Details past that aren't available yet. Will keep you posted on developments.

Intel – Spartan Imports – Shot Show 2007

 ?

Thanks to our friends at Spartan Imports, we not only have some new CA models to look forward to seeing, they are actually ready for production. Models were on display in the Spartan Imports booth at the Shot Show 2007.

Not only are there some suprising releases from CA, but also Marushin, AMP Tactical and Inokatsu to name a few.

Exclusively for Spartan Imports. ?Marushin will be releasing export only, green gas ready versions of their Garand, M2 Carbine, and M500.


Spartan Imports -Shot Show 2007 Booth. Getting bigger every year.

While theres a bunch of guns ready for production that Spartan showed at Shot, the next 3 releases will be M15VN, XM177 and the SCAR-L.


Classic Army – HK53.


Classic Army – M41A4(Top) and M41A3(Bottom)


Classic Army – M14 Scout


Classic Army – M14 Scout


Spartan Imports Exclusive!? Export only, green gas friendly versions of the Garand, M2, and?M500 modified?by Marushin.?


Classic Army – SCAR-L


Classic Army – SLR-105 A1 Para


Classic Army – SLR-105 U


Classic Army -?SLR-105 Compact?


Inokatsu M60's


AMP Tactical and Private Parts Product Lineup

And over in the EOTech booth…


Spartan Imports supplied EOTech all the CA base guns to display their sights. Nice crossover 😉


EOTech Booth – CA Guns


EOTech Booth – CA Guns

Intel – AEX L.A. – 12.30.06

Quick trip just before New Years! Christmas cleaned the store out pretty well. So i reviewed what I could.

Laylax/Satellite – Brick Target Sets

These are cool, relatively cheap and fun. These are target diorama sets made out of foam for use as airsoft targets. # sets are currently available.

I will be writing a more in depth review of these sets as I get a chance to test them more thoroughly.

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G&P AEX SMG 9mm flat top type

This is an AEG partnership between G&P and AEX. It's a very solid gun to handle and fires around 320-330 fps. Full metal body with engraved AEX markings. The 9mm magazine kit is a permanent add-on. Also added are a 9mm style shell deflector and the following features:

  • All metal body (with AEX logos)
  • One piece outer barrel
  • Metal hopup chamber
  • Reinforced 7mm bearing gearbox
  • Metal spring guide with bearing
  • Polycarbon piston
  • G&P Metal gearset
  • 9mm conversion (compatible only with G&P 9mm mags)
  • Flat top upper receiver with removable carry handle
  • Unique individual serial numbers
  • Comes with one 90 round midcap Uzi magazine – Click here to order more!
  • INCLUDES?A FREE CUSTOM 9.6v 1400 NiMH nunchuck?BATTERYA $50 Value (no mini batteries fit)
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Tanio Koba -VP70 with Stock

The Tanio Koba VP70 is an interesting gun. Since it a Japanese GBB, I only tested it using the weaker 134a gas. But the performance wasn't bad at around 280 fps. With the shoulder stock attached this gun will shoot in either semi auto or 3 shot burst.

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Tanaka Mauser Gew 33/44

I already own 2 variants of the Tanaka M700 series, so I was always curious about the older generation Tanaka Mausers. These are also gas bolt action rifles and shoot around 440fps with green gas and .20 bb's. Like the later generation Tanaka, these are very consistent in fps for gas rifles. And just like all Tanaka's gas, bolt action rifles, the magazines are rather expensive.

?

 

Intel – AEX L.A. – 12.23.06

I had to make 1 more quick trip before Xmas day.

Tokyo Marui – M14 SOCOM

I got to fondle and fire the Tokyo Marui M14 SOCOM today. The build is much more solid then the first releases of the TM M14. The stock is checkered in the hand grip, so it's a very positive feel in hand, and they seemed to beef up the stocks rigidity. It fires at a little less FPS then the orginal TM M14 due to the shorter barrel, but still a respectable 300-308 fps. It comes with an integrated scout style scope mount above the foregrip.

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KWA – M1911 with Metal Slide

I have 2 other KWA guns. The USP Full Size and Compact. The problem with these 2 KWA is they have both stopped performing well. I wanted to take a look at the latest KWA which in this case is a 1911 Gov't type. As with all the previous KWA's available from AEX, this 1 comes with a metal slide installed and no trademarks. It performed well at 200-320 fps, but my USP's also functioned fine when first purchased too. So I'm a little hesitant recommending this gun based on the under average durability

?

Devgru – Frogman Field Headset

I already own the Toy Soldier – Swimmers Headset which is replica of the Selex TASC1 Headset. The Devgru version looks to be built better then the Toy Soldier version and has multiple radio connectors. The PTT unit of the Devgru headset is easier to operate and far more durably built the the TS version.

?

 

Intel – AEX L.A. – 12.14.06

My right before Xmas trip! Lots to see and report on! ?

Tokyo Marui – M14 SOCOM

For a U.S. Based retailer. AEX is starting to get Japanese released gun FAST. They used to be a few weeks behind Hong Kong retailers, but they are expecting a shipment of the M14SOCOM's into the U.S. next week. Right in time for Xmas if you live near 1 of the retail stores. A SOCOM II railed foregrip will follow soon.

?

Tokyo Marui – Glock 17 GBB

The latest Tokyo Marui GBB Glock 17 does not disappoint. Shooting about 300fps and using green gas no problem. It's a solid build as with all previous TM GBB's. It does feel a bit lighter then the KSC Glock 17 series.

Trigger safety is functional and take down is easy. Was happy to see (Also with the TM 1911A1) the trademarks were "tastefully" altered.

?

King Arms – FN FAL

Was curious to see King Arms first complete AEG. When I first picked it up it was much lighter then I expected at 7.3 lbs. A bit longer then a TM G3/SG1, but over 1 lbs lighter. The build seemed solid but the lightweight throws you off a bit. It takes a large battery in the butt stock with the same style of butt pad door as the full stock G3's. It fired OK, but the fps results varied alot between shots compared to other AEG's. FPS was between 265 – 291 with .20 bb's. Magazine catch was really tight, but that should work smoother as it's used more.

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Star – FNC

The build quality is very similar to the Star L85 line. Semi gloss black painted stamped metal. It reminds me of a TM Type 89 with a paratrooper style stock, but not as heavy.

I tried a TM M16 Highcap and it misfed alot. Seems to only like the included Star magazine. Battery goes in the foregrip and its a custom slim nunchuck style. Like the Type 89, the Star FNC also has a mechanical 3 shot burst. But the Star's 3 shot burst sometimes only shoots 2 bb's instead of 3 and the timing of the 3 shots isn't consistent.

It had some insanely high FPS around 370 -390 out of the box though.

 

 

Intel – AEX L.A. – 11.24.06

It may seem like I haven't been to the shop in a while… I've been there a few times since the last report, have been jsut too busy to write anything up, so I'm grouping?it all together.?

Tokyo Marui – GM 1911A1

Since the release of teh Hi-Capa series, Tokyo Marui has really given the 1911 airsoft genre a high quality, high performance and affordable 1911 style handgun. The GM 1911A1 is on par with the more expensive Westarn Arms GM 1911's and already has more add-on/upgrades available then competing GM 1911 models..

Colt has been all over U.S. Customs as of late. So anything with Colt markings have been having a difficult time getting through. When they do get to the shop, the trademarks have been defaced very badly. Fortunatley the 2nd batch AEX receieved, the trademarks were altered, but in much less dramatic way. Unfortunately AEX is out of stock again.

The TM GM1911 took green gas no problem, performed well, and shot around 300fps. While IRL this is a single stack magazine, TM managed to stagger the bb's resulting in a 26 round capacity.

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VFC – HK416

The VFC 416 is a nice replica of the HK 416. It comes with both 10" and 14.5" outer barrels as well as the railed versions famous HK style iron sights. It's all metal construction gives it a very solid feel.

The replica gas piston assembly is well done and the cosmetic bolt plate locks back when charging handle is pulled and releases using the bolt release.

Unfortunately for us in teh U.S. the markings say "VF 416" with VFC crest logo. I'm also not thrilled on the highcap magazine they ship in that you need an allen wrench to wind. But luckily it will work with any TM compatible M16 magazine.

Performance is good averaging 330 fps out of the box.

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Classic Army – M15A4 CQB Compact SEAL

The Classic Army – M15A4 Compact SEAL and M15A4 Compact are very nice M4 style CQB variants. If you ever wanted a Patriot style Armalite pistol, then these are good alternatives. It's a solid weapon with the following features:

  • Rail System
  • Flip-Up Rear Sight
  • Real ARMALITE Logo
  • Modified Wiring Switch
  • Individual Serial Number
  • Hi Cap Magazine (300 Rd)
  • Steel Detachable Front Sight
  • Easy Disassembly Metal Body
  • 7mm Bearing Metal & New Design Gear Box
  • Bearing Spring Guide and Piston Head
  • Reinforced Parts (Gear Set and Sealed Cylinder)

Performance is good averaging 320 fps out of the box.

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Classic Army – Steyr AUG A2

I wasn't too impressed by CA's AUG A1 Military, so I wanted to check out the A2. Outside or the licensed Steyr trademarks, this is very colse to the original Tokyo Marui build. This CA AUG also has quality problems in the build. Vertical foregrip doesn't move as smoothly as the TM version.

But this could be a good base if you add the Action Aug A3 rail system.

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First Factory – Swordfish Frontend MP5

This is a nice comsetic modification to your MP5. I've been a longtime fan of the MP5 Swordfish variant and happy to see AEX finally stocking them. Add the Nitro MP5 Top Rail, RIS handgrip and Folding Stock and you get this.