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8 ARMOURY: SPECNA ARMS SA-J82 CORE
Bill has been tracking the development of the SPECNA ARMS J-SERIES models since 2020, in fact as far back as Issue 113 of Airsoft Action, and as you know he’s a bit of a fussy old comrade when it comes to his AKs! Thankfully Miguel has been “hands on” with the very latest SA-J82 CORE, so they’ve joined forces to advise OPFORists everywhere of their thoughts.
16
ARMOURY: NEW VORSK MODELS
It’s been so short haul so far for the team at VORSK to finally have a pretty complete line-up of their Modular Platform, but now that the latest models that we saw at IWA have been released into the wild, Bill steps back to reflect on what it has taken to launch an entire family of totally unique GBBR platforms into an already busy market, and what the new VMP-2’s are bringing to the party!
26 ARMOURY: VFC PPSH41 GBBR FIRST LOOK
Last year, during MOA 2024, VegaForceCompany (VFC) showed off their “PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB SMG” which has not yet been released, but provided it to visitors for trial use; finally it will be officially launched worldwide! Thanks to our Legion associate “Military” Anny we can now drop the scoop from the official launch event!
32
ARMOURY: LAYLAX TM MK23 NBB UPGRADES
In 2022 Stewbacca was very lucky to make his way to Japan to take part in the then recently re-commenced Krytac Owner’s Meeting in Chiba, supported by Laylax, and came back with some goodies to put to the test! Now he’s finally had more than ample time behind the base Tokyo Marui MK23, and after upgrading and running it with the Laylax components, he now shares his better-informed thoughts!
42 OPTICS: REDWIN KUIPER 1.2-6x24 SFP
Choosing the right sight for your replica can sometimes be a bit of a challenge; with so many options on the market, all promising top-tier performance, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, after using the same optic for over four years nearly every weekend, Bruno, in his first “solo” article for AA, feels confident sharing his thoughts.
62 KIT & GEAR: KINETIXX GLOVES
The team at Airsoft Action are constantly looking for good kit to hit the market, not simply gear that’s 100% fit for purpose, but equipment that’s going to give you good service and great value for money… Bill takes a look at the very latest tactical gloves from German brand Kinetixx, to see if they make the cut!
74 INSIDE AIRSOFT: G&G AIRSOFT REVISIT
Stewbacca realised it had in fact been nearly five years since his last visit to our friends at G&G, and this time he returned to a renovated facility along with our local lady AA Legionnaire “Military” Anny Wu. With her native language approach to things they found out more about the beginnings of the people behind the brand, and how it got to where it is now, and where it is going in the near term.
88 AA LEGION PORTUGAL: SALAMANDRA
Salamandra is one of the biggest airsoft events in Portugal, which happens once every other year organized by the Portuguese National Airsoft Association (ANA). Depending on which team you entered, you had the possibility for having fun at three different levels… using boats on the river, skydiving-in, or ground operations. As Miguel was “away on other missions” Bruno stepped in to tell us more…
48 RED CELL: MP5 UPDATE
Once again it’s time for the core members of RED CELL to turn their attention to one of the most enduring replicas out there, the venerable and much-loved MP5! With a rich heritage and much-respected history in both the military and law enforcement sphere, the little “Maschinenpistole 5” is has constantly reinvented itself over many years, and nowhere so much it would seem than in airsoft-guise!
68 KIT & GEAR: VIPER 2025
It’s the start of the long summer season for airsoft, when even the most un-hardy of chairsofters head out to actually get some games in! For many hardier players though it’s time to fully switch-out heavier winter gear for something a bit more lightweight and warm-weather functional, so Bill looks at some of the great clothing and equipment from VIPER TACTICAL that the AA Crew have been using themselves!
80 GETTING TO KNOW YOU: AIRSOFTGIRLS PORTUGAL
So, with new members of the AA LEGION it’s time to bring something back to the magazine, and that’s a focus on players that bring something fresh and new to our global community! Sara has been speaking to some of the female community members out there, and now brings us insight into Maria Almeida, also known in her native Portugal, and to the airsoft world, as “Primeira Dama”!
98 AA LEGION TAIWAN: SPECIAL REPORT
Stewbacca has been involved in the competition circuit in the guise of “Action Air”, as well as reporting on - and even dabbling in - adjacent IDPA Taiwan activities and other civil defence related efforts since late 2019. Having attended nearly 250 training sessions and fifteen local competitions of various levels and scales over the years, he now gives us a bit of a background into the whole game and how it’s played.
4.3 inch
Classic Look – Timeless design
Split Slide – Faster cycling
5.1 inch 5.1 inch
5.1 inch
Skeletoned Slide – Lightweight cut
OPFOR (DE)LITE!
BILL HAS BEEN TRACKING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SPECNA ARMS J-SERIES MODELS SINCE 2020, IN FACT AS FAR BACK AS ISSUE 113 OF AIRSOFT ACTION, AND, AS YOU KNOW, HE’S A BIT OF A FUSSY OLD COMRADE WHEN IT COMES TO HIS AKS! THANKFULLY, MIGUEL HAS BEEN “HANDS ON” WITH THE VERY LATEST SA-J82 CORE, SO THEY’VE JOINED FORCES TO ADVISE “OPFORISTS” EVERYWHERE OF THEIR THOUGHTS. BILL LEADS OFF…
It’s nigh-on five years ago that I started looking at AK AEG models from Specna Arms, and although they are now best-known for their ongoing technical and performance advances with their AR-inspired AEGs, thankfully (and somewhat behind the scenes) they’ve actually had a very creditable “AK Program” running with their J-SERIES AEG models too.
When I first looked at the SA-J04 back in Issue 113 (you’ll find that in Back Issues on the website) I concluded that:
“With solid performance out of the box, reasonably cheap accessories and magazines should you need more, and an introductory price of just €159 at the time of writing the SA-J04 is a great bit of kit, and if you’re in the market for something other than the “M4” then I’d really suggest you take a good long look at this new model from Specna Arms; I’m just keen to see exactly where they take “Project J” next!”
But the “J-SERIES” models have, in my mind, always played a little “second fiddle” to the ARs; at the same time the program has also been one of constant development, updating existing Specna Arms AK-style models with the same awesome technology as the ARs, but more quietly, and certainly without all the fanfare of product launches at trade shows and online…
Until now that is, as thankfully they’ve been shouting pretty loud about the latest polymerbodied J-SERIES CORE AEGs, and rightly so!
Over that five-year period though I can truthfully tell you that Specna Arms AEGs in general have just got better and better, with levels
of personalization and performance as standard that even a couple of years ago I wouldn’t have believed possible in an AEG! As I continue to say, much as I have slight concerns that we are all getting just a little TOO fixated and reliant on all the shiny electrical “wizard shizzle” and gizmos that go inside our favourite RIFs, Specna Arms continue to impress even the most seasoned of players, including a number of the Airsoft Action Crew, with their current external build quality and what is included in the package with internals as standard, featuring components such as the ORION gearboxes, GATE X-ASR and ASTER Mosfets, and their “Enter & Convert” quick change spring function.
As I’ve said before, they’ve forged some fabulous strategic alliances with real firearms manufacturers, first with Rock River Arms, then with Daniel Defense and Strike Systems, and now with their newly licenced KPYK accessory line for AK variants (more on this later!)!
Add to that the fact that they are constantly designing and innovating “in house” too, and I truly believe that Specna Arms are amongst a core group of manufacturers that are leading the way, bringing value, great builds, and performance to players worldwide!
Quiet yet constant development has been the keynote of that “PROJECT J” though, consistently moving these AEGs into new territory, bringing the AK-style AEGs most assuredly up to par with their very latest AR models, and as I’ve had several of the models to play with (and indeed add to our long-term test pool) as that line has been updated
“THE “J-SERIES” MODELS HAVE IN MY MIND ALWAYS PLAYED A LITTLE “SECOND FIDDLE” TO THE ARS; AT THE SAME TIME THE PROGRAM HAS ALSO BEEN ONE OF CONSTANT DEVELOPMENT, UPDATING EXISTING SPECNA ARMS AK-STYLE MODELS WITH THE SAME AWESOME TECHNOLOGY AS THE ARS, BUT MORE QUIETLY”
I can assure you that the J-SERIES is
first impressions of one of the latest J-SERIES AEGs, I said I would comment
accessories designed to boost the capability and reliability of real AKs.
With a laser-focus on precision engineering, KPYK delivers a comprehensive lineup of custom gun parts, tactical gear, and performance upgrades. Drawing from extensive combat experience, KPYK‘s stock and handguard designs ensure superior performance when it counts most; trusted by professionals and firearms enthusiasts alike, every product meets stringent standards for ruggedness and functionality.
And it must be said that the KPYK accessories I saw on the Specna Arms stand at IWA looked truly wonderful, and I am 100% keen to get my grubby little OPFOR hands on a few sets to modernize my own AK AEGs… I certainly hope that these hit stores soon!
And even better, among the new J-SERIES models are some that come pre-accessorized with different KPYK components as standard… that said I WILL now hand off to Miguel for his thoughts on the all-new SA-J82 CORE!
FIRST IMPRESSIONS!
Are you a fan of AK replicas? So am I. And are you also a fan of short AK replicas? Well, so am I!
And since Specna Arms launched their first AK replicas I’ve been waiting, patiently I might add, for the AKS-74U models, either classic or more tactical. For a couple of reasons, first the shorter AK models have always been a personal favourite of mine, either in video games, movies or airsoft. Secondly, due to our laws in Portugal, a short replica must “only” be painted in the grip and with a 50mm yellow tip, instead of a full stock and a 100mm tip, for a long replica. I say “only” but we are fighting to have it changed… no one likes to paint their replicas... Fingers crossed.
But, our wishes have been granted, and Specna Arms have launched a few new models of AK replicas in their CORE range, and among
“AND IT MUST BE SAID THAT THE KPYK ACCESSORIES I SAW ON THE SPECNA ARMS STAND AT IWA LOOKED TRULY WONDERFUL, AND I AM 100% KEEN TO GET MY GRUBBY LITTLE OPFOR HANDS ON A FEW SETS TO MODERNIZE MY OWN AK AEGS… I CERTAINLY HOPE THAT THESE HIT STORES SOON!”
“OUR WISHES HAVE BEEN GRANTED, AND SPECNA ARMS HAVE LAUNCHED A FEW NEW MODELS OF AK REPLICAS IN THEIR CORE RANGE, AND AMONG THESE I FOUND THE J82 AND THE J83. A COUPLE OF TACTICAL TAKES ON THE AKS-74U, WITH MORE MODERN FURNITURE”
SPECNA
these I found the J82 and the J83. A couple of tactical takes on the AKS-74U, with more modern furniture. Now, I know a lot of players prefer a more classic AK, and they are available as well, both AK74 and AKS74U, so please, don’t shoot the messenger!
The CORE series have been around for a while, and they are a beloved range here at Airsoft Action. Yes, it’s a range aimed at players who have already started playing, but want to keep airsoft budget-friendly. But they’ve been tried and tested, and they are one of the best deals around. And of course, we’ve shown them here plenty of times, especially since Specna Arms have updated them a couple of times…
But, for those who don’t know this range, or for those that are interested in more details, at the heart of the CORE series is a robust gearbox featuring 8mm slide bearings and reinforced steel gears. There’s a polycarbonate piston, equipped with a full steel rack, which enhances durability and allows the replica to handle stronger springs, up to M140 (although I don’t really recommend it!), without immediate upgrades. You will also find the normal 6.03mm barrel and 16:1 steel gears.
But, one of the newest upgrades compared with the previous CORE AK replicas is the new MAGNUM hop up chamber that changes the typical AK slide-style adjustment to a rotary one, similar to the ones found in the PRIME replicas. And, of course, the HAL electronic trigger unit GENII, offering a magnetic trigger sensor instead of an optic one, and that makes a big difference in countries with a lot of sunlight. This ETU also comes with active break, five levels of trigger sensibility, six levels of pre-cocking adjustment (not that I really use it...) and several firing modes, like three or five BB burst, AUG style trigger and binary. And it can all be programmed via the trigger, just follow the instructions on the card that comes with the package!
Let’s now look at the exterior, which for me brings the most changes, and it’s easy to understand why, since we are talking about the first tactical short AK models.
First we find a slim SOPMOD stock, a model that I’ve never interacted with before, and my first impressions are positive since it helps a bit to aim while using headsets (like I did during my tests).
The J82 also comes out of the box with a more modern trigger, aimed to work with the HAL ETU, but for me the main focus goes to the M-LOK handguard. This positively screams “modern AK” and lets you accessorize your replica out of the box, with several rails and QD points for slings. And, like it’s mentioned on Gunfire’s website: “The most critical parts, such as the barrel stock, dummy slide, barrel base with the sights, handguard stock, barrel and musket, are made of zinc and aluminum alloy.”
While a few parts are made of steel, like the lock chamber cover, safety wing and trigger guard, the rest is made from durable polymer reinforced with nylon fiber, and makes the replica light, at around just 2,700g.
All that combined creates a light replica with good ergonomics, but with a solid build on top. The only thing that I can do without are the two hi caps that it comes with the AEG... come on Specna, just add MidCaps like in many other ranges!
Overall though, I’m in love with the J82! I know it’s not a high-end replica, but that’s not the goal here. Specna Arms’ CORE range aims to offer maybe the best price to quality ratio out there, and adding that to dropping their first tactical short AK... Oh boy! Me happy!
Thanks as always to https://gunfire.com for supplying the test/review sample for Miguel. Please do though visit https://specnaarms.com to check out this model and the comprehensive range of Specna Arms models on offer! AA
“OVERALL THOUGH I’M IN LOVE WITH THE J82! I KNOW IT’S NOT A HIGH-END REPLICA, BUT THAT’S NOT THE GOAL HERE. SPECNA ARMS’ CORE RANGE AIMS
TO OFFER
MAYBE THE BEST PRICE TO QUALITY RATIO OUT THERE, AND ADDING THAT
DROPPING THEIR FIRST TACTICAL SHORT AK... OH BOY! ME HAPPY!”
TO
NO SHORT HAUL
“I, AND WE, AS I’VE COMMENTED BEFORE HAVE BEEN EXCEPTIONALLY PRIVILEGED TO HAVE BEEN ALONG FOR THE ENTIRE RIDE WHEN IT COMES TO THE VMP VARIANTS, LITERALLY FROM THE POINT THAT ROSS FLOATED THE IDEA OF A FULLY MODULAR GAS BLOWBACK FAMILY OF RIFLES, CARBINES AND SMGS”
users both, and I’m going to be blunt and simply say that this REALLY put VORSK on the airsoftmap, not just as producer of fine and fun pistols, but as a true contender in the GBB market.
And it was the VMP-1, and the conviction and belief of the entire VORSK team in their first GBBR, that really convinced “Higher Higher” in the company to carry on investing in the project, and enable the program to drive forward!
Work was already well underway in the “Vorsk Skunkworx” on the first three VMP-2 variants even whilst the VMP-1 was hitting the market, with the factories in the Far East already tooling up for production…
But then, and it would be totally remiss of me not to mention this, potential calamity appeared to have struck as manufacturing issues (tracked back to source at one specific factory eventually!) resulted in a small number of VMP-1s developing cracks in the receivers… of course then “the chairborne warriors” of the interwebz got all fired up and started chanting complete nonsense as is the norm on social media!
On one hand we had a great British company doing amazing things, creating something
out to be cosmetic, not in any way interfering with the operation or performance of the VMP-1.
To all of you out there that criticised, I will say again… my own VMP-1 which has been absolutely hammered is still blazing away, and shows no sign of developing any blemish whatsoever!
To all of you out there that fired-up the interwebz as nay-sayers whilst I appreciate you have every right to get the very thing you paid for, and for that to give good service, I think you need to take a long, cold look at yourselves as your small-mindedness could easily have relegated the VMP program to a “what might have been…”
MOVING ON
So, rant over, but once again, my ball and I make the rules here… and just like you, I’m perfectly entitled to say what I think!
And what I say is “Bloody well done Vorsk!” as the VMP-2 really is the rocking gas-platform that I’d hoped it would be… and then some!
I’ve written already about our experiences with the VMP-2s that both Jase and I have, and thus far they have all been 100% positive. A
DEALT WITH IT!
Let me reiterate, the numbers of problem VMP1s were minimal, and ultimately the crack turned
production run, so we don’t have anything that’s different to what all of you have… I do keep an eye on the VORSK user groups
“I DO KEEP AN EYE ON THE VORSK USER GROUPS ONLINE, AND THUS FAR IT APPEARS THAT THE MAJORITY OF PLAYERS ARE MORE THAN HAPPY WITH THE FIRST-RUN
VMP2S, WITH LOTS OF POSITIVE COMMENTS
AND TALES
OF DERRING-DO USING THEIR NOW FAVOURITE-IST GAS PLATFORM”
online, and thus far it appears that the majority of players are more than happy with the first-run VMP-2s, with lots of positive comments and tales of derring-do using their now favourite-ist gas platform. As the initial 2 MD, M, and D models get more time in-game it’s very interesting to see just how many of you have also become invested in the platform itself, and it’s true modularity, and even with the three initial variations in receivers, stocks, barrel lengths, and rail systems I’ve already seen some truly wonderful (and some quite shockingly bizarre!) mash-ups!
Scene set, and now that the 2 SD, S, and C variants are now out there too, along with a whole raft of new accessories to go with them, I’m expecting to see some utterly mind-boggling mixin’ and matchin’, and that’s something that I WILL come back to at a later date!
Of course I introduced the three new variants not so long ago in ISSUE 173 immediately after IWA so I won’t go into the fine detail of each and every model yet again as that would indeed be boring, but I will concentrate on what I’ve found after some serious range-time with all three, what I’ve experienced, how I’ve juggled things around, and indeed what I don’t like… in fact I’ll get the latter out of the way first as thus far there ain’t nothing that after a goodly time behind their triggers I don’t like!
What I DO like though is that each of the three new variants has character very much of its own, and although they do share commonality of “OS” (and of course magazines… WIN!), they are very different beasts from one another. Let’s take the SD and the S first, as you may think that they’re very similar to one another… both the models I had to test were the nominal “330fps, Select Fire” variants which means you get semi and full, although I can easily swap things out with my 2D “Semi Only” trigger group to give me a CQB-friendly version of either! The SD has a 223mm inner barrel which runs inside the integral
suppressor whilst the S is 195, but both have 14mm threads; the SD comes with a short suppressor installed, where the S has the muzzle brake designed to work perfectly with that lovely, chunky can that we all know from the VMP-1.
Both have full-length top rails and M-LOK-style handguards , although you may struggle to fit accessories into the rail of the SD; the S is more “traditional” and although it obviously bears the “Mark of Vorsk” with some interesting cutouts
and details it’s still very friendly in the hand, whilst the SD is more of a squared profile. Both have fully ambidextrous controls (including the cocking handle), and the new VORSK FIBRE V-SIGHTS fitted as standard… and then there are some differences…
The S comes with the same “1991-style” pistol grip that I have on my 2D, but the SD has the new PDW grip which I like immensely. It’s a similar story with the folding stocks as the S has a picatinnymounted version similar to that seen on the VMP-1, whilst the SD has the new Skeleton Stock; both the new grip and stock are soon to
“WHAT I DO LIKE THOUGH IS THAT EACH OF THE THREE NEW VARIANTS HAS CHARACTER VERY MUCH OF ITS OWN, AND ALTHOUGH THEY DO SHARE COMMONALITY OF “OS” (AND OF COURSE MAGAZINES… WIN!), THEY ARE VERY DIFFERENT BEASTS FROM ONE ANOTHER”
be available as accessories too!
Now to the 2C as this… THIS… is most assuredly one of a kind!
When I first immediately love-locked to it! At just 360mm long, with the PDW grip, no stock but a picatinny-mounting rail at the back, and the absolutely awesome, cylindrical 80mm V-RAIL and chunky muzzle device at the sharp-end, it is without doubt that the 2C will be utter “marmite” as I’m certain some will avoid it like the plague whilst I would run barefoot over burning coals to get to it! In terms of options there’s a 235mm top rail for mounting an optic, and L and R-side QD stud points for attaching a sling… what more do you need on such a tiny GBB?
It really is, in my mind at least, a thing of absolute beauty, so small, so light , and SO easy to manipulate; it also shows just how small you can make something whilst still having all the benefits of the full-sized “OS” that’s in every other VMP model! Again, I’ve got the select-fire version but it strikes me that this would be perfect to use with the semi-only trigger group for a dedicated CQB-beastie, and do bear in mind that VMP-2 series complete trigger groups are available as
standalone accessories… I can also see this model with an HPA-adaptor
amongst us, and what a hoot that would
So, let’s get to the meat of it… the new
and ready for use; the SD and S come with the shrouded 48 BB long magazines, whilst the C has the short, also shrouded 20BB magazine… thankfully all VMP mags work between every single model, and the C fitted with the 48 BB mag looks insanely wicked!
So, with ALL my VMP mags loaded up, a bag of VORSK .20g and another of .28g BBs, and a can (or two!) of VORSK V6 FUEL in hand it was off to the woods for me… and what a thoroughly FUN afternoon I spent clanging steels! All three models chrono’d perfectly at between 327 and 328 fps (0.99 Joule!) on a .20g just as intended, so no issues whatsoever there.
And the VMP-2’s do have some grunt to them for sure; I’ve tested pretty much entirely on VORSK V6 FUEL, and even after a few woodssessions the “OS” appears to be bedding in very nicely indeed! In terms of BB’s “for real” I’m using VORSK .28g BBs as this gives me the best all-
“AT JUST 360MM LONG, WITH THE PDW GRIP, NO STOCK BUT A PICATINNYMOUNTING RAIL AT THE BACK, AND THE… CYLINDRICAL 80MM V-RAIL AND CHUNKY MUZZLE DEVICE AT THE SHARP-END, IT IS WITHOUT DOUBT THAT THE 2C WILL BE UTTER “MARMITE” AS I’M CERTAIN SOME WILL AVOID IT LIKE THE PLAGUE WHILST I WOULD RUN BAREFOOT OVER BURNING COALS TO GET TO IT!”
“WITH THE .28G WEIGHT THOUGH ONCE YOU’VE GOT THE HOP SET RIGHT (EASY BY FINGER GIVEN THE TDC WHEEL ON THE TOP), THEY’RE’S BANG ON! WHAT A THOROUGHLY FUN AFTERNOON I SPENT CLANGING STEELS! ALL THREE MODELS CHRONO’D PERFECTLY AT BETWEEN 327 AND 328 FPS (0.99 JOULE!) ON A .20G JUST AS INTENDED, SO NO ISSUES WHATSOEVER THERE”
Select Fire Trigger Group
Semi Only Trigger Group
DMR Stock Assembly Retractable Stock Assembly
NEW VORSK MODELS
round performance given the gas, although like the VMP-1 the short 2’s will most certainly hop a .30g if you so desire.
With the .28g weight though once you’ve got the hop set right (easy by finger given the TDC wheel on the top), they’re’s bang on... I’ve continued whacking the 300mm x 300mm steels on the woods range at 30m regularly with the SD and S, and recently I had the C also hitting “Fig 11s” at that range with no issue, although with the super-short 100mm inner barrel ringing the steels is far easier and more intuitive at 10m CQB ranges… don’t get me wrong though; I swapped out the Skeleton Stock from the SD to the C, and with it set up this way and a micro-RDS fitted it WILL reach out very nicely too!
One thing I did find was that with the Skeleton Stock fitted to the highest point on the picatinny mount it was nigh-on impossible to use the cocking handle on the RHS, my usual positioning with the VMP-2 models. Of course I just switched out the cocking handle to the LHS and this worked perfectly with the stock open or folded to the side… something was twitching in my apebrain when I did this, and it took me a while to work out what it was… with the cocking handle on the LHS of the VMP-2C (something I’ve done now with the other VMP-2s as I actually like it on the left!) it struck me that it was very MP5k-like, and now I love the 2C even more that I did, especially with the big mag in… does this mean I now do a “V-Slap”? Yes, yes it does!
So, that’s brought things up to date with a bit of a look back at what’s been achieved by the VORSK bois so far, and I have to admit that I’m darn proud that mates of mine have created something that’s just so much fun, and sure to bring in-game joy to players that favour something different and unique, but that still delivers accuracy and performance! Ross, and Mark (and Matt too given his hard work behind the scenes!), chapeau my friends, you have done yourselves
proud, and I believe written your names into GBB lore…
To the nay-sayers and online doom-mongers, go get a life while I simply wave you on your way and I continue to enjoy my own VMP variants!
Although I am strangely smitten with the C, for general gaming the SD has got to be the one for me, although it’s a toss-up between that and the S as I really like them both! When I can though I’m going to lay my hands on a few more of the rails and accessories to give me a choice in how I set things up for specific scenarios… and perhaps even another semi-only trigger group… and a couple more stocks… and most definitely another PDW Grip… I haz gnus to configure… and reconfigure ad nauseam!
The aim of the VORSK MODULAR PLATFORM program was to deliver something that was indeed TRULY modular, and once again I have to say that from what I now have in my hands with the three new variants adding to what’s already on offer (and what I know I can create from those specific stock platforms) I’d say again that it’s a case of “Mission Success”.
I’d also say that the VMP-2 is most definitely an instance of the whole being far, far greater than the sum of its parts… I cannot wait to see what comes next! AA
“WITH THE COCKING HANDLE ON THE LHS OF THE VMP-2C IT STRUCK ME THAT IT WAS VERY MP5K-LIKE, AND NOW I LOVE THE 2C EVEN MORE THAT I DID, ESPECIALLY WITH THE BIG MAG IN… DOES THIS MEAN I NOW DO A “V-SLAP”? YES, YES IT DOES!”
“THE AIM ...WAS TO DELIVER SOMETHING THAT WAS INDEED TRULY MODULAR, AND ONCE AGAIN I HAVE TO SAY THAT FROM WHAT I NOW HAVE IN MY HANDS WITH THE THREE NEW VARIANTS ADDING TO WHAT’S ALREADY ON OFFER (AND WHAT I KNOW I CAN CREATE FROM THOSE SPECIFIC STOCK PLATFORMS) I’D SAY AGAIN THAT IT’S A CASE OF “MISSION SUCCESS””
Vorsk VMP-2S
Vorsk VMP-2C
Vorsk VMP-2SD
NEW VORSK MODELS
LAST YEAR, DURING MOA 2024, VEGAFORCECOMPANY (VFC) SHOWED OFF THEIR “PPSH41 AIRSOFT GBB SMG” WHICH HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED, BUT PROVIDED IT TO VISITORS FOR TRIAL USE. FINALLY IT WILL BE OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED WORLDWIDE! THANKS TO OUR LEGION ASSOCIATE, “MILITARY” ANNY, WE CAN NOW DROP THE SCOOP FROM THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH EVENT!
Iwas honoured to be invited to participate in the launch of the world’s first mass-produced “PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB” held by VFC on April the 11th; VFC dealers and YouTube celebrities also came along that day.
VFC brand spokesperson Sally Chou served as the host to kick off the new product launch - First, VFC founder Vega Kung invited Ryan, the project manager in charge of this “PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB”, to introduce this new product to everyone on the scene, and we were told:
“The PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB is a submachine gun developed and produced by the Soviet Union during World War II. Ryan took over the project and it took him more than a year, from initial drafting, planning, sample production and then product finalisation. There are very few World War II related guns on the market (except VFC’s BAR), so the PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB is a test to gauge the market reaction; if the response is enthusiastic, we will further plan a product line related to World War II.
The PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB is similar to a real gun in terms of appearance and weight. Let’s begin with a look at the engravings.
The German army had already fought outside Russia, and at that time the arsenal was stepping up the production of PPsh41 real guns. I happened upon information about a real PPsh41 submachine gun abroad, so I designed our replica based on the information of that gun.
The engraving details of the PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB will amaze you; there were some differences from when the earlier prototype was displayed at MOA! The classic engraving and serial number were not reproduced at that time. The new product launched will completely reproduce the classic engraving on the PPsh41 real gun, from the upper gun body, barrel, trigger guard, each gun has the same engraved serial number, which avoids errors in the reproduction process
and satisfies collectors and players who like this replication. The VFC markings are located under the magazine release and includes a hidden manufacturer’s serial number that can be used to track the condition of the gun.
The packaging design is clever, and the original cardboard box of the PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB is similar to the prior VFC AK74 GBBR release; however this time the predominant gun silhouette in the middle of course resembles the PPsh41, along with bullet outlines that match the real steel gun’s ammunition.
Some key points to note:
• Solid wood stock: Each solid wood stock of the PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB has a unique colour and grain pattern and replicates authentic specifications, should the user locate and wish to install an original stock.
• Barrel shroud: Made of 3mm thick steel plate, stamped and welded in a realistic manner.
• Bolt: Made of CNC Aluminium alloy (and thus very lightweight), the cyclic rate can reach 20 rounds per second.
• Magazine: Internally is housed a plastic magazine tray, with a capacity of 120 rounds – prior to installing the magazine, lock the bolt back to avoid damaging the first BB. Once fully loaded with gas, the magazine can deliver 240 shots – two full loads of its internal ammunition cassette –before needing reloading with gas.
• A selector button is located on the magazine cassette itself, with the switch set to the number ‘0’ on the magazine, when the last bullet is fired, the bolt will be locked rearward ready for. When the same switch is moved to the position marked ‘1’, the dry fire mode is activated and the gun can be fired without BBs loaded. At present it is a green gas powered GBB SMG, however an
“THE PPSH41 AIRSOFT GBB IS A SUBMACHINE GUN DEVELOPED AND PRODUCED BY THE SOVIET UNION DURING WORLD WAR II; RYAN TOOK OVER THE PROJECT AND IT TOOK HIM MORE THAN A YEAR, FROM INITIAL DRAFTING, PLANNING, SAMPLE PRODUCTION AND THEN PRODUCT FINALISATION”
HPA fed version will be released later.
• TDC HOP group: Downward pressure applied by the HOP unit is applied with clockwise adjustment.
• Safety lever: Different from common modern examples, the safety operation is very simple. Pull the bolt back and press the safety button on the charging handle inward, so that the gun cannot be fired.
• Fire selector lever: Push it back for single shot, push it forward for continuous fire.
• HOP rubber and tube are all compatible with VFC’s VFR series HOP buckings, which is very convenient for subsequent modification, however disassembly of the HOP requires the included dedicated tool, to undo the two retaining screws holding the HOP unit together.
I believe many people will ask whether there will be related accessories for PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB? Many people are currently asking about the magazine; currently, we use a drum magazine. The real PPsh41 gun also made use of a 35-round box magazine, which is currently under development consideration. In fact, the PPsh41 does not have many variants to consider, so first we produced the Russian classic. However during the 1990s, the US military went to the Gulf War and captured some examples, and made some tactical accessories, so we also have some related ideas! We will make some adapters; you can see that the barrel of PPsh41 and other heat dissipation holes are very large so we will look to make use of them with the adaptors. In the future, players can choose according to their needs; replacement sights, lights, grips, etc.
Because the way the PPsh41 is traditionally held is not particularly ergonomic, if there is an angled grip in the front, like that of the AK, a 45-degree angled grip, it will be easier for players to operate and shoot.
“THE
NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHED WILL COMPLETELY REPRODUCE THE CLASSIC ENGRAVING ON THE PPSH41 REAL GUN, FROM THE UPPER GUN BODY, BARREL, TRIGGER GUARD, EACH GUN HAS THE SAME ENGRAVED SERIAL NUMBER, WHICH AVOIDS ERRORS IN THE REPRODUCTION PROCESS AND SATISFIES COLLECTORS AND PLAYERS”
This is the direction in which the production will be extended in the future. There are already prototypes and samples, and it is hoped that these will be officially unveiled at MOA 2025 later this year. Those who own the PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB will have the opportunity to exhibit the and response in May this year are good, and then we will start developing new products in this direction.”
that only a select few have been able to get their hands on the real thing as yet.
However, the PPsh 41 is an important model without doubt! Firstly for lovers of WW2-era airsoft platforms the PPsh was massively important not just as an iconic
BILL’S TAKE
Our sincere thanks go to Anny for sharing all the details of the VFC launch in relation to their new PPsh 41 GBBR, and from what we can see it is genuinely now moving from a show-ready prototype to a full production airsoft platform, and this is something that I am certainly very pleased to see!
Let’s take a look again at features...
• Weight: empty gun weighs approximately 4500g
• Magazine capacity: 120 BBs
• Inner barrel length: 208mm
• Overall length: 843mm
• Initial velocity: 100m/s (0.20g BB)
• Note: It is recommended to use 12kg gas. Sadly, although “the word” was April 2025, and subsequently May, here we are in June and the PPsh 41 is still showing up as “Pre Order” from what we can see with many stores. That’s by no means a million miles away from the initially stated deliver-to-retailer date, but it does mean
it, that during the Battle of Stalingrad many German soldiers would ditch even their MP40s in favour of the PPsh, and that big old drum mag, and subsequent delivery of rounds downrange, proved devastating in the hands of both sides!
Many WW2 movie aficionados will no doubt think immediately of “Steiner” in “Cross of Iron”… But then there’s the “airsoft innovation” side of things, and if anything this excites me more, as there’s an innovative, efficient gas drum magazine design that could well prove to be applicable tech-wise to many other drum-fed GBBRs. Then there’s the full steel construction, real wood stock, and CNC-machined internals, this SMG is undoubtedly built for realism and performance!
VFC have really become one of the real “go to” GBBR creators at the moment, and it strikes me that by going in different directions they are REALLY looking to dominate this area of airsoft! If at the same time that VFC are developing new ways of doing things with unique and clever design, matched up with top rate materials and components, and strictly-monitored quality control, AND they are looking at new areas where
“IN FACT, THE PPSH41 DOES NOT HAVE MANY VARIANTS TO CONSIDER, SO FIRST WE PRODUCED THE RUSSIAN CLASSIC; HOWEVER DURING THE 1990S, THE US MILITARY WENT TO THE GULF WAR AND CAPTURED SOME EXAMPLES, AND MADE SOME TACTICAL ACCESSORIES, SO WE ALSO HAVE SOME RELATED IDEAS!”
GBBRs aren’t yet prevalent so as far as I can see Vega and the team are on to something special. And WW2 replicas? Yup, it may appear to be a small market, but there’s something about “vintage” pistols, SMGs, and rifles that just sings to the hearts of many an airsofter, and let’s not forget the fact that many players are also interested in re-enactment… So if you can have one GBBR that you can play airsoft with and then take to the next living history event too, then that has to be a win in everyone’s book!
I am most definitely one of the shooters out there that wants the VFC PPsh 41 GBBR to be a
HUGE success, and if I’m totally honest I cannot wait to get my hands on one!
Once again, my sincere thanks go to Anny for bringing us her account of the VFC launch, and I’ll leave the closing words of this article to her too!
“Interesting things shared from YouTube! Someone on YouTube put the PPsh41 AIRSOFT GBB into the sand; are you afraid to replicate this? Basically, it can still operate after taking it out of the sand, but it is not recommended because it will take a long time to clean and maintain the gun afterwards!” AA
“VFC
ARE DEVELOPING NEW WAYS OF DOING THINGS WITH UNIQUE AND CLEVER DESIGN, MATCHED UP WITH TOP RATE MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS, AND STRICTLYMONITORED QUALITY CONTROL, AND THEY ARE LOOKING AT NEW AREAS WHERE GBBRS AREN’T YET PREVALENT SO AS FAR AS I CAN SEE VEGA AND THE TEAM ARE ON TO SOMETHING SPECIAL”
CLASSIC UPGRADES
WAY BACK AT THE TAIL END OF 2022 STEWBACCA WAS VERY LUCKY TO MAKE HIS WAY TO JAPAN FOR THE FIRST TIME AND TAKE PART IN THE THEN RECENTLY RECOMMENCED KRYTAC OWNER’S MEETING IN CHIBA, SUPPORTED BY LAYLAX, AND CAME BACK WITH SOME GOODIES TO PUT TO THE TEST! NOW HE’S FINALLY HAD MORE THAN AMPLE TIME BEHIND THE BASE TOKYO MARUI MK23, AND AFTER UPGRADING AND RUNNING IT WITH THE LAYLAX COMPONENTS, HE NOW SHARES HIS BETTER-INFORMED THOUGHTS!
Casting your mind back to Issue 149 of May 2023, you may well recall my review of the Laylax “Breakout” Mk23 NBB-specific side-swinging holster and my experiences of using it alongside the stock Marui version I acquired here in Taiwan shortly after my return from Japan.
Among the intervening years I’ve been busying myself with numerous pistol and rifle reviews, and following an unrelated failure of my Mk23 I had to put the continuation review on hold. Luckily thanks to some of my teammates and friends in Japan I managed to finally source spare parts and can complete the review of the upgrade components I was generously furnished with during my time visiting Laylax and recording a quick explanation video with Ryan Sensei in the rooftop studio there.
It’s been a fair while since I got hands-on with this system… unfortunately I had been testing the
game. I’d then gone ahead and stripped it down to successfully install the Laylax replacement lightweight trigger system (which they have a great instructional video for on their Youtube page by the way!) only to have the gun knocked out of the holster twice in the space of a few minutes by some of my teammates running past and catching their gear on my gun and causing it to smash on the floor! Apparently this had with enough force to break the trigger transfer bar inside, which promptly put pretty much exactly a year’s delay on my review as I only just managed to source replacement parts after all this time.
That is one addendum I might add regarding the Breakout holster; I recently had the gun knocked out of it again during CQB gaming and it’s getting pretty infuriating to be honest. Luckily it didn’t break this time, but I would imagine the target market for any Mk23 NBB is more likely to be as a stealthy sniper’s sidearm or backup gun for close
further back than your typical “3 o-clock” position
“AMONG THE INTERVENING YEARS I’VE BEEN BUSYING MYSELF WITH NUMEROUS PISTOL AND RIFLE REVIEWS, AND FOLLOWING AN UNRELATED FAILURE OF MY MK23 I HAD TO PUT THE CONTINUATION REVIEW ON HOLD. LUCKILY THANKS TO SOME OF MY TEAMMATES AND FRIENDS IN JAPAN I MANAGED TO
FINALLY SOURCE SPARE PARTS”
easier when prone in the leaf-litter or grassy knolls you will likely find yourself working from…
STRIPPED AND READY
With the spare parts finally in hand I once again stripped down my original Marui Mk23 NBB, as well as the donor cheap-soft knockoff one teammate gifted me to try and resurrect the project just before another teammate managed to grab the original parts for me during a trip to Japan… many thanks to Rob, Bern & “Defrowe” Stu for their support on that front!
The Laylax kit comprises drop-in components to lessen the spring weight of the double action non-blowback trigger system and make it easier to fire more accurate initial shots, or likewise faster strings of multiple rounds in quick succession without the usual prevalent missing or jams you might encounter with a stock spring setup.
Included in the “SOCOM Mk23 Light Trigger Pull Kit” is a replacement hammer body, red anodised valve striker arm, reduced-force hammer butterfly spring, and one replacement lightweight adjustable magazine valve. You will need to source as many separate magazine valves as you have additional magazines for them to work with the reduced spring power trigger system.
However, their adjustment system also allows you to better tune the gun to favour either maximum output power and range with a larger gas volume, or a throttled gas volume to give a more consistent output pressure shot to shot and greater efficiency or endurance overall. This is achieved by removing the top feed lip unit to expose the top of the main outlet valve, thereafter loosening the valve’s main body at the rear with an appropriate wrench and rotating the now freed up internal valve spigot within the main body using an allen key or similar, to open or close the gas router facing opening in this rotating inner shell; essentially this is to give more gas flow with
“THE LAYLAX KIT COMPRISES DROP-IN COMPONENTS TO LESSEN THE SPRING WEIGHT OF THE DOUBLE ACTION NON-BLOWBACK TRIGGER SYSTEM AND MAKE IT EASIER TO FIRE MORE ACCURATE INITIAL SHOTS, OR LIKEWISE FASTER STRINGS OF MULTIPLE ROUNDS IN QUICK SUCCESSION”
a wider gap, or a tighter gap for more throttled gas flow. Re-tightening the outer body while the tool is left in place to hold the rotating inner part in the desired orientation and it’s a job done, and again, all of which is adeptly explained in their related Youtube instructional video.
After installing all of the components I got back to testing the Mk23 NBB at home on the chronograph with a variety of ammunition weights, and my Lymann trigger gauge as well.
The trigger pull reduced from an average of 2.6kg (5.65 lbs) down to 2.3kg (5 lbs) and made it noticeably easier to make faster follow up shots with less hang-ups I have become accustomed to with NBBs… in fact back in the UK I wrecked my P99 NBB trying to run it as fast as my GBB P99 at one point in CQB, and since then have never really been a fan of the systems. They really are better suited to snipers or sneaky-beaky types taking lone well-considered shots than yours truly with a vastly over developed trigger finger from years of GBB use and abuse!
I elected to set my lone modified magazine up for the maximum output valve, setting with the inner shell rotated to give the widest throat opening to the gas router, and using .20g BBs I achieved an average muzzle velocity of 93m/s or 0.8 joules, with .30g BBs giving 81m/s or 1.1 Joules, and .36g BBs giving 71m/s or 0.9 joules. These values were all fairly similar to the original stock configuration’s output on the same ammunition testing scheme, so the output remains somewhat consistent to the stock gun at the highest setting, despite the reduction in spring rate, no doubt a testament to the clever design of the replacement magazine valves.
GETTING IN-GAME
Having run the upgraded gun in a few different game scenarios now, ranging from as a sidearm for quiet or closeup work in otherwise longer
range outdoor games, as well as in CQB settings where we have to switch to a pistol within ten metres to avoid overpowered rifle or SMG eliminations up close, the Laylax upgrades have made a definite difference in terms of reducing the hangups or short strokes of the trigger for initial shots or rapid strings with the reduced resistance and pull weight leading to a smoother rapid fire experience when running in close quarter scenarios and encountering multiple opponents in a short space of time.
A further upgrade I was furnished with during my visit to Laylax was the replacement outer barrel kit, which allows for a very easy drop-in, swap-out of the original outer barrel unit that has the proprietary thread for the included SOCOM themed suppressor.
The Laylax take replaces this with a standard airsoft accessory thread through the use of an internal thread with a double ended thread adaptor; this allows for the installation of other standard-threaded suppressors for a different aesthetic, or if you wanted to add a longer internal barrel and permanently mask it with a more convenient suppressor length to better match it… or, as I more interestingly deployed it, using an Acetech blaster unit threaded on the front for the CQB games I used the Mk23 NBB in, running green tracer BBs and delighting in “lighting up” the OpFor in a double-entendre fashion!
If, however, you want to dispense with the suppressors altogether, the double-ended and threaded adaptor can be removed entirely and replaced with a threaded plug that screws into the internal thread of the replacement outer barrel unit and use the Mk23 NBB without any sound moderation whatsoever. This trades the louder report with a more convenient and wieldy solution without the added length of the suppressor making it cumbersome to holster, but without the potential worry of an exposed thread being damaged in the process.
“USING .20G BBS I ACHIEVED AN AVERAGE MUZZLE VELOCITY OF 93M/S OR 0.8 JOULES, WITH .30G BBS GIVING 81M/S OR 1.1 JOULES, AND .36G BBS GIVING 71M/S OR 0.9 JOULES. THESE VALUES WERE ALL FAIRLY SIMILAR TO THE ORIGINAL STOCK CONFIGURATION’S OUTPUT ON THE SAME AMMUNITION TESTING SCHEME, SO THE OUTPUT REMAINS SOMEWHAT CONSISTENT”
This would certainly be a worthwhile consideration if you are using an alternative holstering option as well, given that having the suppressor fitted would likely preclude the use of a rigid polymer solution such as a custom Kydex like the ones I’ve been acquiring for my recent Walther GBBs as of late.
Regardless how you intend on deploying the Tokyo Marui Mk23 NBB SOCOM or similar derivatives, the application of the Laylax Breakout Holster, replacement Laylax Nine Ball Metal outer barrel SAS kit, and/or the Laylax Nine Ball light trigger pull kit are bound to bring you added functionality, deployability and enjoyment of the platform.
Many thanks again to Laylax and their team for their hospitality during my time in Japan, as well as their components for testing and review. AA
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THE RIGHT SIGHT
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIGHT FOR YOUR REPLICA CAN SOMETIMES BE A BIT OF A CHALLENGE; WITH SO MANY OPTIONS ON THE MARKET, ALL PROMISING TOP-TIER PERFORMANCE, IT’S EASY TO FEEL OVERWHELMED. HOWEVER, AFTER USING THE SAME OPTIC FOR OVER FOUR YEARS NEARLY EVERY WEEKEND, BRUNO, IN HIS FIRST “SOLO” ARTICLE FOR AA, FEELS CONFIDENT SHARING HIS THOUGHTS.
It’s always tough finding the right optic, and of course it must be the right optic for you! Before diving into the details of my go-to optic, let me introduce you to the brand behind it… say hello to Redwin Optics, a brand that deserves a moment in the spotlight.
Redwin Optics, founded in 2020, is not just another rifle scope and red dot sight manufacturer, it’s the embodiment of a lifetime of passion and experience from its founder, a seasoned hunter named Jose. Jose’s hunting journey began at the age of 13, chasing wild boar through the rugged terrain of Northern Spain. Over three decades later, his passion has taken him to the plains of South Africa for solo hunts and shaped a brand that reflects his philosophy on optics, quality, and durability.
Even at 52, Jose maintains a rigorous daily fitness routine, showing his enduring dedication to the sport and to the pursuit of excellence. That same drive is clearly evident in Redwin Optics, a company built not only on knowledge and expertise but also on the core principles that matter to hunters and airsoft enthusiasts alike.
Jose’s mindset is rooted in the thrill of overcoming adversity, and this mentality is central to Redwin’s product philosophy. But Redwin Optics isn’t just for hunters, it’s also crafted with the fast-paced, unpredictable nature of airsoft skirmishes in mind. Whether you’re tracking a target through dense brush or moving through a close-quarters battle (CQB) arena, Redwin equips you for victory.
The company stands on four main pillars: practical design, efficient use of materials, high-precision machining, and minimized, ecoconscious packaging. Redwin isn’t just selling gear, it’s providing reliable tools for those who are passionate about precision, performance, and pushing limits. That philosophy rings true in every product, and most of all in the optic I’ve come to trust: the Redwin Kuiper 1.2-6x24 SFP.
WINNER, WINNER!
Let’s get into the good stuff. The optic I’ve used for more than four years is the Redwin Kuiper 1.2-6x24 SFP. While it may not be the LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) that everyone thinks of first, since it starts at a base magnification of 1.2x instead of a true 1x it quickly won me over. In fact, I fell in love with it the very first time I used it, and I haven’t looked back since.
Now, for those unfamiliar with LPVOs, it’s important to know they require a bit more adaptation than a standard red dot sight; they aren’t just plug-and-play. There’s a learning curve, and for me, it took about two months of consistent use to really get comfortable. But once I did? Total game changer.
The Kuiper’s 1.2x base magnification may not be true 1x, but it offers what I believe is a slight edge in target acquisition speed. The tradeoff, of course, is a reduced field of view, at 100 metres, it ranges between 32 meters (at 1.2X) and 6.4 meters (at 6X). However, given the 36mm ocular lens and 24mm objective lens, that’s still incredibly impressive, especially considering Redwin’s modest pricing.
Once I got used to it, the Kuiper quickly became my primary optic, even for CQB scenarios. That’s not something I say lightly.
At the heart of the Kuiper lies a fully multicoated lens system. This advanced coating maximizes light transmission and improves image sharpness, offering incredible clarity even in lowlight conditions. The reticle, which features a dual red or green illuminated center, is ideal for fast target acquisition and precise shooting.
One of the most frustrating parts of airsoft is zeroing a sight, especially when the turret markings say “right” but turning them left is what actually makes the adjustment. Not with the Kuiper; it features reliable 1/2 MOA, (Minute of Angle), windage and elevation turrets that deliver smooth, accurate adjustments. These are vital
“REDWIN OPTICS ISN’T JUST FOR HUNTERS, IT’S ALSO CRAFTED WITH THE FASTPACED, UNPREDICTABLE NATURE OF AIRSOFT SKIRMISHES IN MIND. WHETHER YOU’RE TRACKING A TARGET THROUGH DENSE BRUSH OR MOVING THROUGH A CLOSEQUARTERS BATTLE (CQB) ARENA, REDWIN EQUIPS YOU FOR VICTORY”
OPTICS
when making precise long-range shots.
The zero-lock system is also a standout feature. It completely eliminates the fear of accidental adjustments mid-game or in your gear bag. Just pull to unlock, make your adjustment, and push it back in to lock. It even has a large, conveniently located screw on top for quick zero resets. This level of usability in a mid-range optic is rare and highly appreciated.
Durability is another area where the Kuiper shines. Like many high-end optics, the Kuiper is nitrogen-purged and built from a rugged aluminum alloy in a 30mm mono-tube format. It’s sealed with an O-ring and offers IPX6-rated water resistance. That means it’s shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof. I’ve used it in heavy rain and sweltering heat, and it’s never fogged, shifted zero, or let me down.
The Kuiper isn’t just made for airsoft either, it’s been tested to withstand up to 650 Joules of energy. That means it’s tough enough for firearms like .45 ACP, 10mm, and even 6.5mm Grendel! I can even testify to its toughness firsthand; once, while testing the zoom function at home, it slipped from my hands and fell from a first-floor window straight onto a paved surface. The result? Just a minor scratch. It still performed flawlessly afterwards... now, that’s what I call tough!
Another highlight is the reticle. This isn’t your standard crosshair. The Kuiper boasts a highly informative MOA+ range-finding BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) etched into the glass. It also features wind-hold marks. This system enables you to quickly estimate range, adjust for bullet drop, and compensate for wind drift, all without needing additional gear or references. Depending on local airsoft power limits or even for real firearms, this system can be a game-changer for long-range accuracy.
As the name suggests, the Kuiper 1.2-6x24 SFP is a Second Focal Plane (SFP) optic. That means the reticle remains the same size throughout the zoom range. For me, that’s a huge plus. Having
“DURABILITY IS ANOTHER AREA WHERE THE KUIPER SHINES. LIKE MANY HIGH-END OPTICS, THE KUIPER IS NITROGEN-PURGED AND BUILT FROM A RUGGED ALUMINUM ALLOY IN A 30MM MONO-TUBE FORMAT. IT’S SEALED WITH AN O-RING AND OFFERS IPX6-RATED WATER RESISTANCE”
ADHD, I found First Focal Plane (FFP) optics distracting, the constantly changing reticle size was more of a hindrance than a help. The fixed reticle on the Kuiper keeps my focus where it should be… on the target.
Zooming in and out is a breeze, thanks to the included zoom lever. It feels solid, responsive, and intuitive. The diopter correction range is +2/-2, making it easy for users with various vision needs to fine-tune the image to perfection. And yes, the eye relief is excellent too, between 90mm and 105mm, providing a comfortable and consistent shooting experience.
FINAL THOUGHTS
After more than four years of regular use, the big question remains; would I recommend the Redwin Kuiper 1.2-6x24 SFP?
Absolutely!
This optic has never let me down, not once.
From torrential rain to humid heat, it has remained crystal clear, durable, and reliable. It holds zero, takes a beating, and looks good doing it. Sure, it doesn’t have a true 1x magnification, but in practice, that’s hardly noticeable. Most players who’ve tried mine say the same thing: “I love that reticle”. And I agree. It’s simple, informative, and effective.
Of course, there’s always room for improvement, no optic is perfect. But for the price you pay and the features you get, the Kuiper is one of the best value-for-money sights out there. Whether you’re a hunter, an airsoft enthusiast, or someone looking for a dependable LPVO without breaking the bank, the Redwin Kuiper delivers in every category that counts.
I would stress that this is my own optic, and as such this is an unbiased “player” view on a great sight… for more information though do be sure to check out www.redwinoptics.com. AA
“AFTER
MORE THAN FOUR YEARS OF REGULAR USE, THE BIG QUESTION REMAINS; WOULD I RECOMMEND THE REDWIN KUIPER 1.2-6X24 SFP? ABSOLUTELY!”
RED CELL SMALL YET DEADLY
ONCE AGAIN IT’S TIME FOR THE CORE MEMBERS OF RED CELL TO TURN THEIR ATTENTION TO ONE OF THE MOST ENDURING REPLICAS OUT THERE, THE VENERABLE AND MUCH-LOVED MP5! WITH A RICH HERITAGE AND MUCHRESPECTED HISTORY IN BOTH THE MILITARY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT SPHERE, THE LITTLE “MASCHINENPISTOLE 5” HAS CONSTANTLY REINVENTED ITSELF OVER MANY YEARS, AND NOWHERE SO MUCH IT WOULD SEEM THAN IN AIRSOFTGUISE!
Yup, it’s time to re-visit one of our favourite categories in the RED CELL program for the last time before we bring everything together in our big final report that will encompass all the platforms that we’ve tested over the last four and a bit years, and the “MP5” category it must be said has a real place in many long-term airsofters hearts, including ours!
The MP5 has been around as an AEG and GBB for as long as most of us remember, and there’s a good reason for that! Much loved by specialist military and police units the world over since the
courtesy of “Die Hard”!
Although there have been many attempts at replacing the MP5, even by H&K themselves with the UMP, the MP5 has remained steadfastly in place as “king of the hill”, and nearly sixty years on after its first official adoption by the Bundeswehr it’s still seen widely and publicly in the hands of professional users worldwide.
It’s no surprise then that an MP5 has been in the armoury of many thousands of airsoft players all over the globe too, and has been in one shape or another for many, many years; most of RED
“Operation NIMROD” back in May 1980…
“Those on the balcony” (of which allegedly there are many more than is feasible!) took the MP5 into a hostage situation that again, as far as I see it, transformed the special operations community and how it was viewed by the public, and the myth of the apparently almostindestructible “special forces operator” was born… But of course the MP5 had already been in service for some considerable time by 1980, not only with the SAS but with other specialist units like GSG9 and the USN SEAL teams… and of course it became even more famous and cemented its place as a movie-favourite in 1988,
share how the MP5 in all its wonderful 6mm forms has put joy into their gameplay, and to share their memories of games and airsoft adventures past where the little “maschinenpistole” has truly been the right thing, at the right time…
TEAM TALK
Li’l Stu: MP5 you say? Well then, let’s see...
A while back I had to sell-off a lot of my RIF’s due to a sudden attack of poverty; still wanting to go ‘softing, I bagged a JG MP5 A3 and some midcaps. Not having used any JG stuff before, I was stunned at just how good it was. Light, pointable,
“THE MP5 HAD ALREADY BEEN IN SERVICE FOR SOME CONSIDERABLE TIME BY 1980, NOT ONLY WITH THE SAS BUT WITH OTHER SPECIALIST UNITS LIKE GSG9 AND THE USN SEAL TEAMS… AND OF COURSE IT BECAME EVEN MORE FAMOUS AND CEMENTED ITS PLACE AS A MOVIE-FAVOURITE IN 1988, COURTESY OF “DIE HARD”!”
accurate? Like a nail driver. It had fantastic range for such a small AEG , more than held its own; I even managed to “annoy” a PTW M4 user with my plastic-fantastic MP5, he was a little taken back to find that despite his belief that the PTW was “am sooeprrior gnu” he was getting bested by a cheapsoft MP5! After that, I went on to own/run several MP5 variants.
They were mainly the old CA B&T ones, but they were rock solid, didn’t ever stop and just simply worked with no issues, solid and sliding stock, suppressed and non- suppressed. The SD versions were surprisingly quiet, muting the sound to a dull noise when fired. The MP5 is possibly one the AEG’s that I miss the most, having sadly sold them on a long time ago. There’s just something about an MP5, it always feels right; yes, the external HOP adjusters were a pain, as was the clam-shell design, but it all added to the appeal.
Rich: I can only comment on working on them as I haven’t really used one in-game, not my thing. I do have a TM MP5 with a Swordfish kit but it’s not been out for years. In terms of working on them they’re relatively simple if not just a bit different.
Matt: When I was 19 I handled an EF Sportline MP5 that was to be raffled off at a field. I slapped that rack n’ slap cocking handle, broke it, got run off the field and had to pay for it! The owner of that field still refers to me as “that oriental” to this day!
Dan: I’ve been around many an MP5 over the years, from the old clam-shell Tokyo Marui’s to G&G’s, Classic Army’s, JG’s, ICS, VFC and more. Despite being an ardent fan of the MP5, I’ve only had a few actually wind up in my personal collection, the earliest being a mint B&T licensed MP5A5 with the Surefire foregrip that was made by Classic Army. For some reason, this largely ended up being a wall hanger, perpetually sidelined in favour of hauling out the SVD or one of my other guns. Then when I pared down my
collection, it was amongst the casualties to be sold. Later on, I picked up an ICS as part of a trade deal. Unfortunately, this particular AEG proved to have come with a bevy of gremlins, many of which were never fully exorcised and it too was sold off for parts.
airsoft version was somewhat
airsoft MP5 on the backburner. I own a real steel HK SP5K, so admittedly part of it was that almost nothing on the market really matched up externally to the real thing. VFC’s Avalon Elite’s close, but the bodies were a bit brittle and having worked on a lot of them over the years, I am cognizant of how often these have issues with cracking exterior bits and bobs. The venerable old TM’s seem a bit crude now, and the clam-shell design in particular is not something I am keen to work on anymore. ICS makes me shudder with the memory of days spent trying to eke out something
“I EVEN MANAGED TO “ANNOY” A PTW M4 USER WITH MY PLASTIC-FANTASTIC MP5, HE WAS A LITTLE TAKEN BACK TO FIND THAT DESPITE HIS BELIEF THAT THE PTW WAS “AM SOOEPRRIOR GNU” HE WAS GETTING BESTED BY A CHEAPSOFT MP5!”
JG MP5 JG069 J
Price: iro UK£140.00
Age: Current Model
Weight: 1725g
Length: 550-735mm
Magazine Capacity: 240 BBs
Cold Chrono: 0.99 Joule/328fps
Hot Chrono: 0.99 Joule/328fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.taiwangun.com
TOKYO MARUI MP5 NGRS
Price: iro UK£520.00
Age: Three Years
Weight: 3100g
Length: 500-660mm
Magazine Capacity: 72 BBs
Cold Chrono: 0.72 Joule/280fps
Hot Chrono: 0.76 Joule/287fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.allagesairsoft.com
WE MP5A3 APACHE GBBR
Price: iro UK£300.00
Age: Five Years
Weight: 3240 g
Length: 500-660mm
Magazine Capacity: 45 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.49 Joule/401fps
Hot Chrono: 1.49 Joule/401fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.weairsoft.com
VFC (UMAREX) MP5A3 GBBR
Price: iro UK£330.00
Age: Seven Years
Weight: 2820g
Length: 495-660mm
Magazine Capacity: 30 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.03 Joule/334fps
Hot Chrono: 1.07 Joule/341fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Available from: www.airsoftworld.net
WE MP5K PDW GBBR
Price: iro UK£350.00
Age: Five Years
Weight: 3200g
Length: 330mm/629mm
Magazine Capacity: 30 BBs
Cold Chrono: 0.83 Joule/300fps
Hot Chrono: 0.87 Joule/306fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.weairsoft.com
that would run reliably. I certainly did not want anything with a plastic receiver either. It’s a bit harder yet, because the MP5K is what I *really* want, and there are even fewer examples of that which hit all the criteria.
However, this was before TM dropped their MP5 NGRS series, which have finally bridged the gap of exquisitely matching the externals of the real deal. Alas, these are quite expensive and have some quirks of their own, namely the sensitive ETU and inability to use anything other than 7.4v batteries. Still, the SD6 version in particular hits a certain retro vibe and calls back to my days spent playing classic Rainbow Six (before Siege turned it into another Fortnite expansion pack) and running the SD variant as my main squeeze. Ya’ll can keep your fugly Kriss Vectors, P90’s and AR-9 abominations. For me, peak SMG will always rise and set with the MP5 series.
Stewbacca: My first MP5(s) were cheapsoft AEGs way back in the days of Proteus and the first Ms Stewbacca and our friends from our Japanese Society adjacent team that I’d arm the whole lot of with my guns and gear!
MP5J, MP5A4 and MP5k PDWs adorned the venerable gun rack MkI back in my first place after graduating in Nottingham, so back in the 2008 era. Many good times were had with those, and they were lightweight and ideal for the ladies or anyone else with a smaller frame, although maintenance was always a bit of a pain in the rear as the old AEGs were basically built around the gearbox… some of my teammates had the hallowed ICS split gearbox alternatives around the same time which seemed a godsend.
I got rid of all my “cheapsoft” stuff a few years later and whittled my collection down to higher quality but less numerous guns just for myself and a few guests prior to escaping blighty over here, and eventually I acquired a second-hand WE MP5k PDW GBB SMG a year or so after arriving. This was followed by another second-
hand WE MP5A5, and a further one more recently, all of which are in the current collection but out on loan to other newer players as I’ve replaced them with the top of the range, licensed VFC alternatives.
The WE mag cut-out system is a nice idea when it works reliably by comparison to the stop on empty/hold half-open of the VFCs that many complain about; honestly if you don’t absolutely have to have an MP5 most people on the Heavy Recoil Discord would suggest the much better HK53, the 5.56mm equivalent of a slightly stretched MP5, and I would be inclined to agree for a serviceability and magazine convenience aspect of using the same load-bearing gear as your inevitable AR or AK platforms.
That. Being. Said… The MP5SD3 I acquired and reviewed in Issue 166 has nonetheless served me very well and sports a longer inner barrel that fills the length of the awesome integral suppressor and thus matches that of an M16A1’s inner barrel, giving it ludicrous range and consistency that allowed me to double tap people at 50m during a Pewniversity outing! Since then I’ve acquired a further four magazines and stuck them together with clamps to form WMag pairs which fit in the same AR mag pouches sideways, allowing me more “rounds on board” with faster reloads, and then easier use of common magazine pouches on my plate carrier placards.
The MP5 is a timeless and iconic marriage of post-WW2 German stamped-steel and roller-delayed blowback angry sewing machine that always sings to me, regardless of how cumbersome and outdated the manual of arms admittedly is compared to the speedy boi setups of ARs or APC9 series these days… but boring blowback weapons don’t have the same tune, to my mind... long may the MP5 be the yardstick by which all others are held… “And all because the lady, loves Milk Tray”
Ben: So I have the JG works MP5K to which I’ve
“THE MP5 IS A TIMELESS AND ICONIC MARRIAGE OF POST-WW2 GERMAN STAMPEDSTEEL AND ROLLER-DELAYED BLOWBACK ANGRY SEWING MACHINE THAT ALWAYS SINGS TO ME, REGARDLESS OF HOW CUMBERSOME AND OUTDATED THE MANUAL OF ARMS ADMITTEDLY IS COMPARED TO THE SPEEDY BOI SETUPS OF ARS OR APC9 SERIES THESE DAYS”
TOKYO MARUI MP5K
Price: iro UK£200.00 (High Cycle Version iro UK£260.00)
Age: Eight Years
Weight: 1490g
Length: 345mm
Magazine Capacity: 220 BBs
Cold Chrono: 0.49 Joule/230fps
Hot Chrono: 0.52 Joule/237fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.fire-support.co.uk
ICS CES SD6
Price: iro UK£300.00
Age: Three Years
Weight: 2300g
Length: 600-741mm
Magazine Capacity: 230 BBs
Cold Chrono: 0.92 Joule/315fps
Hot Chrono: 0.92 Joule/315fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.fire-support.co.uk
BOLT SWAT SD6 SHORT
Price: iro UK£380.00
Age: Three Years
Weight: 3000g
Length: 550-700mm
Magazine Capacity: 200 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.0 Joule/329fps
Hot Chrono: 1.04 Joule/335fps
Taclite Compatibility: Yes, on Lower Rail
Supplied By: www.nuprol.com
VFC MP5K GBBR
Price: iro UK£260.00
Age: One Year
Weight: 3120g
Length: 403/638mm (with stock)
Magazine Capacity: 30 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.0 Joule/329fps
Hot Chrono: 1.04 Joule/335fps
Taclite Compatibility: N/A
Supplied By: www.vegaforce.com
CM.041H SWAT UPGRADED VERSION (MP5)
Price: iro UK£350.00
Age: Two Years
Weight: 3280g
Length: 550-710mm
Magazine Capacity: 130 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.06 Joule/338fps
Hot Chrono: 1.09 Joule/343fps
Taclite Compatibility: Yes, M-LOK
Supplied By: www.taiwangun.com
CYMA
modified ever so slightly to fit some CYMA parts to give me that more modern tactical look, as I’m afraid JG didn’t really make their MP5k with after-market parts in the design. I’ve slowly come round to loving the MP5 series as for me it was just too much everywhere, iconic as they are and used by SF they were always the bad guys in our favourite movies it was never in the mind of “I need one in my life”…
However, now I have it I do secretly love it! I’ve only had it for a short time and already had some epic memorable kill and moments, the very first of which was when and Bill and I were about to play alongside one another, so I locked and loaded with a HK slap... Bill’s response was “Oooh you tart!” … it was hands down the best moment of the day...so I’m now renaming it “The HK tart slap!” Lol!
The only issue I’m having with my MP5k right now is BBs keep clipping the end of my suppressor, so I’m having a extended tight bore barrel to give me that slightly better accuracy and range and BBs will no longer clip the suppressor. Once I’m finished with all that I want done to it, it will be one of three guns that I’m having as a day or night-time game-ready set up, so expect to see a fair bit more of this beaut in future video!
Boycie: My relationship with the MP5 started last century, far too many years ago, likely around 1994-5!
My first proper airsoft MP5 was one of the Marui MP5SD with fixed hop up which was used to shoot into a cardboard trap in the garden. I increased my collection with a couple of other AEG’s before starting to attend Lightfighter Urban in Sheffield.
By then I had joined a team, SG1, as Stargate was all the rage then, and by now I had progressed to the MP5A4 due to part of the team requirement to use replicas of firearms used in the show. Over the next few years, more and more brands/types of MP5 were released and
I’d added the MP5J and a number of variants to my collection. A change of team then brought about some changes of variants and set ups, then I heard about the Systema TW5 which I felt, why not, there are all these M4 variants around, I wonder if the TW5 is as good as it says it is?. It was!
That MP5 was the first AEG I had really seen with semi, burst and auto as firing options. I owned one of the first to be in the UK and it certainly drew a lot of attention, especially at places like “The Mall” in Reading. One of the big things with it was when the mag ran empty, it stopped firing, then you had to remove the mag and “recharge” it by using the charging handle to reset the electronics before carrying on.
In addition to those models it wasn’t uncommon for me to be rocking an MP5 PDW or MP5K in CQB at places like Lightfighter, FireSupport and Stirling games at Catterick. Over all the years, I’ve owned TM, JG, Cyma, Systema, Bolt and a number of other brands. I would say of them all, the fun factor was from the TM as it seemed to have magic inside and could outrange other “more powerful/expensive” models, but for realism the TW5 PTW would come in first, as you could fit a lot of RS parts onto the outside.
It’s always fun to rock out with your Koch out… not sure if that bit will make it to print… (Yup, it certainly will haha! – Bill Da Ed!)
Miguel: Waiting on the Specna Arms MP5… Bill: Oh my, where to begin with my love for the MP5?
Pretty much every airsofter I know either owns, or has owned and MP5 replica during their airsofting “career” and said ownership is somewhat a rite of passage. I have owned early plastic versions, sold them, moved up to full metal versions, played with both AEG and GBB variants, and there are still “a few” MP5s in my gun cave to this very day….and there always will be!
“BILL AND I WERE ABOUT TO PLAY ALONGSIDE ONE ANOTHER, SO I LOCKED AND LOADED WITH A HK SLAP... BILL’S RESPONSE WAS “OOOH YOU TART!” … IT WAS HANDS DOWN THE BEST MOMENT OF THE DAY... I’M NOW RENAMING IT “THE HK TART SLAP!” LOL!”
CYMA CM.041L UPGRADED VERSION (MP5K)
Price: iro UK£320.00
Age: One Year
Weight: 2700g
Length: 556mm
Magazine Capacity: 130 BBs
Cold Chrono: 0.83 Joule/299fps
Hot Chrono: 0.87 Joule/306fps
Taclite Compatibility: Yes, M-LOK
Supplied By: www.taiwangun.com
CYMA CM041J HIGH-SPEED
Price: iro UK£285.00
Age: One Year
Weight: 2950g
Length: 550/720mm
Magazine Capacity: 130 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.06 Joule/338fps
Hot Chrono: 1.09 Joule/343fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.taiwangun.com
CYMA CM041K BLUE EDITION
Price: iro UK£200.00
Age: Two Years
Weight: 2145g
Length: 407mm
Magazine Capacity: 65/200 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.0 Joule/329fps
Hot Chrono: 1.02 Joule/332fps
Taclite Compatibility: No
Supplied By: www.taiwangun.com
CYMA CM041G UPGRADED (PDW STOCK)
Price: iro UK£390.00
Age: Two Years
Weight: 3400g
Length: 640/710 mm
Magazine Capacity: 130 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.0 Joule/329fps
Hot Chrono: 1.02 Joule/332fps
Taclite Compatibility: Yes, M-LOK
Supplied By: www.taiwangun.com
CLASSIC ARMY CA5 SD3
Price: iro UK£240.00
Age: Five Years
Weight: 2960g
Length: 590 - 740 mm
Magazine Capacity: 200 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.0 Joule/329fps
Hot Chrono: 1.02 Joule/332fps
Taclite Compatibility: N/A
Supplied By: www.classicarmy.com
Over the last thirty or so years there’s pretty much always been an MP5 (or several!) in my personal airsoft armoury, and each one has many tales to tell of airsoft adventures not only in the UK but also on far-flung “battlefields” around the world. Although I owned my first MP5 AEG back in the late 90s (yes, a TM MP5A3 that superseded my FAMAS as it was just better in every way), and then one of the first ICS models in the early noughties, my most fond memory of the platform is when I moved over to the USA in 2006 and started playing airsoft in the mangroves and paper-tress of Florida.
The ICS MP5 was the perfect platform for such a close-in and personal environment, and for my first year or so I saw no reason to change what worked for me… of course over that first year I’d got involved with local team or two, so “loadout requirements” for bigger games meant that an AR/M4 variant was required, and the MP5 was relegated to the armoury, only coming out for very specific games and scenarios…
When I returned to the UK I brought my armoury from the USA home with me, and once again that little ICS MP5 came out of storage and saw some serious game-time at the fledgling CQB sites that were beginning to appear, and during some righteous encounters among the buildings of Rype Village… however, as my personal armoury once again grew, and my airsoft interest firmly turned in the direction of OPFOR, the MP5 was side-lined for a good while until in 2017 I got my hands on the Umarex GBB version!
Although I’d already started my journey into the “gas life” it was most definitely that MP5A3 that truly cemented for me that “this was the way!” As always when you have a superb looking replica you can’t help but mentally wince in case the performance doesn’t live up to the good looks; in the past I’ve seen some truly stunning looking replicas that ultimately spat BBs with all the venom of a lazy worm, and the accuracy
of a ballista! The Umarex (even then with VFC input) MP5A3 looked great though, was superbly finished and put together and functioned flawlessly. It was honestly as close to the real thing as you’d find in a replica at that time and I loved it.
Oh my goodness me! That thing was a little BBspewing beast! Believe me, the first time you used full-auto it was a shock compared to an AEG, both for the rate of fire and the “recoil thump” you got in the shoulder; it would however blow through gas if you went burst or full-auto all the time, one charge being just enough to get through the thirty BBs in the mag in this mode!
That one, along with my ICS SD6, was definitely a “keeper” though, and I still have it with a bunch of mags to this day… time moved on though, and after a number of “modernised” and frankly excellent CYMA 041 models I didn’t really touch an MP5 again in earnest until I got my hands on the then-new G&G R5 last year… and once again the joy of the MP5 AEG was rekindled in me!
Externally the R5 looks and feel 100%; the lower is polymer, but it’s here that you can see a bit of G&G magic as this area has had a re-design, and looks a little blockier and more modern than the “classic” lower; there’s some been a reworking to give a slim and comfortable motor-grip with an enlarged trigger guard to start, but then things get really interesting with full ambidextrous control features. The fire selector has FOUR settings in G&Gs world, safe/semi/three/full… yup, you get a three-BB burst setting as standard!
The upper group is all metal which gives the R5 a really nice feel and weight, and everything feels completely solid, rock-solid, and a short claw-mount for fitting optics comes as standard. The cocking handle tube features some nice cutouts which are aesthetically pleasing, and below this is a very modern M-LOK rail which gives you accessory-mounting slots at 2, 3, 6, 9 and 11 o’clock, along with QD stud points both left and
“THAT MP5 WAS THE FIRST AEG I HAD REALLY SEEN WITH SEMI, BURST AND AUTO AS FIRING OPTIONS. I OWNED ONE OF THE FIRST TO BE IN THE UK AND IT CERTAINLY DREW A LOT OF ATTENTION, ESPECIALLY AT PLACES LIKE “THE MALL” IN READING. ONE OF THE BIG THINGS WITH IT WAS WHEN THE MAG RAN EMPTY, IT STOPPED FIRING”
GOLDEN EAGLE SWAT RAS (POLYMER)
Price: iro UK£170.00
Age: New Weight: 2243g
Length: 540/700mm
Magazine Capacity: 220 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.01 Joule/331fps
Hot Chrono: 1.03 Joule/334fps
Taclite Compatibility: N/A
Supplied BY: www.iwholesales.biz
SECUTOR VIRTUS IV (POLYMER)
Price: iro UK£260.00
Age: New Weight: 2120g
Length: 525-695Mm
Magazine Capacity: 100 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.0 Joule/329fps
Hot Chrono: 1.02 Joule/332fps
Taclite Compatibility: N/A (Taclite Included)
Supplied By: www.iwholesales.biz
VFC MP5SD3 GBBR
Price: iro UK£570.00
Age: One Year
Weight: 3160g
Length: 610/765mm
Magazine Capacity: 30 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.01 Joule/330fps (UK Spec)
Hot Chrono: 1.02 Joule/332fps (UK Spec)
Taclite Compatibility: N/A
Supplied By: www.airsoftworld.net
ICS CES-P MP5 MX5-P A5 S3
Price: iro UK£390.00
Age: One Year Weight: 2600g
Length: 500/650mm
Magazine Capacity: 230 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.06 Joule/339fps
Hot Chrono: 1.07 Joule/341fps
Taclite Compatibility: N/A
Supplied By: www.firesupport.uk
G&G TGM R5 ETU
Price: iro UK£390.00
Age: Six Months
Weight: 2800g
Length: 424/684mm
Magazine Capacity: 130 BBs
Cold Chrono: 1.1 Joule/345fps
Hot Chrono: 1.1 Joule/345fps
Taclite Compatibility: Yes, M-LOK
Supplied By: www.guay2.com
right… add to all of this a cool floding astock with the G&G “condictive hinge” and there are lots of options here!
As I said when I did my initial review of the R5, on the outside it really is a very cool take on the classic MP5, but the goodness keeps on coming; in terms of “OS” you have some very tidy electronic components, a reinforced gearbox frame, 8mm bearings, full steel piston, Ifrit 25K motor… yadda, yadda… Ultimately the R5 looks superb, is brilliantly finished and put together, benefits from massive updates inside and out, and functions flawlessly with solid range straight from the box; the on-board programming is easy even for an old duffer like me, so that’s a bonus too. G&G are no newcomer, and their AEGs have been tweaked and refined, and their latest take on bringing a classic completely up to date has proved a winner.
After many years living and playing with this fabulous little platform, between advances both in AEG and GBB technology and the associated reliable and impressive performance, as far as I can see and as I have said before, the FIVE is ALIVE all over again, and all the better for it! AA
Red Cell is supported by:
SAFE HANDS ON
THE TEAM AT AIRSOFT ACTION ARE CONSTANTLY LOOKING FOR GOOD KIT TO HIT THE MARKET, NOT SIMPLY GEAR THAT’S 100% FIT FOR PURPOSE, BUT EQUIPMENT THAT’S GOING TO GIVE YOU GOOD SERVICE AND GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY… BILL TAKES A LOOK AT THE VERY LATEST TACTICAL GLOVES FROM GERMAN BRAND KINETIXX, TO SEE IF THEY MAKE THE CUT!
Gloves are tricky things to get right, aren’t they? How often have you parted with money for a pair of “tacticool” gloves that offer you entrance to the “operatorz world” and found that in reality they are sub-standard, poorly fitting, and frankly an absolute waste of your hard-earned buckeroos?
When I first started out in airsoft gloves were not such a “thing”, and an old pair of black leather “NI Gloves” from your local surplus store were probably your best bet! When I moved to the USA in 2006 though my eyes were opened to the possibilities of what I could use to cover my hands safely as every tactical store seemed to be offering cool models designed both for law enforcement and the military! For a while I was like a fat boy in a bun shop, and every couple of months I’d pick up another model; online forums were “de riguer” for the discerning tacticalist at the time and it seemed to me that someone was ALWAYS posting about bloody gloves! Of course the dissemination of information about which unit is using which glove model has accelerated with the rise of social media, and now new gloves seem to come along on an almost daily basis (or so it seems to me!).
So with so many glove models out there, how the hell do you decide on the right glove for you? What considerations should you take into account? For me there are three main areas to look at:
1. Grip
The most important thing for me is grip. A glove is of no use to you if it hinders the ability to grip your AEG or restricts access to using technology, which is increasingly important. Because of this many users used to go with “old skool” fingerless gloves, but not me (BBs on the knuckle HURT!)! Of course grip is related to handling your RIFs; before you take every shot, you have to have the feeling of contact with your trigger or it can become a distraction from getting
the shot, and there are now are designs which feature special finger tips to provide superior grip perfect for using technology, handling small items, and shooting needs.
2. Dexterity
Another thing I look for in tactical gloves is to find an option that allows not just grip, but also dexterity. Some tactical gloves are designed to protect your hands from damage by way of padded knuckles, but if the material over the knuckle is too thick, it will impede your dexterity. Likewise, if a glove is the wrong size, it can get in the way of movement. When it comes to finding the right sizing to ensure ease of movement, remember that phrase, “fits like a glove” as your guideline; the right fit of a glove should feel natural.
3. Comfort
When it comes to fabrics and technology many gloves still use leather or “manufactured leather” exteriors or specially bonded synthetic blends. While both certainly has its place in relation to overall comfort, a better option is to choose one that incorporates them in expertly designed ways. For instance, gloves should have leather for exceptional durability, contouring, and waterproofing abilities, but you also want materials that offer some breathability either through the use of specialist lined interiors which are absorbent or through breathability features built in to the glove. The matter of comfort is important since you will be wearing these gloves all day!
KINETTIX, GOOD TO GO
With all of the above in mind, when our good mate Lukas from Military1st contacted me a few years back to say that they would be carrying the German glove brand Kinetixx I was very glad to
“WHEN I MOVED TO THE USA IN 2006 THOUGH MY EYES WERE OPENED TO THE POSSIBILITIES OF WHAT I COULD USE TO COVER MY HANDS SAFELY AS EVERY TACTICAL STORE SEEMED TO BE OFFERING COOL MODELS DESIGNED BOTH FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AND THE MILITARY!”
hear the news, as W+R, the company behind the Kinetixx brand, have some 90 years of expertise in the manufacturing of gloves. The family business was established way back in 1928 by the tanner Jakob Weiblen and his brother-in-law, the glove maker Theodor Rümmelin in Neuhausen an der Erms. W+R then moved to the neighbouring town of Metzingen in 1936 where the first glove factory was built. The factory first produced leather driving and work gloves with the first syntheticfabric gloves arriving on the scene later.
Gloves by W+R are characterised by technical innovation and reliability. As a sought-after supplier to the police and armed forces, customers all over the world rely on their decades of experience and their in-house development department, with its modern laboratory, cutting, stitching and quality control sections. Kinetixx Tactical gloves have become part of personal protective equipment (PPE) for some police forces, military units or Special Forces and are therefore now part of their basic equipment.
Fast forward to right now, and my good mate Chris over at the AIRSOFT & MILSIM NEWS blog very kindly put me in touch with the current team at Kinetixx, and they also very kindly sent me over me three pairs of the new gloves to physically test (although the range is comprehensive!).
These were the KINETIXX X-LIGHT COYOTE, the KINETIXX X-MISSION PRO COYOTE, and the X-PRO in their take on MC. All three glove models are well-priced for well-made technical tactical gloves, although their top-of-the-line models can set you back a pretty penny, although as always you do get what you pay for!
The X-LIGHT is a lightweight and extremely tactile glove that offers a maximum of comfort. Due to its ergonomic cut perfectly adapted to the hand, the glove fits like a second skin and offers excellent freedom of movement. Even in challenging operating conditions, you can always maintain control and a secure grip. The palm of the X-Light tactical glove is equipped with
synthetic leather reinforcements that provide additional robustness and protection. Thanks to the breathable material, the glove is comfortable to wear, and a highlight of the X-Light deployment glove is the touchscreen function, which makes it possible to operate devices with a display without taking off the glove. The loop for attachment to a karabiner ensures quick and easy storage.
A comfortable yet secure fit is ensured by the hookand-loop fastener, which can be individually adjusted to any hand size. The X-Light tactical glove is a reliable companion for all types of operations where high tactility and freedom of movement are important, and one that is most certainly going to stand up to use on the airsoft field, and give you good levels of both comfort and protection!. The gloves are available in the colours black, coyote or MC-style camouflage.
The X-MISSION PRO is the ideal tactical glove for all those who require maximum tactility and dexterity, as their ergonomic cut adapts perfectly to the hand and ensures an exceptional comfort. The robust construction of synthetic leather on the palm and backhand gives the glove excellent grip and protects the hands even during intensive use. Thanks to the integrated cut-protection lining in the palm, the X-MissionPro offers reliable protection and the reinforced digital leather in the crook of the thumb, lined with cut protection material ensures maximum stability in high-wear areas.
Here you get touchscreen capability on all five
“W+R, THE COMPANY BEHIND THE KINETIXX BRAND, HAVE SOME 90 YEARS OF EXPERTISE IN THE MANUFACTURING OF GLOVES. THE FAMILY BUSINESS WAS ESTABLISHED WAY BACK IN 1928 BY THE TANNER JAKOB WEIBLEN AND HIS BROTHER-IN-LAW, THE GLOVE MAKER THEODOR RÜMMELIN”
fingers which lets you use digital devices without having to remove the glove; an eyelet for a carabiner and the adjustable hook and loop fastener for an optimal fit round off the practical details. The X-MissionPro combines breathable materials with robust cut protection and is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, highly functional glove that meets the requirements of demanding applications. These are available in coyote or black.
Finally the X-PRO is an out and out “tacticool beast”, a cool-looking model that combines maximum comfort with optimum functionality. The ergonomic cut, perfectly adapted to the hand, ensures a comfortable fit and excellent freedom of movement.
The palm is synthetic leather, which ensures excellent grip, but reinforcements made of digital leather in the palm provide extra protection and durability. In addition, the glove is once again touchscreen capable, so you can operate any electronic device while wearing them.
For enhanced protection and shock absorption, an anatomically pre-shaped soft protector
is integrated on the back of the hand. Thanks to the eyelet on the glove, you can attach it securely to the carabiner when you’re not wearing it. The glove is rounded off with a hook-and-loop fastener, which also ensures a perfect fit and easy putting on and taking off. The gloves are available in the colours black, coyote or MC-style camouflage.
FAIR WEAR
I’ve been using all three models on the range for a little while now, and as a pretty bog-standard “Size Large” I will say that the fit is excellent, with little excess fabric and certainly no “bag” in the palm area when you make a fist; this can cause issues if you’re using a slim pistol grip as the extra fabric acts as an unwelcome buffer to solid retention rather than aiding it!
As we’ve had a little warm weather recently (haha!) I believe that most gloves would have struggled to keep your hands comfortable, but given the price of the Kinetixx models I was pretty impressed with how they dealt both with heat and getting rid of sweat. Yes, they did get wet from sweat, but equally they were very fast drying once I removed them and hung them to air.
Overall they completely match my requirements in terms of Grip, Dexterity, and Comfort, and they are even touchscreen compatible should you wish to use them in conjunction with your phone or other device.
In my opinion they offer great levels of performance for a great price, and what more can a cash-strapped airsofter ask for?
For more information and to view more models in the Kinetixx glove range please do pay a visit to www.kinetixx.de, or check out www.military1st.co.uk. My sincere thanks to Chris at www.airsoftmilsimnews.com for the hookup, and for the awesome images of the X-PRO! AA
“OVERALL THEY COMPLETELY MATCH MY REQUIREMENTS IN TERMS OF GRIP, DEXTERITY, AND COMFORT, AND THEY ARE EVEN TOUCHSCREEN COMPATIBLE SHOULD YOU WISH TO USE THEM IN CONJUNCTION WITH YOUR PHONE OR OTHER DEVICE; IN MY OPINION THEY OFFER GREAT LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE FOR A GREAT PRICE”
VIPER STRIKE!
IT’S CRACKING ON INTO THE START OF THE LONG SUMMER SEASON FOR AIRSOFT, WHEN EVEN THE MOST UN-HARDY OF CHAIRSOFTERS LEAVE THE COMFORT OF THEIR INTERWEBZ-FUELLED GLOOM-CAVES AND HEAD OUT TO ACTUALLY GET SOME GAMES IN! FOR MANY HARDIER PLAYERS THOUGH, IT’S TIME TO FULLY SWITCH-OUT HEAVIER WINTER GEAR FOR SOMETHING A BIT MORE LIGHTWEIGHT AND WARM-WEATHER FUNCTIONAL, SO BILL LOOKS AT SOME OF THE GREAT CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT FROM VIPER TACTICAL THAT THE AA CREW HAVE BEEN USING THEMSELVES!
VIPER TACTICAL continue to move on forward time and again as far as I, and indeed many of the AA Crew are concerned, and as I’ve noted before when they add something to their extensive range of clothing, footwear, and kit it’s worth taking note of, and although their range is stocked by most good retailers in the UK, I am very pleased to see that the brand is now reaching players much further afield too!
For many years VIPER have provided great entry-level tactical clothing and gear but their changes in the last couple of years, and the reworking of their ranges of clothing and gear in an extremely focused way has paid dividends, not just for them in terms of sales, but for us in relation to the ubiquity and quality of the kit we can add at sensible prices to play airsoft!
From really quite modest roots, the VIPER range has condensed and crystallised into something special, and have taken things up into a whole new level of performance and choice. Whilst not as widespread as their range once was they
really seem to have concentrated on looking at what players really NEED, and set about creating unique items that 100% meet that criteria.
And their method of getting news of their gear out to players, not just in the UK but indeed worldwide, has been equally unique, somewhat of an “outreach program”, and it’s an approach that I personally very much approve of as it’s similar to that which we have here at Airsoft Action! Yes, like all modern companies they make good use of social media to put word out, but via their regular appearances at games and events they interact directly with their customers to hear what they like, and equally what they don’t!
It’s great for me, as a fellow “survivor” to see that Ratty is back out and about (after his own battle with “The Big C”) with the “Viper Roadshow”, interacting as always directly with players, and singing the psalm of the VIPER TACTICAL brand.
It’s equally cool to see the “Viper Ambassadors” doing their thing, and once again interacting with players in their own communities
“FROM REALLY QUITE MODEST ROOTS, THE VIPER RANGE HAS CONDENSED AND CRYSTALLISED INTO SOMETHING SPECIAL, AND HAS TAKEN THINGS UP INTO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE AND CHOICE”
to ensure that information on new gear is effectively and accurately disseminated… Our very own Miguel is one of this group, and it’s always good that I can get his take when I come to look at new and existing VIPER kit in detail.
And that’s really what this update is all about!
VIPER TACTICAL continually drip-feed choice new items into their range, and thankfully we get to look at that all given the long, trusted, and friendly relationship with have with another great UK-based company like our own. We’ve seen a few new things like the COVERT SOFTSHELL JACKET creep into the mix in recent months, and we’ve also seen new colours arriving for popular items like the PCS 95 trousers.
Of course the VX BUCKLE UP system is a fave for many of us, and the three “uber lo-drag” magazine panels that were introduced after the main system have really proved incredibly useful to me. VIPER have obviously looked again to functional new technologies and designs that show “current best practice” in the tactical gear market, and they developed the panels, elasticated and lo-profile, one each for PISTOL MAGS (5 cells), for SMG MAGS (4 cells) and for AR/AK MAGS (3 cells)… very sweet, and a godsend for someone like me that spends many hours on the range each week testing different AEG and GBB platforms!
All three elasticated panels fix solidly to the velcro and twin-buckle arrangement of the VX BUCKLE UP PLATE CARRIER GEN II and are VERY close fitting, something that I 100% approve of, and of course this means that your plate carrier setup become even MORE missionadaptable than ever before! I’ve used and abused all three, and they work brilliantly, and I even managed to squeeze a couple of M110-style “big-boy mags” into the AR/AK version although of course this will deform the elastication over time, so I hope that a dedicated panel for this style of magazine may be forthcoming in the future. If you already own a VX BUCKLE UP PLATE
CARRIER GEN II these panels are available in Green, Tan, Black and V-CAM and are a great addition to your personal “gear cage”; and if you don’t own one a VX set yet then it may well be worth considering one when it comes time to change out your kit, as it’s now, in my opinion, one of the most versatile rigs out there… whether you’re on a budget or not!
“UPDATES TO THE VIPER CLOTHING RANGE HAVE BEEN ARRIVING STEADILY, BUT AT A SENSIBLE PACE THAT SHOWS THAT THE GUYS ARE REALLY THINKING ABOUT WHAT WE NEED, AND HOW BEST TO CREATE THIS IN A USABLE AND AFFORDABLE WAY!”
REGULAR UPDATES
Updates to the VIPER clothing range have been arriving steadily, but at a sensible pace that shows that the guys are really thinking about what we need, and how best to create this in a usable and affordable way!
A favourite of virtually every member of Red Cell, we’ve talked at length on many occasions about just how good the ripstop-poly-cotton ELITE TROUSERS are now that they’ve moved into GEN II of their design; these just keep getting better and better! Although more basic trousers like the classic PCS 95’s can be had for less, the ELITE’s are most definitely worth the money if you want something REALLY distinctive and these continue to prove popular with us “in-house”!
The members of Red Cell - and indeed some of the AA Legion - are also fans of the VIPER SPECIAL OPS SHIRT which has been specifically designed to be worn under body plate carriers. With pad pockets and hook and loop panels on the shoulder pockets, you can customise the shirt according to your specs and taste. The shirt features 100% cotton material for the body part allowing for maximum breathability and comfort. The sleeves are made of ripstop
fabric providing enhanced performance during the activities. The ¼ neck zip and adjustable cuffs with hook and loop tabs allow for a perfect fit of the shirt. The new shirt can be used throughout the year in a variety of environments which makes it perfect for airsoft; I’ve been wearing one for a while now, and thus far it’s stood up to some properly hard use well!
Two absolute classics have also proved to be winners with all of us when it comes to lightweight “tech tops”, and those are the MESHTECH T and MESH-TECH ARMOUR TOP. These kind of crept into the VIPER range with little fanfare, but both have proved to be absolutely excellent, and superb value for money! Wearing layers of clothing during any outdoor activity allows for easy control of the body core temperature, and the TECH shirts are versatile garments that as an outer layer during warmer months or as a base layer in autumn and winter.
They’re both made of fast-wicking mesh fabric that draws moisture away from your body, helping you to maintain a stable core temperature and providing comfort as it helps keep skin dry; not only do they provide additional temperature control but they’re also comfortable as hell and for many of the AA Crew they’re pretty much every day wear… in fact I’m wearing a zip-neck MESHTECH shirt as I write this!
“NOT ONLY DO THEY PROVIDE ADDITIONAL TEMPERATURE CONTROL BUT THEY’RE ALSO COMFORTABLE AS HELL AND FOR MANY OF THE AA CREW THEY’RE PRETTY MUCH EVERY DAY WEAR… IN FACT I’M WEARING A ZIP-NECK MESH-TECH SHIRT AS I WRITE THIS!”
As we’ve moved from winter in to spring, some of us have been wearing the TEHNICAL MID LAYER FLEECE and it’s proved to be a real favourite too, but VIPER have also added to that with a full fleece jacket, the GEN II SPECIAL OPS model, that works perfectly with their LIGHTWEIGHT and COVERT SOFTSHELL JACKETS as an insulating layer… and both look pretty sharp for “off duty” wear too!
I’ve been wearing the LIGHTWEIGHT SOFTSHELL JACKET to death so far this year, both on the range and indeed “off duty”, and it’s standing up to all my abuse superbly! It’s made of a stretchy and breathable fabric, making it a great outdoor jacket that won’t take up too much space in your Safe Zone pack, and with four-way stretch fabric and gusseted underarms, this jacket offers flexibility and a lot of freedom of movement. It has hook-and-loop adjustable wrists and a bottom hem with an elasticated cord and stoppers. It features two large front hand pockets and one utility chest pocket, all with glovefriendly zips,
for accessories or essentials. The jacket is functional and comfortable, ideal for any outdoor
adventures, including airsoft, and it’s become a real favourite with the all of us, especially as we head towards the warmer months of the year but still need that little extra protection from the elements!
Last but not least I need to comment on the VENOM BOOTS, which both Miguel and I have been wearing extensively and are bang-on with all the latest performance and comfort technology!
Starting with the soles which are aggressively styled and have 7mm deep, multi directional treads, these are durable yet flexible so you can move around with confidence even when carrying a load. The heel of the boot has a moulded TPU heel
stabiliser and internal nylon stabiliser shank which actually work well to support your ankle and the combination doesn’t hinder movement one bit.
On the foot they are SUPER comfortable thanks to the EVA foam midsole. The upper is 1000D Cordura and the sole comes up over the toe so you can be confident that they’ll take a fair battering traversing through all kinds of terrain. Internally there’s a moisture-wicking lining and a waterproof and breathable hydroguard membrane. This means you can be confident that you’ll have cool, dry feet in those hot-weather months, and even when things get a little moist
“I’VE BEEN WEARING THE LIGHTWEIGHT SOFTSHELL JACKET TO DEATH SO FAR THIS YEAR, BOTH ON THE RANGE AND INDEED “OFF DUTY”, AND IT’S STANDING UP TO ALL MY ABUSE SUPERBLY!”
underfoot! Overall we’ve found that these have stood up exceptionally well to regular wear in rugged and pretty unforgiving terrain, and kept both our feet and ankles well-protected… what more do you need?
All of the latest gear and garments are a cracking addition to any collection of VIPER kit you may already own, and all of them have really stood up well to all the abuse we’ve thrown at them. Their kit continues to offer a cool look with the latest colours and patterns whilst not costing the earth, which has to be a good thing for any airsofter on a budget, but 100% does not mean that you won’t be getting righteous-looking and totally serviceable gear!
There are obviously more items in the range that I haven’t included, not because they’re not
good, but because we’ve concentrated on the clothing and gear that we’ve actually used most extensively ourselves! All of the gear adds to the already focused, yet comprehensive range that VIPER offer, a range that will give a total solution of excellent quality, at a sensible price.
To keep up to date with the new VIPER tactical products as they become available please visit www.viperkit.co.uk and you’ll also be able to find full stockist details there too. If you’d prefer you can follow VIPER TACTICAL via their Facebook and Instagram pages which are regularly updated.
Thanks to VIPER TACTICAL Ambassador and AA Deputy Ed, Miguel, for some great “in-game” images of the gear - rest assured, there’ll be more to come! AA
“THERE ARE OBVIOUSLY MORE ITEMS IN THE RANGE THAT I HAVEN’T INCLUDED, NOT BECAUSE THEY’RE NOT GOOD, BUT BECAUSE WE’VE CONCENTRATED ON THE CLOTHING AND GEAR THAT WE’VE ACTUALLY USED MOST EXTENSIVELY OURSELVES!”
STRANGER THINGS
WITH HIS HIGH TEMPO RIGHT NOW, STEWBACCA REALISED IT HAD IN FACT BEEN NEARLY FIVE YEARS SINCE HIS LAST VISIT TO OUR FRIENDS AT G&G, AND THIS TIME HE RETURNED TO A RENOVATED FACILITY ALONG WITH OUR LOCAL LADY AA LEGIONNAIRE, “MILITARY” ANNY WU, WHO’S BACK IN CIRCULATION AFTER SOME PERSONAL TIME AWAY! WITH HER NATIVE LANGUAGE APPROACH TO THINGS THEY FOUND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BEGINNINGS OF THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BRAND, AND HOW IT GOT TO WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WHERE IT IS GOING IN THE NEAR TERM.
Life out here in “the wild west, out east” has a habit of zipping by in short order; I keep myself pretty busy with gameplay, product testing, review and now even design, as well as the day job and other things, but even I had lost track of just how long it had been since my initial Inside Airsoft article “Daring to be Different” in Issue 117 regarding the airsoft manufacturing and exporting powerhouse that is G&G (or “Guay and Guay” meaning “strange/weird/different” when translated from Mandarin), so Anny and I returned to find a much-changed facility since my last visit.
It also just so happened that Amanda Liao was in country at the time, the youngest of the three children helping to run the airsoft business empire. She usually resides in the USA and deals with sales and operations over there as well as in Europe, while older sister Joanna handles Japanese operations and eldest son Peter overseas production in Taiwan and the domestic market. Of course their father and company founder James Liao continues to oversee things at the top level, and both he and Amanda were good enough to sit down with us and answer all of our questions about G&G and what’s been happening since we last saw them.
Anny took the lead in terms of native language interviewing as it often makes people a lot more at ease in our experience and she tends to get a more in depth and personable result due to her approach and background, so I’ll pass things over to her…
G&G Founder James Liao not only turns 71 this year, but will soon also be celebrating other important milestones, his 40th anniversary of G&G operating as a business in 2026, as well as the upcoming release of his own memoirs titled after a local saying “eating sugar cane from the bottom up”, which translates into English as things continually improving over time; this certainly applies to his life trajectory and resulting business and family life.
Born in Yunlin, in the more southern midlands of Taiwan, his father ran a grocery store which ensured the family was relatively comfortable at the time, and James was the sixth of his siblings; as he approached elementary school age he joined his father in a move to Taipei where he subsequently established a knitwear factory. However, by this time fortunes were changing due to internal family politics and with his father’s older sister and brother in law taking charge of money, with two older brothers not having a particular acumen for business either.
Following high school graduation, enlistment in the RoC marine corps ensued, with James’ father caught up to his leaving son on a bike and stuffed the last of his cash into his hand to see him through things as best he could, but this bittersweet moment, while proving there were still good folks in the family, would also be his final memory with his father, who sadly passed away from cancer just after James had passed his marksmanship examinations, so naturally he immediately rushed home and dealt with funeral proceedings.
Unfortunately his mother would pass away a few months later from a stroke; his life and fortunes were definitely in a changeable and formative period of his life, but he endured.
Following retirement from the military, he returned to the business world and assumed control of his brother’s printing factory which was already in millions of debt at the time, and eventually had to be wound down, after which James joined the United Pacific Advertising Company as an accounts executive.
Rising to the role of assistant manager within less than a year, and gradually managing to clear all his debts and purchase his first home, a disagreement with his supervisor eventually pushed him back towards the path of running a business of his own, opening with a humble collection of three glass display cabinets.
“I HAD LOST TRACK OF JUST HOW LONG IT HAD BEEN SINCE MY INITIAL INSIDE AIRSOFT ARTICLE REGARDING THE AIRSOFT MANUFACTURING AND EXPORTING POWERHOUSE THAT IS G&G (OR “GUAY AND GUAY” MEANING “STRANGE/WEIRD/ DIFFERENT” WHEN TRANSLATED FROM MANDARIN)”
After taking his daughter Amanda (around six at the time) to Ximending (a major tourist and retail area in the Western part of central Taipei) and to the Lions’ Plaza Commercial Building, he came across an art store on the first floor and got chatting to the proprietor and learned that he could help facilitate renting of a premises with the same landlord in what was a very good location; and so the beginnings of the business were set, with three friends being the proprietors and naming the store “Three Friends” as a result! However, following eight months or so the other two decided to withdraw and James and his wife had to borrow nearly half a million dollars to buy out their shares, and renamed the store “One Quarter Weird” due to selling strange toys and gifts, stationery and prank toys!
Through the 1980s and 1990s a further five stores were opened around Taipei as well as further afield in Taichung and Koahsiung, most of which have since been closed down as the business shifted to focus on exporting airsoft guns and avoiding the pricing conflicts of
competing with other similar brick and mortar airsoft gun stores (of which there are many in Taiwan), with just the Xizhi store remaining in Eastern Taipei which was later supplemented with the newer and larger main production facility down in Changhua county south of Taiwan’s central city of Taichung.
Business continued to boom and having moved production south due to the Xizhi facility being insufficient to deal with the international orders that poured in, the initial Changhua facility of 300 square meters also gave way to a larger 500 square meter factory which itself soon showed itself as insufficient too, so the present 1500 square meter five storey headquarters which also has a separate warehouse as well as their third floor multi-use space that serves as a showroom, museum, pattern room, presentation space and target range area.
James continued to soldier on through various trials and tribulations, but also obvious successes, with G&G generating seven million Taiwanese dollars a month he had conquered
“JAMES CONTINUED TO SOLDIER ON THROUGH VARIOUS TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS, BUT ALSO OBVIOUS SUCCESSES, WITH G&G GENERATING SEVEN MILLION TAIWANESE DOLLARS A MONTH HE HAD CONQUERED MANY OF THE ADVERSITIES OF BUSINESS!”
many of the adversities of business! However, his personal health suffered with a prognosis of stage II lymphoma, but, clearly having seen enough adversity in his earlier years, was made of stronger stuff, praying to live to see his children reach their 20s, he seems to have succeeded in that and then some! They are now grown and have their own children, as well as being set to inherit one of the largest operations in the otherwise niche airsoft industry.
RECENT ADVANCES
More recently their operations have spread to not only turn out an ever growing wealth of electric and gas operated airsoft guns in all shapes and sizes (indeed their pattern room/museum takes up most of the third floor with multiple thematic wall displays, cabinets and a leviathan doublesided full-length central divider wall completely crammed with myriad past and current market leading products) but also electronic target systems which are not only present on their own internal ranges, but have formed the basis of their G&G World Cup CQB which was covered fully in the pages of Airsoft Action!
In the past paper targets have typically been used for measuring shooting, BUT this requires consumable targets and pasting/use of stickers to repair them between groupings, a less environmentally friendly and scientific approach. However, BB projectiles can nonetheless impart a reasonable force on metallic targets and quickly lead to their cumulative damage, as well as varying power levels making reliable detection of hits a tough problem to crack in general, a problem James contemplated while flying to Japan with Joanna and gazing out at the engine and contemplating the airflow through it and over the wings, and inspiring a solution to all the previous technical problems
With initial models of the G&G target system appearing in 2012 these developed continuously
“WITH INITIAL MODELS OF THE G&G TARGET SYSTEM APPEARING IN 2012 THESE DEVELOPED CONTINUOUSLY TO THE LATEST FOURTH GENERATION METAL PLATE, IN SIX, NINE OR TWENTY FIVE TARGET GRIDS, MANY OF WHICH ARE NOW BEING USED AS PART OF THEIR SKILL AT ARMS OUTREACH PROGRAMMES”
to the latest fourth generation metal plate, in six, nine or twenty five target grids, many of which are now being used as part of their skill at arms outreach programmes.
This latter aspect was of particular interest to myself, so I focused my own questions on this arena, having taken an interest in the growing self-training, civil defence and military civilian cooperation efforts within Taiwan these last few years since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine and many Taiwanese locals and foreigners based here taking a keen interest in the events and parallels of our present defence situation. G&G have certainly put themselves at the forefront of defence education over the last four years or so since my previous visit.
At present there are approximately forty facilities across Taiwan that range from military training facilities with James himself being a prior member of the Reserve Officers Training Corp, or ROTC, where he met Mr Tse-Chun Pu who helped set about making use of the targets along with G&G AEG replicas of the Taiwanese T91 service rifle to instil basic initial weapons handling and marksmanship principles before progressing to gas blowback equivalents and then live fire with real rifles.
Add to this encompassing high schools or universities such as the first academic outreach beneficiary in the form of the Chinese Culture University, with their systems regularly being maintained back at G&G’s facilities due to the highly sulfurous and corrosive volcanic environment around the school.
Many other schools have begun renting or permanently installing target systems on their own firing ranges, or visiting outreach training outfits, giving numerous Taiwanese youth a healthy and controlled entry into shooting, whether it be for sport or future national defence, and further defunct educational facilities being considered for more permanent and full-time
specialised facilities where any of the nearly half a million reservists can come in their own time to train! Some facilities are even set up for use with night vision equipment to instil proper light discipline and skill at arms in darkened environments.
This outreach is also spreading beyond the borders of our island home, with Republic of Korea armed forces, LAPD SWAT and even the Swiss police already making use of airsoft for force on force training, target shooting and even mixed fitness challenges, while G&G’s latest L85A3 AEGs are set to fulfil a UK MoD demand for around three hundred replicas to be used for initial early-phase troop training, as well as their own public recruitment outreach activities to get people interested in their own potential military
“REPUBLIC OF KOREA ARMED FORCES, LAPD SWAT AND EVEN THE SWISS POLICE ALREADY MAKING USE OF AIRSOFT FOR FORCE ON FORCE TRAINING, TARGET SHOOTING AND EVEN MIXED FITNESS CHALLENGES, WHILE G&G’S LATEST L85A3 AEGS ARE SET TO FULFIL A UK MOD DEMAND”
service.
Further interest from Italian, Czech, Japanese, Mexican, Brazilian and other US units for the same kind of setups are a clear indication that the world is waking up to the genuine training value of airsoft for much safer and cheaper weapons handling and force on force activities that eradicate the still potentially dangerous use of simunitions or similar UTM ammunition, which can still be fatal if it hits the right body part such as the temple.
With local forces and students also participating in regional and national level competitions to further instil some urgency and recognition in the more widespread adoption of the practise (something I’m personally an equally ardent proponent of), for everyone a rifle, fellow shooters…
Furthermore, G&G are looking to continue attending and supporting numerous international events, with our good friend and Bill’s somewhat “airsoft mentor”, John Lu, continuing to cooperate in the USA with his ‘Operation Lion Claw’ games, and similarly “American MilSim” being regular fixtures stateside for over a decade, while this year’s Atlanta-based NRA trade show will further allow G&G’s youth outreach efforts to spread!
And, at the time of writing, the German based Dark Emergency event should also be occurring in May 2025 which G&G will similarly be supporting and giving away products as prizes as well as meeting and gathering feedback from fans of their products.
FURTHER NEW DIRECTIONS
In terms of new products, we have their growing AR GBBR range, as well as its dual AEG/GBBR drop in convertible system I saw at TADTE 2023 hopefully coming to fruition soon! Likewise, TADTE 2025 will also see the return of G&G which I will of course be covering as I did at the previous iteration of the biannual local defence show in
Issue 155.
There’s also a growing cooperation with GATE to implement their Aster units in AEGs produced by G&G, more variations of their now-proven and well-received lever action gas rifles and double action shotguns, as well as an ever growing range of gas blowback pistols and rifles making use of their own patented precision HOP units, some of which also have integrated hidden adjustment tools secreted in the recoil guide rods in the case of their latest pistols, and all of which can be used in conjunction with their own brand of tightly quality controlled BB ammunition to ensure a consistent shooting experience.
As 2026 rolls around, G&G are poised to celebrate their 40th anniversary with a further locally-held, family-friendly outreach event to mark the occasion, and already being the recipients of many local school field trips, it’s clear that all of us, young and old, we have a lot of “stranger things” to look forward to!
Many thanks as always to G&G Armament, James and Amanda Liao and their staff for their generous time and great hospitality. AA
“AS 2026 ROLLS AROUND G&G ARE POISED TO CELEBRATE THEIR 40TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A FURTHER LOCALLY-HELD FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTREACH EVENT TO MARK THE OCCASION, ...IT’S CLEAR THAT ALL OF US, YOUNG AND OLD, WE HAVE A LOT OF “STRANGER THINGS” TO LOOK FORWARD TO”
PRIMEIRA DAMA
SO, WITH NEW MEMBERS OF THE AA LEGION IT’S TIME TO BRING SOMETHING BACK TO THE MAGAZINE, AND THAT’S A FOCUS ON PLAYERS THAT BRING SOMETHING FRESH AND NEW TO OUR GLOBAL COMMUNITY! SARA HAS BEEN SPEAKING TO SOME OF THE FEMALE COMMUNITY MEMBERS OUT THERE, AND NOW BRINGS US INSIGHT INTO MARIA ALMEIDA, ALSO KNOWN IN HER NATIVE PORTUGAL, AND TO THE AIRSOFT WORLD, AS “PRIMEIRA DAMA”!
Obviously being from Portugal myself I thought to start with my own part of the worldwide airsoft community, and Maria was most certainly a good place to begin; it was my pleasure as always to speak with her, and I thank her for answering my questions to share with you all here!
Maria Almeida, also known in the airsoft world as Primeira Dama (First Lady), is a very energized player, recognized by her good mood and as the founder of the Portugal’s AirsoftGirls community. She truly represents the good spirits and enthusiasm that gets people together to be involved with, and play, airsoft!
AA: So, Maria, who are you outside of airsoft?
Maria: I’m Maria. I have three children. I work as an administrator, and I don’t have much more time besides airsoft; lately, airsoft has been consuming a lot of my free time! All of the free time I have is for airsoft-related stuff, team, projects, and so on. Outside of airsoft, my life is majorly being a house wife, a mother, and everything that is related to managing a home with three kids!
AA: How did you learn about airsoft and how did you begin playing it?
Maria: I did my first game in October of 2019, by my husband’s challenge. When I met him, he would ask me for a ride to airsoft fields, so I understood the vibe, but never really wanted to try it. Then, he would ask me to take him to the airsoft store which was when I started to see what airsoft really was… I did become more curious… he was always telling me to come try, but I would refuse. Then, it became a “one day I will”, until I
did. And it was super fun!
The first game he took me to was really cool, I had a blast! With borrowed gear, I started to go to trainings, games between friends… until he asked me if I would go to AVOC, and I thought “that’s a big game, I don’t know if I’m prepared…”. As he insisted, I ended up agreeing. We bought my own gear to go prepared for that game, boots, a replica… and I went. It was a very cool adrenaline rush, and I never stopped.
AA: What’s the best memory you have of all games you’ve been part of?
Maria: Wow, the best… that’s difficult... There was a time when the team was huge and it was great fun because there were many different personalities; there was always someone who was willing to joke around.
I don’t remember any in particular, but we had in fact many funny moments… There are always stories, like being shot out by a friend... when there’s fair play, it always gives some big laughs. Sometimes, when you’re in the game it’s a serious simulation, and a very focused atmosphere.
I recall once I was one of the characters... I remember that I created my character, and her story, but I didn’t create a personality, so I improvised… it came out as an extremely annoying girl who was constantly talking. Once the enemy attacked our village; so, I’m there handcuffed, but I don’t shut up, continuously talking. As I wouldn’t shut up, the other faction wasn’t able to concentrate. Then one of them turns to the guy who was about to take others on a pickup and says “Take her! Take her with them, please!”
“MARIA ALMEIDA ...IS A VERY ENERGIZED PLAYER, RECOGNIZED BY HER GOOD MOOD AND AS THE FOUNDER OF THE PORTUGAL’S AIRSOFTGIRLS COMMUNITY. SHE TRULY REPRESENTS THE GOOD SPIRITS AND ENTHUSIASM THAT GETS PEOPLE TOGETHER TO BE INVOLVED WITH, AND PLAY, AIRSOFT!”
They put me inside the vehicle…I kept talking! Once they arrive to their destination, the guy driving the pickup asks “Where am I supposed to put her?”. As I never broke out of character, I kept talking the whole time, explaining it was a misunderstanding, and had to go back to my village. They were all looking at each other superconfused and thinking “...but what do we do with her?”, because this wasn’t a mission, or an objective. What’s so funny is that the other guy just told them to take me because he wanted to get rid of me. Everyone was completely at a loss. I think it was a really fun scene!
AA: What did airsoft bring you?
Maria: A lot of work, but it’s very good to clear your head. It’s also good to disconnect. My husband and I are always involved in a lot of things, ending up overloaded, tired… but it’s an anti-stress. On the field you disconnect from everything, your head is only there. You
don’t think about anything else; you’re in the conversation, in the parody, focused on the adrenaline, on the strategy. You’re completely disconnected from everything... it helps you disconnect, and that’s very cool.
AA: Do you belong to any team? What’s it like being part of it?
Maria: It’s very cool, we have a team called FOE. We’re very united, we respect each other a lot. I’ve been there since the beginning, and who came after had to accept it. Despite me being part of the team, I only took care of bureaucratic parts. With this role, the pressure started for me to start playing airsoft; “if you’re already part of it, might as well start playing”. Being part of the team, before playing, I felt distant from the group. With time that passed, we are all equal. We get along very well, we are spectacular!
AA: As a woman, what were the biggest challenges you’ve faced in airsoft?
“SO, I’M THERE HANDCUFFED, BUT I DON’T SHUT UP, CONTINUOUSLY TALKING. AS I WOULDN’T SHUT UP, THE OTHER FACTION WASN’T ABLE TO CONCENTRATE. THEN ONE OF THEM TURNS TO THE GUY WHO WAS ABOUT TO TAKE OTHERS ON A PICKUP AND SAYS “TAKE HER! TAKE HER WITH THEM, PLEASE!””
Maria: I’ve fortunately never personally dealt with unpleasant comments in game, but I’ve faced two big challenges. You easily find some guy peeing in a corner… as a woman, you really have to isolate yourself, you have a lot of clothes to take off… it’s a challenge! Plus, when you get to the cars after the game, you look around and there’s a bunch of men in underwear… you think “I’m soaked too. I’m full of mud too, how am I going to do it?” Most of the time you don’t, you can’t change. Or you really have to reinvent yourself because you’re really uncomfortable. Once it rained so much that we were completely soaked… I finished the game earlier, as I wanted to take advantage that there was no one around the cars to change… it didn’t go as planned, as there were already a lot of men on the parking lot, undressing. A teammate and I started looking for towels and shirts to put over the car’s windows so I could undress inside. I had to adapt… there are
many places that are already prepared for this, but most of them aren’t…
AA: Do you play with your husband/partner? How’s that experience for you?
Maria: That experience is very cool! As I said, we have three children so, in our day-to-day life we don’t have time for each other, or to be together... having airsoft in common brings us closer. At first, we always want to play together, “I am where you are”. Now, it always gives a certain pleasure to play against one another, as a tease. But I still really like playing alongside him; he has a lot of energy, and he’s always playing forward, so sometimes I can’t keep up with his game so much, but when I can it brings us closer and gives us that sense of doing something together.
AA: Have you ever had a bigger part on a game, like a faction commander? How was that experience?
Maria: I have, and I liked it! It was the first
“I’VE FORTUNATELY NEVER PERSONALLY DEALT WITH UNPLEASANT COMMENTS IN GAME, BUT I’VE FACED TWO BIG CHALLENGES. YOU EASILY FIND SOME GUY PEEING IN A CORNER… AS A WOMAN, YOU REALLY HAVE TO ISOLATE YOURSELF, YOU HAVE A LOT OF CLOTHES TO TAKE OFF… IT’S A CHALLENGE!”
time they put me in a leadership role and my experience was spectacular! I didn’t win the game, but I had amazing people on my side. We played a hell of a game! It was spectacular, I had no idea what it was like to lead. I sent them to on missions and then thought “this is too crazy”, but they went anyway. I told a guy: “we have a minute to exchange this for money and come back”. I thought it was impossible, but he did it! The team aligned in everything requested. We didn’t win, but it was very cool. I had a lot of fun.
AA: I remember you were apprehensive when they made the proposal…
Maria: Yes! In a WhatsApp group, we received “first mission, you have 24 hours to elect a commander and whoever elects a commander wins I don’t know how many points”. Everyone started passing the hot potato to each other… someone said that Almeida should be the one, so I agreed, teasing him, but he replied saying I
should be the one doing it instead! Then someone made a poll to vote… everyone voted for Maria and I was so annoyed… I think everyone realized that I was very distressed and I wouldn’t stop denying it... so they said: “you have a bunch of spectacular people here”, “we’re all on your side”, “it will be cool for you”. That wave of good energy was taken to the field… despite being nervous and very scared, we played a good game. It was very cool!
AA: What message would you like to send to other women playing, or thinking about playing, airsoft?
Maria: Airsoft’s a very masculine world... some women fear trying it because they don’t know another girl that plays. It’s not just in airsoft that you’ll hear something you wouldn’t like to hear… we shouldn’t avoid trying something new because of it. There are more women playing airsoft every day. We’re respected, treated the same, so don’t
“IT WAS THE FIRST TIME THEY PUT ME IN A LEADERSHIP ROLE AND MY EXPERIENCE WAS SPECTACULAR! I DIDN’T WIN THE GAME, BUT I HAD AMAZING PEOPLE ON MY SIDE. WE PLAYED A HELL OF A GAME! IT WAS SPECTACULAR, I HAD NO IDEA WHAT IT WAS LIKE TO LEAD”
feel afraid to try it out just because it’s a sport mostly practiced by men. Try it out, I’m sure you’ll love it, and you will meet amazing people.
AA: What motivated you to start the AirsoftGirls community?
Maria: It started as a joke during the pandemic; not going out to shop, or play with the kids, gave me a lot of free time. The quarantine generated many airsoft repost pages on Instagram, and I noticed most publications were men, and when women were published, they were models just using a plate carrier... There was this girl from the north that actually played airsoft, having so many followers possibly due to this. I didn’t know her, but I followed her posts as she made me feel more comfortable in such a masculine world.
Once, she reposted her picture and I commented on it: “at least, you didn’t need to show your boobs to appear”… so, we started talking that all reposts seen are from girls that are sexualized with airsoft gear… I jokingly suggested creating a repost page of actual Portuguese girls who are airsoft players. The page started to be very shared by everyone. I decided to do livestreams every Saturday nights with different players… I had just created a page that was a joke, and suddenly, we had forty or so people watching. For us it was really a lot of people, because it’s Portugal, a small country… it really started with a joke... This was in 2020 and we still have a page that everyone still talks about it and still ask for livestreams!
AA: Has it been developing as you’d like?
Maria: It grew much bigger than I ever imagined... it stopped being a repost page, and became a real community, a safe space for girls to ask for help, for guidance. That’s really cool. There are games with four or five girls, and they all know each other, or have already heard about the community, and come to you because they have already heard about it.
We were present at the Expo with our own
stand, we have a flag, t-shirts, patches... and you notice this evolution on our Instagram page; we would repost photos sent by girls, now you find group photos with thirteen girls together in a game. This was unthinkable once! It’s not my hard work, but the importance of AirsoftGirls that makes us unite. And these thirteen are able to be all together because we already knew each other. This has already gone much further than I ever imagined, because that wasn’t the goal; it became the goal. So, we turned a repost page into a community of support, of union, of spreading that we are here and that we exist. I think that’s so important! I’d like the community to keep expanding. We’re currently sixty-ish girls now! Once again my thank go to Maria for answering my questions, but now it’s time to look beyond my homeland and see who else I can talk to and bring to your attention for the positive things they do in our big world of airsoft! AA
“WE WERE PRESENT AT THE EXPO WITH OUR OWN STAND, WE HAVE A FLAG, T-SHIRTS, PATCHES... AND YOU NOTICE THIS EVOLUTION ON OUR INSTAGRAM PAGE; WE WOULD REPOST PHOTOS SENT BY GIRLS, NOW YOU FIND GROUP PHOTOS WITH THIRTEEN GIRLS TOGETHER IN A GAME. THIS WAS UNTHINKABLE ONCE!”
SALAMANDRA
SALAMANDRA IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST AIRSOFT EVENTS IN PORTUGAL, WHICH HAPPENS ONCE EVERY OTHER YEAR ORGANIZED BY THE PORTUGUESE NATIONAL AIRSOFT ASSOCIATION (ANA). THIS YEAR, BEING THE FIRST VERSION OF THE NON-STOP GAME FOR BRUNO, PROMISED A 36-HOUR-LONG MILITARY SIMULATION OPERATION WITH DIFFERENT LEVELS, BOTH PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL. DEPENDING ON WHICH TEAM YOU ENTERED, YOU HAD THE POSSIBILITY FOR HAVING FUN AT THREE DIFFERENT LEVELS… USING BOATS ON THE RIVER, SKYDIVING-IN, OR GROUND OPERATIONS. AS MIGUEL WAS “AWAY ON OTHER MISSIONS” BRUNO STEPPED IN TO TELL US MORE…
First let me explain that this is a BIG game, and as such is split between three different teams, each with its own experience...
• SpecOps - a very restricted group that starts the game at 2am on Saturday in an unknown location with a highly important mission for the beginning of Salamandra
• Marines - the alliance of Salamandra, will be in game from Saturday 10am until Sunday 12pm, commanded by headquarters
• Salamandras - the rebels that occupy the area, known by the shemaghs, who conduct their activities through several camping villages and are commanded by their leaders
Despite being a non-stop game and no matter
way before!
With a teaser released on the 18th of February and a new episode released every month since then, it was a great way to keep every player on their toes and hyped for the actual game. Miguel and I were actually part of the character-creation in these teasers that were being treated as if it was an action movie!
This year was actually my first time playing in this huge event, being in the Salamandras faction I went full in with the kit, buying a black thobe and a big shemagh! After all the action we had with the teasers, it was time for the Salamandra experience.
GAME ON!
recharge their energy before going back into the game.
With that background established, the third Salamandra game took place on the 10th and 11th of May of 2025, however the event started
On Friday the 9th we arrived at the village where we assembled our camp. Once that was done, we got everything ready for the big game and went to
On the morning of 10th, after getting equipped we went ahead into the game area, where we hiked to our HQ. There we received our first mission: move to the coordinate Kilo 29 to find the “Anthrax”, having as a side mission to find a Petroleum mine. After retrieving the “Anthrax” and giving it to our commander, Al Geraldi, the next mission was to capture the Petroleum mine that we had found previously.
Once we got there, finding no resistance, we knew that it wouldn’t be long until the Marines arrived, so we created a perimeter.
After only ten minutes we heard a vehicle coming. Having a scout ahead, he informed us that it was an enemy movement to capture that mine. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but we waited… Once they were close enough, we started shooting!
This battle lasted two hours! We suffered casualties, but since we were able to be revived by our team-mates, we had a bigger chance to defend the mine. Despite having the enemies
“THIS YEAR WAS ACTUALLY MY FIRST TIME PLAYING IN THIS HUGE EVENT, BEING IN THE SALAMANDRAS FACTION I WENT FULL IN WITH THE KIT, BUYING A BLACK THOBE AND A BIG SHEMAGH! AFTER ALL THE ACTION WE HAD WITH THE TEASERS, IT WAS TIME FOR THE SALAMANDRA EXPERIENCE”
Using a friendly drone, we gathered intel that there was an enemy FOB just a few kilometers away from that mine; after making sure that the Marines knew that we weren’t playing around, we guaranteed the mine was ours, and then another Salamandra squad got to the mine to switch out with us, because we had another mission.
We received info that there was an injured pilot that needed to be rescued and taken to the coordinate “Papa 14”, so we went on our way, stopping in our HQ to refill with water and ammunition. With 26ºC heat we knew we had to be careful.
After packing up all the gear, we hiked to the rescue zone, where we found the pilot. Checking the map, we knew from that point we needed to be extra careful, because there were no friendly forces anywhere close, so we moved carefully avoiding contact with Marine forces. It is true that we hiked three kilometers instead of two, but with that we were able to drop the pilot at Papa 14 without suffering any casualties!
Geraldi that there was an enemy HQ nearby, having then a new mission… get close enough to recon the base, and find if there was a chance that our spiritual leader, Al Pestawari, was being held prisoner there. So, we went moving through the Alentejo hills, always aware of our surroundings. We reached their base. At this point we could hear Al Pestawari screaming. We knew we had to do something! So, without being detected we surrounded the enemy base and launched an attack! Leaving no Marines alive, we dominated their HQ.
At that point we found our spiritual leader tied up with a bomb around his chest; we couldn’t leave him like that! We pushed through the Marines leader tent where we found their Commander seated, almost like he was expecting us already. We found it odd, so we began looking for intel, taking photos of all the maps and codes we could find, while others were trying to disarm the bomb around Al Pestawari’s
From there we received information from Al
was super hard, we did get a break!
“USING A FRIENDLY DRONE, WE GATHERED INTEL THAT THERE WAS AN ENEMY FOB JUST A FEW KILOMETERS AWAY FROM THAT MINE; AFTER MAKING SURE THAT THE MARINES KNEW THAT WE WEREN’T PLAYING AROUND, WE GUARANTEED THE MINE WAS OURS”
In the meantime we received information that
to a FOB we had near the dam, where we had to take our squad lead to a really important meeting.
We went on the move, and once we got there, we noticed that an enemy force was coming up close to our FOB. They pushed us through the dam. I believe that their objective was indeed to stop that meeting at all costs, so we went full force protecting the exit of the dam. We weren’t allowing any Marine or SpecOps through that point! We defended it until the end… we had made it!
The meeting had reached the end and we had to take more “Anthrax” to our HQ, leaving other squads to distract the enemy forces. Once we got to our HQ, we received the order to rest because at 23:00 we would start moving again, to a night mission!
NITE OPS
my thermal scope on my replica and we went off into the night!
While on the move we were ramming against more Salamandra squads; clearly they had different missions to take care of, but after radioing our Commander Al Geraldi, we received a different command, to gather forces, because we had to raid the Marines HQ, the one where we had been before. On the way we gathered the needed forces, and we reached a temporary FOB, which was only 300 meters away from the enemy HQ.
We all gathered to talk about our tactics of engagement. Using 4x4 vehicles, we rammed their defenses and pushed through it! The Raid had begun! Somehow, they might have discovered our plan, because their defenses were strong too! They suffered casualties, and so did we, but they had the higher ground making our push a lot harder. We fell back gathering
The time had come, I mounted my flashlight and
around, jumping fences in the dark.
“THE TIME HAD COME, I MOUNTED MY FLASHLIGHT AND MY THERMAL SCOPE ON MY REPLICA AND WE WENT OFF INTO THE NIGHT! WHILE ON THE MOVE WE WERE RAMMING AGAINST MORE SALAMANDRA SQUADS; CLEARLY THEY HAD DIFFERENT MISSIONS TO TAKE CARE OF”
we could guarantee there wouldn’t be an enemy expecting us.
The distraction worked! We got right behind their base and sandwiched them, leaving no man alive!
Our focus was to rescue Al Pestawari, who was injured, so we called an evac, and once it arrived, we jumped in and took our spiritual leader to be treated, being that at 02:00 our mission was already completed successfully, so we took a well-deserved rest.
On Sunday we got up at 7 am. I hadn’t slept much because of the adrenaline, so I was tired. I drank an energy drink and so we went on our way to our HQ. We had a new mission; the petroleum mines we had captured previously had to be blown up with explosives.
We went ahead to blow them up, so that the Marines couldn’t use them. After planting the explosives on three mines, and blowing them up, we went on our final mission, that being not to allow the SpecOps to capture our HQ nor kill our spiritual leader, Al Pestawari. Being that the SpecOps didn’t finish their final mission, it was up to the Marines to make it through, but our
Salamandra Forces were way too organized, not allowing them to complete their missions as well, reaching the end of this edition of the Salamandra.
Once the game was finished, it was time to relax and chat about our experiences, being that the true mission was to have fun in a MilSim adventure and most importantly to get home safe!
Overall, it was a one-of-a-kind experience for me, as it was my first time attending Salamandra. The game was unique by the way the whole story develops through the military simulation, the number of missions and the unparalleled views of Alentejo. Having the company of a great team and well-prepared gear, it’s a great recipe for a good time! And definitely one to repeat!
My sincere thanks go to all the players that made SALAMANDRA 3 such a great airsoft experience, and to the ASSOCIAÇÃO NACIONAL DE AIRSOFT (ANA) for allowing us to share images of the event; check out https://anairsoft.com to find out more about the great work that they do!
AA
“WE ALL GATHERED TO TALK ABOUT OUR TACTICS OF ENGAGEMENT. USING 4X4 VEHICLES, WE RAMMED THEIR DEFENSES AND PUSHED THROUGH IT! THE RAID HAD BEGUN! SOMEHOW, THEY MIGHT HAVE DISCOVERED OUR PLAN, BECAUSE THEIR DEFENSES WERE STRONG TOO!”
Airsoft
“ WHAT IF” there was an alternative?
WHAT IF...
You could use your gas blowback system all year round
Winter and Summer, the same way? Imagine consistent performance regardless of the weather, no more struggling in the cold or worrying about performance dropping in the heat of battle.
You will not have cool down effect and can shoot full auto at the same fire rate?
Sustained fire rates without performance degradation would be a game-changer, especially in scenarios requiring rapid engagement.
You could shoot at any angle, even upside down?
Shooting at any angle, even upside down, adds a new level of tactical flexibility and dynamic gameplay possibilities.
Your mags will be lighter weight?
Reduced weight would decrease fatigue and improve handling, especially during extended games.
You will have multiple ways to fill your mags?
More convenient filling options would increase efficiency, and reduce cost, making it a more accessible, viable solution.
Temperature will not impact your gun's performance, same output?
This translates to reliable power across all conditions, meaning more accurate shots and consistent groupings, improving gameplay significantly.
SO YOU WANNA SHOOT ACTION AIR?
STEWBACCA, OUR “MAN IN TAIWAN”, HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN THE COMPETITION CIRCUIT OVER THERE IN THE GUISE OF “ACTION AIR” (IPSC BUT WITH AIRSOFT GUNS), AS WELL AS REPORTING ON - AND EVEN DABBLING IN - ADJACENT IDPA TAIWAN ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS OTHER CIVIL DEFENCE RELATED EFFORTS SINCE HE MOVED TO TAIPEI IN LATE 2019. HAVING ATTENDED NEARLY 250 TRAINING SESSIONS AND FIFTEEN LOCAL COMPETITIONS OF VARIOUS LEVELS AND SCALES OVER THE YEARS, HE HAS, AS YET, NEGLECTED TO GIVE A BIT OF A BACKGROUND INTO THE WHOLE GAME AND HOW IT’S PLAYED… SO, YOU WANNA SHOOT ACTION AIR? WITH THE WORLD SHOOT 2025 IN THE PHILIPPINES COMING UP SOON, READ ON…
Looking back at the spreadsheets once again, Action Air IPSC Taiwan coverage articles were hot on the heels of my first full time report for Airsoft Action regarding SpeedQB in Taiwan. Having dabbled first with the 2019 ‘Ding Ding Cup’ on the invitation of my Filipina skirmish teammate, Belinda, I gave it a go.
Belinda, back then, was a member of team “Spring Rain” who you have no doubt seen the name of cropping up in any number of the previous 14 “Fresh Prince Of Action Air” article series covering my competition circuit mischief and experiences out here.
The Ding Ding Cup was a more informal “taster” competition which we since revisited post COVID and which I reported on with Anny back in Issue 154. Basically, a less official IPSCthemed shoot which isn’t sanctioned as such and doesn’t require a local licence or qualification to join in, something all practitioners otherwise have to acquire prior to sanctioned TPSA (Taiwan Practical Shooting Association) matches and allowed me a taste of the competition scene to see if I liked it before committing to the training and qualification regimen. Practising weekly has pretty much been “de rigueur” for me ever since, having passed my certification back in early 2020 and joining my first official match in April down in the hills outside Taichung.
Back in Issue 127 I also put together my first “So you wanna shoot Action Air?” article,
focusing on choosing an appropriate pistol with which to compete, depending on which of the divisions you choose to do so under.
I originally qualified with my KWA USP Compact, then switched to a Double Bell Glock 34 TTI before realising its slide and barrel were too long for the production division rules, switching to a WE M17 clone before that became damaged, and finally moving into the realm of the KJWorks CZ Shadow SP01, then Shadow 2, and more recently Shadow 2 Orange. The latter three variants have represented most of my shooting experience of the past five years since mid-2020 and more recently, since Clarence Lai arrived in Taiwan from his previous native Hong Kong, we’ve been working together with me crash testing all of his resulting custom and upgrade components to support my own shooting journey and related articles and reviews.
From the outset I gravitated towards “Production Division”, for essentially out-of-thebox service sidearms which are mass produced (by real steel IPSC rules in excess of 5,000 units made if memory serves), basically cutting out all the usual “race gun” cheat features of the more lax “open division”… no “gas pedals” or other grip improvement geometric add-ons, no flared magazine wells, extended magazines, compensators or other such customisation… You can amend the trigger and the standard grip panels within certain limitations, but basically
“THE DING DING CUP WAS A MORE INFORMAL “TASTER” COMPETITION WHICH WE SINCE REVISITED POST COVID AND WHICH I REPORTED ON WITH ANNY BACK IN ISSUE 154; BASICALLY A LESS OFFICIAL IPSC-THEMED SHOOT WHICH ISN’T SANCTIONED AS SUCH AND DOESN’T REQUIRE A LOCAL LICENCE OR QUALIFICATION”
Production Division is where you will find a lot of sponsored shooters or armed forces/law enforcement personnel competing with their service weapons, Glocks, SIG,s HKs, Berettas, and of course CZs predominantly.
All are limited to fifteen rounds in the magazines across the board, regardless of physical capacity, but basically anything that is a regular production pistol is applicable, either striker fired, or double action/single action capable with double action requiring decocking on the first shot of any condition one start… but we’ll get back to that later.
More recently, as demand has finally grown to justify it, “Production Optics” division has now opened up here in Taiwan, which both myself and my SPPT Teammate Ou JiaCheng are now training in, using CLPD Shadow 2 Orange pistols ready for the World Shoot 2025 in the Philippines in July/August later this summer. Basically all the same rules, but slide-mounted red dots are now permitted as well, which are a big help in terms of speed!
UNDEVIDED DIVISONS
If you’re a fan of old school, single-stack 1911s then “Classic Division” allows for eight round magazines… and will likely require lots of them!
Our friend Jordan down in Kaohsiung, who now runs his own club and team “DejaVu 1911”, used to compete, usually alone, in this division locally just for the challenge to himself, and tended to carry a whole belt load of magazines given the roundcount requirements and the limited capacity of each one! More recently he has decided to shift into more typical HiCapa/2011 style guns and
compete against others rather than just himself, but it was certainly different to see him running in hard mode and just trying to better himself despite the trials and tribulations previously.
“Standard Division” allows for single action only pistols, such as basic HiCapas without too many frills, and has a magazine limit of eighteen rounds per “stick” as such. Our SPPT teammates, Dang Ding Ray and Yang Kai Hung, tend to train and compete in this and run a basic gun very quickly with fierce reloads and movement throughout.
Most competitions have a reasonable turnout for this division as well, pitting competitors against each other with iron sights and fewer bells and whistles.
“Open Division” is, of course, the more popular and “anything goes” group, which many of my teammates and our counterparts train and compete in. Anything up to twenty-eight rounds in a magazine (matching the maximum sized real
steel 38 special extended HiCapa magazines of IPSC regulations) is good here, as well as all the bits and pieces competitors could dream of
“IF YOU’RE A FAN OF OLD SCHOOL, SINGLE-STACK 1911S THEN “CLASSIC DIVISION” ALLOWS FOR EIGHT ROUND MAGAZINES… AND WILL LIKELY REQUIRE LOTS OF THEM! OUR FRIEND JORDAN DOWN IN KAOHSIUNG WHO NOW RUNS HIS OWN CLUB AND TEAM “DEJAVU 1911” USED TO COMPETE, USUALLY ALONE”
adding on… funnel magazine wells for easier reloads, grip textures or panels, or even custom-sculpted grips that fit their own hands perfectly, “gas pedals” or other thumbrests that help keep the gun from muzzle flipping under recoil (of course this is much reduced in airsoft guns, but nonetheless upsets your sight picture), while longer inner barrels are usually hidden inside oversized outer barrels or even muzzle mounted compensators, giving you the most performance and consistency available.
Speed cocking levers can be mounted to the rear iron sight dovetails and thumbed back with the support hand for speed cycling on the draw with “Condition Two” starts, and cantilevered optical sights or red dots tend to be standard fare, not moving with the slide as it recoils and thereby suffering less sight picture interruption.
Many tune their guns to the edge of reliability for minimal recoil stroke and force, as well as the most consistent HOP units, buckings and internal barrels, with most of us zeroing our guns on a 1” metal square flap at the 10m range without much issue… especially if you have a platform sporting a fixed inner barrel.
So, once you’ve decided on the division you’d like to train and compete in, the gun of choice and related personal equipment needs preparing, usually specialised shooter’s belts, model specific holsters and magazine carriers set up for each individual competitor (see also my review of the Double Alpha “Lynx” belt and holster system in Issue 132). These are a fairly typical investment for a habitual shooter, although people can and do use universal equipment to be less “gamified” and replicate their service sidearm setups
““OPEN DIVISION” IS OF COURSE THE MORE POPULAR AND “ANYTHING GOES” GROUP, WHICH MANY OF MY TEAMMATES AND OUR COUNTERPARTS TRAIN AND COMPETE IN. ANYTHING UP TO TWENTY-EIGHT ROUNDS IN A MAGAZINE IS GOOD HERE, AS WELL AS ALL THE BITS AND PIECES COMPETITORS COULD DREAM OF ADDING ON…”
for better training value in terms of carrying a gun for work, and genuine police and armed forces personnel are welcome to compete in uniform with their service equipment if they so choose!
For anyone else, however, as in France, camouflage is seen as a faux pas in general and you are to dress yourself more like a golfer than a combatant, to maintain a distinction between sporting and service shooters. Most teams have themed lightweight jerseys, normally refreshed or redesigned on a rolling basis over a year or two as new competitors join teams and require fresh orders of clothing making.
Similarly, larger events also offer themed jerseys to compete in and as mementos of the competitions themselves, along with many offering velcro patches or stickers to put on your gear or patch walls.
So, once you have your gun, gear and have potentially joined a team or club with which to train (unless you are lucky enough to have your
in charge of signing off on your certification, even if the actual testing procedure is done by subordinate local ‘X’PSA (x - your country name Practical Shooting Association) representatives who are also range control officers and/or in charge of training. I did a few mock tests with Mars, my team leader, before joining a large signup session at our previous old shooting centre in Sanchong, with multiple local teams represented with other new competitors alongside me joining up and certifying.
MATCH READY
Once you have your local licence you can apply online to join any pertinent matches, including occasional rifle competitions, or a mix of pistol and rifle, albeit never at the same time. “Two Gun” or “Three Gun” are different animals in that regard, we only ever stage with one gun at a time under IPSC regulations, but back in Issue 147 you can see my “Shootout in a Downpour” article of the Kaohsiung Level 3 competition, where a few of our team were juggling rifles and pistols and redoing the same stages multiple times, with me running my typical Shadow 2 and switching out to my VFC FAL in a shortened barrel configuration just for “S&G” when everyone else was running ARs ...of course.
own training space!) you’ll need to get licensed under IPSC regulations, typically with each region or country having an RD (Regional Director) who’s
On the day you’ll need to sign in at the admin table with your competition licence to acquire your individual “shooter card” which bears your personal shooter number for this match, as well as your name, picture and a map of your gear setup and stages completed on the rear. Normally they give you ID card holders to hang them off your
“SO, ONCE YOU HAVE YOUR GUN, GEAR AND HAVE POTENTIALLY JOINED A TEAM OR CLUB WITH WHICH TO TRAIN (UNLESS YOU ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO HAVE YOUR OWN TRAINING SPACE!) YOU’LL NEED TO GET LICENSED UNDER IPSC REGULATIONS, TYPICALLY WITH EACH REGION OR COUNTRY HAVING AN RD (REGIONAL DIRECTOR)”
belt, or the back of your hat if you’re wearing one. These are handed in en masse at the beginning of every stage to ensure roll call of all shooters present, and then usually shuffled by the individual stage’s Range Officer to randomise the shooting order each time, with first/ current shooters “on the line” and “standby”/”second standby” shooters being announced as people progress through. This is so that upcoming competitors can prepare themselves and their equipment, especially (increasingly) their head/hat/glasses camera setups, which help them record their own performance, as well as teammates or other friends from the same squad filming third person on a phone from behind being pretty standard fare these days.
Each stage is a fixed array of light brown octagonal cardboard/”paper” targets, some with “no shoot” white counterparts stuck to their front obstructing some portion of the target to simulate a high value “hostage in front of hostage taker shot”. Hitting any portion of the white area will get you a ten point penalty per shot… sometimes I double tap them, just to make sure!
Furthermore, there are “poppers”; metal plate targets with a slightly bulbous head shape at the top end which will fall over when shot in the right place. Sometimes they can be more resistant if you shoot them low, or are pointing your gun at a steeper downward angle, which is always an issue for me to bear in mind being so tall compared to most shooters out here! Sometimes it’s an advantage for seeing over things or through barricade openings, sometimes it’s a hindrance.
The Stage Briefing will introduce the stage number, the incumbent Range Officer and any assistants, the nature of the course, its round count, starting position and condition, and there will typically be a computer generated map printout or basic layout of the target arrays and separate shooting bays or areas they are presented in put up on a board or barricade for everyone’s reference. Usually, each of the shooting bays/positions are separated by barriers or barricades that prevent you seeing every target from one position and force you to plan your movements for maximum speed, efficiency and accuracy depending on your division, equipment setup and limitations.
For instance, I have to be mindful of reloading more regularly as I only have fifteen rounds per magazine, so typically I aim to reload every ten rounds or so, depending on the groups of targets presented in each array, and how much distance or time there is between each shooting position, giving me a few extra in case of misses or other “make up” shots I might have to do. Thankfully, these have reduced massively over my years and now my accuracy is pretty consistent, it’s
“PEOPLE CAN AND DO USE UNIVERSAL EQUIPMENT TO BE LESS “GAMIFIED” AND REPLICATE THEIR SERVICE SIDEARM SETUPS FOR BETTER TRAINING VALUE IN TERMS OF CARRYING A GUN FOR WORK, AND GENUINE POLICE AND ARMED FORCES PERSONNEL ARE WELCOME TO COMPETE IN UNIFORM WITH THEIR SERVICE EQUIPMENT IF THEY SO CHOOSE!”
the movement that needs more focus… old man knees, and being twice the mass or height of some of these fast movers from Taiwan, Macau and Hong Kong who always clean up on the podiums certainly doesn’t help!
Each “paper” target is divided into concentric regions with the “A-zone” being in the centre and around 10cm wide by 21cm high with the corners cropped and the whole zone biased more toward the top of the target (with ‘no shoots’ typically obstruct the lower half of the target or one upper edge). Outside this is the “C-zone”, which is a further stretched octagon of 30cm high by 20cm wide, and outermost is the “D-zone” of 38cm high by 30cm wide.
Each paper target is scored by its best two hits, so if you have at least two rounds in the “A-zone” each shot is worth 5 points, so at least two “alphas” gains you the maximum of ten points per paper target.
a ten point penalty per shot… So messing up on those can quickly erode your good score from elsewhere on the same stage!
Furthermore, if you totally fail to visibly engage a target because you neglected it during your planning or otherwise just forget it under pressure, you not only get the two five point misses penalty per paper target or one per popper, but also a further “procedural” penalty because you failed to complete the course correctly; missing a single paper can really eat into an otherwise good score… ask me how I know!
You can do the aforementioned “make up” shots if you miss entirely or see your rounds land in the C or D zones and think it’s worth the time to put more rounds on the target to get a higher score. C zone hits are two points each and D zone hits are a solitary point each.
If you see and shoot at a target and still don’t land at least two shots somewhere on the brown A, C or D zones you lose 5 points per missed shot, and again if you hit the white no shoot it’s
“EACH
STAGE IS
A
Stage planning ensues after the briefing and the shooters will be given a few minutes in total to queue up behind the start position and “air gun” walk through the stage to plan their stopping/ standing or shooting and moving positions to give the most efficient footwork and shooting capability given the targets presented, obstructions, barricades or no shoots causing problems. All of these target presentations or bays will also be bounded by “fault lines” which you may not shoot while your feet are outside of.
Some form a path throughout the stage, other instances there will be islands of smaller square or triangular fault line boxes that you must run between and are only allowed to shoot certain target arrays from certain boxes, it’s all down to
FIXED ARRAY OF LIGHT BROWN OCTAGONAL CARDBOARD/”PAPER” TARGETS, SOME WITH “NO SHOOT” WHITE COUNTERPARTS STUCK TO THEIR FRONT OBSTRUCTING SOME PORTION OF THE TARGET TO SIMULATE A HIGH VALUE “HOSTAGE IN FRONT OF HOSTAGE TAKER SHOT””
the creativity (or perhaps cruelty!) of the stage designers.
Further challenges, such as “swingers” (paper targets fitted to arms of various lengths) or “sliders”(ones on rails which drop along them from one side to another) which are actuated usually be a designated falling popper or a pull string/toggle or other stage prop which shooters must knock over or stand on add a moving target challenge to the mix. Some of these are “visible on stop”, so if they reach the end of their travel or run out of swinging energy will at least still be visible, although the time penalty for waiting for that is usually not worth the wait for a still target.
Some will be “invisible on stop”, which means they only pop out and expose while moving and will either slide or swing behind barricades or cover at rest, meaning you only have a limited time window to hit them, usually with them passing behind other barricades or even noshoot targets to really up the ante on your speed and accuracy.
Each stage has a “start position”, usually marked by a red spray painted or similar mark at one (or occasionally multiple) point/s on the fault lines bounding the whole stage. Occasionally you may also start seated on a stool at some position, or even have your gun and or magazines staged on barrels or tables and have to safely retrieve them after you begin the stage. Furthermore, you may be hampered
by limitations such as “strong/weak-hand only” targets or entire stages where you must use one hand only, obviously limiting them to shorter stages as you can’t reload.
Sometimes you must grab a prop such as a case, box or bag to occupy one hand (and in some cases even throw off your balance to add to the challenge) when you know you only have one magazine and no chance to reload, and are using your weak hand only, you will learn to shoot carefully!
Each stage also has a “Start Condition”, numbered 3, 2, and 1 in order of readiness. A “Con 3” start is gun holstered, no round chambered and no magazine fitted, the safest starting situation. “Con 2” is a magazine fitted, but no round chambered, while “Con 1” is magazine fitted and round chambered, with either the hammer safely dropped if you have a double action gun, or the hammer cocked and locked by the manual safety if you have a 1911, HiCapa, or other single action only gun. Striker fired equivalents are thus the easiest to manage, without the need to apply any safeties or de-cock anything during preparation.
On that note, typically, discarded magazines should not be revisited as far as I’m aware, certainly at actual competitions, so if you run out of ammunition due to a lack of magazines, badly planned reloads that leave partial magazines
“A “CON 3” START IS GUN HOLSTERED, NO ROUND CHAMBERED AND NO MAGAZINE FITTED, THE SAFEST STARTING SITUATION. “CON 2” IS A MAGAZINE FITTED, BUT NO ROUND CHAMBERED, WHILE “CON 1” IS MAGAZINE FITTED AND ROUND CHAMBERED, WITH EITHER THE HAMMER SAFELY DROPPED IF YOU HAVE A DOUBLE ACTION GUN, OR THE HAMMER COCKED AND LOCKED”
lying in your wake that drop your total available count, or just poor marksmanship or technical issues that rob you of useful rounds, you may expend all useful ammunition before you hit the “stop plate”. This is usually at the rear of the stage, an electronic target which is linked to the timer system that beeps to initiate your run and measures your overall time.
A DNF (Did Not Finish) is a bit of a nightmare and one I have suffered in the past due to those poppers that won’t go over due to the angle I shoot them at, or technical gun issues that make shots weak or cause so many feeding problems that you lose a lot of rounds during repeated clearance drills.
ROUNDING OUT
When you’re all done, the Range Officer will ask you if you have finished, usually emphasising the phrase “if you have finished” if they see you have missed something to give you another chance to remedy things, but if you either have, or think you have finished, this will be followed with “unload and show clear” .
Many airsoft guns won’t eject unspent rounds in the chamber so usually we all have 6mm chamber flags hanging off our belts to push the round out the front of the chamber and drop it on the floor, then the RO will inspect the chamber and tell you to “hammer down and holster”. You drop the action closed, fire off the action/”ease springs” and then re-holster the pistol safely and lock it in place.
Anyone found manipulating their guns, or with a magazine fitted when not under direction
of the RO on a live stage will be disqualified… so many shooters will put a specialised “tea cosy” style cover over their guns while they’re holstered to prevent any damage or interference and related potential for being “DQ’d”.
Similarly, if you break the “180 rule” - with the muzzle of your gun sweeping behind 90 degrees either side of the stage centreline - you will similarly be firmly told to “Stop!” and then “unload and show clear” followed by being “DQ’d” for violating the safety rules. I’ve seen it happen a few times, especially on rough or loose ground. Similarly, if your gun hits the floor at any point it’s a DQ. You can fall over and remain in control of the gun and get yourself back up… *if* you don’t let it hit the floor, or sweep yourself or anyone else or break the “180 rule”. Your time will be much worse, but at least you can recover and finish.
Assuming all went well, you’ll re-holster and lock your gun in place, then the RO and other staff will announce your total time, then assess your hits on targets, calling out “two alpha” for a perfect score on a target, “alpha charlie” for an
“IF YOU BREAK THE “180 RULE” WITH THE MUZZLE OF YOUR GUN SWEEPING BEHIND 90 DEGREES EITHER SIDE OF THE STAGE CENTRELINE YOU WILL SIMILARLY BE FIRMLY TOLD TO “STOP” AND THEN “UNLOAD AND SHOW CLEAR” FOLLOWED BY BEING “DQ’D” FOR VIOLATING THE SAFETY RULES; I’VE SEEN IT HAPPEN A FEW TIMES…”
A&C zone hits, “two charlie” for 2 C zone hits, “charlie delta” for a C&D zone hit, “two delta” for two hits in the D-zone, or any misses or no shoots with “mike” or “no” respectively, and “one P” for any procedural errors, and also “popper (down)” to count steel targets knocked over.
The best shooter is the fastest yet most accurate, i.e. “shoot fast, don’t miss”!. Your total points score is divided by your overall time, to give you your “hit factor”, and the highest hit factor takes the top spot on that stage in their chosen division with a “100% of stage score”, with other competitors having reducing percentages of the winning score depending on their hit factor. Basically, how well they shot, and how quickly or how many times they screwed the pooch and accumulated penalties.
These individual stage scores are then accumulated to contribute to the overall scores at the end of the competition, giving you the possibility to recover from one or two bad stages depending on the length and complexity of each stage and how many there are in the overall competition.
In the end, the top three shooters in each division are awarded Champion, First Runner Up/2nd, and Second Runner Up/3rd place trophies, assuming there are enough competitors signed up to have more than three participants. Sometimes solitary champion trophies are awarded for smaller turnouts, similarly ‘high lady’ is usually awarded to the best female shooter in general, due to the continued male dominance of most shooting competitions. Hopefully, this is something we can change over time.
There are certainly more women and kids getting involved in IPSC, particularly with the fine folks of the Hong Kong and Philippines teams who always have a great turnout, and in general despite the competitive nature of the sport, the general pleasant nature and camaraderie of the events and community is surprisingly
consistent, with practitioners rarely having any issues with others and largely competing mostly against themselves and seemingly just wanting to do their best rather than necessarily beating others per se. Indeed, even as the only foreigner licensed and practicing (that I know of) in IPSC in Taiwan (we aren’t a huge community compared to IDPA Taiwan), I’ve always felt welcomed in and accommodated and the language barrier shrinks year on year as I become part of the furniture and can joke around with people in Mandarin.
That’s about the size of things on the basic overview side.
At present we’ve booked our hotels, flight tickets, Taiwanese gun re-import police documentation and are waiting on our Philippines gun import permits, all in preparation for the World Shoot 2025… with as many as EIGHT HUNDRED practitioners from all over the world set to descend on the small island city of IloIlo in late July. More on that to come! AA
“WE’VE BOOKED OUR HOTELS, FLIGHT TICKETS, TAIWANESE GUN RE-IMPORT POLICE DOCUMENTATION AND ARE WAITING ON OUR PHILIPPINES GUN IMPORT PERMITS ALL IN PREPARATION FOR THE WORLD SHOOT 2025… WITH AS MANY AS EIGHT HUNDRED PRACTITIONERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD SET TO DESCEND ON THE SMALL ISLAND CITY OF ILOILO IN LATE JULY”
