« So Long Peter Jennings | Main | UK Considers Embryo Screening for Cancer »
Airsoft Guns
HEH (we bought two). Having a 10 year-old is great.
Taurus PT92 Heavy Weight Airsoft Gun (Clear)
Update: Having had a few inquiries following my initial post I thought I would write a couple of tips for those who are considering buying an airsoft gun. Note, however, that airsoft guns are non-lethal, shooting replicas of actual firearms either for display or for the purposes of skirmishing in friendly competition. They shoot a plastic BB and are electric, gas-powered, or spring-powered. The latter are generally more rugged and cheaper (which is why I chose them) and, while magazine fed, require hand-cocking after every shot. Now, on to a few basic tips.
First, the quality of inexpensive products is generally poor leading to a broken gun within a matter of days. If the store you are purchasing the gun from offers a warranty take it. It'll be well worth the price.
We went through numerous iterations before settling on the one shown above and the Beretta 92 FS pictured to the right ($20-$30). However, true airsoft loyalists spend hundreds of dollars on quality products. It's apparently easy to get carried away.
Second, make sure you examine the velocity - this reflects the gun's shooting force. While the beretta clone shoots airsoft pellets at a blazing 307 ft/sec, many pistols provide half this speed, and may be better for children.
Third, take adequate safety precautions... while these devices may shoot a plastic pellet they are dangerous is misused.
Finally, although ordering online can be tedious if the product has to be returned, prices are a lot cheaper.
That's all for now. Please add your tips below for the next visitor.
Posted by tim at August 9, 2005 9:49 PM
Site map