November 2002 News

Last updated: December 2, 2002 8:45 PM (GMT)
"Okay, who shot the telly?" "I did" "Why?" "It was Richard Whiteley. I considered him a threat to life and used appropriate force." "Fair enough". Ultimate Force (UK / ITVDrama)

Current news | October 2002 news

Saturday, November 30, 2002 11:15 AM

Salamander Army updates: Spleen (of the Salamander Army) has kindly emailed in some updates from their website. Included in the latest updates is a report on the November 24th game (including some nice pictures) - now that looks like a cold weather event to me!

MoA updates: Ministry Of Attack have also updated their website with some updates. The latest additions include "..new team uniforms article. New pictures for gallery. More humour photos.New team member added, Leon."

ANGS AN/PEQ 2 updates: ANGS have updated their website with some images of the completed AN/PEQ 2 replica. As we thought it is indeed a battery box, but it sure does look nice. Be sure to checkout ANGs website for more info. Thanks go out to Simon Poon (aka Wibb) for the news. Price is set to around 12,000Yen (currently on offer for 9,800Yen), and it was released on November 20th.

The internal measurements are 18mmx71mm , and it can take anything from an 8.6V 600mAh up to a 9.6V 1100mAh. The battery can be removed by unthreading the selector switch, as we've said before this unit will not take a laser, although I'm sure than an indenious DIY soul could do so if they wished. I don't know of anyone stocking it yet, but I'm sure if you asked your local retailer they can source it for you.

Review updates: I've just added some more updates to the reviews page. I've tidied a few things up, and added the final version of DumboRAT's wonderful RagingBull review. Be sure to check it out.

"Any you boys seen an aircraft carrier around here?" : We've all seen this specific piece of kit, they are rather rare but still obtainable. Mats picked up this piece at his local shop, and I'm really pleased to bring you a review of this unique item. Just an Airsoft shotgun? Unlikely.. this thing has 4 barrels!

"... I ran into an old KHC Maverick M-88 in a shop over in Denmark a couple of years ago. I remember thinking it was quite cool, but a bit "plasticy" looking. I'd just bought myself a new AEG and after a short look at the Maverick, I put it aside and left the shop with a first generation KSC Glock 17 instead. A GBB was more fun and much more usable than a shotgun.

Lately, I've been thinking about this old shotgun more and more. It seemed to have everything that I want in a shotgun, and as a bonus you can't exactly call it common, which I like. I decided to take the 45 min trip to the other side of the strait, to find out if they still had any left. Judging by this review, I leave it up to you to guess what the result was. :o) ..."

AirsoftCanada updates: AirsoftCanada (ASC) has been updated with a review of the TGS Aimpoint replica.

Also on their news page is an email from the owner of DEA Airsoft, here's a quote:

"...Randy and myself at DEA are closing the retail end of business. The wholesale end will still be around to supply the other retailers. We are holding a huge close out sale/x-mas sale to say THANKS to you guys for your support. All items HAVE TO BE ORDERED because of there prices are not in stock. THANKS again"

Friday, November 29, 2002 8:14 PM

MadAboutAirsoft new website: It's that time of year when everyone is releasing a new website, and it's MadAboutAirsoft's turn this time. Releasing a new website is always a good thing especially when the design is better and it benefits customers, and in this MAA have come really through. The new website is database drive (what isn't now), and features the ability to write reviews for their kit.

"...Not much has changed at the front-end, however the whole site is database driven now. More products are online than before and users can now track orders and write reviews on most of the items sold.

We would welcome any feedback from you or your visitors, please can email feedback@madaboutairsoft.com with their comments..."

Thursday, November 28, 2002 8:38 PM

AirsoftSurgeon Ruger rifle: Clarence has just updated his website with some details of his latest product, the Gun of Year 2002 - Intimidator 1022. Now this one really is drop dead gorgeous! (Just like all the other's really ^_^ )

"...Since the KOBA 1022 magazine is a long thin type which looks like a "banana," it doesn't look good if inserted into a thin stock. CL tried to shorten it but found that it might weaken the power as gas capacity became small. Eventually, he found the STC Intimidator 1022 stock made by McMillan. McMillan has been building fiberglass stocks since 1973, and their stocks have been a common sight in the winners' circle at Camp Perry ever since."

AirsoftSurgeon Arnie STI: Whilst I'm on the subject of Clarence"The man". It seems only right to complete the first part of my review of a little gift that Clarence sent me - the Arnie STI 6.0. Here's a brief quote, but do be sure to read the rest of the review. As ever just chuck questions (about the pistol) my way via the forums, or email, and I'll add the answers in the review.

"...Not so long ago Herman (aka DolphinCommand) headed off to HK on a short holiday. One of the many people he met up with was the well respected Clarence Lai (the gunsmith previously known as CL, now known as AirsoftSurgeon). As a result of their conversations, and when Clarence realised that BB-IPSC was taking off in the UK, he amazingly, and completely unexpectedly offered to make me a custom replica for competing in IPSC..."

AirsoftClub offers: Algin (of AirsoftClub) has emailed in about their latest updates. Included in these updates are 4 pages of news from them.

Firstly, they have special offers on 3 different custom 'Bushmaster' M4s, with prices cut by 50USD. Secondly they have some great photos from the 'Regimentals Carnival' on 24/11/02. Thirdly there is the second installment of Eagle's Tips for beginners, this time the tips cover caring for your AEG. The final page of updates covers their famed Bushmaster Arm-Pistol, and their gorgeous M4 CQB.

Sniper hide updates: Lee Wade (aka 6mmGuru), the author of Airsoft Sniper Hide (the well known SAC fanzine) has emailed in about their latest updates. The latest is about their custom FN FAL - a piece sure to spike up some interest. Here's the latest form Lee:

"The Airsoft Sniper Hide (SAC Fanzine) has been updated and now has more than 200 pages with a similar number of original photo's. The latest update is on a CUSTOM FN FAL AEG (maybe the only one in the UK?), that Dr. Airsoft is doing some work on. Also, the teams section has now been updated to accomodate 6 SAC teams and most of the regular players. More pictures and updates will follow......."

G36 updates : Miki of TokyoHobby has released some more news via newsletter about TM's G36C release. Please go and have a read of the full article to see the extra detail, but the main interesting poitn was that the G36 will use the "version 3 and newly invented EG1000S motor". Basically the same gearbox as the AK, but with a custom EG1000 driving it.
New RedWolf website: The guys at RedWolf have just released a new design for their website, and well.. it's very impressive. As is usual with new websites, they have a few minor problems, but they are doing their best to solve them at the moment. Here's the latest from the guys at RW themselves:

"...We have just launched a new website and unfortunately are experiencing some technial problems due to an sudden increase in traffic. As a result, you may have difficulty entering the site, or performance may be very slow. Our technical team is working hard to solve the problem and we will inform you when the problems have been fixed.

In the meantime, we thank you for your patience and hope you will forgive us for any inconvenience caused.

Our email system is still working normally and you may contact us for help at sales@redwolfairsoft.com, or you can call us directly in Hong Kong at +852 2857-7665.

For website problems and other questions related to the new site, please contact webmaster@redwolfairsoft.com..."

Tuesday, November 26, 2002 6:37 PM

Den news: Nelson over at DenTrinity has emailed in to let us know that they have a few interesting items coming in.

"...TM Marui G36C is ready for order and we are able to ship on around 20th December. It comes in a first come, first serve basis. [we also have the] KTW Enfield Mk1 - a very rare WWII rifle used by British."

Anyone after a G36C will have to get in quick, as it looks like there won't be enough to go around, at least not until after January.

ICS : Calvin over at ICS has sent in some pictures of their latest items. The AN/PEQ-2 we've already seen, but here's a few others that are now out. As ever you can click on the images for a larger version.


GB-Tech grenades : Handily complimenting the news of CAW's rotary grenade launcher (below), GB-Tech are launching their own line of grenades. Unlike anything seen before these are likely to be a big 'hit' with milsimers out there. Joseph Chen has kindly emailed in updates about this new product.

The new M203 copper shell has 12 barrels, each of which holds 9 BBs. Additionally, not only is there a cap for the grenade that means it looks just like the real steel, but the cap can be ejected/fired instead of the BBs. ^_^

There are 3 types available, two, M381 variants (high explosive), and one M433 replica (high explosive dual purpose). The M381 comes with either a blue or green collar, and the M433 is larger, featuring a gold collar. Price is roughly 63USD per shell, and they are designed for HFC134a. Of note is that if you use the GB-Tech metal barrel, "...the rifling will scratch the shell just like the real deal."

Each look to have realistic decals, but needless to say my opinion is somewhat meaningless as I've never seen a real 40mm grenade 'in the flesh' myself. ^_^ (click on any of the images for a larger picture)

M82a1 - the 2nd batch: Miki of TokyoHobby has released some news (via newsletter) about the Smokey's Gun Factory (SGF) M82A1. SGF are on their second production run of their M82A1. Nothing seems to have changed in this new production, rather this is a second batch that they are producing. By all accounts the replica uses a blowback mechanism ejecting each shell individually. The shells themselves are machined from solid metal, and take the new 8mm BBs.

The new run will only be a total of 50, each with a unique serial number. Price for the M82 itself comes in at a whopping 2780USD, extra magazines (takes 10x50cal rounds) are 320USD, rounds (3 per package) are 64USD. You can also get a hardened carrying case for 280USD.

"...almost one year later the 2nd production version is here and I must say it is even more impressive than before. Smokey's manufactures lot of products by hand since they specialise on exotic rare products that no one else makes. What we have here is custom made replica of M82A1 with full steel metal construction and unique operating mechanism. Quality is all-around very fine and each part has been clearly finished with care."

CAW "revolver launcher"#2: Mike Montesa (aka Stinger) has sent in an update about CAW's new product.

"That launcher's proper name is the MGL Mk1 Grenade Launcher made by the Milkor Company of South Africa."

If you do visit the Milkor website, be sure to checkout the videos that they have online there - I have never seen such impressive rapid fire anti-rabbit equipment. .. sorry 'grenade launchers'. ^_^ (Arnie's note: please don't hunt wabbits with Mk1 launchers.)

Sunday, November 24, 2002 3:50 PM

Site updates: Sorry for the lack of updates this week folks, but sometimes I get too busy to find time to sit down at this PC. Fear not though, I have a bunch of reader submissions here that I'm going to put online for you today. ;)

CAW "revolver launcher": Some way back we mentioned that CAW had an image of a revolving Moscart Launcher on their website (a MK-11 40mm launcher replica). Well recently they've added this page with some photos of the prototype, (many thanks go out to GearMac of Team-SFOR for sending in the link).

I wouldn't bother trying to translate the Japanese there with any online translation engines, as it comes out like one of Chris Tucker's attempts at foreign languages from RushHour2 (shaving butts with swords anyone?).

In brief, the photos are of the cylinder of a prototype that they are working on. The trigger not only actuates the Moscart grenade, but revolves the barrel too. Using BBShower grenades, you are looking at the ability to deploy 990BBs (6x165) in a few seconds. A release date hasn't been given, but it should be announced shortly (which I take to mean sometime this year). I've already bought several stocks and shares in HFC production! ^_^

Updates from Sheriff: I've just recieved an email from Joel Stocker (international sales department - Sheriff). You may remember that we placed a link on here (this one) about some custom 1911 copies that Sheriff made, and more specifically a gold version. The pistols weren't labelled that clearly and Joel has been kind enough to update us:

"...The ones labelled in the picture are, in the upper left, a WILSON-TITAN (list price 282,500 yen) and, in the lower left, a WILSON-20th CUSTOM (list price 180,000 yen)..."

The gold pistols are "Springfield Movie Specials (T-Coat)" that retail for a mere 285,500Yen (1,470UKP/2,323USD)... works of art are never 'cheap'. ^_^

New Wolf website: Wolf have updated their website.. well kinda. Wolf's website has for a long time been somewhat lagging in updates, whilst a new website was worked on. I don't believe that this new release is the 'new' website, but rather that this is a stop-gap release until the final design is online.

To view the new website you'll have to have Flash installed, but on the bright side you can find complete and updated stock/price lists. Wolf's domain has now also changed to http://www.wolf-armouries.co.uk/, so it's time to udpate those bookmarks too!

Team KGB updates: Mark of TeamKGB has sent in an email to let me know that they've updated their website with some new reviews. In the 'kit' section now you'll find reviews of the WA Cougar Wild, an article covering the completely reworked Thompson Contender and a review of the KWC Colt National Match (yup a springer!). You'll also find a MP5 Multi-Review online. Do be sure to pop on over and have a look, their articles are a great read.

TeamKGB are also testing out a new 'license' system, that may be of interest to other skirmish sites and players alike. Also of news is details of their final game this year:

"...Hi one and all, just a quickie to let you know that we're running our final game of 2002 down here at Alamo Airsoft on Sunday 8th December. We're based in Cornwall (near Newquay) and have a large woodland site with a complex covered firebase. It will be a fully scripted days play - with satellite images of objectives + full briefings and plenty of Pyros. A last chance to enjoy to the current Bunker complex before we overhaul it for next year! Full details are over at our site - www.teamkgb.co.uk .Waterproof boots are a must ^_^ ..."

New from Japan: Miki of TokyoHobby has released some news (via newsletter) about the latest goings on in Japan. The first is about the Systema TUBB2000T replica, and the other is about the much anticipated TM G36c:

"...Systema has announced that their new sniper rifle TUBB2000T 'Signature' will be postponed untill next spring at least. This is due to other commitments they have made in production."

"The word on the street tells that G36C can take most relevant mechabox Systema parts without any problems excluding the nozzle. However, overall verdict is that the gun is not suitable for the most hardcore custom tuners. We also found that the rail units on G36C are not 1:1, but downscaled due to patent conflict reason. Therefore the Marui G36C cannot take any real gun attachments."

Vietcong developers play Airsoft: It's well known (well to a few ^_^ ) that a lot of game designers play Airsoft to get a feel for first-person scenarios and gaming environments, so that they can get their games as close to the real thing as possible. Ben Roubique, has kindly sent in some news about an interview with the head of the Pterodon development team, who are currently working on the FPS game 'Vietcong':

"...For the authentic uniforms and equipment we are co-operating with Czech airsoft club "Seals team 2" whose members are collecting the authentic army stuff from eBay. We could photograph everything from the Special Forces uniforms to the VC and NVA gear.

Our team members shot various weapons at the shooting range, the whole team tried forest action with the automatic paintball guns and we have even visited the authentic (but only airsoft) Vietnam War reproduction in the Czech Swamps - very inspirational..."

WA Beretta Vertec details updated: WA have updated their website with details of their new Beretta M92FS Elite IA. Price is set to a reasonable 19,800 Yen (102UKP/160USD) and could well give KSC's replica of the same pistol a run for it's money.

Do note that the WA M9/92fs series are spec'd for HFC134a only. Not only is there the damage/warranty factor in using the higher powered gases, but for some strange reason standard WA Beretta mags seem to have problems emptying entire mags on HFC22. (thanks go out to Allen aka DumboRAT for clearing that one up for me)

As ever we can expect a wonderful piece from WA (noting the above), as it'll certainly be a looker! You can expect to see the new release out on December 14th. Thanks go out to MatchStick for sending in the news.

Tuesday, November 19, 2002 10:01 PM

AirsoftClub stock updates: Algin (of AirsoftClub) has emailed in to let me know that AirsoftClub have updated their stock lists with the following items and offers. Of note here are the KTW L96 (rather rare), and the specials:

AEG Marui H&K G3 SG1 USD230
AEG Marui H&K PSG1 USD345
PDI M24 Japan Version USD550
Aircocking Maruzen APS-2 Bolt ActionRifle USD258
Barrett M99-1 USD666.9
KTW L96A1 USD1264
AEG Marui Colt M16A2 USD201
AEG Marui Colt M4A1 Carbine USD213
AEG Marui Colt M4A1 R.I.S. USD243

AEG Marui Colt XM177E2 USD175
AEG Marui H&K MP5A5(HG) USD174
AEG Marui H&K MP5A4(HG) USD179

Specials
TIM CHAN Custom.3 Rife USD662.5
Barrett M82A1 .50 ~~Deposit USD$932~~
Marui will sell the G36C 11-12-2002

First to make their own line of custom AEG mags? It would seem that First Factory are set to shortly produce their own line of custom TM AEG compatible hi-cap magazines. Given that Classic Army's past attempts at M16 and Mp5 mags have been somewhat laughable, it looks like First are set to step in and show us all how it's meant to be done. Not happy with the current TM mags, First have improved them themselves. Here's the translation (for what it's worth ^_^ ):

"The loading efficiency which is optimum to the cancer/gun which administers high speed custom to more substantially than the former magazine. The magazine which it improves finally appearance. Of course, there is no problem completely even with the normal cancer/gun and can use. You cannot express with the mouth well, if it is the person who is used, someone it does the feeling that " something is different ", the expectation which can feel. First the custom magazine which we send with self-confidence. One time, please try using for this opportunity by all means. Certainly, it probably is to can be satisfied. "

Prices are set to 4220-5200Yen (22UKP/34USD-27UKP/43USD) per mag, with mags available for the following AEGS: G3, MP5, AUG, SIG, FAMAS and AK. In short, the translation reads that they have perfomed magical things upon these standard TM mags.. I'm not quite sure what, but they say that they are better for upgraded rifles with a high RoF, and that they "fill better". Please note - these are not built by First, rather they have taken TM's mags, and customised them themselves.
Saturday, November 16, 2002 10:27 PM

Flectarn.co.uk review: Flecktarn.co.uk is run by Jo and Lenny, and is a retailer that I really admire and highly recommend, in that they are like 'Ronseal'. Eh? ..well Flecktarn.co.uk "does exactly what is says on the tin". (sorry.. it's a Brit joke ^_^ )

Don't just take my advice about it though, please go and have a read of Gator's new review of their services and a few of the products he's bought from them.

"...I first met Jo on Airsoftzone.com where she goes by the handle of Madame Speaker. We were chatting one day and she said that she was going to a night game at Elite Action Games and invited me to go along. I had just got my HK51 so I was ready to give it a solid work out. When she and Lenny came to pick me up both of them where wearing their flecktarn and looked fantastic. I have always liked the look of flecktarn, ever since I saw it in the Munster Panzer museum when I was in Germany and saw how well it blended into the scrubland..."

Friday, November 15, 2002 9:05 PM

New tactics articles: We have two new articles online covering 'softing tactics:

KSC M93rII now out: Well it's finally here - WGC are now stocking the new KSC M93r (thanks go out to Matt Dean for reminding me), weight is 1120g (curiously it' lighter than the two previous versions), and RRP is 150USD. Please don't overlook the ACTY Handgun Grenade Launcher too - we had an article up about this puppy many moons ago, and it's nice to see it available finally. At 110USD, including a grenade and manual, it's going to be rivelling the brick..sorry "Mosquito Moulds Grenade launcher" ^_^.

Sheriff international sales open: I know we've mentioned it before, but James (aka ReelBigLizard) sent in an email, and I think it's worth reminding everyone - Sheriff (Japan) have now opened their doors to the world outside Japan. Their international department although not setup to cater for individual orders, is looking for regional dealerships (anyone interested should drop them a line at overseas-sales@sheriff.co.jp).

If you are interested in what Sherrif can produce.. well takey lookie here.. Castor would be proud. ^_^

Wednesday, November 13, 2002 10:11 PM

Part1 of the CO2 powerlet adapter review: I've just completed part one of my review of the CyberGun CO2 Powerlet adapter, which was kindly sent to us for review by Sports Marketing UK (SMK).

Now this item, although not that new, isn't talked about a great deal so it was nice to dispel a few myths about it, and to give it a go myself. To be honest I'm very impressed with it. Please do note that this is only the first part of the review, I have a heap more to write, and the latest photos to upload for the review, but I'll get them up in the next update. In the meantime, please do read on:

"...Many moons ago before such inventions as gas blowbacks, Airsoft was very similar to paintball (hey.. no throwing stones until I've finished the sentence!), in that Airsoft gear for the most part was powered from external gas tanks.

3PSA (now known as Cybergun) market a product that at first glance appears to go backwards in technology. What am I rambling about? - well it's known as the CO2 Powerlet Adapter. Basically this little beauty enables you to run a gas Airsoft replica from (cheap) little CO2 capsules..."

Tuesday, November 12, 2002 8:47 PM
Red Storm Rising video: delendam of Team Red Storm Rising (RSR) in Northern Sweden have sent in news of a little video that they've made, that shows "...how Team RSR like to play Airsoft". The video is around 43megs in size.. so I'm afraid this is for people at the office or on broadband only. You can download the video here.
Den news: DenTrinity have emailed in to let us know that they now have the new range of high grade TM MP5s in stock (comes with new threaded muzzle, reinforced cocking tube and a new metal rear sight base). The interesting part is that not only do they have the new MK23 NBB in, but they are selling the LAM unit separately, so anyone with a KSC MK23 might want to pop over and have a look. ^_^

AirsoftClub Bushmaster ArmPistol: If someone said 'BushMaster' to you, you'd automatically start thinking of some sort of M4/16 varient and that's exactly what I'd think up until Algin (of AirsoftClub) rang me today to let me know of their latest creation. Based on a P90 gearbox, like the P90 you are either going to love it or hate it. ^_^

So what is it? Well the "Bushmaster ArmPistol", much like the Bushmaster Bullpup M17S is a rather futuristic looking affair, and is honestly a real item (you can find an image of the Bushmaster pistol here and a detailed description of it here). By all accounts this item is popular (in the real world) with US Paratroopers. Althought being similar to the FN P90 in concept, its use of familiar AR parts such as the mag is an obvious bonus.

The Airsoft version is built from a solid block of 6061 aircraft grade aluminium, and contains a TM P90 gearbox driven by an EG700 motor. The pistol is 630mm long, and contains a barrel 340mm long, and is fully automatic. Taking TM M16 mags, it is capable of running from motorized drummags, but the wierdest things is that the front is designed to rotate a full 45 degrees, allowing it to be poked around corners with ease.

For more info, please have a read of this page here. Price is unknown at the moment sadly, but AirsoftClub do invite anyone interested to drop them a line via email.

In other news from AC they also have a special offer on an M4CQB. For just under 800USD, they'll build you a TM SR16, with a GB-Tech M4 M47 SD kit, 2500BB C-Mag, QD swivel, new front and back sight and a PSA red-dot scope.

They'll build it within a week, but do note that the offer doesn't include shipping or additional upgrades.

Monday, November 11, 2002 8:41 PM

General tidying : Well it's house-keeping day here, because of the number of reviews that we now have I've split the review sections into their own pages. Anyone on a 56k connection (and those of you at the office who just want to surf quickly whilst the boss isn't looking) can now browse the review pages much quicker than before.

I have a heap more images to add to the review layout but there's not enough time for that at the moment. I have also indexed the latest reviews, which you'll find added on the newly designed review pages. (no I won't link to them - you can try out the new design. ^_^)

More COMBAT scans: Ray (aka Dartec) has sent in some scans from COMBAT Issue #10, which I'll do my best to get a translation for everyone to read.

Magnus "Pixelpusher" Olsson of Team Ace of Spades (in Sweden) has also been kind enough to send in news from their website that they also have some scans up form Combat and Arms magazines. Magnus has some nice pictures there of the new Tanaka SIG P226, which features a new threaded barrel. (please note that although Combat magazine isn't actively sold in the UK, you can purchase copies through HK Airsoft dealers)

Saturday, November 9, 2002 10:25 PM
Latest G36 translation: Here's the latest translation for the scans from Combat magazine (please note that although Combat magazine isn't actively sold in the UK, you can purchase copies through HK Airsoft dealers).

The article hasn't been completely translated (i.e. not word for word, as a lot of it is just idle "chit chat"). The translation was kindly done by Jesper, (aka Qvizd) - thanks buddy! Also a big thanks go out to Chris Lau of Team C.I.A. for some additional help with the translation.

"...After more than 10 years of producing airsoft-guns of all ages and countries, an entirely new version has been introduced. This is the newest H&K G36 short version (G36C). They modeled the G36C, which already in its real steel has been drawing quite some attention all over the world. We have chosen to present to you the first details we achieved at the Makuhari Messe (Trade show in Tokyo) oct. 17th-20th, where Tokyo Marui presented the gun..."Read More...

DNS Changeovers: We are changing DNS servers this weekend, and everything should just roll on smoothly as this updates. If you have problems connecting to the website over the next 48 hours please don't worry - we aren't going anywhere, and gremlins allowing the website will be here 24/7.

Thursday, November 7, 2002 5:55 PM

Latest G36 pictures: Here's the latest scans from Combat magazine (please note that although Combat magazine isn't actively sold in the UK, you can purchase copies through HK Airsoft dealers). The magazine's article about TM's new G36 spans four pages (shown below). A big thanks go out to Jon (aka SpaceCowboy) for sending in the scans. As usual, just click on an image for a larger version. Hopefully the next TM G36 news that we bring you will be a review of this piece, rather than just photos of it. ^_^ If anyone can offer a translation of the article into English it'd be much appreciated.

 

TM MK23 NBB out.. finally: After eons of delays (rumoured to be down to production problems) TM's Mk23 has finally hit the shelves. Priced at around 100USD, it looks to be a popular seller at the moment. Whilst you're out looking for Christmas prezzies, or just more additions for your toy cupboard, have a look at some of the new items around:

At WGC:

- BigModel AutoLoader - looking like a smoke grenade this item looks to be an electric BB auto-loader. It's 23USD, and I don't have a clue as to how it works. ^_^
- First MSG90 kit - not really a hugely taxing conversion this one, but anything that makes an SG1 look a bit different from the norm is always nice to see. The kit comprises of a new grip, and a new outer barrel (123USD).

At DEN Trinity:

- Shoei MG42 GBB - one rare piece of kit, and not many left, worth a look if you're a collector.

At AirsoftShop:

- "KJ Mk1" - KJ Works have now produced their own copy of the Ruger Mk1 at 70USD, it's dirt cheap, and if it's a patch on the Marushin version (which I'm fairly sure it's a copy of) well worth the money.
- Airsoftshop custom G3 Drum Magazine - Priced at 155USD, it's the cheapest G3 electric 3500 box mag I've seen.
- Nitro.Vo Rail Sleeve MP for MP5 series - Nice looking bit of kit this, and looks to be a good reinforcing piece too. Basically the kit is a rail that runs across the top of the MP5, and clamps onto the receiver, and bolts onto a custom fore sight.

Tuesday, November 5, 2002 8:17 PM

AirsoftMap update: Frank has updated the AirsoftMap (as seen on this website, and on www.airsoftmap.co.uk) with details of two new sites. The two new sites are "...Wiltshire War Zone near Swindon and South East Airsoft (SEAS) near Tunbridge Wells."

AirsoftClub updates: In my rush to get things done yesterday I missed two important updates from AirsoftClub - they have 3 new pages on their website, and the M14 news was only one of them.

Earlier this year Academy, who are the only production manufacturers of an SA80 AEG withdrew their SA80 from production in order to start work on the next version. This left a veritable whole in the Airsoft scene for an SA80. The latest news from AirsoftClub is that they have managed to pick up a few of the Academy SA80's and are now selling them. the shortcomings of the Academy SA80s are well known in that they aren't as good as TM (AirsoftClub stress this themselves), but then again Academy's AEGs cost less than half of the TM equivalent. ^_^

AirsoftClub have found a few areas that they believed could be easily improved upon with the Academy SA80, and have improved the power cables (the original connector was on the wrong way round from conventional AEGs), and it has been upgraded to fully automatic status.

Just to compliment the news, Chris Breeze in Sweden contacted me to say that he'd just ordered his SA80 from AirsoftClub. Chris's SA80 has not only had the two improvements made to it, but he also had an upgraded inner barrel fitted to it, and a TM G3 hopup unit, all for around 210GBP/317USD including shipping and the custom work. Well let you know more about Chris's AEG when he receives it.

Also of note on AirsoftClub's webpages are some more details on the very impressive 'Boom Arms', and the first installment in a series of short but well written articles entitled "Eagle's Tips for Beginners".

ICS MP5k/PDW RIS grip: Calvin over at ICS has sent in some pictures of a new grip for the MP5k and PDW that they now stock. The brand name is cryptically called 'BLE' - I've asked for some more info regarding the product such as price and availability and I'll update the news as soon as I hear from Calvin again.

Monday, November 4, 2002 6:49 PM

Section VI update: SectionVI has been updated with a heap of articles, including an article on AEG upgrade/maintainance and the following reviews (mostly GuayGuay kit): M16 Side Sling Mount, SR15 Kit, Flip-Up Front Sight for M16, RIS Sling Swivel, RIS Cover, HiMount, CA M16 HOP Unit, AR15A3 Metal Body, Enhanced M16 Grip & 3-9x50 Illuminated Scope.

Rusmilitary updates: Oleg of Rusmilitary has sent in an update from them:

"Long-awaited assault vest with 6 spacious pouches to take M16 mags and built-in holster for Beretta pistol is on the way from Russia. TARZAN M25B assault vest was specially developed for UN peacekeeping troops. Number of vests- 20. Expected delivery time: end of November. Price: 68 pounds. Please register your interest via FSU Connections' website: www.rusmilitary.com ..."
AC M14 updates: AirsoftClub have updated their website with more news regarding their coming M14 release, Stage 1 of their update is the CAD diagrams for the piece. So far everything is looking very impressive, check out the AirsoftClub website for more details.

New skirmish site in Wiltshire, UK: I've just been sent in details of a new skirmish site in Wiltshire, UK, by Andy, aka Jitsu. Here's the latest from them:

"The Wiltshire Warzone home of the Wiltshire Warriors will be opening on the 17th November 2002. The site is an 108 acre Woodland with all facilities,Gun rental,Lunch,Toilets etc and full insurance.
The site is easy to find,5 miles from junction 17 of the M4 on the B4069 Chippenham to Lyneham road at Brights Farm near Christian Malford. For further details please contact Mark on 07775880811 or Kevin on 07881787878. "

ICS solid MP5 folding stock: Calvin over at ICS has sent in second update for the stock that they now produce. It's not actually solid metal (sorry my mistake), but it is solid ABS composite.

"...we have a new product for the airsoft world, which can fit in nicely and tightly onto Marui and ICS's MP5. Now you can have the chance of convert your MP5, whether is a A-series or SD series MP5, into a versatile, compact gun. ..."


Copyright 2002 Arnie's Airsoft