Airsoft International - Volume 18 Issue 8

THE WORLD’S BEST SELLING AIRSOFT MAGAZINE
PHOTO BY SAMWISE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM
ARES
EXPLOSIVE 308S
ACTION!
AI500 AFTER ACTION REPORT
ASSAULT RIFLE
"NOT ANOTHER
AR PLATFORM?!"
WE GET AN HONEST REVIEW FROM THE WE HEAR YOU
PLAYERS WHO FOUGHT AT THE FRONT CRY? WELL, YES,
LINES OF OPERATION FLASH POINT BUT FOR GOOD
ERATION
GET THE FULL PICTURE ON PAGE 18 OP REASON
GO TO PAGE 55
22
20
FL N
IS THE? AS H P OI
UMC
SMG
ANY GOOD? SCR
WE TAKE THIS
LITTLE AEG OUT
FOR A SPIN
PAGE 34
1911
PISTOL REVIEW
YOU HAVE TO CHECK
GEAR UP WITH US OUT THIS FULL METAL
SPECIAL PISTOL WITH ONE HELL

OF A BLOW BACK!
GO TO PAGE 22
FORCES
SUPPORT GROUP
LOOKING FOR A LOOK THAT
FA CEBOOK . COM/A IRSOF T IN T
IS A LITTLE BIT DIFFERENT?

£4.95
GEAR UP WITH US ON PAGE 40

V O L :1 8 I S S : 8
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INCORPORATING THE
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The Viper VX Range is adaptable to multiple mission specific
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adaptable and interchangeable, ranging from a low profile
unit to larger platforms.
CONTENTS
13 THE AI500: AFTER ACTION REPORT
AIRSOFT INTERNATIONAL
VOLUME 18 ISSUE 8
Our after action report from the Wheatsheaf shopping centre is in.
18 PLAYER REPORT
Matt sends us his thoughts on our Ai500 weekend.
22 PISTOL ON TEST
The SCR 1911 is put to the test.
13
26 ON A BUDGET
Join us as we take a look at kit for under £30.
28 GEAR ZONE
The CHLK belt from Blue Force Gear.
30 GREY MAN
The Highlander Commando soft shell Jacket is on test.
34 IS IT ANY GOOD?
Is the Classic Army UMC Sub Machinegun any good?
36 WINTER WARRIOR
Top tier sleeping bags for the cold weather weekender.
38 GUN CASES
28
5.1 have you covered with their new LV gun cases.
40 DOWNRANGE
Lets go downrange with the latest rifles and pistols to hit the market.
FEATURED!
42-49 SPECIAL FORCES GROUP
Kit up with us as we take a look at the Special Forces Support group.
13
STRATAIM
TRAINING
GRENADE
006 W W W.AI-MAG.COM
55
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42 50 COLD KIT WWW.AI-MAG.COM

Top tier gear for the cold weather player.
52 VIPER TACTICAL
It’s time to Buckle up with Viper tactical.
55 ANOTHER AR?!
Yes, the Ares 308S is another AR, but it’s so good!
58 OPTICS
The ‘Gunner Scope’ from Theta Optics in on the bench.
60 AEG REVIEW
Could the Ares G36 be your next AEG purchase?
64 FRAG OUT!
We pull the pin on the Strataim series of training grenades.
69 THE GOOD GIG GUIDE

Your definitive guide on where to play in the United Kingdom.
52
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THE AI500 2022
ERATION
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AS H OI N T
P
AF TER AC TION REPORT
THE WHEATSHEAF SHOPPING CENTRE IS SET IN THE HEART OF ROCHDALE, A LARGE TOWN
IN GREATER MANCHESTER. THE 163,000 SQ. FT. RETAIL COMPLEX WAS PURCHASED IN
2017 FOR AN UNDISCLOSED SUM OF MONEY AFTER SEVEN YEARS IN RECEIVERSHIP.
THE ORIGINAL PLAN WAS TO REPURPOSE THE CENTRE TO ATTRACT FRESH LEISURE,
COMMERCIAL AND NEW RETAIL OPERATORS TO COMPLEMENT THE EXISTING RETAILERS.
BUT THEN COVID HIT AND THE SHOP RETAILERS WERE ALL CLASSED AS NON-ESSENTIAL
RETAILERS BY OUR GOVERNMENT AND ALL STRUGGLED DURING THE FIRST LOCKDOWN.
AFTER THE 2ND, MOST OF THEM COULD NOT AFFORD TO RENEW THEIR LEASES AND THE
WHEATSHEAF SHOPPING CENTRE CLOSED ITS DOORS FOR GOOD IN NOVEMBER 2021.
SUCH A SAD STORY FOR THE HEART OF ANY TOWN, BUT FOR THE AI500 AND ITS
MANIFEST TO BRING ITS PLAYERS UNIQUE SITES, IT HAD HUGE POSSIBILITIES.
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AF TER AC TION REPORT T H E A I 5 0 0 :

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AS H P OI N
GAME ON nature of the AI500 games and something our Two things that we had never experienced
Unlike the past AI500s, Operation Flash Point players (and ourselves as organisers) have before and put us on the back foot was the lack
was a standalone game and didn't follow any learned to adapt to on the fly and even change of players that booked in on Friday evening
story arc. Instead, the plan was to have two the course of the gameplay over the years. despite requesting for them to do so.
teams battle over "capture points" in what A prime example of this was our previous This, of course, resulted in the unavoidable;
essentially was a domination game, with a few two games at the Citadel in Dover. The first the timeline on Saturday morning had to be
other objectives thrown in. However, before event wasn't without its issues, which we pushed back so that we could book players in
we could call "Game on", there was a lot of addressed for the second game. However, and get them squared away before game on.
preparation and planning that saw our team our core players don't want to play more than The second was that our Game Director Jason
rolling their sleeves up on Thursday prior to the once at a venue and despite achieving good was injured and had to be taken to hospital.
event, clearing the site and making it ready. numbers for the second game, it was nowhere It's funny how the rumour mill kicked in with
The interesting thing for us was seeing the near as many, which was a shame as the suggestions that a player assaulted him and
number of new players booked in – especially problems that occurred on the first game had that we had no medical staff on site. Both of
on the Green team. We are not under any been ironed out and addressed accordingly. which couldn't be further from the truth. Sadly,
illusion for one second that the Ai500 brand You could argue that a trial game could Jason dislocated his knee in an accidental
attracted the new players, but the venue. overcome these issues beforehand and yes, collision with a player. Our medical staff kicked
Let's face it, where else will you have the we would agree, but hiring venues like these in immediately, along with two very highly
opportunity to play in an abandoned shopping comes with a premium price tag and to run a trained medics in the form of an off-duty police
Mall here in the UK? trial game would simply make the whole event officer and an ambulance practitioner who is
We'll have to admit the problem with any financially impossible as the owners charge for trained to deliver emergency and urgent care
virgin site is the fact that it's never been the use of their property, not to mention the to a wide range of patient groups and took
played on before. There are going to be game hire of all the props and everything else that control of the situation.
flow issues and bottlenecks, but that's the goes into an event of this size. However, that meant that we were down by
two marshals for the remainder of Saturday
whilst Jason received the medical help he
needed. Courageously Jason returned to the site
and refused to rest up.
Thankfully a few players jumped in to help us
marshal and take up the slack of the marshals
that we’d lost, two of which were from an
established site. Little did we know that action
would come back to bite us verbally on the
Sunday briefing. Clearly, there was some kind
of hidden agenda here by these two players but
you live and learn and not everyone who offers
help is doing it from a kind place.
In the past, we have said that we would stick
to our itinerary times, but that sadly went out
of the window as we catered for so many late
arrivals. As expected, we certainly took some
flack over this as the start time was inevitably
pushed back.
For future games, we will look at this and
if players cannot book in on Friday, then we
need some kind of rule that these players will
be kept in the safe zone so they can be briefed
separately and join the game at a later stage
once they have been chrono'd so it does not
affect everyone.
032
O P E R A T I O N F L A S H P O I N T A A R
We totally understand that not all

players can arrive on a Friday with work
commitments but if you are going to book
in on game day then maybe turning up at
R
OPE ATIO
8.55 when gates close at 9.00 and then
complaining that the game isn't running on
N
time isn't really on and definitely not fair to
those that do.
BREAKING THE RULES
20
We want to get onto that old chestnut of
Airsoft being an Honor game, by all means,
LA
22
play hard, but play fairly, and above all,
take your hits, which was the case with the SHP INT
majority of players, but you always get that
O
minority that doesn't listen and want to break
the rules and have to have a constant marshal
present which puts a drain on our marshal
team as instead of watching the gameplay
as a whole and looking for problems in
gameplay and where things can run smoother
instead they have to make sure players are
taking hits, not breaking the ammo rules,
not shooting through illegal holes or just
generally breaking rules that have been put
in place to make the experience good for
everyone but more importantly, rules that are
put in place for your overall safety.
These rules were sent out to each player,
put on the Facebook pages and then once
again went through on Saturday morning
in the briefing but some players still felt
these did not apply to them and then felt it
necessary to verbally abuse staff when this
was put up again on the Facebook pages on
Saturday evening.
We want to reiterate that this was only a
small number of players, but it does spoil the
experience for everyone.
GAME STOPPAGES
We freely admit that there were two
stoppages on Saturday. The first was to take
care of Jason Green and attend to his medical
needs; the second was an odd one, to say the
least, when a player reported the smell of
what he thought was a gas leak.
The site owners had told us that the gas
supply to the building had been disconnected,
however, our duty of care meant that we
had to investigate and suspend play. A quick
call to the owners confirmed that there was
no supply of gas and what was thought to
be a gas leak was simply a player venting a
propane-filled drum magazine.
The other thing that came to our attention
was there was a number of HPA users that
were adjusting their rigs to increase their FPS
after they were chrono'd. We didn't spot this
or catch any with spot checks, but clearly it
happened as one HPA user put in a claim for
his money back by showing Paypal how he
had cheated and wanted his deposit back. He
won't be returning! But if this is the case and
if these can be adjusted so easily, do we ban
HPA use in future games, spoiling it for those
that do use these platforms legally?
ERATION
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AF TER AC TION REPORT A I 5 0 0

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AS H P OI N
A GAME OF TWO HALVES DID WE HAVE A WINNER?

After our team spent a few hours on Saturday
evening reorganising the game flow and
The AI500 is played with teams scoring points
from various objectives played over the course
A SPECIAL THANK YOU
The AI500 is nearly always played on
covering gaps in walls and shop fronts to of the weekend and for this game the tan team
virgin sites where no Airsoft has ever
stop players illegally shooting through them, scored more points as they achieved more
been played before and this site turned
Sunday was so much better in terms of objectives, but if we scored the game on sheer
out trickier than most we have played at.
gameplay and hit-taking. aggression and headcount, the Green team
To that end we would like to thank
Covering the gaps in the bannisters on the would have won.
all the AI500 staff, marshals and all
2nd floor allowed players below to move more One last point we would like to raise and
the players that not only stood in as
freely and any player that did shoot down onto use as a shining beacon for what the AI500
marshals but came to us with practical
them now made themselves a visible target is and how it should be played saw two
ideas that made the Sunday game play
that could be suppressed. opposing players revert to a game of Rock,
more in tune with the ethos of an AI500.
The morning didn't get off to the best start Paper Scissors to determine the outcome of a
We would also like to thank Dave
as a Tan player (who admitted pulling what he firefight. Both of these individuals were caught
Porter for stepping up from the 1IC of
termed a prank) called a false start leading on video and are a shinning example to all, we
the Tan team to taking over the running
to the tans engaging the green players whilst congratulate and applaud them and if anyone
of the game, and Nick Patrick for taking
they were still being chrono'd. Needless to say knows who they are, please let us know.
that individual will not be welcomed back. the role of the 1IC in Dave’s place. We
Sunday's play was so much better with the Until next time... would also like to thank Gary Barden
players and ourselves learning from Saturday's for taking on the 1IC on the green team
Play hard again. Always a challenge and always
play and seeing some intense firefights with
players old and new saying it was some of the Play safe appreciated.
best Airsoft they have ever played. and take your hits
032
BOO T S ON THE GROUND M A T T R E V I E W
PLAYER REPORT
HI, MY NAME IS MATT PERRIN AND I AM 1IC FOR TEAM SASQUATCH. THE TEAM
CAME TOGETHER BACK IN 2016 AFTER PLAYING SOME LOCAL SITES TOGETHER.
AFTER PLAYING AS A TEAM AROUND THE UK AT VARIOUS SITES WE DISCOVERED
OP
ERATIO
N
OUR FIRST AI500 AT CLEETHORPES BACK IN JUNE 2017 AND MET UP WITH THE
EDITORS OF AI MAGAZINE WHO HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING OUR TEAM EVER SINCE.
20
When Ai asked if I would be interested in reviewing sites from a player perspective I jumped at the
22
chance. So here am I (and the Sasquatch Team) travelling around, playing at different venues, giving
LA
F
S H P OI N T
you a players guide and opinion on these sites. So with that in mind, here is our first; the latest AI500.
- Before I begin this review, I am sad I must amount without solutions. So, any criticism on the top floor trying to pressure the enemies
write this, but I want to be clear this review I discuss I will offer my own interpretative CP. Then the assorted shop sizes seeing a wide
will be my own views in the hopes to help solution solely as advice as an Ai500 attendee berth group of 20 players bottlenecked into
airsofters travel out of their comfort zone for over 5 years now, aimless criticisms benefits tiny storerooms, small single width corridors or
of local sites. I do however have to say I neither the players or organisers. neighbouring shops. For once size truly didn’t
am disgusted by certain incidents that matter, a well dug in group of 3-5 players could
occurred outside the parameters of the easily hold or distract full sections at a time with
game, by individuals who have tarnished WHERE WAS THE EVENT HELD? tactical positioning. This event was truly tasking
the reputation of airsofters that regularly Unless you have been on a social media hiatus to both body and mind which is what made it so
attended these events. you should have already been caught up in the challenging and yet rewarding.
sheer hype for yet another incredible and unique
location, this time in the abandoned Wheatsheaf
OVER IN A FLASH! shopping centre in the centre of Rochdale. Think WAS THERE A STORYLINE?
What a whirlwind weekend! I will say the the Reading Mall for those that got to attend but Unfortunately, not which was a shame as a
weekend was not without issue and was very only twice if not 3 times as big! It was incredible, lot of players do love the narrative series of
much an event of two halves, that much is true. there was a mixture of pitch-black service events that usually take place throughout the
However, the response I got from discussing corridors with some of the most intense fire full extent of the event. As much as it was
with fellow players from both my section, fights on various angles and entry points. There missed having played through what can only
my wider team, and some members of the was an extraction point right slap bang in the be described as a form of controlled chaos
opposition team in the days passed since endex middle of the Killzone between the escalators due to the extreme CQB and swingy nature
were mainly positive ones. More so from those to be known as sports field mk2 (well by me of the overall map domination, trying to
players that remained for the entirety of the anyways and maybe some of the other players incorporate a storyline would have added an
full event due to the dramatic improvement the that had attended the 2nd Citadel game). Only extra dimension of efforts that simply was not
efforts made by the organisers and marshals the bravest or stupidest players would dare try achievable. But this did lead players to create
created on Saturday evening. There is no and fight through it leaving you open on most their own storylines and give some creative
denying or defending there were multiple issues flanks. The wide-open atrium which often saw freedoms to those of us players who like to film
on the Saturday that snowballed but I feel a lot crossfires in all directions from above also or and upload our footage in a variety of ways,
of comments were already made and a large below if you were fearless enough to remain from Insta, to YouTube and now to TikTok in
032
S T H E L A T E S T A I 5 0 0
some cases! Just because there was no true expect regardless of the style of airsoft you or to meet at the next event. A chance to wear
storyline however did not mean the objectives play your personal playstyle or your airsoft your team’s patch with pride and give it your
suffered for it. The objectives were even more experience everyone is welcome and very much all-in front of 400+ players who haven’t yet met
engaging as with storylines there is usually included every step of the way. Although both you on the circuit just yet. There is so much you
a clear understanding of what is round the teams have a hierarchy or command structures can get out of these events should you choose
corner. Without the storyline objectives could every player matters just as much as the next. to or the opposite if that’s not your thing and
be flipped, switched, rotated, or called upon You will be able to immerse yourself as much you just want to get your camera on, rif up and
throughout the event which meant a constant or as little into the wider event as you want. get that amazing solo footage that’s so easily
need to be reactive as opposed to proactive Do you want to be split into fireteams or take done too! The events to me and especially my
as you’d expect at most events. This caused a small lead as part of one of the sections? team have been great for our growth on and
extra havoc and difficulty for both team’s Sure, why not! Do you want to run, and go do off the airsoft field, I would truly suggest any
commanders and wider command teams your own thing and find the hottest fire fights? airsoft teams wanting to up their game or be
with section leads having to be prepared to Well guess what that’s fine too! There are no really tested attend the next Ai500.
organise 50 players at the drop of a hat. From judgements among the players of Ai500, in the
my point of view, I was sad to see no storyline 5 years I and my team have played these events
but looking back we had to work twice as hard there are faces we still recognise now from ORGANISATION
as normal to flip objectives or exfils etc we when we first started still attending like us Before I give my own opinion, I ask you first
simply weren’t prepared for, which was a new and completely new faces who can’t wait to go take all reviews including mine with a pinch of
dimension and great fun! to the next one. As cliché as this is there truly salt, everyone had a different experience and
is room for anyone and everyone that wants although they may contradict one another’s
to get stuck into one of the largest events opinion it does not make one right and the other
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? in the UK circuit often finding hidden gems wrong. There were some issues on the Saturday,
The Ai500 events are beyond your normal in the form of unique sites and experiences however almost all were resolved overnight
skirmish, I still feel to this day they are more you simply can’t replicate on a standard on the Saturday following player, marshal, and
alike to battle sims than just a big skirmish. skirmish field. Stepping away from the simple command team feedback so I don’t feel its
But I understand that can be daunting and off airsoft side of the event they are wonderful fair to raise those points once more. Instead,
putting to new players who may not understand opportunities to grow your airsoft network, I want to take my hat off to the marshals
the premise of a battle sims. What you can finding teams or individuals to run alongside and the organisers for turning around a very
BOO T S ON THE GROUND A I 5 0 0
difficult and different day on the Saturday that same schedule as they do every year. The great the opposition players also, it takes 2 teams to
seemed to elude many of the previous Ai500 efforts they went through in the lead up to the tango after all! Over the years some of the best
experiences for many minor reasons that event and then again on the Saturday night after firefights, conversations and congratulations
snowballed. Sunday was turned back into the running the event for a very long and difficult are thanks to an incredible opposition ready
incredible experiences that we Ai500 regulars day already is not getting enough credit from us to mingle during breaks and outside the event.
know and love, the reason we have returned all and its extremely disappointing as someone 2. The absolute absurdly crazy locations the AI
each time for over 5 years now. I can understand who lives for airsoft. We can and should do team continue to pull out of their sleeves year
and accept the frustration from a lot of players better, they really flipped the event on its head after year, I have played in an abandoned theme
about Saturday, but I cannot understand come the Sunday and left us with an incredibly park, played in an old military prison complex,
or accept some of the awful responses and memorable event once more. I do hope the an ex-RAF base (I may be wrong on this one)
ignorance of some players. Personally, attacking negative floods that hit Saturday night don’t dull and now an abandoned large scale shopping
the very people who had worked tirelessly on the flame and passions of the wider AI team and centre. You simply don’t see this anywhere
a short time scale to organise an event of that the community, I hope instead it only inspires else or if you are luckily enough that you do, at
magnitude in the time they did is absurd and them to come back twice as strong next event. least not on the large scale of Ai500s. 3. The
real poor character especially if you then did Ai500 community although unfortunately some
not stay to allow them to rectify the mistakes of the community showed some disappointing
on Sunday as they did. Did the short time scale FINAL THOUGHTS true colours the large majority still work hard
hinder the event and therefore lead to some What continues to make Ai500’s so special for to ensure the event is incredibly enjoyable
minor avoidable issues unfortunately yes, me is a matter of a few things, 1. the players and memorable for both teams by giving
however I don’t blame them. The organisers and that attend with great intentions, enthusiasm, their everything throughout very challenging
marshals were just as desperate as the rest of and effort ready to throw themselves into weekenders. Was this the best Ai500 I have
us to make the event happen and to keep to the what the organisers have in store for us. For ever played? Truthfully no, however would
I return to the same site again for round 2?
100% without hesitation with some extra time
to iron out some of the teething issue’s part
2 of Wheatsheaf could be truly epic. However
truthfully, I would love to see it return to a
hybrid site that invites the whole spectrum of
playstyles and roles, such as snipers, support
weapons etc that extra dimension always helps
with the immersion! Overall, the hard work
by the marshalling team to revive a weekend
hanging in the balance was truly incredible and
deserves plenty of recognition.
Me and the team firstly would like to wish
Jason a very swift and healthy recovery it was
inspiring to see him return on Sunday after the
incident. Secondly, we will continue to support
the Ai500 events moving forwards, because
one bad day cannot overrule years of incredible
airsoft and memories.
Matthew Perrin – Team Sasquatch 1IC
032
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SCR1911
PISTOL REVIEW
DESIGNED BY JOHN BROWNING IN THE REAL WORLD, THE M1911 IS THE BEST-KNOWN OF
HIS DESIGNS TO USE THE SHORT RECOIL PRINCIPLE IN ITS BASIC DESIGN. THE PISTOL WAS
WIDELY COPIED BOTH IN THE REAL WORLD AND LATELY IN THE AIRSOFT COMMUNITY.
The Pistol served as the standard-issue sidearm for the United States Armed Forces from 1911 to 1985. It was widely
used in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. During the Pistol's service life, the US
military procured over 2.7 million M1911 and M1911A1 pistols.
022 W W W.JUSTBBGUNS.CO.UK
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W W W.JUSTBBGUNS.CO.UK 023
SIDE ARM SOL UTIONS T H E V E N E R A B L
In 1986, the USMC Precision Weapon Section number of retailers, 1911 has dropped off many within reach of the smaller-handed players out
(PWS) at Marine Corps Base Quantico began a player's radar as the real world has turned there. Overall, a pretty solid and impressive
customising M1911A1s for reconnaissance to Glocks and hi-cappas and inhabit that space aesthetically pleasing start from a company
units. The units served in a new Marine Corps that includes the Sig and Beretta. However, that's not really known for its pistol range.
program called Marine expeditionary unit thankfully one 1911 that doesn’t fall into the However, its service life was short-lived as
(special operations capable) (MEU(SOC)). The wobbly wonder or expensive category is the the US Marine corps phased out the MEU in or
Pistol was designated the M45 MEU(SOC). SRC SR, which has an attractive mid-market around 2012, which also saw the popularity of
Hand-selected Colt M1911A1 frames were price point and is certainly punching above its the airsoft version tail off. In the real world,
gutted, deburred and then assembled with weight and in our opinion, should be given a the first 1911 MEU entered service in 2012,
after-market grip safeties, ambidextrous thumb second chance. Because the airsoft 1911 market after the US Marine Corps awarded Colt a
safeties, triggers, improved high-visibility is so over-saturated, it's difficult to see the contract for up to 12,000 M45A1 pistols with an
sights, accurised barrels, grips, and improved proverbial "wood for the trees" when choosing initial order of 4036. The Marine Corps issued
Wilson magazines. These hand-made a 1911- especially when you consider that the M45A1 to Force Reconnaissance companies,
pistols were tuned to the specifications and market has been flooded in recent years from MARSOC and Special Reaction Teams from the
preferences of end users. one particular manufacturer. Provost Marshal's Office. The improved M45A1
One of the last changes made to the 1911 CQBP features several changes to the original
during its service life was actioned in the M1911A1 design. One feature is the dual recoil
1980s, when the US Marines laid out a series FIRST IMPRESSIONS spring system that spreads out the recoil
of specifications and improvements to make Lifting the Pistol out of the box the first time, force of the .45 ACP round by lowering the
Browning's design ready for 21st-century you can't help but notice the Pistol's crisp peak force of the recoil pulse. It also has 3-dot
combat, many of which have been included in tan anodised finish, followed by its weight tritium night sights, a 5-inch national match
MEU(SOC) SRC SR 1911. and then its full metal construction. Racking barrel, ambidextrous safety, and a Picatinny
It would be fair to say that virtually every the Pistol for the first time, you’ll notice the rail. Sadly, this version of the MEU doesn't have
airsoft manufacturer has at least one 1911 in heavy blowback spring that makes a more as the earlier version 1911 MEU SOC inspired it.
their arsenal. Some have a crazy amount of than satisfying clunk that only metal on metal It's worthwhile pointing this out, in our opinion
what we'll call unusual colour choices. Some are can achieve. The rubberised pistol grip is and showing how the global airsoft community
great blowback pistols; some are quite frankly pleasing and smacks of quality as you grip reacts to real-world trends. However, there
wobbly wonders, with production tolerances the Pistol confidently, echoed throughout the is enough of a diehard fan base out there to
that are so bad they are not worth reviewing, Pistol frame. The ambidextrous safety and make manufacturers still produce replica 1911s
let alone you guys buying. On talking to a slide release are easy to activate and well for the skirmish field.
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SCR1911
PISTOL REVIEW
SKIN DEEP that blowback system is something else, heavy

By removing the top slide from the Pistol, you and strong spring to mind, just like the recoil
reveal the engine room (so to speak). The one you see in the real world. For us that clinched FEATURES
criticism we have is its poor plastic outer barrel. the deal, even before we got the results in ■ Full Metal construction
It falls into that murky world of the "wobbly from the range.
■ Holds 27 rounds
wonders", but it does not impact the Pistol's The first 15 rounds were all over the place in
performance. It's best to look at the outer terms of FPS then it started to settle down. The ■ Believable weight
barrel as a protective sleeve to the inner barrel. mag holds 27 rounds and carries enough gas ■ Strong blow back system
We are happy to report has no problems at all. to deplete the rounds, which is a good thing.
The Hop-Up unit can be adjusted as you We started to notice a trend where the first
would expect for a wide range of BB weights. 15 or so rounds were a bit erratic on target, a
The Pistol features multiple safety features, little adjustment to the hop soon resolved this
including a Trigger Disconnect safety built into and we were pretty impressed with an average
the extended Beavertail Grip to prevent the of 320 fps over the first 20 shots, with the
Pistol from firing when held improperly and remaining seven rounds achieving a slightly
a Trigger Lock Safety to prevent accidental lower 301-310.
discharge whilst in the holster. However, this
latter feature can only be activated when the
weapon is cocked. The base of the grip features FINAL THOUGHTS IN A SS O CIATION WITH
a Lanyard Loop, allowing Lanyards to be used, There is no getting away from the fact that the
preventing the loss of a weapon should it fall SCR SR1911 has an impressive performance,
out of a holster. look and build quality and, at the same time,
great value for money. This Pistol has a great
blowback system and full metal construction.
DOWN RANGE
This, as you all should know, is where any
pistol or rifle, for that matter, lives or dies. The
trigger response isn't the lightest that we have
experienced and does have a relatively short
pull, with an ample amount of movement, but
This is one of the best classic 1911 pistols we
have seen from SRC that's certainly punching
above its weight.
The full metal magazine holds 27 rounds and
features a fully working safety and pistol grip
pad. This really is great value for money.
£99.95
W W W.JUSTBBGUNS.CO.UK 025
UNDER THIRT Y QUID S L A P I N A F R
MAG OUT!
K UBL AI M4 A1 MAGA ZINES
IF YOU'RE ANYTHING LIKE US, WE SPEND A LOT OF OUR TIME LOOKING FOR
REASONABLY PRICED MAGAZINES THAT CAN PERFORM RELIABLY WHEN
CALLED UPON. THEN, OUT OF THE BLUE, THE BOSS PUTS A KUBLAI M4A1 MAG
ON MY DESK. WHEN HE TOLD ME HOW MUCH THEY COST, I DIDN'T HOLD MUCH
HOPE FOR THEM, BUT I WAS SOON PROVEN WRONG... VERY WRONG.
Breifly; Kublai offers everything from rifles, furniture, upgrades and magazines, although they
don't frequently appear between sites. To start with, the overall build quality is exceptional!
They feature a polymer construction, which is extremely robust, slightly matte to the touch, and
features the 5.56x45 graphic at the top of the magazine. The moulding is close to perfect, with
zero burring or sharp edges anywhere, and the inner shell fits like a glove. The inner mock bullet
insert looks great, if not slightly different to that of the original Pmags', from arm's length or
further you really cannot tell at all. And lastly, the Kublai M4A1 magazines can be ordered with a
ranger plate, which is supplied alongside the magazine so that you can swap out the original base
plate. The ranger plate is also of exceptional quality, and as you would expect, installs very easily,
and once attached, will not budge for love-nor-money.
OZZING QUALITY
Initially, everyone in the office was very surprised with the build quality. I was certain
there must be a catch, perhaps they would feed terribly, or not at all? Maybe they offer
a loose or overly tight fit in a given rifle? Alas, wrong again. I decided to try them on two
different rifles within my collection that are particularly 'fussy' with magazines, namely
the VFC 416, and a modified ICS M4. Astoundingly, the Kublai M4A1 magazines offered
perfect performance with each rifle, feeding every single BB with the exception of those
left in the feeding tube. To make it a well-rounded test I picked up my trusty old Katana
Raptor, which has a particular taste for hex magazines and nothing else. Once again, the
magazine dumped every round with ease.
What's more, the magazine fits snugly, but not too tightly in each rifle. Now I'm not sure
if its luck or good design, but I'm a little shocked to say the least. This gem of a magazine
had managed to slip me by until now, and all for around a quarter of the price of the
original. There’s also the fact that ranger plates are extremely difficult to get hold of at
the moment. A couple of things to note however, the magazine follower is a concaved
piece of plastic as opposed to the typical node that exits the feed lips with the last BB.
This means that of the 120-round capacity, the last few will not be pushed all the way
up into the hop chamber. It is also recommended that you don't fully load the magazine
to capacity. Rather you should fill it to around 70-80%, which is sensible advice for any
midcap magazine, as you can quickly compress the spring and lose efficiency. Neither
of the above are major issues, however, and actually, the spring has more torque than
many of the stock magazines I have bought previously, if only by a little amount.
026 W W W.TA I WA N G U N . CO M
GE T YOUR S FROM
R E S H M A G F O R L E S S
£9.70!! KUBLAI
M4A1 MAGAZINES
EXCEPTIONAL BUILD QUALITY, SUPERB FEEDING, AND A GREAT
FIT! I ALMOST DIDN’T WANT TO WRITE THIS REVIEW, BECAUSE I’M
CONSCIOUS THAT THEY MAY SELL OUT BEFORE I’M ABLE TO BUY
MORE. AT THE SAME TIME, I COULDN’T NOT WRITE THE REVIEW
EITHER, BECAUSE THESE MAGAZINES REALLY ARE THE MUTTS NUTS!
ON A BUDGE T K I T
WEIGH T: 150G
L ENG T H: 168MM
M AT ERIAL : POLY MER
MODEL : MID-C A P
M AG A ZINE C APACI T Y: 120 BBS
COL OUR OP T IONS: BL ACK OR TA N
ABOUT TAIWAN GUN
Taiwan Gun don’t just sell replicas and Airsoft accessories. It is,
above all, a passion that unites them, allowing them, to improve
the quality of their services.
They offer everything from replicas of pistols, rifles, shotguns,
upgrade parts, tactical equipment and a vast catalogue of
accessories for Airsoft.
Taiwan Gun are a distributor of Taiwanese and Chinese
manufacturers and thanks to long-term cooperation with these
companies they have launched their own brands; 8FIELDS,
Arcturus, Army Armament and Cyma Platinium.
This equipment has the best quality for money that follow
military trends.
Taiwan Gun use high quality materials and the process itself
is constantly controlled. Their employees are real Airsoft
enthusiasts, gunsmiths with many years of experiences, former
military, marksmen, reenactors and militaria enthusiasts.
These expertise will help you professionally when you come to
choosing your Airsoft equipment.
They also have a professional replicas service. All “new”
replicas pass a complete and detailed check-up before they are
sent to their customers.
W W W.TA I WA N G U N . CO M 027
THE FINER THINGS B L U E F O R C E G E A R C
CHLK BELT SYSTEM

I DON'T THINK IT'S MUCH OF A COMBAT HELO LOAD RATED KIT " BELT
SECRET WHEN WE SAY WE ARE SELF
Driven by the desire to make a difference, Blue With innovation at the heart of
PROCLAIMED 'GEARDOS'. WHILE Force Gear are not satisfied by simply making everything that Blue Force Gear
copies of current products on the market and do, it is no surprise that they
SOME AIRSOFTERS WILL SPEND stamping their name on it. Instead they look to have invented a range of
HUNDREDS, IF NOT THOUSANDS innovate at every opportunity, attempting to
revolutionise the tactical gear market and in
new technologies to enable
such a vision. This has
OF POUNDS ON UPGRADING THEIR turn provide unrivalled quality. been made possible due to
Blue Force Gear burst onto the tactical Blue Force Gear's research and
RIFLE, THE MAJORITY OF THE AI market in 2004 with a range of innovative development arm, with the company
TEAM WOULD RATHER SPEND THAT products that revolutionised load carriage
and weapon carrying capabilities. Instead of
making use of cutting edge materials and
state of the art manufacturing facilities
MONEY ON TACTICAL GEAR. THIS sticking to age-old design standards followed
within the market, they design by what they
to provide a finished product that is at
the forefront of tactical evolution.
FEATURE IS A HOMAGE TO THAT, refer to as a 'code of advancement', which has
seen the company look towards the current
HIGHLIGHTING SOME OF THE MOST market, highlighting areas in which they believe BLUE FORCE GEAR EQUIP MILLIONS
'GUCCI' EQUIPMENT ON THE MARKET. they can re-develop and improve an existing
product type. This process has seen Blue Force
OF PEOPLE WITH THE GEAR,
THIS MONTH WE LOOK AT BLUE Gear become a tour de force within the market, KNOWLEDGE, AND MINDSET THEY
re-inventing a range of different product
FORCE GEAR'S CHLK BELT. categories. NEED TO BE ALWAYS BETTER.
032
C H L K B E L T S Y S T E M O N O U R R A D A R
BLUE FORCE GEAR

COMBAT HELO LOAD RATED KIT BELT
The Blue Force Gear CHLK™ Belt is based on a from everyday use, the CHLK Belt features laminate, the outer belt is lightweight and
two-belt inner/outer belt system and features a 32-degree curve designed to mimic the flexible enough for long-term comfort. Still, it
laser-cut MOLLEminus slots for attaching contour of the human waist. The belt also is rigid enough to serve as a stable attachment
holsters and other gear. It has a load-rated features a subtle outward cant from top to platform for pouches and duty holsters.
buckle, ANSI spec Dyneema®-nylon hybrid bottom, resulting in a more comfortable fit at The cushioned inner belt, laser cut from our
webbing, and two external tether attachment both the waist and the hips. This makes it far ULTRAcomp high-performance laminate, can
points. The CHLK Belt is purpose-built to allow better suited for long-term wear than typical also be worn independently as a lightweight
commandos to snap securely into helicopters flat-profile battle belts. EDC or pistol belt. The ULTRAcomp inner belt
while performing INFIL/EXFIL and during time The CHLK Belt was designed to fulfill has been updated for 2023 to include a G-Hook
of flight. two roles: a premier duty belt and safety for improved fit and a more secure connection.
Short for “Combat Helo Load-rated Kit,” equipment for commandos to securely snap The CHLK Belt uses our precision laser cut
the Blue Force Gear CHLK Belt revolutionizes into helicopters while performing INFIL/EXFIL MOLLEminus design that is compatible with
modern battle belt design. Crafted around the and during flight. The belt has two semi-rigid pouches utilizing our own Helium Whisper®
needs of helicopter assaulters, it features the tether points at the front and rear, an ANSI technology and pouches featuring legacy
hardened points required to tether themselves spec load-rated buckle, and proprietary MOLLE and belt-mounted systems. We
to the anchor points on a helicopter. The Dyneema®-nylon hybrid webbing for a static eliminate the possibility of stitching failures
CHLK Belt combines modern materials with load rating of 3500 lbs. that can occur with standard PALS loops by
innovative design to create a lightweight, The MOLLE-compatible outer belt is cutting MOLLEminus slots directly into the
low-profile duty belt with unparalleled designed to attach via hook-and-loop to the ULTRAcomp. The MOLLEminus system gives
maneuver coefficient. updated inner belt securely and fastens with the user more mounting options for gear
Inspired by the changes leather belts a load-rated buckle. Using modern materials, than what is possible with traditional MOLLE
undergo after they have been broken in including our ULTRAcomp high-performance systems.
COVERT KIT H I G H L A N D E R ' S C O M
GREY MAN
COMMANDO SOFT SHELL JACKET
THE TACTICAL GEAR INDUSTRY IS INUNDATED WITH 'TACTI-COOL' PIECES. THESE ended allowing the bottom hem to be loosened
if required and there is single button at the
ITEMS WHOLEHEARTEDLY SCREAM 'LOOK AT ME!', AND QUITE HONESTLY DRAW bottom of the storm flap to secure it should
you wish.
A LOT OF ATTENTION. NOW, THERE'S NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT AT ALL, The concealed hood has elasticated draw
cords for closure and fit which is just as well
HOWEVER, SOMETIMES THERE IS A NEED TO BE DISCREET, TO BLEND IN... TO given that it's quite generous. This isn't a
BECOME THE GREY MAN. THIS MONTH WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE COMMANDO 'SOFT criticism, far from it, we missed the central
adjuster at the back of our head initially and
SHELL' FROM HIGHLANDER OUTDOORS. thought the hood too large, it isn't, we just
hadn't adjusted it properly!
While it might be getting a little cold for this lower back well and extending down to cover There are two slash pockets on the front of
month's item, the weather hasn't quite known your posterior. the jacket, one on each sleeve and one large,
what to do with itself over the last couple of The draw cord in the lower hem is exceedingly slide through pocket at the rear of the jacket.
weeks. One minute it's sunny, the next it's efficient making it easy to cinch the bottom of That last feature is one of the signs that this
raining, and following that it's windy. With the jacket tight to exclude drafts and heat loss was designed by someone who knows what
that in mind, we thought this would make for and like all the other cord locks full sized items is needed. Front pockets are difficult to use
a good option to add to everyones wardrobe. are used rather than the compact and bijou in the prone position or when wearing body
Highlander's Commando Soft Shell is an version increasingly found on outdoor clothing. armour, whereas a pocket low and to the rear
interesting item. Designed by a former Royal It's a small thing but it makes adjustments is nearly always accessible. The three main
Marine, the Commando Soft Shell isn't what we easier without having to search for the lock pockets are all of good size although the design
would define a typical soft shell. In reality, we'd because it's too small for gloved or tired hands. and construction of the jacket means you're not
define it as simply a shell. There is no such provision at the neck although going to carry 50 kilos of munitions in these,
To call it lightweight is to fail to fully the cuffs of the sleeves are adjustable thanks to they are just not robust enough.
appreciate how light it is, it tips the scales Velcro closures. The entire jacket is made from Highlander's
at just over 600 grammes, which is nothing Given how lightweight this jacket is it is no AB-TEX material which is a waterproof,
really. That alone will tell you that there is no surprise that the pit zips are simple openings wind-proof and breathable laminated layer
insulation happening here and there is none, lacking the mesh we mentioned in our review designed to keep the elements out and the
just the shell material and a breathable mesh of this company's Odin jacket last month. wearer comfortable. As such is is imbued
liner in some key areas; the lower back and the Speaking of Velcro, there is plenty of it to be with durable water repellency (DWR) but this
front panels specifically. That these are the found, with space for name tags on the chest will need to be topped up occasionally by
areas where there are pockets is probably no and patches on both arms for unit insignia. It using something like Nikwax wash. It should
accident... Fit of the jacket is good and loose, is also used to secure the storm flap over the be obvious by now that there is no additional
length is exactly what is should be covering the single full-length YKK zip. The zip is double insulation, nor is there meant to be any.
030 W W W. M I L I TA R Y 1 S T. CO . U K
M M A N D O S O F T S H E L L J A C K E T
OUR FINAL THOUGHTS

This is a shell jacket designed to take up
as little room as possible when not being
worn but to offer protection from the
elements when required.
This jacket is very much intended to
be seen as part of a layering system
and we have used it in conjunction with
some of the Snugpak kit, like the Softie
shirt. It performs very well, being big
enough to go over an insulation layer
without restricting movement of affecting
comfort. On its own, the material is
comfortable over just a base layer and it
adds just enough additional protection
without any real additional bulk.
Highlander aren't the only company
to come out with a jacket of this nature,
we recall a similar idea from Helikon a
couple of years back but once again they
have managed it at a really affordable
price. In addition, we prefer the cut
of the Commando – it's a bit more
generous and to us that makes it a bit
more versatile. It does exactly what it's
makers claim, summer so far has been
sufficiently changeable to let us test it's
water-repellency fully and it is now a firm
favourite around the editorial office as a
grab-and-go jacket.
FEATURES
■ Weatherproof AB-TEX softshell
■ Comfortable, lightweight, breathable
■ Genuine two-way YKK front zipper with
■ Hook-and-loop wind flap
■ Pack away hood with elastic draw cord
■ Protective high collar
■ Upper arm and upper chest pockets
■ Slide through double zipper back pocket
■ Two-way under arm ventilation zippers
■ Curved backside with draw cords
THIS JACKET IS IDEAL FOR STUFFING INTO A BACK PACK OR EVEN A SUITABLY ■ Elasticised Hook-and-loop cuffs
SIZED POUCH. IT'S ALSO WELL SUITED FOR DONNING AFTER A PERIOD OF ■ Hook-and-loop ID panels
■ Chest epaulet
EXERCISE WHEN YOU ARE WARM BUT GOING TO START LOSING HEAT RAPIDLY OR ■ Inner mesh lining
WHEN ADDITIONAL PROTECTION FROM WIND AND RAIN IS REQUIRED. ■ 98% Nylon Taslon, 2% Elastane
G E T YOUR S FRO M . . .
£62.95
W W W. M I L I TA R Y 1 S T. CO . U K 031
ULTIMA
JACKET
BLACK / DARK COYOTE / GREEN
/ SRP: £89.95
CONCEALMENT
VEST – CAMO
■ Lightweight vented mesh
■ Detachable drawcord hood
■ 2x quick release sternum straps
■ Strategically placed elastic strapping to add
further concealment materials
■ Packaway drawcord mesh pouch
CAMO / SRP: £49.95

IS IT ANY GOOD? C L A S S I C A R M Y '
UMC SMG
CL A SSIC ARM Y SUB MACHINEGUN
ONE OF THE BIGGEST QUESTIONS WE GET ASKED IS ‘IS XYZ GUN ANY GOOD?’, AND RIGHTLY SO.
OUR READERS WANT TO MAKE SURE THEY’RE GETTING THE BEST BANG FOR THEIR BUCK. WITH
THAT IN MIND, OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS WE’RE GOING TO BE TAKING A LOOK AT A RANGE
OF DIFFERENT PRODUCTS AND ASK THE QUESTION – IS IT ANY GOOD? THIS MONTH WE
LOOK AT THE CLASSIC ARMY UMC SMG!
Classic Army is a manufacturer of airsoft replicas based in Hong Kong. It produces automatic
electric guns or AEGs, and a small number of GBB (Gas Blowback) pistols. Designed to resemble
real firearms, these replicas fire 6mm plastic BBs at safe velocities. Within the airsoft
community, Classic Army is often abbreviated as simply "CA."
Classic Army AEG's are characterised by their many metal parts and realism, in
that most parts that are metal on the real-steel counterpart are also metal on the
replica (although they are usually not cross-compatible).
IN THE REAL WORLD

The Classic Army UMC SMG isn't a real designation. Instead,
the real world version is known as the UMP. An abbreviation
of Universale Maschinenpistole; German for "Universal
Machine Pistol", the UMP is a submachine gun developed
and manufactured by Heckler & Koch. Heckler & Koch
developed the UMP as a lighter and cheaper
successor to the MP5, though both remain in
production.
The UMP has been adopted for use by various
countries including Brazil, Canada, and the United
States. A small number of UMPs chambered in
.45 ACP were officially purchased by the 5th
Special Forces Group of the United States
Army Special Forces, with some of the
weapons seeing limited service
in the early years of the Iraqi
insurgency, making them among
the small number of submachine
guns deployed by the U.S.
military in recent conflicts.
S S U B M A C H I N E G U N O N T E S T
IS IT ANY GOOD?
So, is the Classic Army UMC any good?
In a word - yes. Personally we've been
a huge fan of the UMP as a real world
SMG, with it offering something a
little different to the usual suspects
you see such as the MP5, MP7 or AK74.
In regard to Classic Army's offering,
you could definitely do a lot worse - in
fact, we personally think you'll struggle
to do better, especially at an insanely
competitive price-point of £229.99.
PACKED FULL
Classic Army have packed the UMC with a range of features that you
wouldn't generally see in an AEG of this price - taking note of previous
complaints and rectifying them admirably. The V3 Gearbox included has
seen a range of upgrades to battle against some problems the UMC had
in the past - namely installing a reinforced spring guide and a reinforced
piston head. Furthermore, they've reinforced the cocking handle; which
can be locked and released for easy access to the hop-up. They have also
reinforced the ABS body, receiver, grip and folding stock to ensure the
UMC can handle any abuse you throw at it.
In regard to performance, the UMC performs admirably. Clocking in
at IRO 330 FPS, the UMC is good to go out of the box with no real work
needing doing to get the best from your potential new SMG. Ergonomically,
the UMC is the perfect SMG for CQB environments due to its smaller size
when compared to assault rifles.
One slight gripe in regard to the UMC is that magazines can often be
hard to find. Many places do tend to stock 470 round hi-caps, however
mid-caps can be a nightmare to find with various brands not fitting the
Classic Army variant. Our advice would be to double check compatibility
first should you be someone who does not want to deal with the dreaded
BB rattle from a hi-cap magazine.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If the truth be told, the UMC has been somewhat
tarnished by its forefathers. Many would have
placed the G&G UMP above it, and that may
still be the case. In reality, the Classic Army
variant is a direct clone of the G&G version, so
its clear that the G&G variant sets the bar when
it comes to the UMP. That said, Classic Army
have done a lot to rectify the bad performance
previously seen, and while its still not perfect,
it's by no means a poor AEG. Furthermore, the
G&G version is around £100 more expensive, so
if you're looking at saving money, the Classic
Army version is likely to be more up your street.
If we're honest, we'd likely just pick up the
Classic Army variant and install a new hop-up
bucking, a tight bore barrel and perhaps a
MOSFET. That way you'll still likely save money
compared to the G&G version and you'll also
have a very strong performing SMG.
Even then though, should you not wish to
spend out money on upgrading the Classic Army
UMC, you'll be hard pressed to find a better SMG
at this price-point, and with that in mind the
Classic Army UMC gets a great, big, fat stamp of
approval from us!
BAG FOR L IFE H A L I T E S L E E P I N G B A G S
S L E E P I N G B A G S
WINTER WARRIORS
WINTER IS VERY NEARLY UPON US, AND FOR A LOT OF PEOPLE, THAT MEANS synergy it provides due to increased heat
to weight ratio. Taking these principles and
PUTTING THE AIRSOFT GEAR AWAY UNTIL SPRING BEGINS TO SHOW ITSELF. applying modern technology, knowledge
and experience, Halite looked to refine this
HOWEVER, FOR A SELECT FEW, THE WEATHER SIMPLY WILL NOT GET IN THE WAY knowledge to provide the end-user with the
best possible product. Halite continuously
OF THEIR GAMING, AND INSTEAD, THEY SOLDIER THROUGH THE WINTER MONTHS. iterates their products and construction
methods to withstand frequent and extreme
We'll be perfectly honest... our years of braving winter as well as the members of Norway’s use, as well as testing their products
the elements for airsoft are long over. While in SOF community. With such mastery comes an consistently over time to ensure the best
the past we've played in rain, sleet and snow, understanding of how to survive within it and materials are still being used.
we've definitely become fair weather 'softers in the tools needed to do so. To incorporate these principles, Halite
recent times and have no qualms with admitting Halite was born from such origins, owned developed a two-bag system which has been
it. That said, we do have an understanding by a small team of Norwegian SOF veterans designed to shield the end-user from the
of what equipment is imperative to ensuring who are focused on creating and developing elements. When creating inner bags, two
your winter weekend games go to plan. Over high quality, task driven equipment. Each material alternatives are looked at – down or
the next few months we'll be looking at some product within their product range is an synthetics. Halite have chosen to incorporate
choice equipment for those winter warriors, answer to a problem experienced -- either both into its design. The down bag is made
highlighting some of the very best in winter through military missions or on arduous of a Gore Infinium outer fabric while the
equipment. This month, we look to ensure a adventures in the most desolate corners of synthetic fabric is created with Climashield
good night sleep while braving the elements the world. As a team of veterans, explorers, APEX. This has allowed Halite to achieve a
with Halite's brilliant range of sleeping bags. designers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Halite close to zero dew point, thanks to the bags
set out on a mission to create a sleeping bag making use of extremely breathable and
system that would keep the end-user warm, hydrophobic materials. This leads to moisture
NORWAY'S FINEST dry and safe – wherever they are, against all being transported out and squeezed from the
Known for its harsh winters, Norway has long elements. inner bag to the Overbag Pro – an outer bag
been the training ground for several European Halite approached the production and made from Climashield APEX, known to be
militaries regarding winter training. However, development of sleeping bags based on one of the warmest hydrophobic insulation
very few can claim to master the Norwegian historical principles of layering and the materials in the world.
MOISTURE TRANSPORT
Dew point... mean anything to you? Well it didn't to us either until speaking to the experts
at Halite. The dew point determines whether the moisture from a person is taken up by
the material, or if it is transported away to become steam, water or ice. This is a known
phenomenon and can be observed in the form of condensation on the outer fabric of a
bag, or worst case – inside the bag itself. Added challenges with condensation may also
come from one's own surroundings; tents etc.
The key is the right choice of outer and inner fabrics that are able to gradually ventilate
the moisture from inside the bag and onto the bag’s outer fabric where it can dry. Worst
case scenario is that the moisture gets trapped inside the bag and freezes over – so what
Halite have done is move the entire dew point to the outside of the bag, by introducing
what they’ve dubbed an overbag, and as far away from the primary bag as possible.
032
S U N D E R O U R S P O T L I G H T - H A L I T E
HALITE RECCE DOWN 3 SIERRA

In collaboration with Western Mountaineering and their 45 years of manufacturing,
Halite have developed a system that will increase warmth, increase comfort and increase
scalability and flexibility. The 3-season down bag is protected with Gore WindstopperTM
830 Fabrics, with 850 plus fill power goose down and both with the most complex
construction in the world to reduce weight and reduce down migration when abused over a
long period of time.
■ Fill weight: 540g (180cm/6’0) 595g (200/6’6”)

■ Fill power: 850 FP Goose
■ Construction: Continuous baffles with draft-tube
■ Zipper: Full length YKK #5 LZ
■ Loft spacing: 14cm
■ Fabrics: Gore Windstopper / Taffeta Nylon
■ Inside Girth: Shoulder: 163cm / Hip: 140cm / Foot: 99cm
■ Pack size: approx: 21x38
■ Weight: TBC app. 900 grams
■ Temp. rating: -9 C
■ With Overbag: est. -22 C
HALITE RECCE DOWN 4 SIERRA

In collaboration with Western Mountaineering and their 45 years of manufacturing we
have developed a system that will increase warmth, increase comfort and increase
scalability and flexibility. The generously sized 4-season down bag is protected with Gore
WindstopperTM 830 Fabrics, with 850 plus fill power goose down and both with the most
complex construction in the world to reduce weight and reduce down migration when
abused over a long period of time.
■ Fill weight: 850g (180cm/6’0) 905g (200/6’6”)

■ Fill power: 850 FP Goose
■ Construction: Continuous baffles with draft tue
■ Zipper: Full length YKK #5 LZ• Loft spacing: 18cm
■ Fabrics: Gore Windstopper / Taffeta Nylon
■ Inside Girth: Shoulder: 170cm / Hip: 147cm / Foot: 104cm
■ Pack size: approx: 23x46
■ Weight: TBC app. 1500 grams
■ Temp. rating: -18 C
■ With Overbag: Est. -32 C
HALITE OVERBAG PRO

Upgrading your 3-season sleeping bag to a cold weather bag and your winter sleeping bag
into an extreme bag, for the coldest conditions around. The Overbag adds up to 14C on
the temp rating on a good 3-seasonbag, converts a winter bag to an expedition bag and
protects the innerbag from moisture and condensation. The Overbag has been designed
to provide operational benefits over a large range of uses. Used on its own, the generous
sizing makes it a great ventilated choice for a good night’s sleep in warmer climates or as
an OP shelter on shorter missions. Durable continuous fibre Climashield® APEX insulation
with hydrophobic Aquaban® DWR treatment in combination with Pertex® Quantum shell and
lining delivers great warmth at a low weight, with excellent stuffsac compression.
■ Shaped to fit over expedition down sleeping bags

■ 2 long ¾ length zips on each side with 3 zip-pullers for
adjustable ventilation and user versatility on post/OP
■ Wide & angled foot box for extended comfort
■ Side wrap construction with zippers on top to prevent
heat loss and cold spots through zipper on innerbag
■ Drawcord adjustment to hood
■ Sleeve inside hood for pillow insert to increase comfort
■ Oversized stuffsac for smooth stuffing in the field.
TAG IT AND BAG IT 5 . 1 1 G U N C A S E S
The 5.11® brand all started with a simple

pair of pants In 1992, with the FBI training
academy adopting the original 5.11 pant as its
training pant. The rest, is as they say, history.
Following the success of the 5.11 brand, the
company began work on a more extensive
law enforcement line, launching 5.11 Tactical®
in the process. Their range of designers
worked together with a number of different
public safety professionals to realise this,
aiming to create a range of products that
properly met the needs of real people, who
often came into contact with real danger.
“Our end-users depend on 5.11 products
and gear to ensure they can live the mantra
of Always Be Ready,” said 5.11’s CEO,
Francisco Morales. “That fact is a guiding
principle as we work to design, develop
LV GUN CASES
and introduce new items into our offering.
From public safety professionals, operators,
and outdoor enthusiasts, we spend years
fine-tuning products to meet their needs. We
couldn’t be more excited for the new gear we
are bringing to market.”
“Instilling our consumers with the 5.11
Always be Ready mindset is a key guiding
5.11’SBRANDMANTRA,ALWAYSBEREADY,HASNEVERBEENMORERELEVANTTHAN light throughout our product design and
development process,” added 5.11’s Vice
IT IS TODAY. 5.11 SUPPORTS THIS CORE MESSAGE WITH PRODUCTS THAT ENHANCE President, Global Product, Matt Page. “A key
aspect of that readiness mentality is having
CUSTOMERS’ ABILITY TO STAY HEALTHY, PREPARED, AND SELF-RELIANT IN SOME the right gear on hand to be prepared for
anything. Whether it’s a pack loaded and
OF THE MOST HIGH-STRESS SITUATIONS KNOWN TO MAN. PREPAREDNESS IS THE ready to use as a go bag, or gloves nearby to
FIRST PRIORITY, AND 5.11’S NEW PRODUCTS FOR 2022 WERE ENGINEERED TO GET protect hands in the case of an emergency,
we want our end users to feel confident in
CUSTOMERS THERE. the gear they’re carrying.”
IRO £121 5.11

LV M4 20L
The LV M4 rolls with how you need to roll, as a backpack or a
crossbody bag, to carry up to a 32” rifle in low-vis style. This
pack makes it easy to stay organized, too. Its front compartment
features a laser-cut loop panel and internal mesh pocket.
There’s a top fleece-lined pocket to keep your eye protection
secure, or flip the pocket inside out to hold your ID panel/patch.
Stay ready and under the radar with the LV M4.
■ Front pocket with MOLLE platform and zippered mesh pocket

■ Removable shoulder straps for dual backpack carry or single
sling carry with crossbody strap
■ 5.11’s signature Centerline™ design
IRO £117 5.11

LV M4 SHORTY 18L
The LV M4 Shorty is the ideal, low-vis solution for transporting
up to a 29" rifle. With just the switch of a strap, you can wear
it as backpack or a crossbody bag. This pack makes it easy to
stay organised, too. Its front compartment features a laser-cut
loop panel and internal mesh pocket. There’s a top fleece-lined
pocket to keep your eye protection secure, or flip the pocket
inside out to hold your ID panel/patch. Stay ready and under
the radar with the LV M4 Shorty.
■ Padded shoulder straps convert from backpack to crossbody

■ Manufactured from 840D Nylon
■ 5.11’s signature CenterLine™ design
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■ WWW.HUEYS.CO.UK
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DOWNR ANGE 2022 A R M Y A R M A M E N T ' S R
ARMY ARMAMENT
R36 AR36C GBB
IN THIS SERIES, WE LOOK AT NEW AND EXCITING AEGS, GBBS, BOLT-ACTIONS AND PISTOLS TO HIT
THE MARKET. WE'LL SUPPLY YOU WITH THE BASIC INFORMATION SO YOU CAN ADD THEM TO YOUR
WISH LIST, OR NOT... OF COURSE, YOU CAN MAKE A BETTER INFORMED DECISION WHEN WE TAKE
A MORE IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE PRODUCTS AS THEY FILTER INTO US IN FUTURE ISSUES OF AI.
The R36 is constructed from a high-density rifle is not cocked. It takes a bit of time to get
fibre-reinforced polymer, which features used to, but it's important not to force the
FEATURES
a textured finish, matching its real-world fire selector into its safe position, as you can ■ Full metal construction
counterpart in both weight and balance. damage the selector. ■ 14mm CCW male threaded outer barrel
The outer barrel, flash hider, dummy Just like an AK, the magazine release is ■ Strong recoil with each shot
piston and gas block are all fashioned from located centrally at the rear of the magazine ■ 20mm Picatinny railed carry handle
alloy, as are the internals and the removable well, making it easy to be accessed from either
■ Detachable rails on the handguard
handguard 20mm rails. But above all, it is not side and easily reachable from a firing grip.
the typical AR clone that dominates the global At the rear of the receiver sits the stock ■ Front hand stop/ambidextrous sling point
airsoft community. folding mechanism, which consists of one ■ Ambidextrous magazine release
As you would expect from a GBB rifle, the big button on the left side, and a hinge on ■ Ambidextrous fire selector switch
R36's charging handle is fully functional; the right. Pressing the button will unlock ■ Ambidextrous charging handle
providing direct control over the bolt carrier the stock, after which you can fold it to the
■ Ambidextrous bolt release
can add another level of realism. However with right side of the rifle and push it over the
this level of realism, the rifle does not behave mock brass deflector to lock it in place. The ■ Ergonomic pistol grip
as an AEG in the fact that you slap a new sling point on this rifle are better used with ■ Rubberised butt plate
magazine into the rifle and carry on shooting. hook-type single-point slings and either a
Just like in the real world, you have to hit the paracord loop or keyring installed on the AVAILABLE FROM RELIABLE AIRSOFT SHOPS
bolt release inside the trigger guard to push point; this will give extra flexibility and allow
£170.00
the bolt forward and load a round. for a wider range of slings to be used. The
It's worth pointing out that the R36 internals butt plate of the stock is constructed from a
are based on the WE M4 GBBR, resulting in rubberised polymer, giving you ample grip in
the fire selector not being put into safe if the all weather conditions.
3 6 A R 3 6 C G A S B L O W B A C K R I F L E
SPECIAL FORCES SUPPORT GROUP D E S E R T
SPECIAL
FORCES
SUPPORT GROUP F E A T U R I N G R Y A N
THE SPECIAL FORCES SUPPORT GROUP IS THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE UNITED
KINGDOM SPECIAL FORCES. IT WAS SPUN UP ON THE 3RD APRIL 2006 TO PROVIDE
SPECIALIST INFANTRY AND OTHER SUPPORT TO THE SPECIAL AIR SERVICE, THE SPECIAL
RECONNAISSANCE REGIMENT AND THE SPECIAL BOAT SERVICE ON OPERATIONS.
ALTHOUGH A TRI-SERVICE UNIT, THE PRIMARY ELEMENT OF THE SFSG IS THE 1ST BATTALION,
THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (1 PARA), REINFORCED BY A COMPANY STRENGTH
GROUP OF THE ROYAL MARINES WITH SPECIALISTS FROM THE RAF REGIMENT.
Since its conception, the SFSG has been kept busy. The SFSG was part of Task Force Black/Knight
during the Iraq War. During the Basra prison incident, a platoon of SFSG accompanied A Squadron
22 SAS to Basra to assist in recovering the two detained SAS operatives. Paratroopers from the
SFSG supported SAS operations around Baghdad, usually cordoning off areas where the SAS were
carrying out their missions. Their next deployment saw the group support the SBS and SRR as
part of Operation Kindle in Afghanistan, plus numerous other actions.
D P M / M U L T
043
SPECIAL FORCES SUPPORT GROUP D E S E R T
SPECIAL FORCES SUPPORT GROUP

Along with so many other Special Forces Groups, the SFSG
have merged into a sea of Multicam clad warfighters, with
very little differentiation between nations, which is a far cry
from the days of Task Force Black, where members of the SFSG
mixed and matched different camouflage patterns to council
their identity. You could argue that Multicam has the same
effect and of course, you would be correct, but what a boring
place this section of Ai would become. So with that in mind
and that any S.F. group has a certain freedom in their clothing,
we thought we'd put together an SFSG load-out that combines
legacy and current camouflage patterns to great effect.
OLD FAITHFUL
We don’t need much of an excuse to pull out desert DPM – maybe it’s a
generation thing, but we did see desert DPM being used at our recent AI500
weekender event.
DPM dates way back to the 1960s and used the four basic western European
temperate colours of black, dark brown, mid-green and dark sand to make a
very effective camouflage that has survived in its basic design. It had slight
changes to the colours and pattern until it was eventually phased out by MTP
some 60 years later.
It's believed, but not confirmed that DPM was first issued to the SAS in the
form of a hooded Smock- known as a Windproof, 1963 Pattern. It wasn't
until eight years later that the DPM range replaced the plain olive green 1960
Pattern Smock and Trousers.
A desert variant was first issued on a limited basis in the late 1980s
consisting of subdued sand and khaki hues but was replaced by a two-colour
light brown on sand version by 1990 because four-colour (light and dark
browns, khaki, and sand) versions had been adopted by some Middle
Eastern countries, notably Kuwait and the Iraqi Republican Guard. One
variant, including a shade of green, is also currently worn by members of the
Indonesian National Armed Forces assigned to the Garuda Contingent serving
in the United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Tie desert DMP into the form of a UBAC and you've got a winning combination,
in our opinion. Believe it or not, the UBAC's first saw the light of day way back in
2006, which was some four years after the U.S. army had issued its version of
the shirt (Army Combat Shirt). In reality, both versions of the shirt can be used,
it's really down to personal preference.
Both were designed to be worn in conjunction with the Osprey in the case
of the UBAC's and the Improved Outer Tactical Vest for the American Army
Combat Shirt.
The UBAC's pailed in comparison to the Army Combat shirt in both quality and
construction, features reinforced arms and shoulders for added durability as
well as a Coolmax, moisture-wicking torso that enhances breathability in the
warm weather, perfect for airsoft enthusiasts, paintballers and cadets.
Today the shirt and for that matter the camouflage pattern has long since been
retired from active duty, which means it's a very affordable garment for the
skirmish field. The UBAC features a lightweight and elastic body fabric that wicks
sweat and dries quickly, along with padded saddle shoulders, allowing maximum
range of motion for all operations. Both sleeves are made of a tough Polycotton,
and padded elbows and forearms, and large shoulder pockets. Ergonomically
designed, with Hook-and-loop patch panels, adjustable button cuffs, half-length
front-zip closure, reinforced shoulders and arms, and Infra-red reflective, but
surprisingly not flame-resistant benefits that the U.S. Army Combat Shirt has.
Thankfully, this has been addressed with the latest MTP variant of the shirt.
D P M / M U L T
045
SPECIAL FORCES SUPPORT GROUP D E S E R
IT'S NO SECRET
The Special Forces Support Group have had a
public love affair with the U.S. based tactical
gear titan Paraclete for a number of years,
however recent pictures surfacing on social
media of reportedly SFSG members clearly
wearing JPC's and even AVS's, of course, if
that's your thing that's fine, but we are getting
close to tipping the balance in favour of MTP/
Multicam and that's not what this project
is about. Dialling back the clock slightly we
enlisted the help of one of our firm favourites –
Paraclete and issued a replica CVC and RACK.
The buzz words for collectors of Paraclete
are Pre MSA, which is when Paraclete was
at its finest and before it was sold. However,
to score yourself any Pre MSA Paraclete is
going to be an expensive exercise, with CVC's
fetching in excess of £1000.00. So heading
to the replica market will save you a small
fortune and makes perfect sense.
PARACLETE
Paraclete Armor & Equipment, Inc. (later
Paraclete) started from humble beginnings
way back in 1994, with their plate carriers
first being produced in owner Tim
D'Annunzio garage in Fayetteville,
North Carolina. Twelve years later, the
brand was sold to MSA or Mine Safety
Appliances Co., forming a new brand
MSA Paraclete. Today the brand still
exists within the tactical gear giants
Point Blank Enterprises Empire.
However, the "Golden Days” of
Paraclete have long since gone.
PARACLETE GAINED FAME

AND FORTUNE AMONGST
THE SPECIAL FORCES
COMMUNITY AND
ENTHUSIASTS MARKETS
WHEN THEIR ARMOUR
WAS ISSUED TO MANY
TIER 1 OPERATORS, BOTH
IN THE U.K. AND THE U.S.
However, the demand on the
enthusiasts market has pushed
the price sky high in some
circumstances leaving the airsoft
community no alternative but
to turn to the replica market for
more affordable gear.
T D P M A N D M U L T I C A M
£13 EACH M4 MAG POUCH X3

PRE MSA PARACLETE STYLE
Both the real-world and replica M4 pouches have adjustable height
hook and loop flaps, allowing you to securely carry a maximum of
two magazines per pouch. You'll still have magazine retention if you
decide to tuck the flap away from the elasticated side of the pouch.
FEATURES
■ 500D Cordura
■ Adjustable height Hook and Loop flaps
■ Elastic expanding pockets
■ Magazines can be tiered
■ Holds two mags of M4
■ 2x Tuck strap MOLLE attachment
■ Pull tabs on closure flaps
■ Drainage holes
■ 18cm H x 10cm W x 5.5cm D
■ www.shekkingears.com
P IC K UP
T HO S E
S UR P L U S
S T OR E
T R E AT S!
THERE IS A LOT, AND WE
MEAN A LOT OF DPM ON
THE SURPLUS MARKET
THAT YOU CAN PICK UP
FOR NEXT TO NOTHING -
SO IT'S AWLAYS WORTH
CHECKING OUT YOUR
LOCAL SURPLUS STORES
OR, IF YOU DON'T WANT
TO VENTURE OUT, EBAY
SAVES YOU FROM
RUMMAGING THROUGH
THOSE DUSTY CRATES
AND FUSTY SMELLING KIT.
SPECIAL FORCES SUPPORT GROUP D E S E R
FROM £132 RACK AND CVC

PRE MSA PARACLETE STYLE
Essentially a MOLLE chest rig was first issued to U.S. Army Rangers as part of their
Ranger Assult Carrying Kit, which consisted of a MOLLE load-bearing chest rig along
with an assortment of pouches. A number of tactical gear manufacturers produced
their own take on a RACK, but Paraclete being Paraclete, had the go to version for
the S.F. types. The mesh CVC can go for a small fortune on the collectors market for
essentially what is a middle-ground plate carrier that was originally designed as a
Concealment Vest Carrier (CVC) and was quickly adopted by the S.F. community. With
ample girth, high adjustment, and a comfortable fit, the RACK can be configured to
its user's mission needs.
RACK FEATURES
■ 500D Corduraes
■ The shoulder strapping system offers two points of adjustability
■ Internal mesh admin pouch
■ Ample adjustment
■ Comfortable kit
CVC FEATURES
■ 500D Cordura
■ Shoulder Velcro strapping system
■ Mesh in and out cover
■ Bungee external cummerbund stabilizer
■ Accepts hard-armor plates and ESAPI
■ Zipper back panel system compatible with
paraclete mole and assaulter back panels.
■ Heavy-duty ambidextrous YKK zipper
■ From: www.shekkingears.com
T D P M A N D M U L T I C A M G E A R
POUCHES AND ACCESSORIES

It's entirely down to you how you set up your plate carrier, but to get 'the look' right there are some basic rules that apply, with three (possibly
four) different pouch categories, magazines, pyro, utility and comms. You've seen from our shopping list how the real items can quickly stack up in
cost. The eagle-eyed amongst you might have spotted that we are using real 'Pre MSA' magazine pouches in the photography. There is a reason for
this, we wanted to show the difference in colour. But for this article, we are going to refer to the replica magazine pouches, which we have found to
be a lot more affordable and much easier to find.
SHEKKINGEARS SHEKKINGEARS SHEKKINGEARS SHEKKINGEARS

M4 MAG POUCH X3 MBITR RADIO POUCH .50CAL POUCH GROIN PROTECTOR
Both the real world and replica This is a great raidio pouch! The .50 cal pouch was quickly Designed to protect your groin
M4 pouches have adjustable It's perfectly identical to its adopted as an easy accessible in the real world, obviously, but
height hook and loop flaps, real-world counterpart but at a utility or medical pouch by the extra real estate comes in
which allow you to carry a fraction of the price! On either a number of Delta Force handy in our world. Real-world
maximum of two magazines per side of the main pouch, two operators; many had at least prices of this particular piece of
pouch securely. You will still further pouches can be found two pouches on their rigs. One kit have gone through the roof,
have magazine retention if you that are ideally sized for either would have been worn on the a used example costing upwards
decide to tuck the flap away a multi-tool or pistol mag. Your cummerbund or even worn up of £140.00, which is ridiculous
from the elasticated side of the radio is secured in place by an high on the front plate pocket. in our opinion. This replica is
pouch though. Drainage holes adjustable bungee cord; ripping The addition of a hook and loop made to Pre MSA Paraclete
take care of any water or loose away the retention flap will panel turns the pouch into a standards at almost a third of
sand that might find its way in. reveal a window for tuning. very handy admin pouch. the price.
■ 500D Cordura ■ 500D Cordura ■ 500D Cordura ■ 500D Cordura

■ Adjustable Hook and Loop ■ Holds most military and ■ Can be configured to be a ■ Compatible with HPV HPC
■ Elastic expanding pockets personal radios utility or medical pouch RAV and CVC
■ Magazines can be tiered by ■ Adjustable height Hook and ■ Hook and Loop Flap Closure ■ External MOLLE
going behind divider Loop flaps to accommodate ■ Elastic Retention ■ Built-in soft Armor insert
■ Holds two mags of M4 multiple radio types ■ Drainage Holes ■ Price: £36.00
■ 2x Tuck strap MOLLE ■ Bungee retention included ■ 15.5cm H x 18cm W x 7.5cm D ■ From: shekkingears.com
attachment ■ Drainage hole ■ Price: £20.00
■ Pull tabs on closure flaps ■ 2x smaller pouches ■ From: shekkingears.com
■ Drainage holes ■ Glow stick/flashbang holder
■ 18cm H x 10cm W x 5.5cm D ■ 18cm H x 9.5cm W x 6cm D
■ Price: £13.00 each ■ Price: £22.00
■ From: shekkingears.com ■ From: shekkingears.com
COLD WEATHER CL ASSICS E X T E N D E D
WINTER IS COMING
EXTENDED COLD WEATHER CLOTHING SYSTEM
THE ECWCS GEN1 PARKA
THERE'S NOT A LOT WORSE, IN OUR OPINION, THAN RAIN
STOPPING GAME PLAY AND NOBODY LIKES BEING
SOAKED THROUGH. NOW THERE ARE 101 DIFFERENT
WAYS OF KEEPING DRY AND WE HAVE QUITE A FEW
OPTIONS AND SOLUTIONS IN OUR GEAR LOCKER, BUT
THE ONE ITEM OF CLOTHING THAT THE TEAM SEEM TO
ALWAYS PACK IS A US ARMY ISSUED GEN 1 ECWCS
PARKA AND THAT'S FOR A VERY GOOD REASON.
The US Army Gen 1 parker is one part of a 22 layer system that
was first issued to US troops on the ground back in the 1980s. The
concept behind the layering system was pretty simple but could
sometimes be problematical as it was designed from a benchmark body
temperature to regulate the comfort of a soldier in various weather
conditions. However because every soldier (and for that matter, every
member of the human race) heats up and cools down at different speeds,
Soldiers found themselves wearing extra or fewer layers in the same
conditions to regulate their body temperature.
Now we're not going to recommend or advise that you don 22 layers of Uncle
Sam's finest to keep warm and dry at your local airsoft site - but when married with
a standard fleece or hoody (of which there are many to choose from out there) we
think the Parka jacket will serve you well for a few hours of skirmishing in the rain.
Memory recalls one Ai500 weekender when the United Kingdom kindly graced us with
a non-stop, 9 hour downpour which managed to clear a large proportion of our players
back to the safezone. Some tapped out due to their guns taking on water but the
majority were simply soaked through and after a while that just stops being fun.
For those of you reading this that attended that weekend many moons ago,
some of you may have noticed our Tan 2IC cutting about the battlefield,
wearing one of these jackets in the DCU pattern version (pictured here).
When we spoke with Ben at endex, his upper body was totally bone dry
thanks to the Gore-tex outer layer and only his legs were soaked through.
Ben did mention that he was going to invest in some of the trouser
covers that are part of the '22 layer system' to stow away in a day-pack if
he found himself caught out in those condidtions agian.
THE M81 PARKER JACKET FIRST ROLLED OFF THE

PRODUCTION LINES OF ALPHA INDUSTRIES IN 1986 AND
REPLACED THE M-65 FIELD COAT THAT HAD SERVED THE
AMERICAN ARMED FORCES FOR OVER 21 YEARS.
032
C O L D W E A T H E R C L O T H I N G S Y S T E M
SOME THINGS ARE JUST BEST LEFT ALONE

AND DON'T NEED TO BE UPGRADED. IF IT
AIN'T BROKE, DON'T FIX IT. AND THE US
ARMY ECWC1 GEN 1 PARKA IS TESTAMENT
TO THAT - THESE SURPLUS ITEMS CAN BE
FOUND FOR REASONABLE PRICES ON EBAY
AND WILL LAST YOU FOREVER AND A DAY!
I MEAN, THEY'VE BEEN AROUND SINCE
1986 AND ARE STILL SOLDIERING ON!
The system was designed to be used in an insulated,
triple-layering functionality with the polypropylene
undergarments as layer one being the closest to the user's skin
and a Gore-Tex outer layer being the furthest layer from the user's
skin. In a nutshell, the Parker consists of three layers; The outer
and exposed layer is an abrasion-resistant Taslan nylon, then
there's an intermediate layer of durable waterproof, windproof
Gore-Tex membrane and lastly the inner layer (or lining) being
made from Nylon.
Believe it or not, the Gen 1 Parker first rolled off the production
lines of Alpha Industries in 1986 and replaced the M-65 field coat
that served the American armed forces for over 21 years.
The parka features what is known as a cobra hood that was
designed to fit over a combat helmet. There is a two-way,
full-front zip to provide full-face protection. The parka has
Raglan shoulders/sleeves, a non-freezing, double-pull zipper
with storm flap, a flap-covered pocket on the left sleeve with
hook and loop (Velcro) closure, adjustable hook and loop
wrist cuffs, armpit ventilation zippers and double reinforced
elbows. There is an interior back ventilation opening, two
(handwarmer) or cargo pockets on the lower front (with extra
large flaps and double hook and loop single snap closure on
each) and an inside draft skirt (windskirt) with elastic drawcords
and barrel-locks at the waist. Which is going to do a very good
job at keeping you warm and dry. Interestingly despite its bulk
with a little adjustment on your part, you can comfortably wear
over chest rigs and plate carriers or conversely throw the parker
on over your tactical gear.
This 38 year old piece of clothing is still available today through
many sources at very affordable prices. One of the reasons
the parker failed the US Army is because of its limitations as a
"waterproof-breathable" fabric. This to you and me means that the
parker did not breath well on the battlefield and soldiers tended to
overheat, but for the limited use you will need from the parker on
the skirmish field it's an ideal solution to keep your warm and dry.
We wouldn't recommend wearing this all day if you're going to be
overly active, as it's not the most breathable jacket in the world -
but that's the price you pay for a mother nature proof jacket that
will deny any of her attempts to get in!
Today's ECWCS is a far cry for the relic that is the first gen
system and has since changed its name from the 'Extended Cold
Weather Clothing System' to the 'Extended Climate Warfighter
Clothing System'. With a change in name also came a radical
rethink of layers, reducing them from the original 22 layer system
to a much more manageable 7 layer system.
The 3rd Gen system was designed to enhance a soldier's ability
to train and operate in many combat conditions and has employed
technically advanced materials and coatings to help them achieve
peak performances in challenging climates.
Despite the 3rd gen system being technically advanced I can't help
but think that its lost its appeal and somehow a part of the romance
that the Gen 1 parker still has - for me at least, Would I give up my
Gen 1 parker in favour of a Gen 3 parker? I doubt it.
FINISH YOUR PL ATE! V I P E R T A C T I C A L
VX BUCKLE UP MAGAZINE PANELS cater for a whole range of magazine sizes whilst
WHEN IT COMES TO PLATE CARRIERS, MODULARITY IS VERY MUCH THE KEY TO retaining your base configuration.
THEIR SUCCESS IN BOTH THE REAL AND AIRSOFT WORLDS. YOU'LL HEAR SHOOTERS The Viper Tactical VX Buckle-up magazine
Panel allows you to do exactly that - scale
IN THE REAL WORLD TALKING ABOUT SCALABILITY WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR PLATE your VX Buckle-up plate carrier to the pistol
or rifle you are using by simply changing out
CARRIERS, WHICH MEANS YOU SCALE YOUR PLATE CARRIER TO THE MISSION the magazine panel. There are three options
REQUIREMENTS. THE SAME CAN BE SAID ABOUT THE SKIRMISH FIELD. to choose from Pistol, Rifle or SMG. All three
are made from Viper Tactical’s very own 700d
However, unlike the real world, where you tend in your armoury, you would have had to have polytech material and feature elasticated
to take only one rifle to a gunfight, Airsofters two vests to accommodate their magazines, magazine pockets. These hold a variety of
have the luxury of taking several rifles to a which as we all know can become expensive, magazines securely in place and attach to any
skirmish site, which is fine if your selection of not to mention the kit you have to hump to and plate carrier that features female Nexus buckles
rifles all takes the same magazine, but if for from a skirmish field. But thankfully, modular and a female hook and loop panel. Securing and
instance, you have an AR and a submachine gun plate carriers allow you to swap out panels to removing these panels is a simple task.
■ Available in the following colours:

Black, Vcam, Vcam black, Coyote, OD Green
VIPER
MAGAZINE PANELS
£11.95
FROM RELIABLE
RETAILERS
SMG
RIFLE
PISTOL
VX BUCKLE UP
GUN CARRIER
BLACK / DARK COYOTE
/ GREEN / VCAM
/ SRP: £79.95
A S S A U L T R I F L E O N T E S T
ARES
AR-308S
"NOT ANOTHER AR PL ATFORM" WE HE AR YOU CRY!
WELL, YES BUT FOR A GOOD REASON. THE AR PLATFORM IN THE REAL WORLD IS, WITHOUT A DOUBT,
THE MOST POPULAR RIFLE OUT THERE, WHICH IS MIRRORED IN OUR WORLD. HOWEVER, THIS
308S IS FIRMLY LEANING TOWARDS THE DMR PLAYERS AMONGST US AND MIGHT EVEN BE A
STEP TOO FAR FORWARD FOR THE PURISTS OUT THERE.
ARES AR T H E N E W A R - 3 O 8 S F R O M
A RE S
AR-308S
aperture iron sight. The sights mimic the
THE RIFLE IS RIGHT UP-TO-DATE WITH ITS AESTHETICS AND ENHANCEMENTS, WHICH real-world "Troy" iron sights and are protected
SEPARATE IT FROM THE LEGACY DMRS. THE AR-308S BOASTS FULLY AMBIDEXTROUS on either side with protective wings. The sights
can be deployed quickly by simply grabbing them
CONTROLS, AN M-LOK/PICATINNY RAIL HYBRID HANDGUARD, A MODERN, ANGULAR and pulling them up and into position should you
find yourself in a situation where your primary
RECEIVER PROFILE AND THE UNIQUELY DESIGNED ARES PRO STOCK, NOT TO MENTION sight goes down.
THE RIFLE'S EYE-CATCHING BRONZE AND BLACK COLOUR SCHEME. In many ways, the receiver will appear very
familiar to M4 users, just bigger. The fire
Right out the box, the striking features of the system. The fact they have gone to the trouble of selector bolt release catch and magazine release
308S are something to behold, but at the same adding layers of authenticity is a tick-in-the-box are all ambidextrous, addressing issues with the
time, it is subtly muted. This is one of those rifles and a step in the right direction, seldom seen in original M4/AR15 design and making this rifle
that does not come alive until you throw some competitor ARs at this price point. perfect for both left and right-handed users. The
accessories at it. The rifle M-LOK handguard features a short magazine release is located on the magazine
The 9.5-inch outer barrel is supplied with 20mm Picatinny rail section at the front of the well, with the right side release being a large and
a steel muzzle brake which is finished in an AR-308S. On either side of the handguard, just prominent easy-access button and the left side
attractive satin gun metal grey and is designed before the receiver, sits a set of QD sling sockets release being a paddle-style extension. The bolt
to work seamlessly with the Ares AR-308 series on either side. But we could not seem to attach release catch is located on the left side of the
suppressor, however, you are not restricted to any slings, which suggests that they are oddly receiver at the centre. The fire selector can be
Ares alone as many aftermarket suppressors fit purely ornamental. In contrast, the sockets work found just above the pistol grip on either side of
and work equally as well. perfectly on the stock, but that will leave you the lower receiver.
The muzzle brake mounts to the barrel using a with an unbalanced slung rifle so you are going The charging handle is a low-profile version
14mm CW male thread, but can be replaced with to have to venture into the after-sales market with a steel latch. Pulling the charging handle
any 14mm CW thread accessory or with a 14mm to add a functional QD socket or do as we did back will open the steel dust cover on the right
CW to 14mm CCW adapter. You can mount the and secure the sling using some paracord. A side of the receiver and retract the exceptionally
more common 14mm CCW threaded accessories, cheap and dirty alternative, but that is perfectly detailed mock bolt carrier, revealing the rotary
such as tracer units. acceptable. HOP-up adjuster beneath. The trigger of the
Attached to the outer barrel, Ares has included Along the handguard's top sits a 20mm rail AR-308 is a flat "speed" type trigger with a
a touch of realism by adding a highly detailed which tracks back to meet the receiver rail, low-profile ledge at the base to prevent your
dummy gas block and short-stroke piston offering a long base for the included flip-up finger from slipping off. Again constructed from,
A R E S
giving it the strength you would expect from POWER PLANT

what is a heavily used component. The AR-308S sports Ares' EFCS gearbox, FEATURES
On either side of the magazine well, the offering programmable fire modes with the ■ Full metal construction
AR-308S displays high-quality engraved Ares programmer (available separately),
■ Exceptional build quality -
markings. The precise engravings continue to battery protection and active braking. The
the fire selector markings, and just above the battery protection feature will disable the AEG ■ Steel muzzle brake
left side selector, we can see another "ARES if the battery's voltage drops too low, avoiding (Ares QD suppressor compatibility)
PRECISION LTD" engraved. damage which would usually occur to LiPo cells ■ Rotary adjustable HOP-up unit
The stock and pistol grip are what the which drop below a certain voltage. The active ■ M-LOK 20mm Picatinny handguard
manufacturer describes as being unique to this braking function ensures your piston completes ■ Flip-up Troy style aperture iron sights
rifle and they have taken their inspiration from a full cycle with every trigger pull, ensuring
■ Ergonomic pistol grip with back strap
the real world. long-lasting performance and health inside the
The pistol grip is ergonomic with a filled back gearbox. The inclusion of the EFCS means you ■ Ambidextrous fire selector switch
strap which encourages a more consistent grip. can lock the rifle to semi-auto for DMR use using ■ Ambidextrous magazine release
This grip has a smooth external finish with a the Ares programmer and upgrade the spring to ■ Ares Pro Stock pistol stabilising brace
mildly raised texture that’s presented in the meet DMR limits. ■ Enlarged trigger guard with ledge
form of a fibre-reinforced polymer. With a high torque motor, the AR-308S has all
■ QD Sling socket with swivel
The trigger guard is the increasingly popular the grunt needed to pull stronger springs for
■ Ambidextrous bolt release
oversized version and features a helpful finger DMR use. If you don't want a DMR, the motor
ledge. That's right, you've guessed it somewhere also provides an exceptional trigger response ■ Supplied in a custom hard rifle case
to rest that overworked trigger finger. and rate of fire with the stock spring, which is ■ Ares EFCS gearbox on board -
Better known as a "Stock", the AR-308S has also enhanced by the electronic trigger unit. ■ Flat "speed" style trigger
been issued with what Ares calls an Ares Pro To top it all off, the AR-308S is supplied in a
Stock stabilising brace, offering four positions hard rifle storage case which is constructed
£450.00
of length adjustment to suit any body type. from olive green high-density polymer. The case
This device functions both as a stock and as closes via four strong metal lift clasps, and the
a "stabilising brace", a device conceived for internal design is moulded to hug the AR-308S
short-barrelled "pistol" AR15s to allow them to snugly and prevent it from moving around
be fired one handily with better stability and during transport. The case also has space for an
accuracy. additional magazine, a suppressor and a scope.
THETA OPTICS T H E T A O P T I C S 4 X 5 A G U
THETA OPTICS
4X5A GUNNER SCOPE
THETA OPTICS CONTINUE TO PUT OUT RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE PRODUCT FOR US TO GET OUR TEETH STUCK INTO!
N N E R S C O P E - T H E T A O P T I C S O N T E S T
AT HOME ON AN AR?
IT'S INTERESTING TO POINT OUT
THAT REAL-WORLD SHOOTERS ARE FEATURES
■ 4x Magnification
COMPARING THE ELCAN TO AN ACOG ■ Rubber finish
AND ARE ALSO MOUNTING THE ■ Alloy construction
■ ~710g weight
SCOPE TO AR PLATFORMS, WITH ■ Low profile backup iron sight
REPORTS SUGGESTING THAT THE ■ Dual RIS screw connection points
■ Easy to adjust large back elevation knob
ELCAN IS THE BETTER OF THE TWO.
The scope is constructed from Alloy and features ORIGINALLY DESIGNED IN THE
a rubber casing to protect it from the riggers
of a skirmish field. The scope is perfect for
REAL WORLD TO BE MOUNTED
those middle-ground engagements making it an ONTO AN M249, THE REAL
excellent choice to use in outdoor skirmish sites
and it sits in-between non-magnified red dot
ELCAN M145C 3.4X SCOPE IS
sights and high-magnification sniper scopes. AN AREA SCOPE INSTEAD OF A
This M145C replica features an accurate
recreation of the real M145C's tri-needle
PRECISE SCOPE; HOWEVER, IN
reticule, which allows users to pinpoint an area OUR WORLD, THE THETA OPTICS
to concentrate fire upon.
Just like in the real world, where you adjust GUNNER AREA SCOPE HAS
the scope by dialling its height and elevation in
relation to the rife, the Gunner 4×45A scope also
GAINED SOME TRACTION AS AN
has the same option and attaches to any rail by ASSAULT RIFLE SCOPE.
hand without the aid of tools.
If you're looking for a mid-field scope to bolt
onto your new or existing rifle, the Theta Optics
Gunner is worth a look. The top of the sight
features backup iron sights should your target
become too close. However, there is no getting
away from the ELCAN being a perfect choice
should you have an M249 in your armour.
£80.00
BR ANDED! T H E U M A R E X B R A N D E D
ARES
HK G36
UM A R E X B R A ND E D
the bipod and carry handle are polymer, but
THE H&K G36, RECOGNISABLE TO MOST BUT USED BY SO FEW, IS IT THE UNIQUE RIFLE credit where it’s due, it’s as if it was laced with
YOU’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR? OR THE RIFLE YOU WOULDN’T LOOK TWICE AT WHEN carbon fibre because it’s incredibly strong.
There’s very little if any flex at all when looking
SCOURING FOR YOUR NEXT PURCHASE? PERHAPS THE GERMAN DESIGNED HARDWARE at the individual components, with only the
hand guard which is held in place by a single
JUST DOESN’T FIT INTO THE TYPICAL SKIRMISHER’S LOADOUT? WELL WE’RE HERE split pin flexing when force is applied. Even so,
TO TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE G36, AND TO TRY AND FIND OUT IF THE LACK OF this is pretty unnoticeable in the grand scheme
of things. With the retractable stock fully
POPULARITY COMES DOWN TO AESTHETICS ALONE, OR IF SOMETHING IS GOING ON? extended she measures up at well over a meter
in length, so the G36 is quite conspicuous.
As it turns out, the real world G36 variant is part debate outlines a genuine technical issue, or She features Heckler and Koch trademarks on
of its own debate, and even though it has been whether it’s just frightful misinformation, the both the left and right side of the receiver if
adopted by many countries around the world, G36 was designed and constructed for its time, that’s your thing, but personally I find them
including our own, it appears the G36 allegedly and it clearly still has its uses today, finding its quite muted against the flat polymer surface
has its problems. With disputes between Heckler way into both our police fire arms units and our and they don’t really stand out enough. I do
and Koch, and third party investigators, it has special forces. That must count for something? however like the gunmetal grey charging block,
been reported that the accuracy degradation Coming full circle and back to the topic of its plastic, but it has been made to look like
after only two magazines (sixty rounds) is as airsoft, the G36 is a rarely seen rifle, in fact a welded piece of steel and I thought it was
much as 50cm at 200m, and as much as 6m I have seen it mostly used as a hire rifle by a great touch. The carrying handle and the
at 500m. Heckler and Koch argued the case various sites over the years, more so than part retractable stock are again extremely robust,
that the ammunition was to blame, while the of someone’s collection. But does this scarcity and I’m quite impressed at how rigid the stock
opposing argument put the composite polymer translate to a poor performance, or is it just is when fully extended, there’s no rattling or
barrel holder in the spotlight, which allegedly the ugly duckling that nobody wants to play wobble. A word of warning however, I have seen
becomes too soft to hold the barrel straight with. Let’s look at the externals first. Pretty failures at the hinge section of a G36 before,
after warming up. Regardless of whether this much all of the external components, including despite however rigid it may first appear.
H K G 3 6 F R O M A R E S I S O N T E S T
At the back of the stock is a one inch thick airsoft, but it does make the experience a little is. For starters, there’s no issue with battery
rubber butt stock pad, and once shouldered it more genuine when looking through the sights. storage. It’s a front wired rifle and with the
really does hold its place. The bipod tucks neatly Above the magnified optic is the reflex sight, a battery being held in the hand guard, you’ll have
away against the hand guard, and actually adds red dot optic where again, on the original was no problems in fitting relatively large batteries
a little character to the hand guards plain flat powered by ambient light during the day time, in there. For the range and accuracy tests I used
lines. They’re sprung loaded so they don’t rattle and by battery power at night time. These were a 7.4v lipo, but before leaving for the range I
against guard when running, but they also originally calibrated for firing at 100 meters. did some preliminary testing with an 11.1v lipo.
deploy very quickly, with only a lever on the As cool as this multi optic setup is, or as cool The 11.1v left me a little unsure of whether the
inside of each leg to retract it back to its home as I think it is at least, I wanted to know if they rifle could handle it without modification, and
position. There’s plenty of sling mounting points were useable. For starters, both optics are fully I noticed that the vibrations moved the fire
across the rifle, with the front two sling mounts adjustable via grub screws to the right, and selector just enough to disengage full auto. The
being made of steel, and the rear two points are above each optic. In terms of sight picture, they G36 felt right at home with the 7.4v though, so
part of the polymer moulding. Finally, I want again have their pros and cons when comparing I used this as baseline battery for the shooting
to talk about the sights, and to be completely them to aftermarket options. The reflex site is tests. Now the G36 has a blow-back function,
honest I love them! Yes they have their pitfalls, very much an ‘eyes open’ site, as when trying to but I’ll comment before reporting on the
and no there not quite as good as aftermarket close one eye you lose a lot of your peripherals shooting tests that the blow-back is lacking in
options, but in terms of sights included with due to the narrow tube and excess material terms of feedback, there’s very little noticeable
the rifle as standard, I think they’re great. around the site. On the positive side however, recoil when firing the rifle in semi only, and even
Like the original, you have two different sites the sight is mounted nice and high, and I would in full auto it’s still a little disappointing. The
mounted into one system, a replica of the ZF say it’s actually the best-positioned site I have noise of the blow-back does mask the gearbox
3x4. The first is a 3x magnified telescopic sight, ever used. The Magnified optic is a tricky one, noise a little though, and it looks good too, so
where the original reticule was designed for the sight picture is relatively clear, but the it’s not a complete loss.
firing at 200m, with bullet drop compensation image size is quite small. A trade-off I guess, but A few test shots down range left me quite
markings for 200, 400, 600, and 800 meters, as you’ll find out in a minute I believe this optic surprised on the achievable distance, and using
along with a range finding scale too. This is has a time and a place. 0.28’s saw a range of 75 meters plus. This left
obviously completely pointless with regards to So let’s crack on and find out how usable it me suspicious and immediately made me test
BR ANDED! T H E U M A R E X H K G 3 6
THE G36 PERFORMED WELL, AND THE ACCURACY WAS GOOD ENOUGH THAT
EVEN IF THE SPRING WERE DOWNGRADED, THE OVERALL PERFORMANCE
WOULD STILL BE COMPETITIVE WITHOUT ANY FURTHER MODIFICATIONS.
the velocity, only to find that on 0.28’s she was ammo you may have to do a little work to the
kicking out 380 feet per second. I’ll save you hop unit. The bipod also made light work of the
the maths, that’s 1.88 joules, which is way too accuracy tests to, with a slight amount of ‘roll’ FEATURES
hot for an automatic RIF. That’s the equivalent movement built into the mechanism, it didn’t
of shooting 450 feet per second on 0.20’s. The matter too much if the ground wasn’t completely ■ Realistic gas block and piston
G36 does have a quick-spring-change system level. It seemed really well positioned in relation ■ Strong recoil effect (easily deactivated)
but I’d advise that if you intend on buying one to the end of the barrel, so you don’t have to
■ Easy power upgrade
of these, that you ask the retailer to downgrade move your body too much to change the arc of
or at least check the FPS before shipping it out fire. The only real gripe I had while firing the ■ Realistic disassemble process
to you. Testing it as it is, I thought next to look gun was the selector, and while it wasn’t a huge
■ Functional bolt lock / release
at the accuracy. Targets set up at 30, 40, and 50 problem, the selector switch felt a little ‘gritty’.
meters yielded pretty positive results, and I had It also felt a bit stuff just before it engages full ■ Realistic folding stock
reasonably good groupings on all three targets. auto. Now had this been my personal rifle I’d
■ One-piece high strength nylon body
This is where I can conclude that the magnified have no issues with peeling the exterior back and
scope is probably more suited to target shooting tinkering with it to try and improve the operation ■ Realistic flash hider
than firing at a moving target. As mentioned a little. I do however have to take things as I
■ Easy battery replacement
previously, the sight picture is relatively small, find them and report on them as accurately
and keeping target on a moving target would as possible. All in all, the G36 performed well, ■ Realistic barrel lock & one-piece
be difficult. Aiming at a static target however and the accuracy was good enough that even aluminium outer barrel
felt pretty natural, as the smaller sight picture if the spring were downgraded, the overall
allows you to hone in a little bit more. To quote performance would still be competitive without ■ 3.5 scope and 1 x red dot
Mel Gibson, “aim small miss small”. Sorry, I any further modifications. Aesthetically, it’s not ■ V2 metal gearbox
couldn’t help it, but the principle’s correct. my ‘cuppa tea’, but peel back the body and you
The hopup is rotary, easily accessible, and have a RIF that performs the same as any other ■ Length: 765mm / 1000mm
holds its position well. It did struggle to lift out of the box. Not a bad effort for the Umarex ■ Weight: 3450g
0.30’s however so if you intended to use heavier branded Ares HK G36.
■ Magazine Capacity: 140 Rounds
■ Battery: 8.4v - 9.6v (Type 03) (Type 04)
(Type 14) Not Included
■ Motor: High Torque Flat Motor
■ System: Full Auto & Semi Auto
£345.00
VENOM BOOTS
■ Lightweight
■ Rubber toe protector
■ Moulded TPU heel stabiliser
■ Internal nylon stabiliser shank
■ Integrated EVA midsole
■ Aggressive, multi-directional grip, rubber sole
■ Moisture wicking lining
Material: 1000D Cordura upper

Sizes: 7-12
Black / Dark Coyote / SRP: £89.95

FR AG OUT! T H I N G S T H A T M A K E Y O U G O B O
THE EVOLUTION OF GRENADES WITHIN AIRSOFT HAS BEEN AN INTERESTING ONE. AS WITH ALL THINGS AIRSOFT,
COMPANIES ARE CONSTANTLY LOOKING FOR NEW AND INNOVATIVE WAYS TO REPLICATE REAL-WORLD TRAINING
ENVIRONMENTS - FROM SYSTEMA'S INNOVATIVE WEAPONS SYSTEM TO A WIDE SELECTION OF RADIOS. ANOTHER
AREA IN WHICH AIRSOFT MANUFACTURERS HAVE TRIED TO REPLICATE THE REAL-WORLD IN ARE TRAINING
GRENADES. THERE ARE QUITE A LOT TO CHOOSE FROM, BUT WE WANTED TO SHINE A LIGHT ON STRATAIM.
When I first started playing airsoft, the idea of training grenades was
a long, distant dream. While you had a small selection of disposable
pyrotechnics, the price was often too high for your average airsofter.
Training grenades also existed for use within the military, and you'd FROM
£72.00
STRATAIM
often find a handful of them on use at more serious mil-sim events,
but again, these were often expensive and finding inserts was nigh
EPSILON GRENADE
on impossible.. Taking its designation from the mathematical term of the
What I'm trying to get at here is that unless you had an same name, the Epsilon BB Grenade is in its 3rd iteration -
ever-flowing stream of disposable money, the use of grenades within with Strataim constantly making slight tweaks to the design
airsoft was often limited. As time passed, things like disposable, of the grenade.
single-use pyrotechnics started to become cheaper, with companies The Epsilon was designed in house and manufactured in
such as Enola Gaye paving the way for this, but actual training Europe with high grade aluminium CNC 7075, adhering to the
grenades were still a while away. same standards used in both the airplane and armed market.
It wasn't until my first foray into the depths of SHOT Show in Las Due to being manufactured within Europe, Strataim have
Vegas, some twenty years ago now that my eyes were opened to the been able to place stringent quality control processes on
world of specifically-made airsoft training grenades - specifically the Epsilon, ensuring it is of the highest quality. This quality
training grenades that spewed out BBs! After hours of walking control process will not only look towards the innards of
around the show, we came across a then small outfit known as
the device, but also looks for any potential leaks within the
Airsoft Innovations, and their 'Tornado' grenade. The rest, as they
grenade, or any poor finishes on the casing of the Epsilon.
say, is history, and Airsoft Innovations have continued to create
When put into use, the Epsilon BB Grenade releases 106 bbs
a range of airsoft-specific training grenades, monopolising the
at 200FPS, ensuring that the room you've just cleared with
marketplace in the process.
the grenade is cleared, and any 'tangos' within the room feel
the full force of the Epsilon. When not in use, the Epsilon has
been designed to fit in a standard 40mm pouch, meaning
ENTER STRATAIM
However, we're not here to talk about Airsoft Innovations - if you
you'll always be able to store it and won't need to find a
random pouch that fits it.
want the latest on what they're up to, look back a handful of issues On top of all of this, the Epsilon is extremely user-friendly.
for a round up on their latest range of products. Today though, we're We'd go as far to say that the Epsilon is one of the easiest
here to talk about a relative newcomer to the industry - Strataim. products to use on the market. The grenade can be
Founded in 2017, Strataim have been hard at work. Based in The maintained and opened without the use of tools, making
Netherlands, Strataim produce two different airsoft BB grenades - reloading extremely easy, regardless of whether you're back
the Nova48 and the Epsilon. Of the two, the Nova48 was produced in the safe-zone, at a respawn point or still on the field.
first, while the Epsilon has seen constant revisions and is now on its
3rd iteration. As of now, the Nova48 is out of stock, with no news ■ COLOURS AVAILABLE: ORANGE, GREEN, PURPLE.
on a restock, however, the Epsilon is readily available via Strataim's
website: www.strataim.com
064 W W W. S T R ATA I M . CO M
O M ! - T H I N G S T H A T M A K E Y O U G O B O O M !
AT £72, WE HONESTLY
THINK THE EPSILON
IS A NO-BRAINER
IF YOU'RE LOOKING
TO PURCHASE A BB
GRENADE. NOT ONLY
DOES IT LOOK GREAT;
BEING AVAILABLE IN THREE
BRIGHT COLOURS, BUT IT OPERATES
BRILLIANTLY AS WELL. IN ALL
HONESTY, IT'S BEEN A WHILE SINCE
SOMETHING HAS GOT THE TEAM
AT AI SO EXCITED, AND YOU CAN
GUARANTEE YOU'LL SEE MEMBERS OF
THE AI TEST TEAM THROWING THESE
DOWN FIELD IN NO TIME AT ALL!
W W W. S T R ATA I M . CO M 065
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■ Address: Tottleworth Road, Rishton, BB6 7ER BADLANDS AIRSOFT ■ Address: Bolton Wood Quarry, Bolton Hall
■ Phone: ■ Address: Woodbberry Lane, Rowlands Castle, Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD2 1BQ
■ Email: Info@allarmsairsoft.com Hampshire. PO9 6DP ■ Phone: 07891 469492
■ Website: www.allarmsairsoft.com ■ Phone: 07534465589 ■ Email: staff@cerberusairsoft.co.uk
■ Email: badlandsairsoft@outlook.com ■ Website: cerberusairsoft.co.uk/sandpit.html
ALPHA 5-5 HALKYN WOOD ■ Website: www.badlandsairsoft.co.uk
■ Address: Castle Wood, Halkyn Nr Northop, CLOSE ACTION AIRSOFT
■ Phone: 0845 257 6937 BATTLETEC AIRSOFT ■ Address: Near Fineshade, NN17 3BB
■ Email: alpha55airsoft.co.uk/Bookings.html ■ Address: La Couture, Guernsey, ■ Phone: 07740 165787
■ Website: www.alpha55airsoft.co.uk/ ■ Phone: 07781 104068 ■ Email: cjfs8362@yahoo.com
■ Email: outdoorp@hotmail.com ■ Website: www.close-action.co.uk
■ Website: www.battletec.co.uk
W W W.V I P E R K I T. CO . U K 069
SPONSORED BY
GOOD GIG GUIDE Y OUR A IRSOF T SK IRMI
COMBAT SOUTH EAG BADLANDS

■ Address: Unit 4, Fairways Business Centre , ■ Address: Woodberry Lane,
Portsmouth, PO3 5NU Rowlands Castle, PO9 6DP
■ Phone: 023 9265 5636 ■ Phone: 07732130802
■ Email: sales@combatsouth.co.uk ■ Email: soulairsoft@hotmail.co.uk
■ Website: www.airsoftgames.com ■ Website: soulairsoft.wix.com/eagbadlands
COMMANDO ELITE PAINTBALL AND AIRSOFT EAST MIDLANDS AIRSOFT CLUB

■ Address: Monks wood, Abbots Ripton, ■ Address: Wood Lodge Ancaster,
Huntingdon, PE28 2LR Grantham Lincs, NG32 3PY
■ Phone: 0771 435 1824 ■ Phone: 01400230306
■ Email: www.facebook.com/ ■ Email: info@ancasterleisure.co.uk
monkswoodpaintballpark/ ■ Website: www.ancasterleisure.co.uk
■ Website: commando-elite.wix.com/
commandoelite ELITE ACTION GAMES - DORKING
■ Address: Reffolds Copse, RH5 5AB
CONTACT FRONT LTD ■ Phone: 07502206421
■ Address: Wattons Lane, Matchams, BH24 2DG ■ Email: John@eliteactiongames.com
■ Phone: 0845 116 2830 ■ Website: www.eliteactiongames.com/dorking/
■ Email: info@contactfront.co.uk
■ Website: www.contactfront.co.uk ELSHAM AIRSOFT
■ Address: Elsham Activity centre, Elsham, DN
CONTACT! (FIGHT SCHOOL) ■ Phone: 01482935515
■ Address: Kelvedon Hall Lane, ■ Email: admin@elshamairsoft.co.uk
Kelvedon Hatch, CM14 5 ■ Website: www.elshamairsoft.co.uk
■ Phone: 01438 368177
■ Email: dean@thefightschool.demon.co.uk FCS - THE ESSEX ACADEMY
■ Website: www.thefightschool.demon.co.uk ■ Address: The Essex Academy,
Chelmsford, CM3 4AT
COOL UNDER FIRE ■ Phone: +447973 240 177
■ Address: Moonfield Farm, ■ Email: andy@firefight.co.uk
Doddington, Kent, ME9 0JS ■ Website: www.firefight.co.uk
■ Phone: 07960532613
■ Email: legion@coolunderfire.co.uk FIFE WARGAMES
■ Website: www.coolunderfire.co.uk ■ Address: Crail Airfield, Crail, KY10 3XL
■ Phone:
COTSWOLD AIRSOFT ■ Email: info@fifewargames.com
■ Address: Bourton Woods, GL56 9AJ ■ Website: www.fifewargames.com
■ Phone:
■ Email: cotswoldairsoft'outlook.com FINGAL AIRSOFT
■ Website: www.cotswoldairsoft.co.uk/ ■ Address: Stamullen Village, Co Meath, Ireland
■ Phone: 0862675070
CUMBRIA AIRSOFT ANNAN ■ Email: info@fingalairsoft.com
■ Address: Broom Farm Estate, Newbie, ■ Website: fingalairsoft.com/
Nr Annan, Dumfries
■ Phone: FIREBALL SQUADRON
■ Email: info@cumbria-airsoft.com ■ Address: Bassets Pole Island off the A38,
■ Website: www.cumbria-airsoft.com/ Between Minworth and Lichfield, B75 5SA
■ Phone: 07582684533
DEFCON AIRSOFT ■ Email: martin@fireballsquadron.com
■ Address: 2A Stanton Road, ■ Website: www.fireballsquadron.com/
Stoke-on-Trent, ST3 6DD
■ Phone: 01782 479121 FIRST AND ONLY - ANZIO CAMP
■ Email: admin@defconairsoft.co.uk ■ Address: Anzio Camp, North of Leek, ST13 8TL
■ Website: www.defconairsoft.co.uk ■ Phone: 0161 727 8863
■ Email: info@firstandonlyevents.co.uk
DIRTY DOG AIRSOFT ■ Website: www.firstandonlyevents.co.uk
■ Address: 44 Sunnydale, Shildon,
County Durham, DL4 2ER FOREST OF DEAN PAINTBALL & AIRSOFT
■ Phone: 07712 588 700 ■ Address: Gatcombe Wood, Blakeney,
■ Email: dirtydogairsoft@outlook.com Gloucestershire, GL15 4AY
■ Website: dirtydogairsoft.co.uk/ ■ Phone: 01594 516 067
■ Email: fodpaintballandairsoft@outlook.com
DRAGON VALLEY ■ Website: fodpaintballandairsoft.co.uk/
■ Address: Caerwent Training Facility,
Caerwent, South Wa FOXTROT 58 AIRSOFT
■ Phone: 07921 336360 ■ Address: Islandmagee
■ Email: info@dragonvalley.co.uk ■ Phone: 07951858650
■ Website: www.dragonvalley.co.uk/ ■ Email: foxtrot58@hotmail.co.uk
■ Website: foxtrot58airsoft.synthasite.com/
DRAGONS LAIR AIRSOFT
■ Address: On the site of the Secret Nuclear FREE FIRE ZONE BULBY HALL WOOD
Bunker, Kelvedon Hatch, Essex, CM15 0LA ■ Address: Bulby Hall Wood, PE10 0SD
■ Phone: 01708 765036 ■ Phone: 07925 959398
■ Email: info@dragonslairairsoft.co.uk ■ Email: sales@fire-support.co.uk
■ Website: www.dragonslairairsoft.co.uk ■ Website: freefirezone.co.uk/
032
070 W W W.V I P E R K I T. CO . U K
ISH SI T E DIREC T OR Y - WHERE T O PL AY IN T HE UK
FRONTIER AIRSOFT ISLAND RECON AIRSOFT COMBAT

■■ Address: A449, South of Stafford, Junc 13 of ■■ Address: Sandy Way, Near Shorwell,
the M6 at Dunston and Penkridge, ST19 5R Isle of Wight, B3399
■■ Phone: 07590255914 ■■ Phone: 07964751047
■■ Email: info@frontierairsoft.co.uk ■■ Email: Bookings@islandrecon.co.uk
■■ Website: www.frontierairsoft.co.uk ■■ Website: www.islandrecon.co.uk
FRV AIRSOFT KILL HOUSE AIRSOFT

■■ Address: 132 Loughinisland Road, ■■ Address: Sayner Lane, Leeds, LS10 1LS
Annacloy, Downpatrick, BT30 8JJ ■■ Phone: 0113 2443374
■■ Phone: 07730586926 ■■ Email:
■■ Email: info@frvairsoft.com ■■ Website: www.killhouse.co.uk/
■■ Website: www.frvairsoft.com
LAND WARFARE
FULL METAL AIRSOFT ■■ Address: Wotton, OX13 6BX
■■ Address: Cilyrychen Quarry, ■■ Phone: 07387 941782
Llandybie, Ammanford, SA18 3JG ■■ Email: Honey Bottom Lane Abingdon
■■ Phone: 01269 850404 ■■ Website: www.facebook.com/landwarfare/
■■ Email: info@fullmetalairsoft.co.uk
■■ Website: fullmetalairsoft.co.uk/contact.html MADDOG AIRSOFT
■■ Address: High Harthay Farm,
GROUND ZERO AIRSOFT - WOODLAND Great North Road, PE28 4NQ
■■ Address: Somerley Estate, Ringwood, ■■ Phone: 07943265477
Hampshire, C/O Zero One Airsoft ■■ Email: info@maddogairsoft.co.uk
■■ Phone: 01329 849818 ■■ Website: facebook.com/maddogairsoftground
■■ Email: itstheh@groundzeroairsoft.com
■■ Website: www.groundzerowoodland.com MANXAIRSOFTCLUB
■■ Address:
GUNMAN AIRSOFT - 'THE VALLEY' ■■ Phone:
■■ Address: Fleet Road, Off the A327, RG27 0PY ■■ Email: admin@manxairsoftclub.co.uk
■■ Phone: 07854 277264 ■■ Website: www.Manxairsoftclub.co.uk
■■ Email: enquiries@gunmanairsoft.co.uk
■■ Website: www.gunmanairsoft.co.uk/ MATLOCK COMBAT GAMES
■■ Address: Lant lane, A632 between Matlock
HALO MILL and Chesterfield, DE4 5FW
■■ Address: The Penthouse, Colne Valley ■■ Phone: 07974507166
Business Park Manchester Road, HD7 5QG ■■ Email: justin@matlockcombatgames.com
■■ Phone: 01484 840554 ■■ Website: www.matlockcombatgames.com
■■ Email: info@halomill.com
■■ Website: www.halomill.com/ NETLEY HALL AIRSOFT
■■ Address: Netley Hall, Dorrington, SY5 7JZ
HARD TARGET AIRSOFT ■■ Phone: 01743718339
■■ Address: Merthyr Mawr Road, ■■ Email: Netleypaintball@gmail.com
Bridgend, CF32 0LR ■■ Website: netley-hall-paintball.co.uk/airsoft/
■■ Phone: 07950580217
■■ Email: contact@htairsoft.co.uk NOMAD AIRSOFT
■■ Website: www.hardtargetairsoft.com ■■ Address: Moss Wood, Fenwick, KA6 3AY
■■ Phone:
HAVOC AIRSOFT ■■ Email: johno@nomadscotland.co.uk
■■ Address: Havoc Airsoft, Leatherbelly Woods, ■■ Website: www.nomadairsoft.co.uk
Knottlingley, West Yorkshire, WF11 9LZ
■■ Phone: 01977 679041 NORTHEAST TACTICAL AIRSOFT CLUB
■■ Email: havochq@outlook.com ■■ Address: Sunnydale, Shildon, DL4 2ER
■■ Website: www.havocairsoft.co.uk ■■ Phone: 01642281220
■■ Email: ntacoy@live.co.uk
HOCKLEY AIRSOFT ARENA ■■ Website: www.ntac.co.uk
■■ Address: Unit 7, Eldon Way Industrial Estate,
Eldon Way, Hockley, Essex, SS5 4AD NORTHERN ALLIANCE AIRSOFT
■■ Phone: 01702 202318 ■■ Address: Boroughbridge Road, YO7 3LQ
■■ Email: enquiries@hockley-airsoft-arena.com ■■ Phone:
■■ Website: www.mpa-airsoft.com ■■ Email: admin@northernallianceairsoft.co.uk
■■ Website: www.northernallianceairsoft.co.uk/
HOLMBUSH EVENTS DOGTAG AIRSOFT
■■ Address: Crawley Road, Faygate, NPF BASSETTS POLE
Horsham, RH12 4SE ■■ Address: NPF, Trickley Coppice, London Road,
■■ Phone: 01293 852314 Bassetts Pole, Sutton Coldfield, B75 5SA FOLLOW US
ON FACEBOOK!
■■ Email: bookings@holmbushpaintball.co.uk ■■ Phone: 01213231000 @AMMODROP
■■ Website: holmbushevents.co.uk/ ■■ Email: info@npfbassettspole.com
combat-zones/airsoft/ ■■ Website: www.npfairsoft.com
01949 728 628
HUMBER AIRSOFT NSC AIRSOFT s a l e s @ a m m o d r o p.c o. u k
■■ Address: Leggotts Quarry, South Ferriby, ■■ Address: Bygate Plantation,
■■ Phone: 07792680297 Black Heddon, Belsay, NE20 0JR A M M O D R O P.C O.U K
■■ Email: humberairsoft@outlook.com ■■ Phone: 07983333521
■■ Website: www.humberairsoft.co.uk ■■ Email: info@nscairsoft.co.uk
■■ Website: www.nscairsoft.co.uk
W W W . V I P E R T A C T I C A L S H O P. C O . U K 071
SPONSORED BY
GOOD GIG GUIDE Y OUR A IRSOF T SK IRMI
OP TACTICAL UK - THE KINGDOM SHOOT & SCOOT - THE HILL

■ Address: Huntley Wood, Coneygreaves, ■ Address: Emmock Road, Dundee, DD3 0
Cheadle, Staffordshire, ST10 2NS ■ Phone: 01796 482582
■ Phone: 07510127056 ■ Email: info@shootandscoot.co.uk
■ Email: rob@op-tac.co.uk ■ Website: www.shootandscoot.co.uk/the-hill/
■ Website: op-tac.co.uk
SHROPSHIRE AIRSOFT WAR GAMES
PATHFINDER AIRSOFT ■ Phone: 07445511642
■ Address: ■ Email: sawgskirmish@hotmail.com
■ Phone: ■ Website: www.sawg.co.uk
■ Email: admin@pathfinder-airsoft.co.uk
■ Website: www.pathfinder-airsoft.com/ SILVER GORILLA TACTICAL
■ Address: The Mill, 12 Keats Lane, Earl Shilton,
PHOENIX AIRSOFT Leicestershire, LE97DQ
■ Address: Gleadthorpe Breck Plantation, ■ Email: info@silvergtac.com
Budby Road, Cuckney, NG20 9JX ■ Website: www.silvergtac.com
■ Phone: 07956587213
■ Email: info@phoenixairsoft.co.uk SIM-TAC AIRSOFT
■ Website: www.phoenix-airsoft.co.uk ■ Address: Gibstown, Co. Meath, Ireland
■ Phone: 0864118610
PREDATOR COMBAT GAMES ■ Email: simulationtacticalairsoft@gmail.com
■ Address: 49 Newcastle road, ■ Website: www.sim-tac.com/
Ballynahinch, BT24 8NF
■ Phone: 0782516931 SKIRMISH AIRSOFT
■ Email: info@predatorcombat.com ■ Address: Kitchener Plantation, B6034,
■ Website: www.predatorcombat.com Budby, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9FG
■ Phone: 0844 9970 378
R.I.F.T. AIRSOFT LTD "THE VILLAGE" ■ Email: sales@skirmishairsoft.co.uk
■ Address: ■ Website: www.airsoft-mansfield.co.uk/
■ Phone: 0775 158 6781
■ Email: tony@riftairsoft.com SKIRMISH AIRSOFT BILLERICAY
■ Website: www.riftairsoft.com ■ Address: Skirmish Wood Outwood Farm Rd,
Billericay, CM11 2TX
RED 1 AIRSOFT CQB ■ Phone: 01277 657777
■ Address: Langleybury, Hunton Bridge, ■ Email: info@skirmish.co.uk
Kings Langley, WD4 8RW ■ Website: www.airsoft-billericay.co.uk
■ Phone: 01727846069
■ Email: www.red1airsoft.co.uk SKIRMISH CENTRAL AIRSOFT
■ Website: www.red1airsoft.co.uk ■ Address: Granary Farm Woods,
Dungee Rd. Nr Odell. Beds, MK43 7AE
RED BARN AIRSOFT ■ Phone: 01933 314805
■ Address: Swords, Co. Dublin, Ireland ■ Email: enquiries@skirmishcentral.com
■ Phone: ■ Website: www.skirmishcentral.com/airsoft
■ Email: bbs@redbarnairsoft.com
■ Website: redbarnairsoft.com/ SKIRMISH EXETER
■ Address: Pennsylvania Road,
REDHILLS AIRSOFT North of Exeter, EX4 5
■ Address: Redhills, Co. Kildare, Ireland ■ Phone: 01548 580025
■ Phone: 0872481246 ■ Email: enquiries@airsoftexeter.com
■ Email: redhillsairsoft@gmail.com ■ Website: www.airsoftexeter.co.uk
■ Website: redhillsairsoft.com/
SKIRMISH LEICESTER & COVENTRY
REFORGER SKIRMISH ■ Address: Sharwell Woods,
■ Address: Quartermaster Store, Swinford Road, Lutterworth, Le17 4HP
Watford road Hunton bridge, Wd48qg ■ Phone: 0844 870 9785
■ Phone: 01923270158 ■ Email: bookings@skirmishleicester.co.uk
■ Email: andy@thequartermaster.co.uk ■ Website: www.airsoftleicester.co.uk
■ Website: www.reforgerairsoft.com
SOUTH COAST CQB
SECTION 8 AIRSOFT GAMES ■ Address: Browndown Road,
■ Address: Dura Road, Look for Ruined Church / Lee on the solent, PO13 9UG
Red Metal Gate, ML7 5AB ■ Email: 'southcoastcqb@gmail.com'
■ Phone: 07974 026518 ■ Website: www.southcoast-cqb.co.uk/
■ Email: info@s8airsoft.com
■ Website: www.s8airsoft.com SPARTAN AIRSOFT
■ Address: Spartan Airsoft,
SHOCK AND AWE AIRSOFT Brockley Combe , BS48 3DF
■ Address: Kinmel Woods, ■ Phone: 07791176046
St George/Abergele, LL22 9BU ■ Email: spartanairsoftuk@gmail.com
■ Phone: 07981 443152 ■ Website: www.spartanairsoft.co.uk/
■ Email: shockandaweairsoft@gmail.com
■ Website: www.shockandaweairsoft.co.uk SPEC OPS - BLOXWORTH
■ Address: Bloxworth, Off the A35, BH20 7EU
■ Phone: 07984 656947
■ Email: mike@specops.co.uk
■ Website: www.specops.co.uk/
072 W W W . V I P E R T A C T I C A L S H O P. C O . U K
ISH SI T E DIREC T OR Y - WHERE T O PL AY IN T HE UK
SSVAIRSOFT
■ Address: 2 Queen Street, DN85AA
■ Phone: 07939976835
■ Email: petrarrazvan@gmail.com
■ Website: www.ssvairsoft.com
STIRLING AIRSOFT
■ Address:
■ Phone: 07831429407
■ Email: bookings@stirlingairsoft.com
■ Website: www.stirlingairsoft.com
GOOD
STORMFORCE AIRSOFT
■ Address: Bardy Lane,
Upper Longdon, Nr Rugeley, Stafford
■ Phone: 07515 937633
■ Email: mark@stormforce.plus.com
■ Website: www.stormforceairsoft.co.uk
SUSSEX AIR SOFT

■ Address: Roman Woods Off Furnace
Lakes fisheries, Guildford Road, Slinfold
■ Phone: 020 8150 9284
■ Email: info@sussexairsoft.co.uk
GIG
■ Website: www.sussexairsoft.co.uk
SWAT URBAN AIRSOFT FORTRESS

■ Address: Hygeia Street,
off Boundary Lane, Liverpool, L6 9BY
■ Phone: 0151 644 1611
■ Email: info@swatuk.com
■ Website: www.swaturban.com
TAC HOUSE SPARTAN

■ Address: Goytside Road,
Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 2BL
■ Phone: 07540 955997
GUIDE
■ Email: tachouse_spartan@aol.com
■ Website: www.tachousespartan.co.uk/
TACTICAL WARFARE AIRSOFT

■ Address: Featherbed Woods, CR6 9PL
■ Phone: 020 3490 8008
■ Email: enquiries@tacticalwarfare.co.uk
■ Website: www.tacticalwarfare.co.uk
THE GAOL EVENTS

■ Address: Oakham Enterprise Park, LE157TU
■ Phone: 07976457602
■ Email: enquiries@thegaolevents.com
■ Website: www.thegaolevents.com
THE OUTPOST
TO HAVE YOUR SITE IN
THE 'GOOD GIG GUIDE'
■ Address: York Road, Flaxby, HG5 0XJ
■ Phone: 07825950245
■ Email: staff@cerberusairsoft.co.uk
■ Website: www.cerberusairsoft.co.uk
URBAN ASSAULT
■ Address: RAF Upwood, Ramsey Road, PE26
■ Phone: 07925 959398
OR TO BOOK CLASSIFIED
■ Email: games@urbanassault.org.uk
■ Website: www.urbanassault.org.uk
WEST MIDLANDS AIRSOFT

ADVERTISING IN THE
■ Address: Boulters Lane, Woodend, CV9 2QD
■ Phone: 07861 427553
■ Email: paul@wmairsoft.co.uk
SITE DIRECTORY PLEASE
■ Website: www.wmairsoft.co.uk
XSITE THE OUTPOST

■ Address: Tring Road, LU62EE
CALL OUR SALES TEAM
■ Phone: 01494 881430
■ Email: tim@xsiteairsoft.co.uk
■ Website: www.xsiteairsoft.co.uk ON 01529 488100
W W W.V I P E R K I T. CO . U K 073
NEXT
PAUL MONAF
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR
paul@ebcon.co.uk
The man that started it all.
He calls the shots behind the scenes.
ISSUE
BEN DICKIE
ART DIRECTOR
designteam@ai-mag.com
The Rambo of shapes 'n' colours.
He's pretty damn handy with an AEG too.
VICTORIA TRAFFORD
STAFF WRITER
editorial@ai-mag.com
With no itroduction needed, Victoria is a
deadly asset that ain’t to be messed with!
NICK PATRICK
STAFF WRITER
With a wealth of knowledge under his belt,
Nick takes testing guns to another level.
DA PORTER
DAVE
ST
STAFF WRITER
Dave has aspirations of World domination,
but he’ll settle for a stack of guns to review!
GREEN
JASON GREEN
ST
STAFF WRITER
Hailing from darkest depths of Yorkshire,
Jason loves getting under the skin of an AEG.
GARY FOX
STAFF WRITER
Introducing our latest member of the AI team.
Sniper-craft and stealth kills are his thing.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
SIGN UP TODAY AND GET AI IN BOTH HARD AND DIGITAL
FORMAT! CHECK OUT PAGE 70 FOR MORE INFORMATION
Order online at: sharon@ai-mag.com
Or over the phone on: 01529 488 100
PUBLISHING
PAUL MONAF: SALES / PUBLISHING DIRECTOR
paul@ai-mag.com
SHARON MONAF: ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
sharon@ai-mag.com
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The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincolnshire. PE10 9PH
Tel: 01778 391135
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publishing ltd.
NEW GEAR
Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of articles in this magazine,
but the publisher accepts no responsibility for any errors contained in
material from independent sources or authors. Reproduction in whole
or part of any text, photography or illustration in any form without
permission from the publisher/editor is strictly prohibited. We welcome
articles, photographs or artwork. Airsoft International cannot be held
NEW TECH
responsible for any loss or damage to unsolicited material. Please
enclose a SAE if you wish your material to be returned. Competitions
will be judged on the dates specified. No correspondence will be entered
into and the judge's decision is final. In the event of the published prize
not being available due to circumstances beyond the control of the
magazine, a suitable alternative of similar value will be provided.
DISCLAIMER
The publishers of Airsoft International (Ai) magazine do not condone the possession of firearms,
airsoft models or replica weaponry for illegal purposes.
The hobby sport of airsoft skirmishing is conducted at specialist skirmish sites or clubs
throughout the world, in controlled conditions where strict safety policies are implemented.
ON SALE DECEMBER 15TH
Airsoft International magazine does not publish articles on real firearms or blank firing
weapons. Airsoft replicas should not be confused with real firearms, air rifles or BB Guns.
In accordance with the guidelines laid down by the Home Office in the UK (overseas readers may
be subject to different laws), airsoft replicas are not to be used or brandished by any individual in a
threatening manner in public or in any way to cause a person to fear personal injury.
Airsoft replicas are recommended for use at professionally run skirmish sites. Individuals
ON WORLDWIDE SALE IN BOTH
ignoring this advice will be breaking the law and can expect severe penalties imposed upon
them from their local constabularies. PAPER AND DIGITAL FORMATS

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THE WORLD’S BEST SELLING AIRSOFT MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY SAMWISE PHOTOGRAPHY

SPECIAL PISTOL WITH ONE HELL

IS A LITTLE BIT DIFFERENT?

GEAR UP WITH US ON PAGE 40

42 50 COLD KIT WWW.AI-MAG.COM

69 THE GOOD GIG GUIDE

AF TER AC TION REPORT T H E A I 5 0 0 :

We totally understand that not all

BREAKING THE RULES

AF TER AC TION REPORT A I 5 0 0

A GAME OF TWO HALVES DID WE HAVE A WINNER?

Matthew Perrin – Team Sasquatch 1IC

THE L119A2 IS JUST ONE

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CHLK BELT SYSTEM

BLUE FORCE GEAR

OUR FINAL THOUGHTS

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IN THE REAL WORLD

HALITE RECCE DOWN 3 SIERRA

■ Fill weight: 540g (180cm/6’0) 595g (200/6’6”)

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■ Fill weight: 850g (180cm/6’0) 905g (200/6’6”)

HALITE OVERBAG PRO

■ Shaped to fit over expedition down sleeping bags

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■ Available in the following colours:

giving it the strength you would expect from POWER PLANT

Material: 1000D Cordura upper

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01529 488 100

GUN REVIEWS • GAME REPORTS

UK PAPER SUBSCRIPTION WITH POSTAGE

UK SITE DIREC T ORY

GOOD GIG GUIDE

AIRSOFT ESSEX ARENA AIRSOFT BRAVO 2-2 AIRSOFT

GOOD GIG GUIDE Y OUR A IRSOF T SK IRMI

COMBAT SOUTH EAG BADLANDS

COMMANDO ELITE PAINTBALL AND AIRSOFT EAST MIDLANDS AIRSOFT CLUB

FRONTIER AIRSOFT ISLAND RECON AIRSOFT COMBAT

FRV AIRSOFT KILL HOUSE AIRSOFT

GOOD GIG GUIDE Y OUR A IRSOF T SK IRMI

OP TACTICAL UK - THE KINGDOM SHOOT & SCOOT - THE HILL

SUSSEX AIR SOFT

SWAT URBAN AIRSOFT FORTRESS

TAC HOUSE SPARTAN

TACTICAL WARFARE AIRSOFT

THE GAOL EVENTS

WEST MIDLANDS AIRSOFT

XSITE THE OUTPOST

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