Defiant Airsoft

Evike Review (Part One)

2012-07-03T04:01:00.001-07:00

Intro

Evike is probably one of, if not the largest airsoft retailers in the U.S. With its huge online inventory and frequent deals, Evike attracts many customers. This review is going to be in two parts, one focusing on the online store, the second focusing on the walk-in store.

The Site

When you first visit Evike.com, you are brought to the announcement page. On the left hand side of the screen is a navigation pane that has all the categories laid out. Each category has subsequent sub-categories, and so on and so forth.

The site is pretty user-friendly in that everything is pretty much laid out in categories, so if a new player were to enter the site, and was looking for a gun, he could probably find his way to whatever tickled his fancy.

Evike has the "Holy Cow Specials" page that lists all current deals going on. Most of these deals are magazines at extremely reduced prices with the purchase of a specific gun, for example, when this post was being typed up:


Snippet from Evike's Holy Cow Specials page

As you can see, the product listings are a bit confusing. Are the mags free, or are they $3? I do not know if this is intentional, but it may be a tactic they use to lure you into buying things.

Another potentially misleading aspect of Evike's marketing strategy is their tendency to lump different brands into one listing.

Is this product G&G or Matrix? (source: evike.com, 06/2012)

Like the caption asks, which brand is it? This leads to the question of whether Evike sells Matrix products as G&G. Airsofters pay more for an inferior product thinking they were getting the good one. While this is not as prevalent as it was in 2010, it is still there.

Another thing that bugs me about their website is that out of stock items that have been discontinued or are no longer carried all have a 'z' in their names. It's almost as if they were too lazy to just remove the posting from the back end database or something. While minor, this does clutter up website, especially when doing a search.

Service

The service representatives are polite people. However, they sometimes are not the most knowledgeable. I generally hang up the phone satisfied, but it's a hit-or-miss a few days later. Sometimes the request is carried out right away, other times, it can take a while.

Past Experiences

My personal experiences with Evike have been predominantly poor. In 2010, I was in the market for a flash kill for my ACOG replica that I bought from Evike. I emailed their customer service about the product to see if it would fit on the ACOG that they sold me before. After a few emails back and forth, the customer service rep assured me that yes the flash kill would fit. So as you probably guessed, the flash kill did not fit as intended. The second experience I had with them was when I ordered a G36C top rail from them. It came with the rear sight's larger aperture broken. I guess they thought it was ok if they included the mounting screws. I forgave them and proceeded to continue buying from them due to their low prices. Another problem with their site is that it is not a real-time inventory. There are plenty of times where I've ordered items only for them to email me saying it is out of stock or backordered. I've cancelled backordered items only to have them drag their feet while issuing a refund.

Conclusion

Avoid if possible. I know it is tough because they carry a very wide variety of parts and their selection is huge, but if you can find it somewhere else, buy it there. It will always be a gamble with Evike.

Project MG36: Update 1

2012-07-03T03:55:00.002-07:00

Well, the first thing I did to this Echo1 G36C I received from ebay was remove the lower receiver and gearbox. I wanted to to put it into my G36K to get the rps etc, but it turns out that the dead on arrival. So I did what anyone would do and opened the bad boy up.

Three words: Can Of Worms

First off, I don't know if this gun was just a lemon or the parts were aftermarket, but wow, parts started breaking left and right. The metal used on this gearbox is just not up to snuff. I seriously have doubts as to its capability to sustain a high ROF. The piece that holds the safety lever was cracked in half, the left-handed select fire gear cracked, and one of the eyelets for the motor cage also broke. Not sure if this is typical of all Echo1s, but I hope not. Oh yeah, and the trigger broke after the first shot as well.

Anyways, with all that's messed up with this gearbox, I decided, "Ah well, you're committed already, might as well see this through." So I went online and ordered a new trigger assembly, a new metal spring guide, and some other goodies for my other guns and waited patiently for the packages to arrive.

While I was waiting, I decided to try to install the speed gear set I had lying around. Here's where I hit another hurdle: The gears required 7 mm bushings, where the gearbox only had 6 mm. I took my dremel out and tried to grind a millimeter off but it just became too tedious and time consuming to do 6 holes. Out came the drill, and boy, I do wish I had one of those drill press things that ensured the drill went down straight. Some of the holes came out crooked, but in the end, it still worked.

The new parts arrived, and were promptly installed. I rewired the gearbox to the front, since the old owner had them rewired to the rear. Put some deans connectors to mesh with the G36K, and away we went.

I was unable to get a reading with the original gears, since I have a philosophy of opening a gearbox a little as possible. But here are the numbers:
7.4V lipo
Echo 1 standard motor
M110 spring

Average FPS: 400
ROF: 14.6 rps

14.6... definitely not the numbers I had in mind. Also, 400 fps seems a bit high where my target was really somewhere around 350-370. Next steps: Find a hi-speed motor, or 11.1V lipo, or weaker spring.

Project MG36

2012-06-25T20:39:00.004-07:00

Intro

So this project came out of the want for a light machine gun and the realization that I simple cannot afford or justifying the purchase of a M249 or M60. Seeing as how I have so many spare parts lying around, I decided to modify a G36 lower receiver to fulfill the hole in my arsenal. The goal for this project is to have a platform capable of firing 20+ rps.

Materials

Available:

Modify Hi-speed Gear Set
Classic Army G36K

Purchased:

Echo 1 boneyard G36C

Phase One

To see if there is an actual increase in rps with the new gear set, I'll first chrono and measure rps by putting the lower receiver into my G36K, then put the gearset in and see what numbers I get. Depending on results, I'll then decide on what to modify next.

Magpul PALS/MOLLE SpeedThreader Review

2012-06-25T17:23:00.001-07:00

Intro

(courtesy of Magpul Industries and Spartan Imports)

No doubt every airsoft player has, at one point in his or her career, run across the MOdular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE - pronounced "Molly") system. The MOLLE system consists of 1" straps sewn parallel to each other at 1" intervals. The straps are segmented at 1.5-2" intervals.

(courtesy of http://www.advancedoutfitters.com)

To attach pouches to a MOLLE panel involves a very frustrating process of threading the straps on a MOLLE compatible pouch through the straps of the panel and through the straps on the pouch itself. The whole process takes anywhere from two to ten minutes, per pouch. The source of the problem lies with the buttons on the ends of each strap. These protrusions tend to snag on the MOLLE webbing, leading to great frustration, as you have to dig your fingers into the stiff, rough Cordura webbing and guide the button through the webbing as neatly as possible.

With the Magpul SpeedThreader, it becomes significantly easier to pull the straps through the webbing.

Features

The Magpul SpeedThreader comes in a clear plastic sleeve. The paper backing includes a picture guide on how to use the speed threader.

Out of the sleeve, it appears to be a very durable plastic. On one end is a pointed "arrowhead" if you will that is used to thread between the MOLLE straps, it has two holes which the instructions say can be used to attach boot laces or other aids to pull the threader through the straps of the MOLLE application.

The main body of the speed threader is very thin and very flexible. The body also has trademarks and other markings running along its length. The main body itself is roughly 1' long.

On the other end, is a wide "head" that is wide enough to hold the pouch's strap, and thin enough to pass through standard MOLLE straps. The end is open with a flap that allows a strap to be inserted. The flap side says "THIS SIDE TOWARDS POUCH."

The opposite side has the Magpul logo.

The pouch side flap has a tapered hole that will secure the button's locking side to the speed threader.

The opposing side has a rounded rectangle window for the smooth side of the button.

Overall

Magpul has done it again with a simple, yet ingenious design that greatly reduces the frustration of weaving MOLLE straps. There is one downside, however. The speed threader is designed for 1 inch webbing, so if you are running knock-off or non-regulation MOLLE gear, you may have trouble pulling the threader through all the way. I ran into problems weaving some Condor pouches, but generally, they work as intended. I definitely advise anyone running a MOLLE plate carrier or other MOLLE platform to purchase one of these.

AirsoftOutletNW.com Review

2011-04-16T00:34:00.000-07:00

Intro
In the center of the ATF controversy is Airsoft Outlet North West (airsoftoutletnw.com). It all started with a shipment of Wei-Tech GBB Rifles that was confiscated because of the lack of orange tips. While we all may cringe at the thought of brand new gas blowback rifles melted down by misguided bureaucrats on a witch hunt, we must ask, did Airsoft Outlet NW deserve it? Are they a less reputable retailer with a less than stellar track record?

The answer is a resounding "No!" They have been one of the best retailers I have ever dealt with, and here's why:

The Site
When you first enter airsoftoutletnw.com, you will notice the simple layout with the most current announcements on the front page. Announcements come in the form of restockings, reviews, and valuable insight into the airsoft market.
On the left side of the page is a navigation bar. Unlike some other sites that feature cluttered, almost unnavigable lists of links, Airsoft Outlet NW has simplified its top layer menu into basic categories.

(from Airsoft Outlet NW Homepage)

The most helpful tool I have found on the site is the "Shop by Airsoft Rifle Type" and similarly, the "Shop by Airsoft Pistol Type" links. These links allow you view guns that according to their style. For example, if you only want to view M4-style rifles, you do not need to wade through all the MP5s or AK47s. This way, you can see which manufacturer makes the M4, instead of searching through each manufacturer alphabetically until you've found all the M4s. This saves time and effort. I'm sure that we have all had those nights where we have had all the M4 pages open in separate tabs and windows and flipped back and forth comparing prices and specs.

Shop by Rifle Type? Why yes, thank you!

The site also has a very informative Airsoft 101 Section full of important information for beginners or those who wish to refresh their knowledge of the sport. A word of caution, however, rules posted there are field or region specific. Always check with your local field for their version of the rules.

Inventory
The variety is plentiful, but less than some of the bigger online retailers. As with all airsoft retailers, there are always some items that are priced higher than competitors and some items that are priced lower. They don't have too much in the ways of accessories, but they do have quite a bit of AEGs and GBB Rifles. The website appears to reflect the real inventory, I have never purchased an item marked as "In stock" and have it actually out of stock.

Since they are based in Oregon, they also do not have sales tax, which is a God-send for overtaxed Californians. Also, they offer free shipping on orders over $100.

Service
The service is very friendly. If you had a concern, you could call or email them and they will try their best to answer your question. I have called them on several occasions, seeking advice on which parts to buy. The person on the other line was very polite and honest. He told me exactly what he thought would be the best option for me, even though it wasn't the more profitable one. Shipping is prompt and they will never try to swindle you.

Searching for them on the Better Business Bureau yields no results, probably because no one complains about them.

Conclusion
Despite having a smaller inventory than some of their competitors, Airsoft Outlet NW has suited my needs time and time again. They are very active in the airsoft community in Oregon, and treat each player with respect. No condescension can be heard in their correspondence, and their honesty is greatly appreciated in a profit-driven market. I definitely recommend shopping with Airsoft Outlet NW to anyone looking for a new rifle, or upgrade parts.

CamelBak Delta 5 Tactical Hydration Vest

2010-06-10T15:46:00.000-07:00

Intro

(image courtesy of camelbak.com)

The CamelBak Delta 5 Tactical Hydration Vest is "built for high-speed tactical environments, the NEW Delta-5™ Tactical Vest combines revolutionary design, fully integrated hands-free hydration, rugged pouches and ergonomic comfort. All constructed with the most durable materials on the market" (camelbak.com)

This vest takes the camelbak bladders that some players like to wear on the back of their vests, and integrates it onto the inside. It has plenty of retail space (142 full slots to be exact) for MOLLE ammo pouches and other MOLLE attachments. It also comes in 4 different colors: Black, Coyote, Foliage Green, and Desert Camouflage.

see other colors

Features

The front panels of the vest is made from a single layer mesh of Cordura. This mesh layer allows sweat and moisture to escape, cut back on weight, and is quite durable. After two years of playing, the mesh has no physical signs of weakening or damage. Although the material is Cordura, it is quite smooth and not at all abrasive to the skin, unlike normal Cordura.

The back panel is made from traditional Cordura material. It is rigid and solid to protect the water reservoir inside. There is a Velcro panel on the back under the Camelbak logo for attaching identifiers. The back panel also features a drag handle, which is very securely fastened.

On the inside of the vest is padding for your back, as well as a drainage hole for those instances when water may potential spill in or enter your vest. A zipper is for accessing the internals is also present on the interior back panel.

On the interior of each front panel is a mesh pocket sealed by a bit of Velcro. This compartment can be used for maps, snacks, and anything that you would carry but are not afraid of losing. The gaps between the Velcro and the sides is decently large, so I would not recommend storing keys or small objects in them. You can store those items in another pocket built onto the Velcro pocket. There is a zipper-sealed pocket - personally, I store my gloves in these pockets since the Velcro tends to chew them up pretty badly. All these pockets are made with the same mesh material and are very durable.

On the front face of the vest, there are two rubberized pads, each with a enclosed bar. These pads are for designed for shouldering a weapon. They provide a nonslip surface that the stock can hold against. These pads are different from other vests' in that they aren't leather based and they do not have as much padding on the inside.

You'll also notice the Velcro/hook and loop patch next above the MOLLE webbing for fastening nametapes, rank patches, flags, etc.

This vest is a one-size-fit-all, however, if you are around 5' tall, this vest will not fit you the way it is intended. The vest is set up for use in conjunction with a belt. One could get away without a belt if the vest's reservoir is empty, as the vest weighs a little over 2 pounds completely bare, but with water and ammo, the vest can top off around 10 pounds (vest weighs 8.7 pounds when full + ammo). You do not want to subject your shoulders to carrying all that weight in addition to your rifle and any other gear you might be carrying. Using a belt transfers most of the weight to your hips, which will make this and any other vest more comfortable. The belt loops are a Velcro/button design.

Adjusting the vest is fairly simple. To adjust its girth, you simply pull each of the six straps that hold the front panels and the back panel together. There are three straps on each side.

Each strap has a Velcro T stop at the end. These stops neatly bundle any excess straps.

You simple pull or release the strap to the correct length, roll the T towards the buckle, and when there is no more slack, fold the Velcro tabs in to secure your strap.

Adjusting the should straps is also fairly simple. The process is a bit more involved, however, and does require either removing the vest or having a friend help out. The shoulder adjustment buckles are on the interior of the vest. To access them, simply unzip the back compartment. There are two metal buckles with straps that clearly go into the shoulders. Pulling the excess strap up will shorten the shoulders, while pulling the metal buckle will lengthen them.

After adjusting, simply tuck the excess back into the vest and zip back up.

The Camelbak reservoir holds 3.1 L according to their website. It is held upright by a small hook that hooks onto a small loop on the interior pocket.

The drinking tube is sheathed in a neoprene sleeve that runs the entire length of the tube. The tube itself runs through one of the shoulder straps and can be swapped if so desired.

The drinking nozzle is high-quality. Unlike most civilian products of Camelbak, the drinking nozzle has a lock which prevents water from dripping all over the place. The nipple itself is protected from the environment via a dust cover. The vest I received has a straight style drinking nozzle, while the current model boasts a right-angle drinking nozzle.

The nozzle is turned on and off by flipping the gray level.

Analysis

I bought this vest when I first started actively playing airsoft. I actually bought two, one for myself and one as a Valentines Day gift for my girlfriend. I purchased these vests from LA Police Gear at around $150 dollars per unit. At Camelbak's webpage, the MSRP is $199. Make no joke about it, these are expensive for first time airsoft players. There are cheaper alternatives for the airsoft players just entering the sport or the casual airsofter.

This vest is great for those hot summer games, because you do not need to bring a canteen out onto the field that could potentially get lost or damaged. For less intense games require little or no water, the vest still performs well, although, like aforementioned, a cheaper alternative could have sufficed. However, if you like the option of playing in both worlds, this vest fits the bill.

After playing with this vest for over two years, the zippers and stitching are still intact. The buttons on the belt loops have had some of their paint scraped off during CQB games. However, everything still functions.

If you are looking at a vest that will prevent you from feeling impacting BB's, this is not it. From behind, due to the extra layers of Cordura and the padding, you will not feel hits. You will hear them, but you definitely will not feel them. However, wherever there is mesh webbing, BB hits can be felt.

Pros

This vest is designed for wear with or without body armor, meaning many people will fit this vest.

The adjustment process, while not as easy as some Velcro versions, feels more secure.

The MOLLE webbing is not a cheap, it is extremely durable made to military specifications.

Allows for complete control on how pouches are configured and placed.

Entire vest is very well built, rugged, and can take any abuse thrown at it.

Cons

Because of the internal reservoir, the vest has a visible hump on the back, which may cause you to look like a skinny turtle at times.

The neoprene sleeve for the water tube likes to retract, so every once in a while, you must pull the sleeve back up.

At $140 - $199, this vest is expensive, considering that it comes with zero pouches. All additional pouches must be bought separately. For first-time or casual airsofters, this vest may not be for you. Consider it one of the sport's long-term investments.

No modern military uses this vest, so re-enactors or mil-sim players may not find this vest useful.

Conclusion

Although I really enjoy wearing this vest, it has cost me quite a lot of cash to buy all the pouches for it. At about half the total cost, I could have bought a pre-made vest from Black Hawk or UTG. I am sure that this vest will last longer than cheaper brands and variants, and I am overall very pleased at the quality of the vest. I would recommend it to players that enjoy customizing their load-outs and do not mind spending the money.

Preamble

2010-06-10T01:11:00.000-07:00

The purpose of this blog is to review airsoft equipment, review airsoft retailers, and reflect on the sport as a whole. I hope that my writings will providing insight on products that are seldom reviewed or provide a more thorough examination of others.

Retailer reviews will be posted from time to time. I must disclaim that any experiences that I personally have with specific retailers are solely my own. Do not hold my words accountable for any misfortune that arises from using retailers that I suggest. Every retailer has their ups and downs, so what may have been the case for me, may not be the case for you.

I have been airsofting actively for about three years, collecting and researching for about six years. Throughout my time researching the sport, I feel that there is a vast quantity of information out on the internet. However, most of it is lost in the jumble of useless dribble-drabble of retailers, fanboys, and hard-to-navigate forums. I will attempt to compile the most relevant, factual data in my posts as well as provide all points-of-view when it comes to discussions. I will try to remain unbiased in my reviews, although at times strong sentiments may emerge from especially touchy subjects, and for this I preemptively apologize.

Yours in airsofting,
Defiant Scribe