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Issue #4 Q4 2004 $6.00 USD

In this issue:

OPERATION: BIOHAZARD battletech: The perfect hop-up!

The armory: Top’s m249

Sgt. Pecker Vs The liberal

HEAVYARMS: True squad support (Part I) ak babe q4 2004: The NAM wishes you a very Merry Christmas!

Battletech: Secret tips and tricks For your AEGs!

FIELD TESTED:

Tanaka M24 TOP AK Drum magazine

Interrogation Room All things airsoft: Airsoftgunhelp.com

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Briefing: Greetings and welcome to the this issue for more details on the fourth installment of: Op and how to register for next year’s (this year if you’re reading this in 2005) Halloween event!

I’d just like to close by wishing you all, all the best and a very heartfelt Merry Christmas (Happy Christmas to all you Redcoats!), Happy Hanukkah, Winter Solstice or whatever you celebrate! And if you don’t celebrate the holidays, you should! Make something up if you’ve Wow, it’s almost hard to believe gotta! Happy Holidays and we’ll see we’ve been at this thing a whole you all March of 2005 with Issue #5! year now. Then again, when I reflect on the “crunch time” compilation, it’s not so hard to Cheers, believe (joking…sort’a). On a personal note, I’d like to thank everyone who’s been there since our Reaper very first issue, those generous people who’ve helped us and moved on, and those who’ve jumped aboard this locomotive in full motion (very brave) and managed to stay aboard! But most importantly, I’d like to thank our readers. You’re the driving force behind this little, yet powerful engine! Without you there would never have been an Issue #2. THANK YOU ALL for helping us reach the end of our first year, our fourth issue! Stay with us. I don’t see this ride ending any time soon!

And just what did you do this Halloween? Well, we received several harsh and rather critical “complaint” emails, as well as a few verbal lashings from people telling us we couldn’t pull it off. But we proved them wrong YET AGAIN, which is beginning to look like our trademark! The National Airsoft Magazine’s OPERATION: BIOHAZARD was a BIG success! Proof positive that you can mix your airsoft with a healthy dose of zombies! Everyone who came out really enjoyed the unique and experimental experience. You truly are a bunch of hardcore airsofters…or maybe just a bunch of lunatic zombie freaks like me; but hey, that’s okay! I’d also like to give a big shout out to the sponsors: Airsoft Extreme, RedWolf Airsoft, Prodigy Airsoft and Airsoft Advantage. Please check out our site for links to their stores! Before I forget, the event has been made annual! See the WAR JOURNAL in

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Publisher: The NAM National Airsoft Magazine Advertise Online: P.O. Box 1483 Marina, CA 93933 Standard Monthly: $100 per month The NAM Staff: Prepaid Commitment: Reaper, Zorro, Shutter Bug, $500 for 6 months STORM, Howitzer, (only $83.33 per month)

neo, Sensei, $700 per year (only $58.33 per month) Submissions: Please address all submissions to Advertising gets your website’s the relative departments at the banner (linked to your site) posted magazine’s address. Include your on three highly trafficked pages on name and address. You can also e- our website; both of our Home and mail both letters and images to: Online Content pages via a small banner under the SPONSOR column and [email protected] our Sponsors page via a standard Submissions will not be returned sized banner. and become the property of The NAM National Airsoft Magazine. [email protected]

The Legal Mumbo-Jumbo: Editorial contributions are SPONSORS encouraged and accepted. The Publisher disclaims all Airsoft Extreme Pages 6, 20, 31 & 32 responsibility to return solicited or unsolicited Ash Bash materials and all rights in Back Cover portions. Any views or opinions expressed in any advertisements, Economy Printing Service signed columns, letters, articles, Page 5 photographs or any other published materials are those of Generation Airsoft the sponsor, artist and/or author Page 29 and do not necessarily reflect Mountain View Surplus the position of The NAM National Page 49 Airsoft Magazine. Any materials received by the magazine or its Prodigy Airsoft editors are assumed to be Pages 50 & 63 intended for publication and reproduction in whole or part and RedWolf Airsoft therefore, may be used for such Pages 9 & 25 purposes. All materials become University Auto Body the property of The NAM National Page 55 Airsoft Magazine. Nothing herein may be reproduced in whole or Oops! part without written permission Sheesh…you people actually read this?! from the publisher. All articles Do you sit there like little vultures scanning every page for the slightest and columns are protected under hint of a discrepancy?! You think we international Copyright laws. error every single issue?! Well HA! We didn’t last issue! …at least I don’t The NAM National Airsoft Magazine think we did. Did we? You’d be honest Copyright © 2015 and tell us if we did, wouldn’t you? Just kidding! ;oP All Rights Reserved. Happy Holidays! -Reaper

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Table of Contents: 41 AK Babe of the Quarter 02 Briefing Myckey wishes you a VERY merry Letter from the Editor Christmas!

07 Contact HQ 45 The Dossier Q & A Arizona’s own: McDowell Mountain Airsoft 10 Latest Intel Reveals… New AirSoft products, cool stuff, 47 M4-tune rumors, etc… Dehydration, The Real Enemy!

12 War Journal 51 Battle Tech Operation: Biohazard The perfect Hop-up!

21 Field Tested 56 Sgt. Pecker Tanaka’s M24 “Just a spoon full of sugar helps TOP’s AK Drum Magazine the medicine go down…”

26 Speak Freely 57 the specialist Cheaters: The Real Snakes of airsoft! HEAVYARMS: True Squad Support (Part I) 30 primary objective AT4 Rocket Launcher (LAW Build) 61 Divisions National airsoft clubs 33 Interrogation Room This issue we decided to put the 62 Glossary spotlight on a great new website: Abbreviations and common terms AirsoftGunHELP.com defined.

38 The armory 63 Debriefing TOP’s M249 Next issue!

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Contact HQ:

I was wondering what type of water MARPAT, Marine Pattern Camouflage, system is best? I’ve seen people is the distinctive digital with canteens, camelbacks and just camouflage used by the plain old water bottles. Marine Corps. It’s used to Tim D., Livermore, CA camouflage our troops from satellite images as well as in the field. It The answer is simple; whatever works pretty damn well too! As of you’re comfortable with. Personally, now, it comes in two patterns, the I used to use a canteen but got original Woodland MARPAT and Desert tired of having to pause to unsnap MARPAT. CADPAT stands for Canadian the pouch, pull out the canteen, Disruptive Pattern. Unlike the unscrew the top and catch a drink Woodland MARPAT colors, it’s similar when I was parched. Then reverse in colors to the woodland camouflage the process to put it away - VERY used by the U.S. Army and those time consuming. So I switched to a worldwide, however the pattern is camelback. However, this is not to “digital” like the MARPAT. Speaking say that canteens suck. The of Army, as of 2005, the United camelback can be popped, it takes States Army is set to receive their time getting used to, the dispenser own distinctive digital camouflage. (even though it’s covered) can get -Reaper besieged by dirt, bugs, dust, etc… which just makes that first sip oh What type of AEG should I buy? so refreshingly bleck! So every What’s the best? water system has its pros and cons. A.J., Pensacola, FL As for the water bottle in the pocket, if you can’t afford anything I try to steer clear of these types else, go for it. Otherwise, look of questions in general, but this is into something that’s hands free what I recommend. Since there are until needed and won’t impede MANY out on the market today, movement. go to your local retailer and ask to -Reaper hold the ones that appeal to you. Keep in mind that regardless of the I really enjoyed the interview with “coolness factor,” you will most Elias Fedorowski in Issue #2, but I likely be running around with this have one question. Where is his all day at an airsoft event. A store located? perfect example of what not to do S. Smith, Marina, CA would be for a person who’s 4’8” to be running around with a full size Elias Fedorowski, formerly of SG-1 with a full metal body. Is it gunkulture, is running a new Airsoft a cool gun? Yes. Is it practical? Extreme location in Oakland, Not really, and it only gets worse : when you add gear. Select the gun that is most comfortable to you. Airsoft Extreme Retailers might suggest their 95 Linden St. Suite 11 favorite AEGs and even attempt to Oakland, CA 94607 “upsell.” So just find something you 510.302.6678 like that is comfortable to carry. If you don’t have the luxury of It has been confirmed that he’ll having a storefront retailer near still be doing special customs. I you, I suggest finding an event strongly recommend calling the store close to you and checking it out. or checking their website for Once there, ask to see other further details just to be certain: people’s AEGs. Don’t be afraid to www.AirsoftExtreme.com tell them your dilemma. Most -Reaper airsofters are nice individuals who’ll let you shoulder their AEGs MARPAT and CADPAT? What the heck is (RIGHT GUYS?!) to see how they feel. it and what does that mean? Besides, it gives them a chance to D. Barango, Anchorage, AK brag about the special features they’ve used to customize

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 7 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players their AEGs. As far as brands, 3) The mags stand: The zombies (you that’s another story. I recommend guys) did a fantastic job of researching the different companies terrorizing the living. We saw guns to decide which is better on your extended in trembling hands, own. Again, it’s a matter of with the safety still on, preference. Forums are the best fumbled reloads and all of the chance you’ll have of getting an living players turning and fleeing honest answer from the players. in fear! We even lost a couple as -Reaper the scenario was “too much” for them. However, the zombies really didn’t I really wanted to tip my hat to you hoard over the ammo dumps (hint for for truly a memorable game! You next year). They had that ability guys pulled it off in spades! I have and we certainly encouraged them to to admit that going to the game I do so, but they hung back around the was apprehensive I had no idea what objective mostly. If they had, it the turn out was going to be. The would’ve forced the live players to Rules seemed confusing and I was find another location which would be greatly disappointed at the loss of similar to moving them (there was the Ft. Ord area. I always one ammo dump nobody ever touched!). envisioned that type of game in a neighborhood not a swamp, but the AO Overall, we were really pleased with matched the game perfectly! I think the operation’s success. The Zombie you and your staff handled the performances were award worthy and players, rules, and arguments the living players sure looked brilliantly. THANK YOU for not desperate and horrified! They were letting Zombies shoot! I know there well organized until the first was some comments made about next zombie attack…then chaos ensued! time. Personally I think that will There were several “higher” level be a mistake. Keep this a unique objectives to introduce, but they game and not a modified Airsoft game. were cut in favor of simplicity so One thing that could have made the that players could deal with the new game have more "pucker" factor would engagement rules and have fun be to limit the mags to two and not without all the complexities of allow the 50rnd mags. I understand advanced objectives. Next year, that one player carried 10 guns just however, the gloves are off as we so they can have 20 mags. It may plan to get bigger and better! not be a violation but it breaks the So…don’t forget the extra padding! spirit of the rules. You could have -Reaper moved the reload areas on the field. That way you can't rely on their Why don’t you guys have AK stuff, or locations. Maybe for the next one other AEGs in the BattleTech article? you can have multiple objectives to It seems slanted to ver2 users, more be met before extraction. notably M4 users! The first one was Chris P., CA breakdown for an MP5, but the rest, Issue 2: M4 Mechbox and Issue 3: G&P Thanks for the kind words Chris. M4/16 Thermold mid-cap mags, and I’m One of the reasons I left this betting Issue 4 is M4 as well! letter almost unedited was because Please, break it up a bit? there are a few key things to R. Barrett, Austin, TX address as well as the fact that it gives those who chose not to attend Here that Zorro? Point taken… a little flavor of what they missed: Next issue we promise to have a little something in the BattleTech 1) The AO: thank Zorro for clearing for you AK nuts out there, RIGHT my thoughts on playing at the swamp. Zorro? He was absolutely right. It worked -Reaper flawlessly. Now next year… ------2) Zombies shooting: Trust me, it Feel free to send us your will only add to the game play by comments, compliments, complaints, increasing the level of disparity already present. Besides, we don’t questions, suggestions, etc…: want to make it too easy for ya! [email protected]

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…latest Intel reveals…

HFC M82A1 50 cal Conversion Kit Electric G18C from Marui Snipers, all that late night praying Never one to sit on their laurels, has finally paid off! Hurricane has the boys at are at it released a 50 Cal conversion kit for again; this time with a very new your TM M16! It’s die-cast aluminum and comes with all the goodies! At and unique product. They are 146.2cm, and weighing in at 6kg, his slated to release an electric puppy’s HUGE! Save all your X-mas driven G18C pistol. That’s right money though, at a whopping $1,852 folks, a Micro AEG! Based off USD + shipping (and that M16 donor their line of AA battery driven if needed), you’re gonna need all electric (affectionately the help you can get! See their known as “The Staple Guns”), this website for more details and pics of one promises to be a different this bad boy: product, as the batteries are www.thunder-.com.tw/en/ kept in the slide rather than the -Reaper pistol grip. Single action and tri-burst seems to be standard All Steel RPK kit from Guarder with this gun. Knowing the Continuing with their line of all relative failure of most other steel AK upgrade kits, Guarder is automatic pistols out there, producing an all steel variant of popularity and effectiveness will the RPK. With their reputation be interesting to see once this for replicating the exact details item hits the market. and dimensions of the real steel variants, this promises to be a -Howitzer VERY attractive and very expensive addition to the AK GWS Custom HK XM8 Kit lineup. All metal body and For all those who have seen the wooden grips will make this a HK XM8 in action and have been valuable must have item for those eagerly and albeit impatiently AK variant collectors. anticipating that airsoft counterpart, your time has come. -Howitzer Guns Workshop has made a limited edition conversion kit for your G&P M870 Metal Body TM G36C. The kit is a severely owners rejoice…well all limited edition and the only XM8 those who own the Maruzen ones kit available on the market to anyway. G&P is designing metal date! At $258 USD (one of the bodies for the Maruzen 870 series. cheapest conversion kits on the It looks like these will include market), these puppies are gonna both a metal body for the normal go FAST! As of press-time, they style and a metal body with a RIS are accepting pre-orders through mount so that you can put that their online store only, which puppy right up underneath the means they very well might be on barrel of your TM M4A1 Masterkey the market as you read this. If for a cool intimidation factor! you’re one of the HK XM8 fans, While there isn’t much info snatch yourself up a TM G36C (if provided, such as a release date you don’t already have one) and or sale price, you can view the hit their website ASAP to snatch product on G&P’s website. up your kit before they’re gone! There’s an option to view the I wonder if they’ll also make site in English so don’t fret if them in the ugly mustard color… you see Japanese: Check out their website for www.gp-web.com updates and details: -Reaper www.GunsWorkshop.net -Reaper

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Mechboxed M60E4 at RedWolf available for the MP5/G3 series The guys at RedWolf Airsoft in and it promises to provide the Hong Kong have recently announced sturdiness of a solid stock but that they are selling a mechboxed the lightweight of a collapsible M60E4. From pictures provided on one. I’m sure many looking for a their website, it seems they have mock-up UMP will be one step added either a ver3 or a ver4 closer to achieving that dream. mechbox to replace the stock As for the GR16 stock, those baffle system typically found in looking to add a unique “SpecOps” most TOP guns. Claiming to come look to their M4 might want to at 400fps (with .20bbs) out of check this one out. As does the the box, the mechbox comes normal collapsible stock this one standard with Super Torque-up also comes standard with a four gears to overcome any requested position placement as well as a spring/fps installed. While this sling attachment at the front end. may make it a seemingly hot item, If you’re looking for that the retail price of $2,000+ USD certain piece to distinguish your might make this strictly a M4 from others out in the field, “collectors only” item. Stay this may very well be it! tuned to their website for more -Howitzer info as it becomes available: www.RedWolfAirsoft.com Special Forces Association CH. XIV’s -Howitzer First Annual Airsoft Championship This one is a little late in coming: Quality M4 Metal Body for DIRT CHEAP! The United States Special Forces A special thanks to Zorro for Association Chapter XIV hosted their pointing this out. Proof positive First Annual Airsoft Championship in we’re always looking out for you Moss Landing, California. Real guys! Those of you who long for a Green Berets (both active and metal body for your M4s but don’t retired) put our fellow airsofters want to break the bank or powerbomb through the ringer in rapid reaction your wallet, fret no more. Guarder drills, challenged them on is offering an unpainted, high marksmanship as well as tested their quality Aluminum M4 Series Die Cast mettle in a free-for-all RAMBO game metal body through WGC Shop for the (see Issue #2 for complete scenario bargain basement price of only $96 instructions). The winner of the USD + shipping. You can purchase it RAMBO game went home with the and have it shipped to your home for coveted Hudson M3 Grease Gun less than the price of cheaper appropriately donated by AirSplat. quality metal bodies at most airsoft In fact, over $1,000 USD in prizes retailers! All it takes is a little were won and raffled away at the elbow grease to slap on your event courtesy of AirSplat and favorite camouflage patterned paint Airsoft Extreme making it more than job, a few coats of matte clear worth the $10-$20 USD (depending on finish and violá! You have a high membership) price of admission. On quality metal body for considerably top of that, guests were welcome to less than what your friend paid for enjoy a BBQ lunch and eat face-to- his cheap one. PLUS, you’ve got a face with the Special Forces Green beautiful custom painted body to Berets who hosted the event! If you boot! For more details see: missed it, or didn’t go thinking www.wgcshop.com there wouldn’t be a game, don’t worry. It’s an annual event to be -Reaper put on by the Special Forces Association every November in place UMP & GR16 style stocks from G&G of the month’s MIKE Force AirSoft Word has it that Guay & Guay is game. All proceeds benefit the SFA going to be producing replicas of so your money’s put to good use! the much desires UMP skeletal See their website for more details: buttstock and the GR16 (M4 SOCOM) www.MIKEForceAirSoft.com stock. The UMP style stock is -Reaper

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War Journal Entry: 04

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Date: 24-OCT-04

TROCAR ID: Dr. Alberto Muerte

Journal Entry: 04

Subject: Operation: Biohazard

Suddenly, a Secondary Infected appears on the right and is instantly downed by the Officer, then another to the left, with the same results. Suddenly two more appear on either side. The officer lets loose on both as the slides lock back on his , The day is overcast, and a slight signaling he is out of ammunition. chill still hangs in the air from He turns to break contact as the the rains the previous day. It Infected close the distance. is believed the weather helped to spread the contamination. Signs posted everywhere warn us of the contagion. Today we will be adding more humans to the environment to see how the infected handled engagement by superior forces. Already the R.I.P. has performed better than what was projected in the cadaver tests and simulation reports.

Rather than support him, his fellow officers turn and flee back up the hill. Within seconds, one of the Infected closes upon the officer.

It’s early in the morning. We observe law enforcement officers entering the area via South Mountain. The team looks to be well organized. Their point element, guns drawn double-fisted, is exuding confidence.

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Their speed is surprising, yet I back up slowly and reach for my their intensity is not, as this own but am soon relaxed is their first meal in over two when he gives me nothing more weeks. It is not but three than a small glance and then minutes before the officer rises proceeds to the area where the to his feet. He has joined the firefight had just occurred. The ranks of the Secondary Infected. suits are a success. It seems the genetic coding has actually worked!

Finally our SWAT-HAZMAT team makes an appearance. It is a short engagement as they encounter three Primary Infected. The first one is downed but the second and third manage to snatch a victim. The team uses the fallen men as a distraction and We heard helicopters arrive a few retreat into the thick foliage. moments before we saw law enforcement but our own SWAT- HAZMAT team has yet to make an appearance. Suddenly, a Primary Infected crashes through the foliage right next to me.

There is more noise as another firefight breaks out to the left of the mountain. Several Secondary Infected have discovered the Law Enforcement’s second attempt to enter the area. It looks as if several more

14 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players of the officers have succumbed to The remaining officers flee to a the ferocity of the Infected. clearing where we set up an ammunition dump and begin to frantically reload. They have about a minute before the Infected are upon them again. All but two fall to the feeding frenzy. The smell of blood draws out even more Secondary Infected. Watching the ordeal reminds me of how sharks behave during their own feeding frenzy.

The two remaining Officers back slowly into the swamp, shooting as they go, downing Infected after Infected. One appears

shocked as he passes the grizzly, desecrated remains of an environmentalist before downing an infected former comrade.

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is unexpected but easily explained by the desperation of the situation. The group slowly advances to an ammunition dump successfully - downing all infected they encounter.

One of the other doctors on the field overhears the officer suggest they take their own lives. The other recommends fighting to the death. One of the SWAT-HAZMAT members locates a corpse with a clue, identifying the location of an FN P90 Automatic Rifle. It must have been lost by one of the environmentalists during the incident on 01-SEP-04. The team now moves with a renewed hope toward the location.

Out of nowhere, the SWAT-HAZMAT team arrives and begin to support the two remaining officers. This

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They cross the swamp and almost The remaining team members set up immediately engage a group of a blockade at the ammunition dump. Primary Infected who stumble out Some take a kneeling position as of the foliage. others stand above. Their plan is to engage any zombies that come around the corner.

As if on cue, Primary and Secondary Infected alike spill around the corner. Those kneeling begin shooting. The first three Infected are down but several more come running from behind. The kneeling stand and turn to run. Their standing guard has done the same, leaving the individuals loading to fall victim to the Infected horde. Only one individual manages to get off a single shot before the whole is engulfed.

The team manages to take out a majority of them before losing one. The Primary Infected amass upon the victim, tearing him to shreds. The team uses the opportunity to reload at an ammunition dump nearby as two retreat into the brush to locate the hidden FN P90.

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Meanwhile, the other two who broke away have located the P90. However, no magazines are present. The one who discovered the clue remembers the corpse having mag pouches and makes a dead sprint for it, leaving his teammate to fall victim to the two Primary Infected who stumble through the brush into the small clearing.

Now armed with an automatic rifle, the team proceeds to search for the barrel. Those still alive locate the “lost barrel” and clear it in a hail of gunfire.

Like Pavlov’s dog, all of the Infected turn to the noise and proceed to the location. While bettering their chances of locating the barrel, the team has announced their location to the hungry. It isn’t long before the final battle begins…and ends.

Ten become eight which becomes five and then three. The Infected are coming at all angles, from everywhere, surrounding their prey. The remaining SWAT- HAZMAT members fail to overcome the infected.

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The recent quake activity will work to our advantage. We can detour inquiries concerning the explosion to swamp gas ignited by a power line unearthed due to the recent fault line activity.

Retrieval of the “lost barrel” is deemed impossible. I recommend a low level nuclear device be deployed in the immediate area.

Environmental Impact Experiments of R.I.P. are scheduled to resume:

OPERATION: BIOHAZARD 23.OCT.05

Registration begins 16-DEC-04 and will continue until all places are filled. Details can be found at the following local:

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by Reaper The intense heat of the blast should be more than sufficient to pics by destroy any and all evidence of the R.I.P. experiment Shutter Bug & Cheetah

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Field Tested: Sergeant

Before we begin this section, we felt it necessary to take a moment to explain how we determine what rank each item So-so… A little more testing will receive. Items are reviewed would’ve made a tremendous based on the following guidelines: difference.

Comparison to Real Steel Lieutenant Side by side with its real world counterpart (When applicable)

Pros/Cons Is it worth the cash? The good, the bad and the ugly… Okay. Kind’a fun but you’ve gotta love the subject matter. Efficiency How does it perform? Captain

Design Are there any flaws?

Durability Does it feel cheap? Will it Good, a solid item. Very stand up to punishment? practical.

With the guidelines in place, Major each item reviewed has been tested and given a rank. Each rank will be shown and thoroughly explained. It is at the discretion of the author to rate Very good! You can’t go wrong! the item as they are the ones testing it. Colonel

And now, to the ratings…

Outstanding! One of the better items I’ve seen! Private General

Why?! Why would anyone do this Classic! A simply “MUST BUY” to us?! item!

Corporal

If you feel the review was unfair, biased or incorrect and wish to debate the rank, feel free to Lacking… Big flaws really hurt write the magazine and explain this item! your point of view.

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Tanaka M24 fluctuation of up to 40 fps, which should be taken into account (although my research shows this same fluctuation in most stock AEGs). Also, the has a bit more play than I like when drawn all the way back. This is personal preference and in no way affects performance.

The Pro’s on the other hand are numerous. The gas is stored in the magazine, which provides for 3-5 mag loads per fill, depending on gas used and temperature. Real Steel Comparison Because the gas is stored in the The M24 Sniper Weapon System magazine, the bolt only functions represents a return to bolt to load a bb. Therefore, it only action sniper rifles by the US needs to be drawn back far enough Army. As in the USMC M40A1, the to pass the bb in the magazine, M24 uses the Remington 700 action. as little as half an inch. This The stock (HS Precision) is made is a huge advantage over spring of a composite of Kevlar, bolt guns where the bolt must be graphite and fiberglass bound drawn back completely, under together with epoxy resins and resistance, to cock the spring. features an aluminum bedding The gas emits a small “pfft” block and adjustable butt plate. sound on discharge equal to that of most suppressed AEG’s. The Tanaka M24 is identical in length to its real steal The M24 as a standard comes counterpart. And while it is shooting hot eliminating the need about three pounds lighter than for costly upgrades associated the real thing, the Tanaka does with spring guns or AEG’s. Out have a hefty feel to it. The of the box, the M24 will push high grade HS Precision stock is a .25g bb to between 585 and 610 simulated in ABS and does fps with green gas. If your include the adjustable butt plate. field limit is closer to 400, standard 134a gas drops the FPS to within “legal” limits. Pros/Cons Just as the real steal M24 is based on a Remington 700, the Design Tanaka M24 is essentially a The M24 is well designed for a repackaged Tanaka M700 with an . The action/barrel adjustable stock; it even comes system bolts to the stock with with an M700 manual. three points, instead of just two found in similar rifles. This The M24 is a gas gun, which many provides more stability and less feel is a poor choice for sniping, chance of the barrel becoming due to the inconsistent fps of bent or misaligned from the scope gas. However, the M24/M700 during skirmishes. utilizes a reworked version of Tanaka’s proprietary Pegasus The trigger pull is easily system, which provides remarkable adjustable for user preference. consistency over other gas I have been told that the gas systems. There is still a valve is adjustable as well, though I have not tried it. The

22 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players hop-up is adjusted by a click with its fixed stock, would be knob located on the top of the the better choice. receiver at the front end of the scope rail. This is very convenient for minor adjustment Upgrades between shots and during play. There are upgrades but most are hard to find. There isn’t a The M700 variant is also large draw for sniper rifles in available with a camouflage stock the US market and this Tanaka and in a “breakdown” model. Not offering, being relatively new, having the “breakdown” model to most US retailers aren’t yet review, it is unknown how much stocking these upgrade parts. the “breakdown” system will Hong Kong and Tokyo companies affect accuracy as the scope distribute a number of G&G mount and barrel are separate upgrades including power bolt, parts. If you want to go old steel cocking piece, knock arm & school, the M700 is also plunger set, striker spring, gas available with a wood stock route connector spring, valve through overseas suppliers. knocker, hop-up rubber set, and an outer barrel (in standard and short lengths) with a lug to mate Efficiency up with the SR-15 QD . The M24 is very efficient in the KM offers a custom magazine parts field compared to spring bolt set and 6.04 barrel. A 6.03 rifles. Cycling can be done barrel is available from First silently and smoothly as there is Factory and Zeke makes a long no tension on the bolt, and the loading nozzle and aluminum bolt minimum draw length is short. set.

The quiet discharge allows for multiple shots without Ranking: necessarily giving away your position. Major

Its weight is comparable to the higher side of the AEG market but it is not nearly as heavy as the PSG-1 or full metal LMGs. This Very good! You can’t go wrong! makes it easy to manage in the field. It loses some points for consistency, being gas over Durability spring, and will only tickle the It is very durable. Being a fancy of a narrow market. bolt-action rifle, there is very little on the surface of the rifle to snag and be bent or by ripped off. The barrel, receiver neo and bolt are all metal and nestled inside a smooth solid stock. One must mind the length as they pass through brush. Should you enjoy getting deep in thick brush the adjustable stock, bolt and scope can snag. If you are going to do a lot of crawling through heavy brush the M700,

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 23 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

TOP’s AK-47 Drum Magazine Cons: First off, the fact that you have to cannibalize a standard TM AK magazine is a definite. Second, the consistent jamming issue cannot be overlooked but is easily resolved by filing out a niche in the bottom of the plastic guide, where the spring marries the bb port. Winding the mag to feed the bbs is a bit of an inconvenience, but again, it’s less frequent than switching out standards or hi-caps. Another problem with the mag is the loud

noise of the bbs rattling with Tired of that endless search to just the slightest movement of spend a large wad of cash to nab the gun, which just about gives a real steel AK drum magazine and away your position at any given then be forced to spend another time if you’re not careful. The large wad to convert to airsoft? final con would be in the winding TOP heard your cry, and they noise, which commonly occurs offer an alternative, albeit not after prolonged bursts. When the exactly a pretty one, but it’s bbs are dispensed at such a high still an alternative. Before we rate, the winding/feeding get started, let me say that I do mechanism will need to catch up. understand that the TOP winging I’ve often used this to my drum mags have issues with advantage, though as the AEG is feeding. In this review, I’ll still more than capable of firing discuss how to overcome those and the opposition usually sees issues. it as an empty drum magazine.

Comparison to Real Steel Efficiency Obviously, it goes without saying There are two answers to this: that the real AK Drum magazine is huge and in no way resembles TOPs. a) If you didn’t modify the Hence, there can be no comparison. mag, then you’ll encounter loading issues about every third time the trigger is pulled for a prolonged Pros/Cons burst. It doesn’t seem to Pros: it goes without saying that jam with single or three the 1,000 bb capacity is round bursts. definitely a pro. The time saved is also a plus; whether it be not b) If you did the modification, having to switch out mags or out then you’ll only experience shooting your opponent when he this about every fourth needs to. Another possible pro, game. After assembling the although not recommended, would mag, I didn’t have any be that you do not need to carry issues until I used the as many mags into the field. It “Hyper Precision” Infinity will also slip easily into a U.S. bbs we warned against last issued 1 liter canteen pouch. issue.

24 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

Design Ranking: TOP took the easy way out in design. They took the same drum, Captain internals, and metal sleeve that they package with the M4 and MP5 drum mags and count on you for the rest. You need to take a standard AK mag, saw off the top three inches, and bolt the piece Good, a solid item. Very into the metal sleeve (don’t practical (assuming you did the forget the modification!). Once modification). done, you load bbs easily into a sliding window in the back, and then simply wind the magazine until it stops to feed the bbs to If you’re not one of those idiots the top! It’s almost idiot proof. playing the who have to compensate for their lack of “equipment” with becoming realistic airsoft gear whores, Durability this is a great buy. Keep in I haven’t really abused the mind that out of the box, it magazine. I have dropped it, fed pretty much sucks; however with horrible bbs through it, and the modification I suggested, banged it a few times, and the it’ll work like a charm! At a only thing I consistently do is SMRP of $30-$60 USD, it’s a cheap tighten the allen bolts that alternative to the real drum! secure the sleeve to the drum. I’d say it’s a fairly durable by little item. Reaper

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 25 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

Speak Freely these cheating scabs will peek Cheaters: The Real Snakes of over a bush, through a window, or airsoft! around a corner, take a burst straight to the face and Probably the biggest issue immediately cower back down. plaguing our sport today is Then, like complete idiots, they cheating. A cheater or groups of actually have the nerve to LOOK cheaters have such a huge effect at the camera to see if the on such a tight knit sport like offense was caught on tape, airsoft, a sport which is solely before mumbling some moronic lie based on honor. And the sad like, “That was a close one!” thing is…it’s everywhere. From the smallest of backyard get- When an incident occurs, it togethers to the largest of spreads like wildfire! The events, cheating rears its ugly victim will often times not head like some ugly cobra. mention the offense at the game (why is still beyond me) but will Paid events seem to get the brunt not hesitate to tell the local of it. Perhaps it is because airsoft retailers. This in turn very seldom will someone turn is told to the customers by the away a cheater over accepting the retailers and they tell their $25-300 entry fee. “There’s no friends. It is a vicious cycle way I’m gonna call that, I paid of gossip, which can destroy the for this!” seems to be the common reputations of the player and on mentality of cheaters at these up until ultimately it reaches events. While letting these low- the club level! life individuals into your event is somewhat understandable, as Why on earth are they so powerful? their entry fee helps to pay for Cheaters can condemn a player, a props, insurance, etc., it is team and even condemn an entire still quite inexcusable. It is club as stated above. Why do important to remember that other they do it? Is it some form of people paid for this event too compensation for what they lack and that the cheaters you allow in manhood? Losers are the only to attend will only ruin the ones afraid to lose. There are experience for those honest several forms of cheaters, too. players. In one situation, I The most common two are the shot a player who did not call bulletproof cheaters, and the out. I then proceeded to use a cheaters who ignore the fps prolonged burst until I heard limitations (also ignoring the “Alright! (curse)! I’m out! safety regulations by doing this). (curse)!” This tells me the player was taking shots and did For the bulletproof cheaters, it not call the “out” until the pain might even start off innocently was unbearable. Is this type of with a burst. The player will behavior “manly?” Unlikely, more then drop and silence will follow. like cowardly. It takes a real When the initial shooter proceeds man to be honest. under the assumption he got the kill, the “hit” player will Just pick up one of the event engage the player who just shot DVDs that are all over the market them out, usually with a brutal and have fun trying to locate “overkill.” That is when the them! It is not very hard and bickering starts. And there is quite hilarious. Most often you nothing like hearing bickering to will not believe your eyes as ruin an engagement. First you will hear “What?! Oh c’mon man,

26 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players you didn’t call that?!” or “Right teammate on the carpet for the there buddy! Call it! There’s offense. A game won or lost on no way I didn’t hit you!” The your own power and tactics goes a cheater’s response will usually long way to satisfaction. If come in the form of, “If you hit they give you an excuse, call me, I didn’t even feel it. They them out anyway. It is important must have hit my vest.” or maybe to remember that airsoft is, “Nope, they all flew over my after all, only a game, and lost head,” or even, “are you sure? time can always be made up. A You were shooting through game won through cheating is bushes!” dishonorable. If the offense is brought up after the game, speak The first occurrence is usually with the involved parties passed off as an accident. It is individually. Talk about working important to note that even when for their better skills and called on it, these cheaters will winning clean! Then, at the After often times still not go out and Action Report, address the will look for an alternative or situation generically (not search for an excuse. Even when mentioning any names) and called on the carpet by a belittle the cheater or cheaters teammate, and told that they were and the incident. If it is a hit, they will use an excuse such reoccurring offense, talk to the as “they were ricochets” or “I “accused” and warn him that his didn’t hear it.” You have an actions will have consequences. obligation as a teammate to call The “Three Strikes” method is the individual on the cheating. usually the best. It is as easy as saying, “Well you might be right, but it On the first offense, warn the sounded like a hit. You should individual. Talk to them and let go out anyways.” When in doubt, them know that the behavior is go out! If they refuse, insist. not only cowardly, but If they still refuse, be the unacceptable. Talk with them bigger man and go out with them. before and after each game That way they will go back to the following the offense. Remind “respawn” or “come alive” point them of the incident. Keep with someone. Use the bringing it up so that the player opportunity to reinforce the remembers what happened. A incident. guilty conscience is a fair conscience. Tell them to win on As a Game Master myself, I skill and tactics! regularly deal with this topic. There are several ways to stop On the second offense, suspend this. In the briefing before the the player from a game or two. game, call cheaters cowards or Tell them that the problem has even “girly men” and belittle not been resolved as it has their actions. Make all the happened again. The only players repeat in unison how solution you can think of is to cowardly it is to cheat. While have them sit a few games out. this will not stop the cheating, Important: Give them a game date in my experience, it has cut down to which they can return. It is the offenses a lot. I will also also important to note that you go on record saying that nobody might be dealing with a grudge, is exempt. I have had situations so investigate the situation where my own teammates have fully and make absolutely certain cheated. The best way to deal the incident did occur. If it with it is immediately. Again, did not, follow these steps for do not hesitate to call your the other player.

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 27 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

On the third offense, ban the are hit anywhere, even by a player from any further functions ricochet, you are out. Although put on by your airsoft club. it is simplistic, and often times While most might consider this an not that fair, it is the easiest. extreme measure, it is necessary. Then work your way back up to the Some clubs charge for admission more complex ones. It is to their events. Even though impossible to please everyone all banning the individual limits the the time and you will hear the funding, it is still crucial to more experienced players groan follow through with this. You about the rules, but if you cater might be loosing a teammate, or to them, you are going to lose even a good friend, but when the new players. other cheaters learn of the banning, they will often times The other type of cheating is stop…for a while at least. ignoring the fps limitations of the field. Most clubs have these Sometimes, the cheating may occur regulations set in place for out of confusion from the rules. safety reasons. The cheater In this case it truly might be an often ignores the rule to “out innocent occurrence. In my club distance” the other players or we have a wound rule which states “get a little push” through if you get hit on the extremities bushes. Most often it results in by a single bb, you may call the recipient being peppered with wound. Two or more hits there blood welts as a result of close and you are “OUT.” Often times range contact. In most instances, people at my club will call wound the victim is the bigger man and two and three times but not call shakes it off, looking like he “OUT.” When this happens, one of tripped over a bee hive, but in my more experienced players will some rare cases, crying has approach and inform the confused occurred as a result of the pain. player of the problem. This is THIS IS NOT WHAT THE SPORT IS something I strongly recommend. ABOUT! There is absolutely no If you do not have controllers at fun in being lit up by a “hot” your event, give the experienced gun. This is also one of the players you trust, the power to most dangerous offenses and can officiate over the game play. result in not only a serious Make sure that all players know injury such as an eye getting who the controllers are if they shot or teeth getting shot out, are playing. If the situation and in an extreme circumstance, comes up again with the same getting the sport banned in your player, pull him out of the game region! Let us assume the player for a bit, and if possible, have who had his teeth shot out has a rule book handy. Ask him what parents with political it is he does not understand connections. They go home and about the rule. Make him read it. tell their parents what happened. If necessary, act it out to show Their parents tell their him. At the next game, have him political contacts of this help you demonstrate the rule. “potentially dangerous” sport. Their political contacts then Remember K.I.S.S.: Keep It Simple create a bill and declare the and Smart. Dumb down the rules sport a dangerous and harmful if you have to. The easier the practice in which America’s rules are, the easier the game children are partaking in. This will be. If for some reason leads to laws with strict people just do not seem able to regulations or even banning…and grasp a more enhanced “Hit Rule,” so on, and so forth. go with the old stand-by: If you

28 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

The sad truth is that there is no Unfortunately, these things are excuse for this whatsoever. If an actuality in this sport. you suck that bad, get some Cheating is as much a part of training from the many different airsoft as it is of any sport. groups who offer it. Personally, Will it go away? The answer is I offer training courses to no. But if we are proactive in increase the players’ skills so addressing these incidents when that there is no need for this they occur, it will show the type of cheating. This is one of others exactly what is in store the rare offenses where a player for them when they get caught. should be warned only once. If By cracking down on those who it happens again, I strongly cause the offense, we can make recommend banning the individual. the sport a better sport and “I forgot to have my gun increase the “fun factor” for downgraded” is NOT an excuse. everyone! Again, these fps limitations are set forth to ensure everyone a The greatest part of valor is one safe and fair playing experience. achieving his wins on his own Violations of this just undermine skills – unless you are a “Girly any sort of safe environment you man!” hope to maintain. When in doubt, chrono it! A chronograph may be by an expensive purchase, but it is Steven A. King, D.C. considerably cheaper than a Founder and C.O. liability lawsuit! MIKE Force Airsoft

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 29 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

Primary Objective: With all the information presented, th On June 15th, 2004 Reaper issued a on September 17 , 2004, Reaper challenged to the NAM’s Battle Tech, extended the challenge for an additional 3 months. He also Zorro, testing the limitations of granted the proposal to switch the his fabrication skills! build from an M72 LAW to an AT4 His mission: build an M72 LAW. Rocket Launcher per Zorro’s request.

Zorro, with the green light, redesigned the sketches to represent the AT4 and began picking up the rough supplies needed for fabrication. A few weeks into the build, Reaper was invited to view the work in progress. The project was beginning to take shape nicely!

The AT4 was scheduled to appear at Operation: Misfire, but due to unforeseen circumstances, its debut His Conditions: was postponed until Operation: Biohazard. Sadly, Operation: 1. You can convert a Biohazard came and went with nary a decommissioned LAW or make it glimpse of the AT4. Sadly, even from scratch or using existing with the build time extension, here airsoft parts we are a full six months after the 2. Outer appearance must be initial challenge was accepted with almost identical to the LAW. nothing to show but a partially You’re building an airsoft built carcass of PVC pipes. With no replica other alternative, I regret to 3. It must function like the real inform you of the following: steel LAW: Collapsed for safe and extend for fire 4. Durability is also a must. It PRIMARY Objective: Failed! must be able to be dropped and still function properly Sadly, this build must’ve fallen 5. You may use any type of victim to that vicious addiction magazine/grenade for ammo known only as: loading purposes Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six 3! 6. It must fire at an effective range, surpassing that of ALL The good news is that decommissioned M203 airsoft grenade launchers AT4s are available for purchase in on the market…it’s a LAW! the U.S. through RPD Industries for 7. It must be completed using $150 USD so you guys can do your own under $500 dollars in parts AT4 project! We’d love to see the 8. It must be ready and complete results of your builds. Hell let’s for unveiling in Issue #3 hold a contest. The best designed AT4 will win an undisclosed prize courtesy of the NAM. Email Zorro accepted the challenge submissions to us with “Primary without abandon and hastily began Objective” in the subject window. the prefab duties of sketching out Same rules apply! Contest ends June the complex design. He received the 15th, 2005. For more details about opportunity to physically handle and the decommissioned AT4s see: view a real life LAW. Unfortunately, www.rpbusa.com due to bad intel, the NAM discovered that there were, in fact, several by different LAWs available on the airsoft market (there was a bit of Reaper procrastination involved as well).

30 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 31 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

32 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

Are you interested in airsoft guns. For many players, the guns? Perhaps you purchased groups they play with are airsoft guns at a store and would determined almost exclusively as like to learn more about this to where they are located. Many intriguing sport. people enjoy playing with their Help covers numerous topics of airsoft guns so much they will relevance to both new and old drive hours just to be in a game. players. Topics range from the Luckily I happen to be in a best eyewear to choosing the central location that allows me right combat boots. New articles to enjoy airsoft games with about airsoft guns are added multiple groups. regularly. Airsoft guns require Airsoft guns are very similar to responsibility. Some people traditional bb guns, but with choose to use airsoft guns in a several differences. The most negligent manner. Please read noticeable difference with about Airsoft Gun Safety to learn airsoft guns is that they appear about how to properly handle and real. Not only do airsoft guns use airsoft guns. look like real firearms on the outside, many of them are exact Airsoft Gun Help is the result of replicas of real guns down to the years of personal experience I manufacturer markings. Some have had with airsoft guns. The airsoft guns also have a weight information on this website is very close to their real highly relevant to those new to counterparts. The high level of the world of airsoft guns. realism that airsoft guns carry Airsoft Gun Help is definitely with them makes them very popular not the flashiest airsoft gun among gun and site on the internet, but here enthusiasts all over the world every paragraph is valuable. You will learn important details Many people new to the world of which will not only help you airsoft guns have a lot of avoid costly mistakes but also questions. Coincidentally, many save time and money. Airsoft Gun of these questions are the same! Help is you one-stop no-nonsense Airsoft Gun Help provides guide to the world of airsoft! valuable information not only for those who are new to airsoft guns, Airsoft is unlike any other sport, but also for those who have owned except maybe , kind of. airsoft guns for years. However, I don't need to tell you that. If you are reading this Airsoft guns are fun to collect. article there is a good chance Many people use their airsoft you are very knowledgeable about guns in a game similar to airsoft already, perhaps you are paintball. The game is simply not. Maybe you picked up this called "airsoft." There are many magazine from a friend who wants airsoft groups around that world you to join him at an airsoft that get together and play game. Regardless, I have a few airsoft games with their airsoft important words for you and your friend.

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 33 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

A short time ago I put up a proper . To veteran website about airsoft. The idea airsoft players, this is all popped in my head, and 72 hours written in stone. For many new later AirsoftgunHelp.com was players, especially those not fully operational. What was the connected to a pre-existing team, idea? I wanted to make a site it is not. about airsoft with information every airsoft player should know. Time and time again I hear "it’s Airsoft is a great sport, but it only going to take one incident is also a sport where safety and and the party will be over." responsibility are fundamental to Perhaps it will be a kid misusing its enjoyment and longevity. an airsoft pistol and getting shot by a cop. Unfortunately, Thanks largely to the internet, these close calls happen far too airsoft has rapidly grown in often. Statistically speaking, popularity, especially in the this is bad news for responsible United States. Initially only airsoft players throughout the those keenly attuned to United States. At bare minimum we international trends knew what can ensure that new players fully airsoft guns were. They dropped understand the guns, the game, hundreds of dollars on an airsoft and how important safety is. "We" gun and tried to convince their includes every airsoft player and friends to buy one too. Usually retailer. this did not a whole lot of work - the guns sell themselves. It is easy for certain segments of the media to paint a bad image Of course, there is a downside to of airsoft just as they have done this. For many people, airsoft is with video games and numerous hardly more than a novelty. other forms of entertainment. It Perhaps it’s a $25 springer or a is important that we do our best $120 gas gun they picked up at to prevent this from happening. I store while on vacation. These hope to be playing airsoft in the people haven't had the United States 25 years from now. opportunity to learn about Why should I accept the end of airsoft safety first hand, as this sport in the United States nearly all of us have. Sometimes as inevitable? It seems that many even the most basic elements of players already have. safety are an unknown. Transporting airsoft guns in a There are two ways to get the gun case should be a given to the message out to new airsoft gun majority of airsoft players. owners. First is to ensure that While nobody should have to be every player at an airsoft game told "don't leave your airsoft clearly understands all the rules, guns lying on the backseat of this is assuming that you have a your car," some people do. clear set of rules to begin with. Unfortunately for them, they are If not, I recommend checking the usually told by a police officer. websites of other airsoft teams in your area and nationally, AirsoftgunHelp.com, I hope, gives reviewing their rules. Things people a nudge in the right such as FPS limits are not always direction when it comes to safety. the same, but they should exist. I have addressed the most basic issues such as "Never, ever, The second way to reach new shoot at someone who is not airsoft gun owners is through the wearing proper eye protection." internet. Some airsoft gun owners Other pages provide more details will never play a game with an on certain issues such as what is organized team, be it lack of

34 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players interest or pure laziness. They big welts the day before school dropped $400 on an AEG just to pictures. I have seen these shoot targets or the occasional things happen at games. friend. There is a good chance Fortunatel,y I have seen nothing that these people will type worse. "airsoft" into Google at least once. Let's make sure that when As with any activity, there will they do, they end up on a page always be a certain element of that explains just how important risk. Something as simple as a safety and responsible use is. bicycle ride can leave you dead. What can you do? Add a page or Let's make sure we minimize these two on airsoft safety easily risks and keep airsoft a "safe" accessible from the main page or sport. even link to the safety pages on AirsoftgunHelp.com. If you It has been deemed that airsoft already have done so, as many players under 18 are the primary sites have, thank you. source of irresponsible game play

Eye protection is only one and airsoft gun use. What I have element of safety. At many games, witnessed says otherwise. Airsoft full-face protection is required. can be a very positive experience At a bare minimum, wear no less in the lives of responsible than ANSI Z87.1 eye protection or underage players - as it was for paintball goggles (the can me when I began. Many of these be detached temporarily or players show more responsibility permanently from the goggles). than a large number of adults who Without full face protection you play the sport. may potentially end up with a chipped tooth - something that Airsoft teaches younger players could occur with almost any many things: teamwork, respect, active sport. Those of us who honesty, and saving money (to play without full-face protection buy that $400 AEG - for some this dread these incidents along with is their first "big" purchase). the freak bb up the nose or a few Responsibility must come before

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 35 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players all of these other things. There rewarding experience, without it, are many bad influences out there what is left? and I do not believe that airsoft is one of them. The misuse of Airsoft needs more players who airsoft guns is a reflection of play for enjoyment - not for these bad influences and not of winning. I can't remember the the sport itself. games my team won. I can remember those critical moments where I There are a few ways you can weed skillfully took out an opposing out the bad players before a game team member or the time I was begins. Holding a training day or emptying my magazine full-auto at requiring references from other the entire enemy team, just as airsoft teams are two ways this they made the objective. These can be done. Don't let bad moments simply can not be players ruin your day. captured by any other sport. For me playing airsoft is the fun Yes there are some players, of part. Winning sucks. Why? Because all ages, who simply do not it means the game is over when I belong in this sport. Most of us win. understand that airsoft is about honesty and fun. When these I know there are many other things disappear, players stop people out there who, can and do, coming to games. enjoy airsoft like I do. Some of these players are under 18, some If the game becomes too of them aren't. It is my desire competitive, cheating becomes a that AirsoftgunHelp.com will play rewarding strategy. Cheating some role, small or large, in results in conflicts between ensuring that I and others can teams. Every experienced player continue to play safe airsoft for knows that no one is going to be countless years to come. aware of being hit 100% of the time. After a few incidents, an It is my hope that new airsoft honest player can become a players will either be directed "cheater." There is no easy way to a site, such as my own, or to deal with this situation. I learn from experienced players. believe that mixing up teams Before I could play at local during at least half the games airsoft games, I had to go can relieve some of the conflict. through a basic training course It certainly is a reminder to along with other new players. other players that people on the With time, I would hope that other team are their friends too. AirsoftgunHelp.com becomes a comprehensive guide for all While safety is always number one, airsoft players - specifically it is also important to let new when it comes to safety issues. players understand what is expected of them when it comes to I found out about airsoft on the game play. If they can't internet, so it only seemed understand how important honesty appropriate for me to give back is, I don't want them to buy an to the community. I found a airsoft gun. I'm happy to see wealth of information on message these people playing paintball boards (between a few online instead. With so much corporate spats). I noticed some of the scandal and two-faced politics it same questions and issues coming may seem honesty is no longer a up again and again, as I am sure desirable quality. Honesty is a many of you have seen too. "What critical part to making airsoft a is the best airsoft gun?" or occasionally "I've got a great

36 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players idea for making airsoft grenades." Message boards almost always have a FAQ or board guidelines that says search before you ask. It seems 1 out of every 100 actually take the time to do a search. Instead of ignoring them, here's a chance to tell people to go to "AirsoftgunHelp.com."

The site is far from complete. In fact, I created it on a whim, hardly more than a month ago. It's hard to get noticed when there are numerous other airsoft sites out there that have been around for 4-5 years or more. I realized the only way to set myself apart from the crowd wasn't to post pictures and reviews of the latest guns or to start a new message board. I needed to get straight to the point. People are looking for the facts about airsoft.

I'm happy to hear feedback about AirsoftgunHelp.com. Admittedly, I'm just an average airsoft player. I'm no wizard; I can't even upgrade my own gun. If you think you have valuable advice to add to my site, feel free to drop me an e-mail here at: [email protected]. I'll be happy to hear from you. Perhaps you already run an airsoft website. I'd appreciate it if you would put up a link to AirsoftgunHelp.com or link directly to any of our articles.

Good luck to all of you airsoft players out there! Let's make sure we have another 25 years (at least) of fun and safe airsoft gaming in the United States and around the world!

by Andrew Johnson Founder AirsoftGunHELP.com

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 37 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

TOP’s M249 MKII Minimi weight or volume limitation. The lighter charge also means that the weapon does not have to be built to sustain the abuse of the 7.62mm and thus can be made smaller and lighter. Also, the 5.56mm is the same round used by the primary infantry weapon, the M16 or M4, which means that only one caliber needs to be carried in the field, establishing a ‘universal’ ammunition for field weapons. To this end the M249 was also designed to be fed from the M16 magazines as well as Item: Top M249 MKII MINIMI accept belt fed ammunition.

SPECS Action: Full Automatic Only Power: Electric Length: 41 inches –MKII 38 Inches -Para Height: 9 inches Weight: 11 pounds Sights: Ghost Ring Barrel: 574mm (inner) Stock: ABS Capacity: 80rnds (std M16 mag) 300rnds (M16 hi-cap) 2500rnds (box mag) The M249 has an integrated

adjustable bipod which folds into the fore end, fully adjustable Comparison to Real Steel ghost ring sights for rapid The FN Manufacturing M249 was target acquisition and easily adopted by the US military as the swappable barrels for sustained primary issue Squad Automatic fire. The M249 is available in Weapon (SAW) to replace the M60. two versions, the MKII (Solid The chief benefit of the M249 is stock and long barrel) and in its caliber, 5.56mm NATO Paratrooper (collapsible stock (or .223cal for you civies). and short barrel). The 5.56mm round is smaller and lighter than the 7.62mm NATO TOP began production of their round fired by the M60, meaning M249 some years ago and in true that more of it can be carried TOP form they are expensive and into the field given the same

38 www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players will put a serious “DING” in outdated and unreliable. For your wallet! So what do you get those folks interested in having for your $1100? About 11 pounds a AEG reliable gun, PGC offers a of raw intimidation. custom mechbox, which can replace the stock parts for a HUGE Being made almost entirely of improvement in performance and metal and retaining all the durability. Do note, that this detail of the original, this is conversion is NOT an easy drop-in one heavy beast. Just like the design as advertised, and come real steal, TOP’s M249 is professional fitting work will be capable of being fed from M16 needed (I highly recommend a pro magazines or a 2500 round box airsoft shop). It should be mag. For my money, if you are noted that I have received no going to drop over a grand on reports of the stock piston this baby, you might as well failing. shell out the extra dough for a box mag, either manual wind or electric, to complete the squad gun look.

Early reports on the M249 cited feed problems from some brands of magazines and snapping off of the plastic around the bipod Pros/Cons attachment point. It appears Now just because you bought a SAW, that TOP remedied these issues, don’t expect your TOP to spit as I have heard no such like one. The TOP M249 is no complaints as of late. different than any other AEG in both fps and cycle rate, low and The hop-up is adjusted by fishing slow. While it does cycle pretty a small Allen wrench down in quick, it’s not quite as fast as front of the feed tray hinge to a what one would expect from a screw. squad gun. Fortunately, all the upgrade parts you could want are available, although a somewhat limited capacity. Most of the parts are durability upgrades rather than performance enhancers, as to the limitation of the design itself. Since you would probably end up doing it anyway, it might be worth the extra cash up front.

The M249 employs a billows-style piston system, which some feel is

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Efficiency as a collection of old design As an infantry weapon, the M249 parts thrown together. TOP does not fair well. This thing is utilized a “baffle”-type cylinder heavy. I know that I wouldn’t for the piston part of the want to lug it around the field mechbox. This simpler design is all day, but it would definitely somewhat “more effective” as it make a nice bunker gun or fixed combines 3 separate parts into support weapon once properly one; cylinder, piston head & upgraded. cylinder head. The other half of If you like playing realistic the mechbox traditional with a Special Forces style, using short metal casing holding the gears bursts, then standard M16 mags and bushings in place. are for you. But if you want to Durability lay down a sustained suppressing fire (and isn’t that what you got Very durable-as already it for?), then the 2500 round box mentioned, this gun is almost mag is the only way to go. I entirely metal. Its heavy gauge have found that it is somewhat and construction make it a solid difficult to field the weapon in workhorse. a mobile capacity using the box mag; the bulky box is difficult Rank: to reach around to properly support the fore end. Full- Lieutenant winding hi-caps could be a suitable compromise… but I’m not telling you how to fight your battles.

Okay. Kind’a fun but you’ve gotta love the subject matter.

The M249 looses points for being an over-priced, over-weight, underperforming, stock AEG. It does however have potential and gets extra credit for its major intimidation factor.

by neo & Howitzer

Design The M249 is rugged. Like its pics by real steel counterpart, the M249 Reaper, Shutter Bug & neo was designed to take whatever abuse the battle may bring (unlike it’s predecessor, the TOP M60, which is very “bendy”). The M249 is a functional gun in various roles, and with its rugged good looks, it’s an eye catcher too. I have seen as many as three of these brought out by one team at a game. I have to say, they are scary and sexy at the same time. The mechbox is not exactly a “mechbox” per say,

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McDowell Airsoft started out in a obvious advantage, but at the same unique way. In the fall of 2003 we time, were unwilling to pay $250- were just a bunch of kids with cheap $350 for an AEG. This is where the springers and a gas gun or two. It team began to crack. After many was just a group that would come out heated arguments, and some other and play some airsoft and have some incidents, the team disbanded with fun on “any given Saturday.” Soon the springers leaving and only 5 enough, we began using rocks and dedicated players remaining to put ditches to build bunkers, create together a team, better than anyone kill-zones, and construct a field had seen. Eventually it would out of the desert landscape about a become an organization that would mile from our houses. This continued help starting members get into until the summer. Where we live it airsoft with a more positive gets to be around 110° before 1 pm. experience. We had thought of This weather effectively put an end joining a team that was already to our first season of playing. formed; however, because of our ages (the five of us are under the magic age of 18), we were turned away and shunned by the older airsoft players. They had had enough; it was time for change, and time to get something going. It was a daunting task starting a team of our own, but David, Damon, Mike, Matt, and Curtis put one together.

About three months later, as the weather began to cool off, MA resumed play. However, we lost a couple of people over the summer months, and we were coming to new crossroads. For the second season, our arsenal consisted of higher- quality springers and more durable In the summer of 2004, the band of gas guns. The team realized from four(at the time), decided to start the previous season that good actively searching for players. performance came with a cost (you During this time, two more players get what you pay for in airsoft). bought an AEG, and David bought

another at a newly opened store, Although we still played with Soft Air Depot. Thanks to The springers. One of our most involved National Airsoft Magazine, Soft Air and dedicated players, David, bought Depot, and Airsoftcore.com, we were an AEG that fall. This was the able to hook up with many more turning point of our team’s players and our team started to grow. existence. Also around this time, David began

to vigorously update the When David brought and used his AEG, website, and redo everything he did all he received were harsh words and in the fall. The site was a resistance to his playing with it. registered as and many people began A lot of players disliked his

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 45 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players to visit it. After a quick goal is met. Another thing McDowell collaboration between the founding Airsoft is doing is planning a members, we concurred that a forum charity game. It is still in the should be added to the site, and as works, but we would be donating 100% this article is written, there are of the funds to a local charity who fifty-four members, as opposed to helps the working poor. It may the original seven that were on sound cheesy to some players, but a there for a few months. lot of us would like to give back to our community. During our team’s start, and right now, we still receive some hostility and the occasional “hate mail.” Why, I have no idea. Most of it is because the founding members are all under the age of 18, and we just like to play airsoft and help newer people play, that our door is always open and we do not discriminate. It’s funny how people hate those who try to be nice to everyone? But thanks to the kind support of Soft Air Depot, our team remains strong. We are still growing, and we have a positive outlook for the future. With the growing sport of airsoft in We have a small rule book that is our community, many people stumble being written. The majority of it upon our website, and contact us is done, but the gray areas still regarding games, information on need to be covered better. Our one airsoft, and other questions about rule that everyone must obey, or the sport. We do our best to answer, don’t even bother to come out with and some have come out for games or us is this; and it’s a cliché at have called and talked to us about that, HAVE FUN! when they can come for a game.

Our future looks bright. We see If you live in or around Scottsdale, many challenges ahead with getting Arizona and are looking for a “fun” together more organized games and a airsoft event, check us out: larger attendance, but with people contacting us everyday, it still www.McDowellAirsoft.com looks positive. We also look forward to having funds available to by lend a hand to players who are not fortunate enough to buy a quality Matt Mailloux and David Meacham gun of their own. Since airsoft is a great game and should be made available to everyone, we hope this

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Dehydration the Real Enemy for when to replace water. Consider it the “idiot light” The day is hot and the play is warning. Dehydration also hard; running, dodging and decreases your work performance. crawling on the ground enjoying Since the body is between 70-75% the game. But now you are water, the average 160 lb. male noticing your power drain and contains about 45 liters of water, your motivation dropping. What or 6%+ of his body weight. Water is happening? Pay attention to moves freely from compartment to this! compartment. You can lose 2% of your body weight before thirst is The average American drinks only initiated, which may get worse as 1-2 glasses of water per day. The the severity of dehydration body being 70-75% water increases. With 4-6% body water (depending on your sources) loss, you can feel a loss of requires constant replacement. appetite, impatient and you have Ideally 50% of your water intake, symptoms of headache. With 10% per 24 hour period, should come loss, you will experience through water rich foods. The dizziness and skin discoloration other 50% of your water through due to lack of oxygen. You also fluid intake, primarily pure, become light-headed and might clean water. Many think that even lose consciousness. With 12% thirst is the best indicator. loss, you have difficulty This is not true! swallowing and you may require assistance in re-hydration. 15%- A Norwegian study conducted in 25% water loss is lethal. This the early 70’s showed the may seem extreme but you can see following: the importance of proper hydration. • Runners were placed on a Dehydration produces a decrease treadmill and told to run in the ability to stay alert. until fatigued. After an Your power can decrease 6% and average of two hours these with time performance can runners were exhausted. decrease by 12%, in the heat. Sweat rates can be as high as 1- • A week later the runners 1/2 liters per hour, or roughly were told to do the same 15 liters a day. Water run, but instructed to requirements are vital in the drink only when they felt heat. Forced drinking in the thirsty. This time the absence of thirst saves lives in runners held out 4-6 hours. the heat.

• However, when a week later There can also be a cumulative they were forced to drink effect of dehydration and heat water on their run exhaustion, which can occur over continuously, they exceeded days and is not easily recognized, 12 hours. especially in sports. This is commonly seen during the hot Dehydration begins with sweat, months of summer when urine, or respiratory water loss. players train and airsoft players Thirst is not a good indicator play. The overall symptoms are

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drink some more for top most often not taken into performance. Back at the car, consideration. keep an ice chest with water and You can lose water in ways other a mineral replacement drink such than hard play! Dehydrated foods as a sports drink with such as beef jerky, dried food, electrolytes. At lunch, eat water lunch meats high in nitrates, and rich foods such as fruit or soda pop absorb water from the vegetables. body. The choice is yours. Do you want The best way to avoid dehydration to have an ordinary day of play is to make it a daily habit to or extraordinary one? Remember drink enough water to keep you that the peak performance urine pale (clear and copious). A principals are based on crucial, male of about 160 pounds should yet simple, components such as take in 50% of his water water intake before, during and requirement by drinking 6-8 after game play. glasses of water. The other 50% is received by water rich foods such as fruits and vegetables. by While on the playing field, have a water system such as a canteen Sensei or camel back. Drink, drink, and

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Battle Tech

“Alright knuckleheads, listen up. If you are the type of person who doesn’t have a mechanically- inclined cell within your body, DON’T EVEN TRY TO ATTEMPT THIS! This article is meant as a helpful assist modifying that G&P mag. If you’re one of those people that I described above, please take your gun in to the shop for the upgrade.

I, along with everyone else at 1) needle nose pliers The National Airsoft Magazine, 2) fine scissors 3) pick won’t be held accountable for 4) pen light your errors in the build(i.e. 5) flathead screwdriver don’t send us a bag of parts 6) 3x100 Phillips head screwdriver claiming you followed our 7) silicone spray instructions and couldn’t put 8) Systema gear grease your AEG back together so we have 9) scalpel to do it for you, ‘cause it ain’t 10) 1/8 punch gonna happen!).” 11) double-tipped cotton swab (not pictured) Remember, magnetized is best for all screwdrivers. Now, in this issue we’re gonna show you how to make the perfect As stated time and again, a clean, hop-up: well lit work environment will

1) Increased longevity assist you in an easy task. Make

2) Cut down bb fluctuation certain you have a plastic box or

3) Hop-up will never collapse some form of container, as there will be many small pieces which can easily be lost and are, for the most part, irreplaceable. Meaning, you loose them, you’re screwed! Now let’s get started…

For this article we’ll be using a metal Systema M4 hop-up unit but this can be performed with EVERY hop-up unit on the market…even the cheapie stock plastic ones.

As usual, we’ll start with a list 1) Inspect the hop-up unit. Make of the tools I used for this certain there is no casting slag particular job. I recommend use or stray debris inside. If there of similar tools as it will make is, carefully remove it all using the job considerably easier. the scalpel and/or cotton swab.

The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players

5) Slide the rubber sleeve onto the end of the greased barrel. 2) Spray the entire inside of the Inside the sleeve is a little hop-up unit with silicone spray. rubber tab. Be certain that it

is aligned with the groove in the

barrel.

6) This revolutionary device is the secret to this build! I prefer the double-tipped cotton swab with the plastic stick as the paper and wood ones can get 3) Spray the inside of the rubber warped, flattened and will barrel sleeve with silicone spray. eventually wear down over time.

7a) find that little rubber 4) Using the gear grease, grease bushing. Using the bushing as a up the entire end of the barrel guide, take the scalpel and cut that’s to be inserted into the off a piece of the cotton swab hop-up unit (note: it’s the end stick identical in length to the with the hop-up window). rubber bushing.

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7b) Using the pick, take the cotton swab piece and place it Buffer spring/plunger spring. inside the rubber bushing. The buffer spring is the longer

of the two.

8) Insert the barrel (rubber sleeved end) into the hop-up unit.

Make absolutely certain that the 11) Place the plunger spring onto groove is centered at the bottom. the end of the hop-up plunger.

Hop-up plunger pin

9) Snap the barrel lock onto the window in the hop-up unit.

12) Insert the plunger into the hop-up unit and secure it into place with the plunger pin. 10) Tilt the hop-up unit upright so that you can look down into it.

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13) Drop the bushing into the 16) Install the intermediate gear little window in the top of the and place a lock on top of it. hop-up unit. Make certain that the white ends are facing either side of the hop-up unit and NOT up and down (use the pick if needed). Now close the plunger.

18) Install the actuator gear and screw it into place.

14) Install the plunger gear (the one with a half circle shaft). Make certain that the gear is in the “open” position (it WON’T turn counterclockwise if installed correctly).

19) Slide the buffer spring onto the front of the hop-up unit and you’re done!

It is crucial that you turn off the hop-up after every game!

by Zorro & Reaper

pics by 15) Install a lock on the Reaper opposite end of the plunger gear.

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Sgt. Pecker [The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of other staff members here at The NAM. All comments/remarks are explicitly those of Sgt. Pecker and he alone is to be held responsible for them -Reaper]

Dear Sgt. Pecker: My son and some of his friends were doing an online search at my home for a school report (which he failed but that is his teacher’s fault, not his) and happened upon your website. I am completely and totally against war and all things military, including guns in any shapes, sizes or forms. You can probably sense my uneasiness as I write this to you. Why do you have to teach our kids about war and how to kill? Our children should be learning about vegetarianism, peace, planting flowers, sewing moccasins and singing. Instead they want to play war and create violence. You and the president just make me sick! You guys leave me no other alternative but to take my child and run to Canada! -Sandy D., Garden Valley, CA

My advice to you sweetheart…do it! Do it quickly! Oh…wait…you can’t? The Canadians don’t even want you little crybabies?! Let us ignore the small detail that the freedom to write me this idiotic email was fought for and won by brave individuals, guns, blood and violence. As for fleeing the country, greasy maggots like you have been saying this s**t time and again since the polls closed. “If I don’t get what I want I’m moving to Canada!” Well guess what dips**t? The Canadians have issued a statement declaring all “unsatisfied” U.S. citizens must stay in the U.S. They aren’t welcome in the godforsaken country and must apply for citizenship like everyone else. And do you know why s**t-for-brains? I’ll tell you. DESPITE WHAT SOME OF YOU LIBERALS THINK, CANADA HAS YET TO BE ZONED AS A PLACE TO DUMP U.S. GARBAGE!!

In your letter you say we should not be teaching the children to kill but to “sew moccasins.” Moccasins are made from what dumbass…leather? Where in the hell do you think leather comes from? Trees?! Why I bet you’re vegetarian because you don’t condone the killing of animals for human consumption. Am I right? But you’re fairly partial to leather. F**k the beef, just skin the poor bastards! Hell, did you know that precise behavior infuriated the American Indians to the point of war against the whites and Mexicans? They used to skin the buffalo and leave the carcasses to rot in the hot sun, desecrating sacred animals and depriving the American Indians of a major source of food and supplies. Smell that?! Smells like a dumpster full of horse s**t to me! Besides, I know a goddam carrot would scream if it could! How would you feel if I buried you in the ground up to your greasy head and then pulled you out by the hair? I bet you’d sure-as-s**t scream your hairy-legged ass off!

Now, with that out of the way, allow me to address the more serious matter you brought up. Why is it, especially nowadays, dumb-f**king-idiot parents such as yourself blame everyone else on the planet for problems, decisions and desires your own children have and make? “My baby is not doing their homework and getting ‘Fs,’ blame the teachers!” “My baby wants to eat meat and play war games, blame the media, the president and Sgt. Pecker!” Well guess what numbnuts? I have never met your goddam child! If I did, I’d feel sorry for the little son-of-a-bitch and I mean that quite literally. Life must really be rough at that young age, having an IQ well above that of your f**ktard parents.

Society as a whole needs to focus more on blaming the parents for lack of positive reinforcement! You’re feeding the next Charles Whitman or John Hinkley! How can it be avoided? It’s simple; you took the time to have the little bastard, now take the time to teach him! He’s your responsibility, not mine, the president’s or anyone else’s! And if that is too much for you to handle… get fixed! …Jesus H. Christ, there should be a law against stupid people breeding!

Hugs, kisses & my patent leather boot right up your skinny little ass, Sgt. Pecker

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The Specialist

In essence, the LMG is a heavy Heavy Arms: assault weapon that is mobile and True Squad Support (Part I) controllable by a single soldier. Often referred to as “walking fire,” it’s primary role is to provide a mobile platform to spew out as much lead as possible at the opposition in order to keep them incapacitated so the rest of the team can accomplish it’s task. This makes the LMG a VERY ammo- hungry beast that must constantly be fed to ensure its effectiveness. Any gun without sufficient ammo is just a fancy heavy piece of metal. In order to make sure that you keep your LMG effective, you need a lot of ammo and an appropriate means to carry it into battle. This means you will need a good load bearing system, one that can carry all the equipment you need.

Proper Weaponry Before we start getting into the gear, you need to have the gun first. Airsoft gives us players a considerable amount of liberties in the configuration of our AEGs. Even so, if you really In this article and its following want to play the role, following installments, we will explore the the real steel guidelines is somewhat misunderstood and preferable. After all, you’ve misrepresented role of a Squad bought your “realistic” AEG, Automatic Weapons (SAW) and their uniforms, and gear to do more weapon, the Light Machine Gun than dress like a soldier; you (LMG). should stick to the part!

Purpose of the LMGer Starting off, we need to get you into the proper mindset of the role. Typically, the LMGer is the squad member with the automatic weapon designed for suppression fire. That means a lot of ammo to spew out at the enemy to either eliminate them or MG36 pin them down so that your squad The general difference between mates can move in to eliminate LMGs and assault weapons is them or drive them off. Hence, minute but still very significant. the SAW was created, and the LMG LMGs are typically heavier and was designated as its primary “thicker” variants of assault weapon. weapons, namely because they have

The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players to sustain a prolonged burst of Intentionally, I have not listed fire. Following this guideline, the M60 series LMG. This is it’s wise to use something along mainly because it lacks a few the expected performance. In the critical features to make it a airsoft world and in the real serious airsoft LMG. Primarily world, there are several it lacks a reliable mechbox, feed available variants to accomplish system and magazine compatibility this role. There’s the US M249 with other AEGs. To keep things and M60 series, the Russian RPD, simple, it’s best to select a LMG RPK & PKM series, as well as the that can keep you gunning even German MG3, HK21/23, MG36, and after all your ammo supply has MG43 series. Any one of these is been exhausted sufficient, and in most cases it offers you compatibility with the Here’s a recommended list of mags ammo supply of your other squad for a few known airsoft LMGs: mates.

Ammo: Keeping the dog fed Now assuming you’ve selected a weapon, you need to keep it fed to keep it happy. Since you will be doing a lot more shooting than your teammates, you need to have A LOT of ammo on hand. Older LMGs were mainly belt-fed weapons with the load being dispensed amongst the other teammates, as not to weigh down the LMGer on long patrols. Thanks to modern technology, LMGs now have their RPK with recommended loadout ammunition in their own containers, or “drums”, which can RPK: be kept in various pouches on 1 box drum (AK W-mags optional) your load bearing vest/system. (electrical or manual winding) 12 AK-47/74std or 3hi-cap mags You may recall, I have mentioned 2 “C” batteries for drum the need for plenty of ammo. Now 1 Ni-MH battery (2000mah or we’ll talk about a good loadout higher recommended) for your LMG. If possible, I’d 1 bag of bbs (optional) recommend at least 1 drum mag, and for practical purposes, a MG36: similar amount of normal 1 box drum, or C-mag (electrical magazines (assuming your LMG can or manual winding) accept mags like the M249, RPK, 12 G36std or 3hi-cap mags and MG36). Carrying as much 1 Ni-Mh battery (2000mah or normal magazine, while bulky and higher recommended) cumbersome, has one advantage. If 1 bag of bbs (optional) your shooting is sparse, you can help keep your teammates firing HK21: should they run out of ammo in a 1 C-mag or 2 W-mags (electrical prolonged engagement. If you or manual winding) carry 2 or more drum mags, you 12 G3std or 2hi-cap mags can operate with a lower amount 1 9v battery per drum of normal magazines. You can 1 Ni-MH battery (2000mah or help your team more by spewing higher recommended) out fire so your teammates can 1 bag of bbs (optional) conserve their supplies.

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it’s good form to stay in the role and switch out box mags (if affordable that is).

It is your choice as to which pouches you should use (namely for MOLLE-type vests). Generally, you would choose any pouch that can hold 1 M60 type box mag will work, and any mag pouch that can hold at least 2-3 mags of whatever type of gun you choose to use.

Load Bearing Gear: Carrying all your Ammo

Ok, you’ve decided how much ammo that you are going to carry with you in combat. Now you have to CARRY it around! As always, use something similar to what you already have or are use to. If

M249 with recommended loadout you don’t have anything, get something that makes it M249: comfortable and can still carry 1 box drum (electrical or manual all the ammo you want to carry. winding) Keep in mind, you have to carry 12 M16std or 3hi-cap mags and move all this ammo and gear 1 9V battery for each drum around the field with you ALL DAY, 1 Ni-MH battery (2000mah or so try out several configurations higher recommended) and ammo loads until you find the 1 bag of bbs (optional) one that works best for you. If you can, know the field beforehand. Guesstimate the appropriate amount of ammo that you think will need, and arrange your loadout accordingly. In the role of the LMGer, MORE IS LESS! The more mags you bring into the field, the less time you’ll spend back at your vehicle, shot out at the come-alives, reloading magazines or bbs into your drum, etc… Always take out more than what you deem necessary for the game. During this selection, M249 with box mag bear in mind that you will have to access all this gear under One thing to remember is that fire, so make sure that your many of the box drum mags have a configuration doesn’t interfere hatch to load/dump bbs into it in with your weapon or your mobility. order to refill its load. While This is because a stationary this is a cheap alternative to target is a lot easier to kill alleviate the standard mag load, than a moving one, and your you are playing this role for the elimination from the immediate quasi-reality of the sport, so

www.NationalAirsoftMagazine.com 59 The underground magazine for airsoft players by airsoft players game does not go far to help your Load Bearing vest, yup… teammates if they are in a pinch. Now it’s time to play!

Here are a few recommended load …but BEFORE we go into that, one bearing vests you might want to final tip! consider: You’ve spend all this time and money putting all these parts together into a complete weapon system. Now before you do anything more, should familiarize yourself with everything you have. If possible, practice your movement and various firing positions (standing, kneeling, prone) with your gun and gear on. Being a fluid part of the playing field helps keep you alive and functional, so take the time to learn as much about your gear and its practical use as possible. This means switching out box drums/mags in the various postures. Locate and understand where and why your limitations are. Modify your loadout and F.S.B.E. Assault Vest gear, positioning as necessary so that you remain as comfortable as F.S.B.E Amphibious Assault Vest possible and still have access to all your gear. Once you’ve M.O.D Tactical Body Armor become accustomed to it all, you can get out there and start your Modular Operation / Duty II “spray & pray with purpose” (M.O.D. II) Tactical Vest career as an LMGer!

Let’s get moving, soldier!

by Howitzer

1195G Modular Load Bearing Vest

1195G Modular Load Bearing Vest

BLACKHAWK ISSAK 60/SAW Gunner/Flotation Kit

Implementing your LMG Finally, you’ve got all your equipment together. Gun, check Ammo load, uh-huh.

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Divisions:

Alabama Missouri

The Rally Point Gateway Airsoft Association Mobile, Alabama St. Louis, Missouri http://mywebpages.comcast.net/hro www.gasa.net dgers08031623/ Texas Arizona War Games McDowell Mountain Airsoft San Antonio, Texas Scottsdale, Arizona www.ultimatewargames.com www.McDowellAirsoft.com LoneStar Airsoft California Central Texas www.lonestarairsoft.com BAASH Northern California Virginia www.baash.com The Virginia Airsoft Force The Cimmerians [email protected] Northern California www.cimmerians.org The Virginia Rangers www.VirginiaRangers.com H.A.R.D. Core Airsoft Central California Wisconsin http://hardcoreairsoft.50megs.com Task Force Delta MIKE Force Airsoft www.totalforceairsoft.com Central California www.MIKEForceAirSoft.com Washington

San Diego Airsoft Phantom Force Southern California Kitsap County, Washington sdairsoft.tripod.com www.phantom-force.com

Florida

FA: Florida Airsoft www.floridaairsoft.com Airsoft Clubs: If you’d like your website posted Georgia here and on our “DIVISIONS” link, please visit us on the web for a Assault Force Recon banner exchange. We’ll post Woodland & Thomaston, Georgia yours if you post ours! www.freewebs.com/airsoftgeorgia And it’s free!

Team Blackjack Atlanta, Georgia http://teamblackjack.com/ ------Send submissions via e-mail to: [email protected] Please include “Divisions” in the subject window.

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Glossary:

AEG: An automatic electric gun which KJW: Kwan Ju Works, airsoft is battery powered and capable of manufacturer. shooting bbs at a fully automatic . KSC: Airsoft manufacturer.

AO: Area of Operation. Military KWA: An original equipment classification for an area where manufacturer for KSC products. soldiers will operate. KWC: Airsoft manufacturer. AEX: Airsoft Extreme, airsoft online and walk-in retailer. LBV: Abbreviation for load bearing vest. bb: Small plastic fired from airsoft guns. Lo-cap: A low capacity magazine which holds considerably less bbs CA: Classic Army, airsoft than the standard magazine for that manufacturer, a subsidiary of Yick particular gun. Lo-caps usually Fung Enterprises. load a “real steel” load.

Clip: A device used to clamp Magazine(s): A magazine holds the together. This name is commonly and load (bbs) for any given airsoft gun. incorrectly used for magazines. Magazines are commonly mislabeled as clips. CQB: Close Quarters Battle. A firefight that occurs at a very Mag(s): Abbreviation for magazine(s). close range; usually well within the minimum contact distance for airsoft. Mid-cap: Middle Capacity magazine. This term is mistakenly ONLY applied A Mid-cap usually has a loading to indoor conflicts but may also be capacity between standard and Hi-cap applied to dense vegetation and magazines. wooded areas as well, where firefights are severely close. rd or rnd: The abbreviation for a round or a bb. FPS: Feet per second. This is the speed at which bbs are RIS: Rail Interface System. A fired/measured from airsoft guns. system of rails which allows “quick” attachments to a gun such as scopes, Gbb: A Gas powered gun with a “blow- lasers, lights, grenade launchers, back” feature. etc…

G&P: Airsoft manufacturer. Springer(s): Spring powered airsoft guns utilizing the “cock-and-fire” G&G: Guay & Guay Armament, airsoft method. Sometimes used to describe manufacturer. the lower quality airsoft guns (made for kids) but can be used to HFC: Hurricane, airsoft manufacturer. describe most and some sniper rifles. Hi-cap: High Capacity magazine. A Hi-cap is a magazine that holds Standards: A standard magazine for a considerably more bbs than the particular airsoft gun which usually standard magazine for a particular holds approx. 50 bbs (depending on airsoft gun. model).

ICS: I Chih Shivan Enterprise, STTi: (Viper USA) Airsoft airsoft manufacturer. manufacturer.

IR: Abbreviation for Infrared Laser TM: Tokyo Marui, airsoft manufacturer. JAC: Japanese Airsoft Corporation, airsoft manufacturer. WA: Western Arms, airsoft manufacturer.

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Debriefing:

Sgt. Pecker redefines the phrase: FATCAMP

The NAM goes to WWIII

It’s a double shot of The Armory: G&G’s GR16 R4 G&G’s GR16 R5

We Field Test: Maruzen’s CA870 Marushin’s M36 Chiefs Special 3inch

See Autumn, our next beautiful AK Babe!

Stay tuned!

See you in 90!

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