Part of the M14 range of Tokyo Marui Weapons, the S.O.C.O.M is designed with a multiple function in mind. 'SOCOM' is an acronym that refers to the United States Special Operations COMmand, and as such indicates a "special forces" role for this weapon. Tokyo Marui states it is as at home in the woods as it is in CQB environments. The airsoft weapon is based on the SOCOM II version by Springfield Armory which to all intents and purposes is a shortened M14.
Rifle Furniture and Quality
Unlike the other M14's in the Tokyo Marui series, the SOCOM is neither an imitation wood stock nor an olive drab plastic. It is stocked with a matt black 'Sandstone' finish which is chequered in the appropriate handling areas. The grips work nicely and I have found that they provide comfortable support no matter what nature throws at you.
The Rifle comes complete with a fore and rear sling attachment which for some people may be a real requirement due to the weapon's weight. The rifle weighs in at 4.0 kg including a loaded mid-cap magazine. I have found the sling to be a nuisance and not really needed on a rifle of such a short length. The rear sight is fully adjustable and effective for puritans who do not wish to fit a scope. Did someone say scope? Yes. The SOCOM is fitted out of the box with a scope rail halfway down the rifle in the "Scout" position. This is so called due to the ability to fit a low powered red dot scope to help acquire targets quickly whilst providing eye relief for peripheral vision; as would be required by a scout. I have not gone for that method and prefer the iron sights. I see the SOCOM, like the M14, as a beautiful rifle and like to keep it so. In addition to this the iron sights work perfectly well at airsoft engagement ranges. The entire rifle is metal (except the stock) and the casting of the metal is to a very high standard. It adds to the structural integrity and gives you satisfaction that it can shrug off minor knocks. Naturally this is what helps the rifle weigh down the scales, but once the battery is installed the SOCOM rests naturally in the shoulder.
Performance
In my reviews I base the ability of the weapon to skirmish as priority in preference to punching paper. As most Airsofters will intend to skirmish with this weapon, I have to say that the sturdiness of the gun gives you confidence to actually "use" it. The rifle has two firing methods, semi-automatic and fully automatic. This in my opinion is heresy. Where has this harsh criticism come from? Well let me explain. The Real Steel version of the M14 range initially started life in Vietnam as a company / squad support weapon. Firing 7.62mm (originally .30-06) rounds this proved to be too unstable for soldiers on fully automatic and subsequently meant that its intended use as a squad support weapon was redundant. This is not to say that it wasn't a fantastic rifle. It's accuracy was second to none. Thus this led to a change in its field role and is still in use today in various guises as a Designated Marksman Rifle. As a result I would have felt happier if Tokyo Marui has left it as a semi-automatic only version. but then, the market dictates and the mob rules. On Semi-automatic firing the rifle is consistent and accurate. It's stock performance out of the box is under 1J at around 290fps (0.20g bb) and the hop up unit provides enough lift to keep your rounds airborne over distances up to 50 yards (approx 45m). It has a tiny spread of 11 inches at this range, which is astounding for what is essentially a smooth bore rifle. This level of accuracy and distance may not be on par with the higher powered sniper rifles about today, but it certainly can out range most other standard AEG's. This therefore provides players with a fully automatic option which will out range standard M16's and the like. Handy, if you like that sort of thing. The gearbox is Tokyo Marui's new version 7 and I am reliably informed it is the easiest box to work on. I cannot vouch for this since I haven't taken it apart and frankly am not likely to need to. The gearbox sounds tight and smooth. Even 'double taps' feel predicted by the gearbox!
Outside Modifications
In theory it is possible to have all the bells and whistles hanging from this rifle. Thanks to the 20mm mount for the "scout" positioned sight, the more inventive of you could purchase Guarder RIS rings and hang lasers, teapots and bread makers from the sides. However, it isn't needed. The addition of a small red dot scope may suit some players, but that and possibly a sling is all the add-ons this rifle really needs. The intimidating sight of a naked rifle in the hands of a decent marksman, with a weapon that can and WILL deliver is really all the help you will need.
Summary
To put it mildly this rifle is excellent. It does so much in a relatively simple looking package. The weight of the rifle is closer to the Real Steel due to the sturdy metal construction and gives the user piece of mind. It is reliable, consistent and quiet. It is true to say that the Chinese are bringing out decent quality copies, but to be honest I feel that the SOCOM was worth every penny of my money. It is certainly a rifle that is for keeps.
Showing posts with label AEG Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AEG Review. Show all posts
Wednesday, 27 February 2008
Tokyo Marui HK PSG-1 Review
The PSG-1 ("Prazisions-Scharfschutzen-Gewehr", German for "precision sharpshooting rifle") is a sniper rifle. It was designed as a semi-automatic rifle with a large capacity magazine. This was in response to German marksman's sluggish response times in hostage situations with bolt action rifles. Now this rifle is used by many counter-terrorist and security organisations. The PSG-1 has achieved an acclaim in the Airsoft community too. In a sport where distances are measured in yards does the PSG-1 really deliver enough to the aspiring sniper?
Rifle Furniture & Quality
The first impressions when removing the rifle out of the box was the size and weight. It certainly won't do you any favours in a CQB environment! It will if you are outside looking in however. The worst part is the bodywork because it is poor. It is not poor in its detail but because it is made entirely from plastic. It isn't even a particularly good plastic. The mechanics and the barrel are metal and well made. The rigidity with the bodywork removed is very solid. So with this strange range of build quality we come to the grip. The 'wooden' hand grip could have been made from wood it would have added a lot to this rifle. Tokyo Marui instead used more plastic. It isn't a big issue, but when paying the amount of money the PSG-1 costs, it is nice to get a touch of class. In addition to this, after repeated use the bodywork does tend to creak a bit. All this is easily fixed with after market custom parts, but it feels a bit unfair to have to do this.
Despite this it is a comfy rifle. The grip doesn't cause issues in the field and the stock is adjustable for shoulders and cheeks. In fact there is a certain element of the real steel included in this rifle. Firstly the weight which is heavier than most AEG's certainly adds to the feel of it being a sniper rifle, and helps focus the mind into the role. The rifle stock can be adjusted by use of a special key required to move the cheek piece and stock butt about. This is included in the box. Inside the stock is the large battery and it is very easy to connect. The whole sniper loadout can be added to with bipod mounts if needed, but this has to be bought as an extra. It certainly would help keep this heavy rifle steady and on target. The detailed markings are apparent on the rifle yet with its plastic looks it doesn't really fool anyone. It gets better though. Included (not an extra) with the rifle is the pre-attached 4x magnification Edgar Brothers scope. It works but is not variable. This isn't too much of an issue especially over airsoft skirmish distances. The sight from the scope is good and would certainly offer a level of extra help to the user though not enough to account for wind / Bullet drop. But at least it is included.
Performance
The best feature of this weapon is its performance. The barrel is metal and long. So the accuracy is very good at range. There has been no occasion of barrel wobble or any other problems. In fact as a weapon goes I found this more reliable than the G3. As for other sniper rifles I am certain that this is NOT the best. Sorry but it is true. There are better models on the market and if you truly are a sniper / marksman, you will know this anyway. But if you like the look, like the Metal Gear Solid game or just like the feel of it then don't be put off. During skirmishes the PSG-1 has the ability to constantly hit Skirmisher size targets at great length. The combined scope also helps and despite its less than average light capacity, it does mean you can pick off partially concealed targets. The weight helps bed you down and provide a firm rest though with its length it is more appealing to taller marksmen. The PSG-1 has a semi-automatic action. It is not re-cocked via a manual bolt. It does it all itself. So if being prone, quiet and still is in your requirements then this will enable you to do it. It will reload for as long as you have rounds. You should have plenty due to its ability to exchange the lo-cap PSG-1 mag (20 rounds) for a hi-cap G3 one (300 rounds). No more moving on game days for you then.
Summary
All in all it isn't perfect. It is expensive and it is plastic. It is accurate, well weighted and looks the business. It comes with a decent scope and can be given a massive magazine. I like it and found it offered many fun days out especially for those quick 'double-tap' kills.
Rifle Furniture & Quality
The first impressions when removing the rifle out of the box was the size and weight. It certainly won't do you any favours in a CQB environment! It will if you are outside looking in however. The worst part is the bodywork because it is poor. It is not poor in its detail but because it is made entirely from plastic. It isn't even a particularly good plastic. The mechanics and the barrel are metal and well made. The rigidity with the bodywork removed is very solid. So with this strange range of build quality we come to the grip. The 'wooden' hand grip could have been made from wood it would have added a lot to this rifle. Tokyo Marui instead used more plastic. It isn't a big issue, but when paying the amount of money the PSG-1 costs, it is nice to get a touch of class. In addition to this, after repeated use the bodywork does tend to creak a bit. All this is easily fixed with after market custom parts, but it feels a bit unfair to have to do this.
Despite this it is a comfy rifle. The grip doesn't cause issues in the field and the stock is adjustable for shoulders and cheeks. In fact there is a certain element of the real steel included in this rifle. Firstly the weight which is heavier than most AEG's certainly adds to the feel of it being a sniper rifle, and helps focus the mind into the role. The rifle stock can be adjusted by use of a special key required to move the cheek piece and stock butt about. This is included in the box. Inside the stock is the large battery and it is very easy to connect. The whole sniper loadout can be added to with bipod mounts if needed, but this has to be bought as an extra. It certainly would help keep this heavy rifle steady and on target. The detailed markings are apparent on the rifle yet with its plastic looks it doesn't really fool anyone. It gets better though. Included (not an extra) with the rifle is the pre-attached 4x magnification Edgar Brothers scope. It works but is not variable. This isn't too much of an issue especially over airsoft skirmish distances. The sight from the scope is good and would certainly offer a level of extra help to the user though not enough to account for wind / Bullet drop. But at least it is included.
Performance
The best feature of this weapon is its performance. The barrel is metal and long. So the accuracy is very good at range. There has been no occasion of barrel wobble or any other problems. In fact as a weapon goes I found this more reliable than the G3. As for other sniper rifles I am certain that this is NOT the best. Sorry but it is true. There are better models on the market and if you truly are a sniper / marksman, you will know this anyway. But if you like the look, like the Metal Gear Solid game or just like the feel of it then don't be put off. During skirmishes the PSG-1 has the ability to constantly hit Skirmisher size targets at great length. The combined scope also helps and despite its less than average light capacity, it does mean you can pick off partially concealed targets. The weight helps bed you down and provide a firm rest though with its length it is more appealing to taller marksmen. The PSG-1 has a semi-automatic action. It is not re-cocked via a manual bolt. It does it all itself. So if being prone, quiet and still is in your requirements then this will enable you to do it. It will reload for as long as you have rounds. You should have plenty due to its ability to exchange the lo-cap PSG-1 mag (20 rounds) for a hi-cap G3 one (300 rounds). No more moving on game days for you then.
Summary
All in all it isn't perfect. It is expensive and it is plastic. It is accurate, well weighted and looks the business. It comes with a decent scope and can be given a massive magazine. I like it and found it offered many fun days out especially for those quick 'double-tap' kills.
Tokyo Marui HK MP5 A4 Review
In the 1960's Heckler & Koch, a German weapons manufacturer, began developing a family of sub-machine guns designed to provide close range burst fire to security forces. The MP5 (Maschinenpistole) family has been a widely used and adaptable series of weapons. This is similarly so in the Airsoft world. Walk onto any skirmish site in the U.K and amongst the most popular weapons (other than the Armalites) are variations on the MP5.
Furniture and Quality
The MP5 series has a distinctive design, and the Tokyo Marui version has kept quite true to the Real Steel weapon. The weight of the gun is not heavy, yet heavy enough to give poise and purpose to the user. This is complimented by the sturdy feel of the weapon and the lack of cheap creaking plastic. Naturally the material and colouring of the gun is the standard black part metal / part ABS plastic. The stock is fixed firmly into place like the barrel and receiver. A real rubber butt plate finishes off the stock. On this version the metal parts (not including internals) are the flash hider, front sight assembly, charging handle, charging handle tube (only metal on the HG version), magazine, mag catch, mag release, both sling hooks, trigger, selector switch, rear sight (only metal on the High Grade version). It certainly is enough to give it a realistic feel.
Tokyo Marui have included markings on the weapon to make it look like a real H&K weapon. The fire selector is marked in the usual red and white 'easy to understand' diagram. The fire selector clicks solidly into each firing mode and doesn't slip. On the left hand side of the gun above the magazine it reads "Kal.9mmx19" and on the top of the receiver it is stamped with "HK MP5" and then a fake serial number. The only TM markings are on the right hand side of the gun, again above the magazine well "Made in Japan Tokyo Marui".
Performance
In my reviews I base the ability of the weapon to skirmish as priority in preference to punching paper. As most Airsofters will intend to skirmish with this weapon, mostly CQB too, I have to say that the sturdiness of the gun gives you confidence to "use" it. The standard boxed version includes a 50 round magazine. I adopted the review weapon second hand I had the benefit of two hi-cap magazines. The magazines click firmly into place inside the magazine well. Once you are ready to fire the ambidextrous selector switch can be easily flicked to your preferred firing rate. The single (semi-automatic) selection is quite good offering a stable base to pick off targets as well as 'double tapping' with ease. Flicking the selector upwards further to the automatic setting unleashes a high rate of fire. Careful attention to the hop setting must be made to maximise this guns potential. So how does it perform? The MP5 naturally has a short barrel. Don't be put off by this though. The MP5 isn't really a distance platform and is ideally suited to closer engagement ranges akin to CQB and urban sites. In these arenas it performs accurately and can hit targets (skirmisher sized) out to 25m. The large 8.4v battery offers a good rate of fire. This has never been of too much importance to me because I prefer to keep my weapons on semi. In this way the battery will certainly last all day, on fully auto it is not so likely. The hop up unit is a tad tricky to get precisely right. It is located on the left side of the gun just where the foregrip meets the receiver. The switch doesn't offer too much indication of how far is too much etc. However, a little bit of trial and error sorts that out. Down range the balance of size and power is slightly hindered by the accuracy of the short barrel. Burst fire is really the best method for this standard weapon in a woodland scenario. The accuracy is compensated for by the full metal front and rear sights. The usual cylindrical rear sight is fully adjustable and offers good eye relief (with goggles). Do not be put off by this. After all attempting to use any weapon outside its environment you will be upset with its performance. Inside a CQB arena things are different. The small size is very handy for sweeping in and out of rooms, and the stock can sit under the armpit if you are in a really enclosed area. The accuracy is excellent for close range engagements and the options on the rear sight allow your eye plenty of light options. The easy to line up foresight and compact weight really put it into a class of its own. Well it did until the G36 and UMP came along. Impressed? In its own environment yes, it handles, fires and is strong enough to take the occasional light knock.
Inside
The MP5 is simple to take apart and simple to put back together. The access to the mechbox (something I have never opened) and other parts you need to maintain is easy. The gun offers a lovely foundation for those who wish to upgrade. This being said though, I am of the opinion that when replacing the spring with a stronger one to also swap the spring guide for an upgraded one. Experience has shown that others who haven't have had the plastic tabs on the standard version break. Upgrading an MP5 in my opinion is not required for the U.K. A tightbore barrel in CQB will change a 2 1/2" group to a 2" group, and for the price it isn't worth it. If upgrading an MP5 is your thing then look on the outside.
Outside
MP5's have been used in such a variety of situations that tactical manufacturers have been churning out plenty of tactical additions. Laser dots, flashlights, aimpoints etc can all be bought for this series and some Airsoft retailers have aftermarket spares for the real Special Forces wannabes. Personally I like my weapons to remain virgin, but it has to be said I am more at home in woodland than CQB. If you need a cheap (now that the G36C is out these have come down in price) or starter short to medium range AEG with plenty of upgrade options, go for an MP5.
Summary
Tokyo Marui make decent weapons. The MP5 series was one of the most popular for a reason and that is reliability, utility and after market extras. I would never have assumed I would need one until borrowing one to use. They are a fun little piece with the added advantage of being utterly dependable and fantastic for indoor combat.
Furniture and Quality
The MP5 series has a distinctive design, and the Tokyo Marui version has kept quite true to the Real Steel weapon. The weight of the gun is not heavy, yet heavy enough to give poise and purpose to the user. This is complimented by the sturdy feel of the weapon and the lack of cheap creaking plastic. Naturally the material and colouring of the gun is the standard black part metal / part ABS plastic. The stock is fixed firmly into place like the barrel and receiver. A real rubber butt plate finishes off the stock. On this version the metal parts (not including internals) are the flash hider, front sight assembly, charging handle, charging handle tube (only metal on the HG version), magazine, mag catch, mag release, both sling hooks, trigger, selector switch, rear sight (only metal on the High Grade version). It certainly is enough to give it a realistic feel.
Tokyo Marui have included markings on the weapon to make it look like a real H&K weapon. The fire selector is marked in the usual red and white 'easy to understand' diagram. The fire selector clicks solidly into each firing mode and doesn't slip. On the left hand side of the gun above the magazine it reads "Kal.9mmx19" and on the top of the receiver it is stamped with "HK MP5" and then a fake serial number. The only TM markings are on the right hand side of the gun, again above the magazine well "Made in Japan Tokyo Marui".
Performance
In my reviews I base the ability of the weapon to skirmish as priority in preference to punching paper. As most Airsofters will intend to skirmish with this weapon, mostly CQB too, I have to say that the sturdiness of the gun gives you confidence to "use" it. The standard boxed version includes a 50 round magazine. I adopted the review weapon second hand I had the benefit of two hi-cap magazines. The magazines click firmly into place inside the magazine well. Once you are ready to fire the ambidextrous selector switch can be easily flicked to your preferred firing rate. The single (semi-automatic) selection is quite good offering a stable base to pick off targets as well as 'double tapping' with ease. Flicking the selector upwards further to the automatic setting unleashes a high rate of fire. Careful attention to the hop setting must be made to maximise this guns potential. So how does it perform? The MP5 naturally has a short barrel. Don't be put off by this though. The MP5 isn't really a distance platform and is ideally suited to closer engagement ranges akin to CQB and urban sites. In these arenas it performs accurately and can hit targets (skirmisher sized) out to 25m. The large 8.4v battery offers a good rate of fire. This has never been of too much importance to me because I prefer to keep my weapons on semi. In this way the battery will certainly last all day, on fully auto it is not so likely. The hop up unit is a tad tricky to get precisely right. It is located on the left side of the gun just where the foregrip meets the receiver. The switch doesn't offer too much indication of how far is too much etc. However, a little bit of trial and error sorts that out. Down range the balance of size and power is slightly hindered by the accuracy of the short barrel. Burst fire is really the best method for this standard weapon in a woodland scenario. The accuracy is compensated for by the full metal front and rear sights. The usual cylindrical rear sight is fully adjustable and offers good eye relief (with goggles). Do not be put off by this. After all attempting to use any weapon outside its environment you will be upset with its performance. Inside a CQB arena things are different. The small size is very handy for sweeping in and out of rooms, and the stock can sit under the armpit if you are in a really enclosed area. The accuracy is excellent for close range engagements and the options on the rear sight allow your eye plenty of light options. The easy to line up foresight and compact weight really put it into a class of its own. Well it did until the G36 and UMP came along. Impressed? In its own environment yes, it handles, fires and is strong enough to take the occasional light knock.
Inside
The MP5 is simple to take apart and simple to put back together. The access to the mechbox (something I have never opened) and other parts you need to maintain is easy. The gun offers a lovely foundation for those who wish to upgrade. This being said though, I am of the opinion that when replacing the spring with a stronger one to also swap the spring guide for an upgraded one. Experience has shown that others who haven't have had the plastic tabs on the standard version break. Upgrading an MP5 in my opinion is not required for the U.K. A tightbore barrel in CQB will change a 2 1/2" group to a 2" group, and for the price it isn't worth it. If upgrading an MP5 is your thing then look on the outside.
Outside
MP5's have been used in such a variety of situations that tactical manufacturers have been churning out plenty of tactical additions. Laser dots, flashlights, aimpoints etc can all be bought for this series and some Airsoft retailers have aftermarket spares for the real Special Forces wannabes. Personally I like my weapons to remain virgin, but it has to be said I am more at home in woodland than CQB. If you need a cheap (now that the G36C is out these have come down in price) or starter short to medium range AEG with plenty of upgrade options, go for an MP5.
Summary
Tokyo Marui make decent weapons. The MP5 series was one of the most popular for a reason and that is reliability, utility and after market extras. I would never have assumed I would need one until borrowing one to use. They are a fun little piece with the added advantage of being utterly dependable and fantastic for indoor combat.
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