Nerf News, Reviews, Related Blaster Products
Got this on my twitter feed: https://twitter.com/BrianDMoney/status/233726593569263616/photo/1
Looks like the Nerf N-Strike Elite Hailfire is already popping up on some U.S. store shelves! This was at a Target for $39.99. Have you seen’em yet? Guess it’s close enough to the 09/09/12 release date. Or not.
I’m supposedly getting a sample, for a more in-depth look, but I do have a video posted already:
Onward!
Let’s get some links outta the way – AP IMAGE GALLERY
Adult Fans of Nerf
Nerfrevolution
Click Click BAMF
NERFHQ
Amongst other people who write mainstream news articles, the above sites were in attendance to the party. In spite of recent events, Nerf does in fact reach out to fan sites and they do in fact treat them pretty well.
Now, my gallery (I also updated to include some new “Foamme Fatales” from the party) –
https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf
https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf
I’ll post some additional videos up (I had my GoPro chest camera on for as long as the battery would hold out; I’ll see what came of it) once they’re done, but just wanted to make some quick notes:
Ok, I’ll have more to say when I go back over the vids. I’m finally well-rested (2 red-eye flights in 2 days makes for a tired Vas) and I’ll go over more when I review what I shot.
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
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| From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012 |
Nerf just put up a video a blaster from their upcoming Elite line, debuting Fall 2012! Say hello to the Nerf N-Strike Elite Retaliator.
Key points:
– 75 ft.
– New dart style (supposedly)
– Removable/interchangeable stock, barrel; tactical rails, and 12 round mag
– Kinda reminiscent of a Recon, honestly
And there you have it! One reveal down, a couple more to go.
Ok, so I’ve managed to put a few discs through the Vigilon and now for some quick thoughts:
– Range/ammo flight path: Surprising! Like anything of this medium (foam) the accuracy dips the higher distance they travel. I had a bit of a breeze behind me and you the discs kind of glide up and down with the wind current. If you throw frisbees ever you know what I’m talking about. The discs never floated to the ground from what I could tell, though. They would slice left or right to the ground. Interesting though, I can only really comment once I get them to a stock game. I imagine aiming’ll be interesting using this.
– The blaster: The Vigilon is pretty comfy. I’d liken the size of it to a Recon, but it’s a bit wider obviously for the discs. The internal magazine opens up at the touch of a switch (positioned on both sides of the blaster)by the grip; so it’s easy to reach with the thumb. I wouldn’t expect to holster this… but there is a loop for a carabiner or something at the bottom of the handle. Tac-rail on top, and a wide muzzle for the disc makes for an almost cartoony-sized blaster but it pulls it off. Should a disc jam in the muzzle, there’s a release switch on the right. Didn’t have a jammed disc yet so haven’t had to use it yet.
No need to worry about the disc falling out if you face it downward after priming; the disc stayed put while running around after it was ready to fire.
The Vigilon is a little short on capacty (5 shots at a time) but the reload mechanism is pretty slick. It’s handy to just have to grab five discs, stack them, and put them in the internal clip at one time than reload each individual chamber or one after the other (as with the Specter, Maverick, or Speedload-6).
Overall:
Price is $15.99 and considering the alternatives out there is not too much considering the range you’re also getting. While I’m hesitant about the discs, I’ll definitely be able to say more as I have more time with it. Worth a look for a midrange blaster to try out this new ammo type, for sure. It’s easy to carry and doesn’t require extra clips to carry around (like the nitron and praxis) so if you like to pack only a blaster and ammo, this’ll be the choice for you.
Ok, are we good? You all had enough time to let it all sink in?
The Nerf Vortex big reveal has come and gone, we’ve seen the video and there’s promise that as time goes on, we’re going to see more. More photos, more videos, and more general info. In the midst of all that we still have the N-Force Vendetta double-sided sword on its way, and the Gear Up series in August. And then… 09.10.11. Vortex in all its disc-firing glory starts coming out in stores.
So what did I think of the video? What are my opinions on the Nerf Vortex blasters?
I’m intrigued. New clip system, new ammo style, and the shells look pretty cool too. The colors seem a darker color scheme I think than any previous N-Strike line, with its red and green majority, to add to the “N-Strike Vs. Vortex” business.
The first proper look they showed off was a pistol with an integrated clip, and what looked like a pistol on the ground. After showing the integrated clip opening, the video moved on to the firing test of… something? I think it was the “Nerf Nitron” firing, and uses a removable clip, foregrip, and I believe I saw tactical rails. Pump action seems to be the priming mech of choice on this as well. What I noticed most? The range! And for a disc, that seemed to fire pretty sraight out of the barrel. Normally you can expect a disc to curve a little even indoors (as far as I’ve seen) and that wasn’t the case. Revolutionary “XLR” tech? Haha, I think that might stand for “eXtra Long Range” but that’s unconfirmed. Either way, it looked pretty cool.
Here’s the thing, some of the chatter ragging on the Vortex series is about the discs, how streamlines fly better and aren’t as affected by the wind as drastically as discs will be.
Are you all on crack?
I’ve seen my fair share of stock darts get blown all over a park and knocked off course by feet because of the winds here in Chicago. It’s a moot point. Real ammo, foam, it doesn’t matter. The wind interferes with all kinds of ammo in different ways, and that’s just fact. Streamlines already were notorious for being inherently inaccurate, why are they all of a sudden flying straighter than a ruler it seems? Never mind the discs have a wider surface area, so to me that says they’ll have a better chance of grazing their targets. I figure the discs might resemble what they did with the ammo of the N-Strike Disc Shot, a tougher type of foam core.
The blasters look cool, as I’ve come to expect from these latest tacticool offerings from Nerf with N-Strike and the Nerf Nitron looks pretty sleek.
So, to sum up:
1) Nice appearance
2) Pistol, middle blaster w/integrated clip, rifle kinda blaster w/removable magazine, there has to be a fourth I’m missing. Unknown capacity, but if the discs are skinnier than darts these might have a higher ammo capacity than N-Strike by quite a bit.
3) Nice ranges from what I can tell, a lot more than they’ve allowed with darts.
4) Not worried about the discs being blown off course. Nerf ammo generally does anyway.
5) I’ve heard the terms “serious Nerf war” and “fun to just play around” tossed around a bit. THESE ARE TOYS.
I’ll definitely do a more in-depth study of these blasters once September rolls around and hopefully I can get my hands on them promptly once the release – but I’ll hold off any total judgments until I actually see them for myself.
It’s live! http://facebook.com/nerfnation
Check the “Nerf Vortex” tab. The video features a rifle-looking blaster, with a clip, that fires discs. What you see might be called the Nitron and I think I see a pistol on the ground as well. Enjoy the video, and I guess we’ll see more popping up on the Nerf Facebook page as time goes on!
SO, you have clip system blasters vs. disc-clip system blasters? Not gonna lie, that range looked pretty long. And the ammo seemed to fly pretty straight.
“Listen up, Nerf Nation, we know you’re anxious to find out everything you can about the new Nerf Vortex. 9.10.11 is just too far away, and we don’t want to keep you waiting.
Here’s the deal. On Monday April 11th we will reveal information, photos and a video of the entire all-new Nerf Vortex line – exclusive to fans of the Official Nerf Facebook page. Think of it as a huge “THANK YOU” to each and every member of Nerf Nation. RSVP now to get all the latest updates, and be sure to tell all your friends to “Like” the page so they don’t miss out!
Once you see what we have up our sleeves, you’ll be counting down the days, hours, minutes and seconds til you can Gear Up for 9.10.11. The latest in Nerf evolution has arrived.”
So remember: http://facebook.com/nerfnation for all the Nerf Vortex news on 04/11/11 (does 4/11 = 4-1-1 = info? Probably a happy coincidence, and that’s U.S.-wise!)and pics! Yes, video too. See you there, Nerf Nation!
Fresh from Toy Fair 2011 in NYC, here’s the press release for the Nerf Dart Tag gear upcoming!
“This year, NERF brings the high-speed, performance based sport of DART TAG to the next level as DART TAG athletes across the country are drafted to compete in the 2011 NERF DART TAG World Championship. A completely redesigned collection of innovative blasters and accessories allow fans to train at their ultimate best and help them take their skills from their backyard to the NERF DART TAG World Championship. Get your gear and blast your way to victory!
NERF DART TAG SWARMFIRE Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: Spring 2011)
The first fully automatic DART TAG blaster in the collection, the NERF DART TAG SWARMFIRE blaster, will change the game of DART TAG forever! Players can launch a powerful stream of up to 20 darts, keeping opposing teams at bay. Requires six “C” batteries, included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF DART TAG Official Competition Jersey
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $15.99/Available: Spring 2011)
An essential element of the DART TAG arena, each NERF DART TAG official competition jersey, available in orange or blue, features target panels on the front, back, and sleeves, as well as mesh side panels to keep teams cool in the heat of battle. Available in size Small or Large. Each sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF DART TAG SHARP SHOT Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $7.99/Available: Spring 2011)
Get ready for a DART TAG game wherever you go with the NERF DART TAG SHARP SHOT blaster. This new, lightweight blaster features a carabiner styled clip which can be hooked on belt loops allowing players to always be at the ready for when a battle breaks out. Includes four Velcro Tip DART TAG darts. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF DART TAG SPEED LOAD 6 Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $12.99/Available: Spring 2011)
The NERF DART TAG SPEED LOAD 6 blaster helps keep the intensity of DART TAG game play at an ultimate high. With a new top reloading system and cool, sleek design, players on both teams will have to stay on their toes to keep up with all the fast-paced action and rapid return fires. Includes six Velcro Tip DART TAG darts. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF DART TAG QUICK 16 Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Spring 2011)
Whether you’re getting ready for an offensive or defensive DART TAG play, you’ll be able to stay calm and collected with the new rapid-fire NERF DART TAG QUICK 16 blaster by your side. The NERF DART TAG QUICK 16 blaster sends an intense stream of darts towards the opposition and features an integrated clip system making reloads quick and seamless. Includes 16 Velcro Tip DART TAG darts. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF DART TAG VISION GEAR Eyewear Assortment
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $4.99/Available: Spring 2011)
Your DART TAG uniform isn’t complete without NERF DART TAG VISION GEAR eyewear. The new NERF DART TAG VISION GEAR assortment includes one pair of VISION GEAR eyewear (choose from orange, black, or white), allowing players to pick the best look to suit their team’s style. Featuring a new flexible rubberized coating to keep players comfortable during play and hinged arms for battles on the go, the NERF DART TAG VISION GEAR eyewear assortment is ready for a DART TAG game anytime, anywhere. Each sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF DART TAG 2 Player Starter Pack
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: Spring 2011)
Experience the thrill of the NERF DART TAG League tournaments right at home with the complete NERF DART TAG 2 Player Starter Pack! Featuring two DART TAG SHARP SHOT blasters, two sets of DART TAG VISION GEAR eyewear, two DART TAG Official Competition jerseys, and eight Velcro Tip DART TAG darts, the NERF DART TAG 2 Player Starter Pack has everything you and your friends will need to get started. DART TAG jerseys available in either orange or blue; sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
(Thanks to Nerf’s youtube channel for the video! Inside blast!)
Nerf continues support of battery powered blasters with its latest entry, the N-Strike Barricade RV-10! It’s a 10-shot, rotating turret pistol looking blaster powered on 3 AA batteries, flywheel projectile system, and uh… a trigger. Yes, a trigger.
You load the darts into the turret and with each trigger pull the turret rotates and a pusher arm moves darts into flywheels which launch the darts, anywhere from 25-30’ (as with any fresh outta the box Nerf blaster).
When I first got word of this thing, my heart skipped a beat. Up until now, running with a Nerf blaster in each hand meant having to get creative about how you were going to reprime each blaster between shots, and shooting both at once required some pretty deft evading and manual dexterity to get the blasters reloaded and reprimed. So much for hilariously fun John Woo-style shootouts.
The Barricade is a true semiautomatic. It has a ten shot revolving chamber, and each trigger pull fires a single dart without having to reprime any firing mechanism, as once the switch turns on the flywheels keep spinning. It works, and the vertical orientation of the flywheels aids in the accuracy of fire, as opposed to previously released flywheel blasters that had horizontal-oriented flywheels.
I recently took the Barricade to an indoor Nerf fight, and I found if you try to fire it too fast it might cause the blaster to jam. You have to be mindful and make sure that each trigger pull you make is a full motion. Probably some practice under quick trigger pulls is asked for here just to make sure you know how touchy your Barricade is. It was able to fire anything I loaded in there, from streamlines to off-brand micro darts. The trick was to take my time with each trigger pull.
Size wise, the barricade is not much bigger than a stripped-down recon. It’s big enough that you can use the underside of the muzzle for a handgrip, but the bread and butter of it is using the barricade like a pistol. The back part of the shell can accomodate a stock as well. Getting to and rotating the chambers to reload is pretty easy, and clearing jams on the top of the barricade isn’t difficult as well. Probably the trickiest thing is remembering to check your jam door is closed, the switch is on, and your batteries are charged if you have problems turning the blaster on.
No bones about it though, this blaster is fun. I had a bit of time trying to call hits on people, due to reliability issues firing darts when things got hectic. It was even more difficult trying to use two blasters. I hate to draw comparisons to video games, but using two barricades drastically reduced my field of vision, and also hampered my ability to reload the turrets. A trick I like to do is palm a few darts in my free hand when using a front-loading pistol, but with two blasters at a total of 20 shots that method didn’t work and when it was time to reload there was no Zombieland slam reloading motion I could use… I had to rely on teammates for cover while I stuffed shots back in to each turret. Even reloading on the run was near impossible without a proper way to holster a blaster. Probably would be better and more efficient to use the barricades alternatingly as opposed to both at once. Then… where’s the fun in that though? I did manage to do a knee slide coming around a corner as I lit someone up with both barricades at least once, though! Using these in stock dart matches in the summer will be the next test.
Overall, was it worth it? Yes! For two? I leave that up to you, the buyer. The RoF does feel faster than a lot of the other blasters I use (including the Stampede, without having to wait for the spring to wind up and all that) and maybe even beats my speed on emptying a 35 drum with my Raider. But this is definitely a nice innovation to see from Nerf, and whatever your feelings are about their direction using battery-powered blasters, you’d be missing out to not give this a try. Not having to use that extra second to manipulate a priming mech and THEN pull the trigger is really handy in a pinch!
I’ve found them at Target for just under $20, and TRU for over $20. Now grab your ammo!
Foam From Above 
