Tag: new nerf gun

REVIEW: Nerf Vortex Diatron (aka the Dead Space Plasma Cutter)

Nerf Vortex Diatron.  When I first saw it, I thought:

And as far as Nerf blasters get, this is about as close as I feel you can get to one without buying this:

Quick Stats:

Price: Approx $19.99
Ranges: 30-40′ @ Flat shooting (See video)

Ammo Type:  Vortex Discs
Ammo Capacity:  12 discs (load 10, prime, then load 2 more)
Orientation:  One-handed, ambidextrous handling possible
Tactical rails?  Yes, but not very comfortable (Read on)
Stock Attachment? Possible
Dual-Wield?  Not really

Annnnd Video:

The Nerf Vortex Diatron looks cool, first and foremost.  At least, I think so.  The Vortex discs give it decent range, and it’s part of the “MultiShot Madness” campaign that Nerf is running with it’s RoughCut and Triad, but that being said it’s a great thought but not without some reservations.

First, let’s take care of the good.  The MultiShot function works!  It fires 2 discs, and they both launch out of the top barrel.

Top barrel, only one disc shown but needs 2 to fire.

Also, higher capacity than a Vigilon, hence the common misconception that there are 2 barrel and one disc flies out of each.  It’s shaped as such to make room for the higher-capacity internal magazine:

There’s a tac rail on top, and if you’re aiming the blaster the priming lever is on the left, the disc release/jam clear is on the right.  The mag release switch is on both sides of the handle.  The rear part of the blaster can have stocks and such attached, adding to the customizable options of the blaster.


So the blaster’s multishot is a nice change of pace from what we’ve seen with the Vortex line so far, the paintjob is pretty cool, and the design is fresh from science fiction.  It fires pretty decently too, within the normal tolerances of a stock blaster, hitting anywhere from 40-50′.  The discs are stacked vertically when they exit the barrel and spread apart, with the bottom disc getting the lower end of the range, while the top-stacked disc goes a few feet further.  The thing is Vortex discs are so unpredictable in flight sometimes you do run the risk of getting tagged no matter what you do.

That being said, there are some issues to consider about the Nerf Vortex Diatron.  While the mag release IS on both sides, the priming lever and jam release placements might be problematic for lefties.  Also, the Diatron’s a bit tougher to reload than the Vigilon.  It’s a lot easier to palm 5 discs and slam them all in at once as opposed to the 10, 6 of which you might be able to bunch in, and individually reload the rest.  Thankfully, the extra shot trick still works (check the video for that).  The Diatron REQUIRES 2 discs loaded to fire, and it jams if there’s only one.  In the video I show how to troubleshoot the Diatron if only one disc loads on accident for some reason, but I see many people not reading the manual and wondering why their blaster is broken and the trigger is not pulling.  So, it’s a bit touchy.  One concern I have read about on other reviews is the Nerf Vortex Diatron’s priming lever is flimsy and counterintuitive. I agree that the priming lever is definitely not something I saw from this blaster in the preliminary photos, but what’s done is done, and if you can fit this with your playing style, then game on.  As for the arm being flimsy, I disagree on that.  I think it feels pretty robust and don’t see it breaking on me in the heat of the game.

Range-wise, the Diatron was on the low side for Vortex blasters I thought.  One of the discs only flies about 30′ while the other gets standard Vortex ranges, and I would have liked to see similar power put on both discs.  There’s an inherent inaccuracy with Vortex ammo, so that’s no surprise that the effective range is maybe 30-40′, and the discs slice severely after that.

One final thought is that I really would rather use this as a sidearm, but the Diatron’s so big it won’t even fit in my super-sized Grabit Pack.

Overall, is this worth the $20?  It’s no Pyragon, but the Diatron could be a fun little blaster in its own right.  If you liked the Vigilon, this is right up your alley.  If you like Dead Space but can’t afford a replica Plasma Cutter, this is your option right here (my cousin worked on the game and he agreed it looks pretty close).  The multishot feature is a bit disappointing in the disparate ranges between the fired discs, but I had no problems with the feature actually working.  And… ultimately, the Nerf Vortex Diatron looks really cool!  Whether you use Vortex discs or not or you play indoors or out, try it out and maybe you’ll find it does in fact work for you.  Try before you buy, if you can!

Nerf Preview Images Incoming: Vortex Diatron and Roughtcut 2×4

Images from Nerf this morning; high-res shots of the Nerf Vortex Diatron and Nerf N-Strike Elite Roughcut 2×4.  There are already tons of videos out there from folks who got Roughcuts early due to stores putting them out ahead of release dates, so there’s plenty of info out there on that.  The Nerf Diatron however, has maintained some semblance of secrecy.  Who knows if it’ll pop ahead of Spring 2013, but I wouldn’t be surprised.

(BTW, for those who don’t know, my relationship with Nerf dictates that when it comes to early releases/info/mods/etc., I can’t post about it.  In return, there are in fact some perks such as release event access and product samples.)

The Roughtcut for those who don’t know, is an eight-shot, slam-fire capable, pump-action blaster with Elite ranges.  It also fires two darts at a time, making it the closest approximation to a shotgun-spread blaster that anyone has made in a long time (the Triple Shot DOES NOT COUNT.  It was good modded, but the stock shotgun spread on that thing was terrible).  Either way, it looks interesting and I can’t wait to get my hands on it.  None of the stores in my area have it on shelves, so I would need to order via Amazon.

The Nerf Vortex Diatron, that’s a whole ‘nother story.  It looks remarkably like a Plasma Cutter from Dead Space (bonus) and fires two discs at once (double-bonus!).  It looks like a doubled up Nerf Vortex Vigilon, so I’m guessing the capacity is ten discs per reload. (11 or 12, depending on how you load it, amirite guys?)  I do wonder if the discs will collide with each other at some point in mid-air during flight, so it’ll be interesting to see how this fires.  Of all the recent blasters, this one is the only one not seen on shelves yet.  Yet.

In any event, these two blasters have the “multishot madness” tagline on their boxes so Nerf is definitely leaning towards a different type of functionality, seeing as how they’ve increased ranges using Vortex and Elite styles.  Make sure to check the Nerf Facebook page (linked at the beginning of this post) for further info such as pricing and alleged availability.  And naturally, once I get my samples in I’ll have my reviews up as usual.  Although at the rate things are going, who knows what’ll even be left by then!

Nerf Hailfire spotted! Target in IL

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!

Nerf Elite Launch Party – 2012

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:

  • Nerf really knows how to throw a party
  • Nerf N-Strike Elite Hailfire ranges are pretty awesome for a flywheel.  Bandoliers are a necessity, and I’m working on a technique to allow easy dual-wiellding.  The magwell rack did pretty well in letting me run and the Hailfire is definitely more mobile than a Vulcan.  Mixing and matching the drums and mags was fun.  It’s a semiauto blaster, but it really feels way more reliable than a Barricade.  I suggest giving it a try when it’s released, I know I will.  One thing I would say is, you can’t really use a sidearm when you have it.  At full capacity, the blaster bangs around a lot if you try to run with it at your side.  You really need to carry it in your hands the whole time you have it.  Nerf groups who utilize blasters as shields are going to have to reevaluate their rulesets though, as this thing is a good size for that house rule.
  • The Nerf Vortex Pyragon is fantastic.  Rogue fell in love with it.  I love the way the drum loads, and the rate of fire on it is incredible.
  • The licensed Nerf materials rock pretty hard.  The sunglasses were fantastic, and I can’t wait to try out my earbuds 🙂
  • NERF FIREVISION.  Seriously, everyone needs to have a look at that when it’s out.  I will most certainly hope to get some samples to work with, but it’s a really interesting mechanic to utilize playing sports in low light.
  • It’s a little rough having to say “’til next year” to the fellow bloggers – it’s so much fun talking nothing but Nerf with these like-minded individuals.

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.

From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012
From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012
From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012

From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012

From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012

From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012

From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012

From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012

From Nerf N-Strike Elite Launch 2012

Fresh from Nerf’s facebook/youtube, Nerf N-Strike Elite reveal!

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.

Nerf Vortex Vigilon – Impressions!

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.

VORTEX – The Day After the Disc

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.

NERF VORTEX REVEALED! FIRST LOOK AT THE "NITRON"

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.

04/11/11 – DAY OF REVELATION – NERF VORTEX

“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!

NERF DART TAG 2011 RELEASE INFORMATION

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.