Flip Fury and Strongheart Bow

Ready for testin'!

Two?! TWO blasters?! Yes, that's right readers, we got our hands on the Zombie Strike Flip Fury and the Rebelle Strongheart Bow. While we didn't have a ton of time to do a full review (we'll probably discuss them more on the next podcast) we did have enough time to give you some first impressions and chrono results. Hit the jump for our initial thoughts, numbers and a few quick videos. Don't forget to click on the chrono results to enlarge the pictures!

P.A.T. Revealed!

P.A.T.T. Mk I

Why P.A.T.?

P.A.T. stands for: Practical Accuracy Test. The intention of P.A.T. is to determine a Nerf Blasters accuracy at any distance on a human size stationary target. The P.A.T. scoring system is broken into a few sub sets. Read on for detailed breakdown:

XD Rapidstrike "Whitestripe"

XD: eXtra Distance or eXtreme Disappointment?

It's finally here! You can put down your paint and tape, the Elite XD Rapidstrike with the long awaited white stripe has landed! While the white stripe and "ELITE" look pretty sweet it's not all puppies and rainbows...

Narrowbase BFU special and Black Friday SALE!

The NMAG-BFU in all it's glory

Narrowbase is at it again! Many of you (especially local players) have talked about and been patiently waiting this product. Yes,  the NMAG TAC-RAIL or NMAG-BFU is finally here! Also new for sale is the NMAG ADAPTER TAC-RAIL to let you use all of your current and easily obtainable picatinny rail mountable products! On top of all that there's a a store-wide sale from Black Friday until Cyber Monday! Read on, but beware this is a pic heavy post!

Nerfcast Episode 47: Mini-Megas and P.A.T.T.

In this episode Josh and B.F.U. introduce everyone to P.A.T.T. and discuss some new 3D printed items from China as well as some new darts we're affectionately referring to as "Mini-Megas" for the time being.

Rhino-Fire Gizmodo Review and ECS vs Iphone6 footage!

Huge shout out to Gizmodo for mentioning us in their article on the Rhino-Fire review! They brought it to our most recent B.U.R.N. game over the weekend for their combat testing portion of the review, and we've gotta say it was a ton of fun to run from!

The footage at the end not only shows the Rhino-Fire blasting in glorious 240fps slow mo, but the beginning and end of the video show the ECS in comparison. The Iphone was mounted above the camera on the tac rail to test the same shots with each.

Read the review and watch the video here:

http://gizmodo.com/nerf-rhino-fire-review-the-most-badass-foam-blaster-ev-1641337747/all

Nerfcast Episode 46: Trick Shot

B.F.U. is back and joins Josh and Shawn for a quick recap of the blaster leak with opinions and some discussion about the 2015 lineup. Plus Josh tries to figure out Dude Perfect.

Nerfcast Episode 45: The Great Blaster Leak

We realize this is a little late and episode 45 has been out on our YouTube page for a couple weeks (episode 46 aired today!)  Since this one was just uploaded to Podbean, here it is for those of you who aren't subscribed via  Youtube, iTunes, or any of our other social media outlets. Worry not, episode 46 will be up in the next few days.

With B.F.U. on leave, Josh and Shawn discuss the blaster leak brought to us by S.B.N.C. For the image we were using as a reference as well as many more check here: http://southernbrisbanenerfclub.blogs...

With so many potential new blasters from the Elite XD line, the Mega blasters, and the mystery of the new Modulus, there's lots to discuss!

Blood Angel's "Stock" Dart Analysis

Many of you may remember this little gem, and now, Blood Angel is back, with even more data on more darts! Without further ado, scroll down after the break dear reader!

Stock Darts

Nerfcast 43 & 44!

Whoops! We totally realized we forgot to post up the last couple of Nerfcasts on the blog! Here they are for those of you not subscribed onYouTube, iTunes, Twitter, Google+, Facebook... oh you get the idea!

Narrowbase Hammershot Holster

 Remember Narrowbase? The company that has some excellent 3D printed magazine holders? Well, they're at it again and this time once again listening to the community by offering the most requested item since they opened. Behold the Hammershot holster:

Oooh, saucy!

 Now, it may be different that what some of you might have expected. It uses far less materials than something like say the Sweet Revenge holster. Still, we've been assured that these are sturdy just like everything else we've seen from Narrowbase. Once we get our hands on these for a full review, you'll hear from us!

But wait.. "What's that?" you might ask, or perhaps "Does it come in both a MOLLE and belt attachment options?" Never fear friends, now Narrowbase offers an option that allows your MOLLE compatible holsters or accessories like the NMAGs to be used with a belt. This really makes the MOLLE configuration much more versatile and accessible. From those who might not have MOLLE gear yet and want to upgrade later, to those who have MOLLE gear but don't always want to use it for their loadout. Now you really can use these with a variety of different configurations to any desired effect by using different bar sets. Weather you have a drop leg that doesn't have a lot of space, a ton of room on your vest, or even a single belt.

The blue/orange combo is a nice choice.

The belt loop should accommodate up to a 1.5" belt. If you're using something larger you may want to invest in something like a battle belt that will allow you to use MOLLE compatible attachments around your waist, or just switch down to a smaller belt width.

The belt loops are already up for $4.99 with a promo code for a FREE SET with the purchase of any MOLLE/P.A.L.S. compatible NMAG item or Holster! Just add them to your cart and use the promo code FREELOOPS to get one set free. There is a limit of one set of loops per person, and the offer expires September 30th.

In addition to that, the single mag holding NMAGs have been reduced in price to $12.99!  It keeps getting better! The release date and pricing for the Hammershot holster is still being worked out, but whenever we have more info, we'll be sure to let our readers know! Until then we're excited to see more products coming from this company.

Ice Bucket Challengers!

So, Jason over at Basic Nerf challenged B.F.U. to participate in the ice bucket challenge. What happened next will amaze y... no, it'll pretty much be what you expected.

Of course the challenge couldn't go unanswered.

Nerfcast Episode 42: The Hunt Begins

**SHAKY CAM WARNING! **
Josh, Shawn, B.F.U. and Mitchel go on a quest to look for the new Zed Squad gear. On the journey they discuss Nerf Melee, Orange Mod Works' new Hammershot cylinder, Perpetual Play, and more.

Zing Firetek

The latest offering from Zing is a nice little improvement over the baseline model. The Firetek is pretty sleek and futuristic looking. The light up feature is actually fun to use, and could be pretty fun at a night HvZ game. They've streamlined the look and feel of the already successful design, and incorporated something new and fun. The arrows are solid, and there's no issue with using old arrows if you have them, so it's  not as if you need to switch ammo types. They've also integrated the bands inside the bow arms, something previously done in the Legendary longbow. One thing to note is because this comes with three whistler or sonic arrows that light up, it does not have the arrow holders that some of the other models have. If you don't already own a Zing bow, and are contemplating playing at night this is a great bow. If not, I'd just go with whatever floats your boat in terms of aesthetics, the performance is pretty much the same (even though the range claims are increased on the Firetek). The base model Z-Curve starts at around $20, the Legends is around $25, and the Firetek is $30, with other models landing somewhere in between the $20-$30 range. Check out the video for a more in depth look and a nighttime firing test.

Nerfcast Episode 41: A Hot Time in the Old Town

Josh and B.F.U. talk about the mystery blaster, 15 round magazines, Blastersmiths Uk's selectable fire Rapidstrike, and the Rhinofire. Guest starring Odin!

Sorry for no live/Monday update.

NMAGs: What & Why

Do the NMAG shake!

Let’s start out with the basics. What are NMAGS? NMAGs are a new 3D printed product created by Narrowbase LLC. They are a sleek solution to Nerf specific magazine holding capabilities that aren’t well… elastic (*cough* bandolier).  But how do they perform, what do they cost, what does this mean to you? Let’s get right down to it, review, rant, pic spam and videos after the break (TL;DR: the last paragraph).

Nerfcast Episode 40: Money In The Bank

For those of you who missed the live broadcast, Episode 40 of Nerfcast is here for your viewing pleasure! We talk about all sorts of new blasters for the 2014 line, as well as our recent war and some amazing third party accessories. Special guest Michel goes over some of his Rapidstrike modifications, and the group gives some surprising reviews and experience with the new blasters.

3D printed mag holders - NarrowBase LLC: http://www.narrowbase.com/

Messenger & Spylight Reviews

At the beginning of the week we found some of the new Rebelle Secrets & Spies blasters in stores. The reviews have been up on our YouTube page, but for those of you who don't have time or the means to watch a video here are some quick thoughts and links to the videos after the break.

First Impressions: Mega Thunderbow

Amazon seems to be shipping orders in record time! Shawn does a quick unboxing and a short look at the new Mega Thunderbow. Check out a quick test fire and some initial thoughts in the video below.

This guy still seems to be available on Amazon.com so check out this LINK to order.

First Look: Slingfire

B.F.U. got his Slingfire in from Amazon.com early and gives us some quick first impressions!

Blaster has off an on availability through Amazon.com, but here's a LINK in case it comes back up for sale again.   No word on when it will be back in stock.

Nerfcast Episode 39: Union Jack

It was recently brought to our attention that the latest episode of Nerfcast wasn't up on the blog! Sorry about that folks, it was here but the scheduled post was accidentally for next month! For those of you who didn't catch the live show or follow us on YouTube, as usual, the video link and Podbean player are below!

We talk to the group over at Blastersmiths UK, and take viewer questions.

Blastersmiths UK: https://blastersmiths.co.uk/

Development Blog: http://dev-blastersmiths.blogspot.co.uk/

Diaries of a Nerf Armourer: http://nerfarmourer.tumblr.com/

Brit Nerf: http://britnerf.myfreeforum.org/

UK Nerf: http://uknerf.blogspot.com/

Green Cloak LARP: http://www.gclarp.co.uk/

Armageddon XV: http://nerfhaven.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=861

 

Hero's Edge Katana

For those of you who aren't following us on YouTube, check out the video below for our quick look at the Hero's Edge Katana! This fun foam weapon is great for a more realistic feeling melee weapon that costs about as much as a Nerf Zombiestrike Machete. The build quality is sturdy and there's lots of other options to choose from. Check out Real Sword Master for this and other cosplay/larp/foam weapons.

Nerfcast Episode 39: Union Jack

Monday Night we had a great live session with the good folks over at Blastersmiths UK,
In case you missed the episode it can be viewed on our YouTube page (embedded video below). Thanks to everyone who participated, the fan feedback was great! We're going to try to do more episodes LIVE with viewer involvement. iTunes and Podbean subscribers will get the audio (with the intro and outro) on Wednesday per usual. Did you enjoy being able to ask questions and comment during the podcast? Should this be our new regular setup? Let us know what you think.

Nerfcast Episode 38: Not Buy A Longshot

After a brief convention hiatus, Nerfcast is back! Josh, Shawn and B.F.U. discuss news of the new Zombiestrike Longshot, new Rough Cuts, Zing care package, and more.

Updates every other Wednesday.

Subscribe with iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/nerfcast/id582888254?mt=2&ls=1

Best Wishes

While we've been away for the past few weeks at conventions and plotting more Nerf-related goodness a lot has happened! Never fear we're still here and although we unexpectedly missed an episode of Nerfcast, we will be back to your regularly scheduled program this week. Maybe we'll be able to put out a special episode to make up for it.

This was originally going to just be an update for fans, but how could we ignore the huge milestone that's just passed?! No, we're not talking about the re-release of the Longshot, but the news of one of our favorite bloggers, Bazookafied over at Tactical Tag! Congrats on tying the knot! We know this is coming rather late, but everyone over here wishes you nothing but the best. Here's to years of foam and happiness.

We also wanted to send our warmest wishes and hopes of a speedy recovery over to Nerfenstein. She was recently admitted to the hospital, but has since been released and is at home getting some much needed rest. You can get more details over on her Facebook page. We just wanted to remind you not to push yourself too hard and take it easy while you get back to full strength, and thank you for all of your hard work and amazing contribution to the Nerf community.

Again, a big thanks to our viewers who have stuck around even though we've been gone for nearly a month. We really appreciate all your support and suggestions! We love fan feedback so keep it coming. You help us to provide you with new and interesting content and keep things fresh.  So that's it everybody, our quick update. Please be sure to visit Zook and Nerfenstein and give them some kind workds if you haven't already. Until next time, Happy Tagging!
~Josh

Nerfcast Episode 37: Moderated Debate

Welcome back B.F.U.! This episode the BoomCo. debate rages on, we talk about Nerf as cosplay, what we want to see in Nerf videos, and some Reddit love.

Updates every other Wednesday.

Subscribe with iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/n...

BURN S3R1 Nerf Video by Jangular

Happy Friday everyone!

A week ago BURN hosted it's first Nerf game of the 2014 season.  We reached a record high attendance rate and got in some great games of Capture the Flag and King of the Hill. Fortunately for us, we have the talented Jangular taking footage of our games and editing it together into awesome video segments!

Nerfcast Episode 36: Toasty With Blood Angel

This episode we have a very special guest: Kimball, aka Blood Angel. We discuss the new Z-Bat, HvZ, the Rebelle series, as well as our first game of the season. With guest appearances by Tabby and B.F.U.


Subscribe with iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/n...

BONK! Incoming Zombie Strike Z-Bat!

I'm a Force of Nature!

Are you listening? Okay. Grass grows. Birds fly. Sun shines. And brother-

This bat hurts people.

Nerfcast Episode 35: East Meets West

In this episode we're joined by special guests Vlad Neko and Bobololo from the Nerf Herder Podcast!
We talk about Boomco, the N.I.C. and keeping the sport fresh!

Watch Out Hasbro! Mattel to Release BOOMco Blasters

It shouldn't be news to anyone that Hasbro dominates the toy blaster industry. There have been many competitors to the Nerf kingdom, including companies such as Tek-Recon, Buzzbee and Zing.  However, a new threat looms beyond the horizon, and it's from an old rival: Mattel.

Nerfcast Episode 34: Slow News Day

Not much going on in the Nerf community since our last podcast. We decide to talk a bit about the Koosh darts once again, as well as some marketing ideas for Hasbro, and other barely on topic discussions.

Sorry for lack of video again, it's always one thing or another!





As per usual, YouTube video after the break.

Dart Analysis & Comparison

 

We've been talking about doing an analysis/comparison for some of the new darts on the market for a little while now. Imagine how surprised we were when one of our readers and local players, Blood Angel beat us to it! Ok, we weren't all THAT surprised, we were kind of dragging our feet on this one. Those that know him know that whether it's making a pump grip Retaliator, a Foam Converted Arrow Gun , or even just storing his blasters, he never does anything half way. The same is true with this wonderful write up and analysis that was submitted to us.  Read on an enjoy!



(Picture heavy post after the break)

Nerfcast Episode 33: Anatomy Of A Dart

Has it really been two weeks since the last update?! While we try to get some more content for the blog, enjoy the latest episode of Nerfcast. This week we discuss the plethora of new darts hitting the market, from official sources, to cheap knockoffs, and some better made brands. We highly suggest checking the video out as we go over some of the different darts for you to see. As always, YouTube video after the break.

Nerfcast Episode 32: What's App With You?

Sorry, no video for this podcast everyone. Next time we should be back on track. This episode features Josh and B.F.U. talking about the new Orange Mod Works blaster announcement, Tek Strike, Stryfe, and blaster roundups from the N.Y. Toy Fair! Enjoy!

YouTube video after the break.

Orange Mod Works Blaster?!

Nifty designs...

Orange Mod Works has announced via their Facebook Page that they plan on designing and building their own blaster as part of their O-Tac Gear line!

"Hey everyone,

The time has finally come for us to design and build a blaster and we need your help with the design direction! Each of 4 blasters in the posted picture represent a different design aesthetic so without thinking about the actual function leave a comment below with your favorite design or combination of designs. Keep in mind that this is just the initial direction and things like bright colors (HvZ safe) and actual function will come later.
-Jun"

They are asking for the community's input with the design. Head on over to cast your vote!

What do you think of the idea of OMW blasters? Sound off in the comments below.

A Jolt Of A Different Color

Hello again old friend.

Either you love it or you hate it, but the Jolt seems to be here stay. With more variations than probably any other Nerf blaster in recent history, there's a little somethin' for everyone. It's no stranger to makeovers, re-shells, or re-release, and the Zombie Strike line is no different. So lets jump right into the Zombiestrike Target Set.

Full review after the break

Nerfcast Episode 31: Stryfe Strife

Here it is for those of you who missed out on the live recording!

Josh, Shawn and B.F.U. talk about the newest additions to the Nerf 2014 lineup, the new Rebelle blasters leaked, the ECS-12, and the Doublestrike. We also discuss some other games in the area and of course, a Reddit Rant. Now with audience participation! To get in on the Q&A recording session (and see the podcast LIVE) be sure to follow our blog, google+, twitter and facebook pages.

Gear Up! Database: http://coastalbendactionsports.blogspot.com/p/gear-up_4.html

Sorry for the audio degradation. We had a bit of a technical snafu and had to change up a couple things at the last minute. We should have it all sorted by the next episode.

  YouTube video after the break

Nerfcast LIVE

Hey everyone! Nerfcast records LIVE tonight at 6pm PST. Come join us, ask the cast questions, and view the podcat before it goes live next week! To interact with the cast and join the Q&A session live, visit the event link: https://plus.google.com/events/cgdp8hdfjmpjfr4m6ie7sgjvp2c



Or, watch it right here!

War Room: Location

Hey Everyone! In this episode of War Room, I talk about location scouting and give a couple of ideas on where to host a Nerf War.  I also go into detail on why some locations work better than others.  Do you have a favorite place to play Nerf? What locations have been fun for you in the past?  Tell us in the comments below! Video after the break!

New Super Soakers Hit Target

Bows... bows everywhere.

Spotted at a Target in San Jose, CA, Hasbro's newest line of Super Soaker water blasters are hitting shelves in force. While not strictly Nerf, it's nice to see these hitting shelves this early.  Perhaps we'll see some of their foam cousin's show up a season or two early as well. Just like the past few generations of the Super Soaker line the majority of these don't seem to have triggers, but it also looks like they've all but done away with  tac rails, accessories, and the magazines... or water clips... or whatever.

***Warning Pic heavy spam after the jump.***

Quick Review Dorm Labs: Fore Grip and Shotgun Grip

Gonna Need Some Paint

I admit I am on a mission, our Nerf group really doesn't like the Rampage so I have never given it a chance. Now that I have been part of the NIC for a bit see that a lot of folks swear by the Rampage over the EAT. So thanks to my good buddy Jangular for the Rampage trade and check out all the dirty details after the jumpski...

Nerfcast Episode 30: London Toy Fair with My Last Dart

We're back again, this time to discuss the big reveals of this year's London Toy Show. We're proud to welcome back My Last Dart as a special guest on the podcast again. We hit on all the new previews, the Mega Thunderbow, the ZombieStrike Slingfire, the Rebelle Agent Bow, and of course the Demolisher 2 in 1. All that plus your questions and more!


Video after the break.

War Room: Rally The Troops!

First Rule of War: Zing Arrows

Hey everyone! Here at Bay Area Nerf, we're always looking to find new content to bring to you guys.  That said, I would like to introduce a new video segment called "War Room," where I discuss running Nerf Wars.  I'll go into detail about different aspects of running a war, and what has been successful for our games as well as some mistakes I hope I can help others avoid.  These are much shorter video segments, which each update being 5-10 minutes.  There will be a new episode every Monday, send up your questions at BayAreaNerf@gmail.com and I'll answer your questions for you.  Feel free to let me know your thoughts below in the comments section. Video after the break, Happy Tagging!

VMD: Cannon Commando

Say hello to my little friend!

While other blogs are bringing you the latest from the London Toy Fair, we figured we'd bring you a review off the beaten path. So, as our friends across the pond might say: "And now for something completely different". You really have no idea how much unsuspecting joy this thing has brought in the past few days since it was initially purchased. But I'm getting ahead of myself.  First, we need some proper introductions. This little baby is the VMD Cannon Commando. The VMD stands for "Vehicles of Mass Destruction." It's made by a company aptly named Skyrocket. It retails for around $60 (at least that's how much it was at the K-Mart we found this at). How does it fair for it's price tag? Is it a viable option for your Nerf arsenal? Let's "drive" right in!

Full review and YouTube video after the break.

Stealthfire Shield isn't very mighty...

They're all here: Hawkeye bows, Iron Man repulsors, Hulk hands, Mjolnir, even Wolverine claws. So why is it when it comes to the leader of the Avengers we keep getting these let down products?!

'MURICA!

Ok, aside from the lack of Black Widow's "stingers" (which I'm hoping the Rebelle line will fix) we've been pretty absent of any Nerf related merchandise for one key member in particular: the Star-Spangled Avenger! Sure, we've had some non-Nerf products, like the Triple Blast Shield, and the Disc Launching Shield, but nothing more directly compatible with Nerf products. I mean, we had stuff like that for the other heroes, but we've finally been seeing some cross promotion with some of these blasters, albeit in a very kid friendly form: they're tiny.

So, I was of course expecting a small shield when I saw pictures of the Stealfire Shield debut, but what I didn't expect was just how awful it was going to turn out to be....

Full review and YouTube firing video after the break.

Prepping for the Zombie Apocalypse....During Lunch Break

Scary Box!!!

While doing my daily Amazon browsing hoping to find Nerf blasters on sale I came across some pretty cool looking zombie targets that are usually meant for BB guns. They were on sale for a little over $10 so I figured why the zombie not.

Nerfcast Episode 29: New Horizons

Josh, Shawn, B.F.U. and Arjang recap some lost bits of the last podcast, answer questions, and discuss their thoughts on the Havok and the new year!








YouTube link after the break.

Hawkeye Longshot Bow-gus

What? No trick darts?!

Somehow Hasbro has done it again. They've gotten our hopes up, only to crush them again. While most blogs will undoubtedly be talking about whatever the new mystery blaster is that Hasbro is revealing today, instead we here at Bay Area Nerf thought we'd shake things up a bit. Break the mold. Not do the same-o same-o. Also, Hasbro didn't contact us about any exclusive reveals so...

Anyway, we're not talking about this new surprise blaster. We're looking at another blaster some of us have been waiting quite some time for, with many a rumor surrounding it and it's release as well. The Avengers' Hawkeye Longshot Jolt..er.. Bow.

The End Of An Era

We want to wish a fond farewell to Nerf Mods and Reviews. After half a decade of serving the Nerf community, they are closing their blogging doors.  Many of the contributors still have their own pages/blogs/channels so it's not a total loss, but it's truly the end of an era. The page will still remain for now, with all of the posts over the years leaving a wellspring of information for veterans to reminisce over and new fans to be inspired by.

Beware My Power....Cheap Clip On Light

Recently I have run across a very inexpensive way to create a flashlight for nighttime Nerf craziness. While looking for dart containers at my local Storables location I came across this little light below:

Pretty Box!!

Put The Screwdriver Down BFU

So today's post was going to be a review on the Fuse Fire complete with pics from the unboxing to the internals. Everything was going great until the dreaded stripped screw. Well, I figured I could get around that if it was the only screw that stripped and guess what happened? The very next screw stripped the same as the previous screw. Well, being a man of little patience I kind of...well I will let the pictures do the talking after the break.

As you can see things started off smashingly and I was excited to renew my love of disc based blasters.