Misters

After trying out a bunch of AEG replicas from various brands and platforms, I faced a dilemma. I wanted a replica with very high-quality finishes, plenty of spare parts availability, and one that I could use for the support role. Naturally, my first option was to look at the Krytac LMG. However, I encountered a problem: almost every LMG I found had a terrible reputation when it came to electronic box magazines. Disregarding RPK platforms primarily because AK platforms felt terribly uncomfortable to me, I couldn't find an LMG that didn't have this issue. Just as I was almost convinced about the Krytac, a teammate suggested an alternative: the VFC M27 IAR. The reasoning was simple – it's a lightweight, durable support replica based on the AR15 platform, which means there are plenty of spare parts available. In his own words, "If you're worried about electronic box magazines failing, why not use an LMG that doesn't use them by default?" The result of that conversation was the best airsoft purchase I could make, perhaps only rivaled by the ESS Crosshair goggles. There are three main reasons for this: Firstly, in terms of real-world applications and counterparts, the M27 IAR platform is the most versatile currently on the market. Simply by adapting its accessories, it can be used as a rifle, light machine gun, or designated marksman rifle. I originally bought it as a light machine gun and recently converted it into a rifle. Secondly, its quality is exceptional. VFC is known for creating extremely high-quality external replicas, with internal parts being the main weak point. However, this can be rectified by leveraging a friend who knows mechanics and purchasing some internal upgrades. In this case, the upgrades were done on a relatively low budget, without touching the engine or installing an electronic trigger. The main changes included a CNC piston head, a regular 14.5 piston, a CNC cylinder head, an aluminum nozzle, and a cylinder from Begadi. Additionally, a Retro Arms hop-up chamber and a Prometheus 6.03 barrel were installed. Lastly, the aesthetics are amazing. The M27 boasts unique lines with a lot of personality, standing out among other AR15s. Thanks to the option of using an M-lock handguard if desired, and the ease of shortening the outer barrel, the customization possibilities are endless. In conclusion, the VFC M27 is a high-end replica with a price tag that reflects its quality. However, in my opinion, it's also quite challenging to find in stock. With some essential mechanical upgrades, it offers what could be a universal platform for fulfilling almost all roles in the hobby, with just a power adjustment. As a personal recommendation, if you plan to change its power regularly, the Retro Arms gearbox is almost a must-buy. The replica comes with a gear that feels as old as Methuselah , so changing the spring can be a hassle.

If something has taught me over the years I’ve been practicing airsoft, it’s that the role-playing, realism, and simulation aspects are what attract me the most. Therefore, my interest in Gas Blowback (GBB) has steadily increased. So, determined to delve into this world, and although the almighty Marui seemed like the logical choice (I dislike AKs, so I don’t even consider GHK), my financial situation at the time, along with the appealing project by gbbr4tiesos, made me want to try out the low-cost GBB options that brands like Golden Eagle or Army Armament had launched into the market. I have to say that I had replicas from both brands, and both gave good results with minimal upgrades, but for style, cost, and performance, I definitely stick with the G36 GBB from Army Armament (R36). Starting with the internals, as I mentioned before, the necessary upgrades are minimal. In my case, a Maple Leaf 6.02 barrel, Begadi green rubber, and Begadi nub, which would undergo a homemade modification to increase the contact surface with the rubber. These would be the only paid upgrades. Additionally, the space for the nub was enlarged by filing the hop-up chamber, and a 3D piece was added to prevent barrel vibrations. Finally, it is only necessary to perform periodic maintenance using quality greases. In the future, I would like to install two more pieces, an NPAS and a new trigger assembly. The latter is perhaps the most important because trigger mechanisms are among the parts that give the most problems out of the box in these replicas. In the external section, this replica is mainly based on the G36 seen in the hands of JW Formoza operators, the Polish Navy's special forces unit, although with two clear personal licenses: the flashlight, as the one they use feels terribly uncomfortable to me, and the silencer; they use standard muzzle brakes, but I mount an ACETECH Blaster tracer for use in nighttime games. Otherwise, I install an Ares handguard copy of the B&T, a stock and an upper rail from WE, a copy of the IDZ, and a red dot sight Vector Optics Maverick gen2. Finally, and almost as a necessity, I install the metal charging handle from Begadi, as the original plastic one breaks with just a glance. In summary, the Army Armament G36 GBB is a gas replica that allows you to play with a very affordable price and a stunning aesthetic. I still need to try the solution for this same replica proposed by Begadi, where almost all the modifications that I have been making over time, and some more like improving the trigger, they already come pre-made for you. Without a doubt, it's an option worth considering.