Quick bit: The Nerf N-Strike Alpha Trooper CS-18!

From FFA_Alpha Trooper


We're looking at the Alpha Trooper CS-18 from Nerf's N-Strike line. It can be yours for $20, and is a Target-only exclusive (at least US-wise as far as I know.) Info on this was released months ago, and only recently has the blaster finally hit stores.

Stats:
- Slam-fire mode, like the Raider CS-35
- No stock, but stock from other N-strike blasters (the Raider, for instance) can work.
- Comes with an 18 round drum magazine

Some shots:

From FFA_Alpha Trooper


From FFA_Alpha Trooper


From FFA_Alpha Trooper


My Take:

I will admit, I knew it was going to be similar to the Raider, but this was ridiculous. The shell, with the exception of the pumphandle and the magazine location, were too close for my tastes. It felt like I spent $20 for the same blaster. Even with the (IMO) better underside location of the magazine it really did feel like another Raider.

Now now, don't worry, some members of EPICNERF looked, altered, and battle-tested Troopers and told me there are some other notable differences. The performance right out of the box rivaled and possibly surpassed the ranges of a stock Raider. After some alterations, it was even better. The jamming wasn't a problem, and the new pumphandle allowed for a Recon-style priming motion, in addition to the pump-action if that was your preferred motion. Not to mention the one-handed priming action, a la Linda Hamilton in "T2".

Now, if you don't own a Raider already, or are a collection completionist and have to have the 18 round drum, then this is for you. If you're left-handed, you too will benefit from this blaster as the magazine release button is on both sides of the blaster. The lower cost, the 18 round drum is certainly less bulkier to handle than the 35 round drum, and holstering this blaster may be easier for you without the front grip that the Raider has. Dare I say it, this might even outrange a Raider so ultimately the decision's up to you, foam fighter.

PHOTO GALLERY:


Feedback? Questions? Comment below, or shoot me an email! FoamFromAbove@gmail.com


-VasTheStampede

P.S. - Yes, it came with ammo ;P

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