Frequently Asked Questions

What's Airsoft?
Airsoft is a product of the far East and is now available in the Western world. It has spawned a sport, a growing following, and an industry that spans several continents.

What can you tell me about Airsoft replicas?
Airsoft guns are full size 1:1 scale replicas of real world firearms. They shoot small plastic balls, 6mm in diameter with approximately 1 Joule of energy.  This energy level is very low when compared to most other shooting genres and is a safe energy for use with both paper and human targets (i.e. you can be hit by a BB fired from one of these guns and barely notice it, but it can usually still put a small hole in a paper target).

These replicas are commonly made from plastic or metal with a few metal parts inside to increase the reliability and durability of moving parts. Construction quality varies wildly from model to model, as does the use of materials. For example, a Marui made MP5 replica has a well made, but creaky plastic body, where as the ICS MP5 has more detailed full-metal body parts installed and is a far more rigid overall structure. This makes the ICS a better and stronger replica, although it does cost slightly more.

Airsoft guns can be powered by electricity (from a battery pack inside the gun), by spring (the user manually compresses the spring before each shot) or using an expanding gas (refrigerant gas is commonly used from a reservoir either inside or outside the gun).

How realistic are Airsoft Guns?
Even law enforcement officers are often unable to distinguish Airsoft from real steel. Never take an Airsoft gun out in public, doing so WILL endanger your life.

How do Airsoft guns operate?
An Airsoft gun can operate off one of any three principles. The most common and cost effective are our line of spring guns. Spring guns must be cocked before each shot, usually by racking the slide or cocking handle (rifles). Cocking the gun compresses a spring attached to a piston, when the trigger is pulled, the piston flies forward, compresses the air in the cylinder and fires the BB at an average velocity of 250 FPS. Most people start off with spring guns and often move up to gas blowback guns. Gas blowback pistols use HFC22 or Green Gas. Green gas is loaded into the bottom of the magazine along with the ammunition. This design allows for rapid magazine changes to replace both expended rounds and propellant. BB guns operate in a manner very similar to real firearms. After inserting the magazine you cock the gun to chamber the first round. Upon pulling the trigger, gas is released to propel the BB out of the barrel at an average of 300 FPS. A small amount of gas is also captured to force the slide back, resetting the hammer and chambering the next round. This is a very efficient system allowing you to fire the gun as fast as you can pull the trigger. Electric powered guns use a gear and piston system to offer semi and sometimes fully automatic operation.

How many shots can I get from a can of green gas?
This will vary with the gun you are using, rate of fire and temperature. The faster you pull the trigger, the colder the gas becomes thus lowering the pressure. Shooting from a very cold magazine will not yield nearly as many rounds as a room temperature magazine. On average, one can of gas will yield approx 2000 rounds.

Can I use standard .177 pellets or 4.5mm copper BBs?
NO! This type of ammunition will not work at all in any of our guns and may cause damage to the gun itself.

Are Airsoft guns legal to own and operate?
Airsoft guns are legal to own in most states. Exceptions include New York City (including all 5 boroughs) and Michigan. This is not a complete list - always review all local and state laws/ordinances regarding BB guns, replica guns, and paintball guns before making a purchase.

Which gun is the BEST?
We get dozens of emails every day asking which gun is the best. Here is the answer: The M4 is our most popular spring rifle while the M9 remains the most popular spring pistol. The AEG rifles and Beretta pistols are the most popular battery powered guns. The M11 is by far the coolest of the gas blowback guns with the M9 following as a close second. For the absolute highest rate of fire, go with the HFC gas blowback guns.

What kind of protection do I need to play Airsoft?
Full face protection is REQUIRED for any Airsoft sporting activity. Airsoft guns can cause serious eye injury and shatter teeth if unprotected. We also recommend using neck protection, elbow and knee guards.

How far will Airsoft guns shoot?
Airsoft guns have a maximum-effective range of about 60-130 yards depending on whether or not the gun has been upgraded. Stock full-size electric rifles can shoot accurately up to 20-60 yards, spring guns 15-20 yards, and electric guns 10-40 yards.

How accurate are Airsoft guns?
Airsoft guns very accurate for smooth-bore guns. At 20 yards, you can shoot a 6-8" group.

How loud are Airsoft guns?
Airsoft guns are quieter than a .22 caliber rifle, but a bit louder than a typical air rifle.

What are Airsoft guns made of?
Some of our guns are made of the same durable ABS Plastic used in items such as motorcycle helmets, others are made of metal or both. Airsoft guns cannot be modified to fire real ammunition. Because they are made of different materials, the guns tend to be a little lighter than their real counterparts.

How old do you have to be to purchase from Strike Back Now?
You must be at least 18 years of age to purchase any product from us. Strike Back Now assumes "NO LIABILITY" arising from the purchase of any products offered in this publication; including sale, resale or misuse.

What are the tactical training applications of Airsoft?
Airsoft guns are ideal for tactical training. Our Favor company Tactical Training Solutions International is run by a 14 year law enforcement veteran and has provided solutions for tactical teams across the country.

How do Shooters care for airsoft guns?
Refer to our Shooters Care for Airsoft Guns page.

I live outside of the US, can I still buy Airsoft Guns?
No, we are not shipping outside the USA at the present time.

How long will it take to get my order?
You can Click Here for a UPS schedule chart, you can also track your order within our website by going to the Track My Order page.

What is your 2007 Holiday Shipping schedule?
Click Here to find out.

Can I get a refund?
Absolutely not, as stated on our Policy, we do not offer refunds, please make all the necessary research before purchasing any of our products.

What do I do if I receive a damaged product?
You need to call UPS immediately, see our Policy for more information.

Do products you sell come with a warranty?
No, Strike Back Now does not offer warranties on any products offered for sale, but we will honor exchanges on malfunctioning or defective products within seven days of receipt, see our Policy page for detail information. However, some products come with warranties offered directly through the manufacturer.

How much does shipping cost?
It all depends on where you reside, how far the package has to travel, and how much it weights, the average price is usually between $7.00 to $14.00.

How is an Airsoft gun distinguished from a real gun?
As required by federal law, the first 5mm of the barrel on any Airsoft gun has a blaze orange marking affixed to it, or has it molded in orange plastic. Removal, alteration, or destruction of the orange markings is both dangerous, and a violation of federal law. It will also void your warranty.

What do the numbers mean on the bb’s?
The numbers refer to bb weight in grams. All of our guns are designed around a specific weight of bb. The recommended bb weight is automatically selected for each product.

What is the muzzle velocity of different airsoft guns?
Spring pistols tend to fire 190-350 fps, Spring rifles 220-450 fps, and electric guns and pistols or gas guns fire 175-400 fps.

Do you have a dealer or reseller’s program?
Currently we do not have a program for dealers, but we will have one soon.

What is the magazine capacity on airsoft guns?
The magazine capacities are never lower than the real gun. Pistols are 10-50 rounds, sub guns 25-600 rounds.

How do I pay using money orders?
Please Click Here to see our Mail Order Page for more information on ordering.

What Is A Stun Gun?
Stun guns are non-lethal self defense weapons that use high voltage to stop an assailant. Touching an attacker with the two metal prongs on the stunners quickly causes temporary loss of balance and mental confusion. The longer the unit maintains contact with the assailants body, the more effective the device is in repelling the attacker. For 1-2 seconds will cause muscle spasms and a dazed mental state. For 3-5 seconds will cause loss of balance and muscle control, total mental confusion and disorientation leaving him dazed. Depending upon the length of contact, they will be repelled, disorientated, and/or collapse and may be immobilized for 5-15 minutes. Recovery is complete in a short time and the technology is classified as non-lethal. Your goal is to repel the assailant and escape.

How Does A Stun Gun Work?
Stun devices are designed to scramble the nervous system. By sending energy into the muscular system at a high pulse frequency the muscles work very rapidly, but not efficiently. This rapid work cycle depletes blood sugar by converting it into lactic acid within seconds. The resulting energy loss makes it difficult for the attacker to move. Simultaneously, tiny neurological impulses that travel throughout the muscular system are interrupted, causing the attacker to become disoriented and confused.

Are Stun Guns Safe To Use?
Both medical and scientific communities have determined that stun guns are completely safe because they cause no permanent damage to the attacker. In fact, they have no effect on involuntary muscles such as the heart and lungs. Stun Guns will not permanently harm someone with a pace maker.

Would I Be At Risk Of Shocking Myself If I Am Touching The Assailant When The Stun Device Is Applied?
Absolutely not, under no conditions can you suffer a chargeback to your own body so you can feel safe even if the assailant is holding onto you.

Does The Stun Device Have A Safety Switch To Prevent Accidental Activation Of The Unit?
Most models include a safety switch separate from the On/Off switch. The unit cannot produce a shock unless the safety switch is activated AND the On/Off switch is turned ON.

Are They Effective On A Person Under The Influence Of Drugs Or Alcohol, And Can It Penetrate Clothing?
Effects on a person under the influence can vary depending on the person. A Stun Gun can penetrate up to 2 inches of thick clothing.

Are There Any Legal Restrictions On Stun Guns?
Stun Guns are legal in most States under Federal Law. Local and State laws may vary. We recommend that you contact your local police authorities and inquire directly. It is the responsibility of the buyer to know their local laws. Also, see Stun Gun Restrictions for a list of some known restrictions.

Can I Travel With A Stun Gun?
There are no Federal statutes governing Stun Devices other than air carrier travel, public forums, sporting events, court houses, and other government buildings which are restricted. When traveling you should, check with Local Authorities first, and if permitted, place your Stun Gun in checked luggage only.

What If a Child Gets Their Hands On a Stun Gun?
A Stun Gun is much safer to have in your home than a Gun. If the device is touched to the body and the button depressed, the muscles go limp in one millisecond (1/1000ths of a second), so that the button is instantly released. Nevertheless, we highly recommend that you take all necessary precautions to insure that it does not get into the hands of a Child. Stun Guns are NOT TOYS, they are highly effective self defense devices that should be taken seriously.

What Is The Power Source for Stun Guns?
Most stun guns that we carry require 9-volt alkaline batteries. Not all brands of 9-volt batteries will work in a stun gun due to the amount of power they require. For this reason, we recommend that you use ONLY fully charged Energizer alkaline batteries.

How Can I Carry The Stun Gun?
Most models are small enough to fit easily inside a pocket or purse. Most models also include a belt clip attachment so the unit can be conveniently worn on the waist while walking, jogging, etc. Stun Gun holsters are also available for purchase. The holsters include a belt attachments for convenient carrying and can be easily concealed under a suit or jacket.

What Is The Difference Between A 100,000 Volt Stun Gun And A 500,000 Volt Stun Gun?
Depending on the length of direct contact, a 100,000 volt stun gun will cause pain, muscle contractions, disorientation and loss of balance. They work well enough to repel the attacker and escape, which is the goal. A 100,000 volt stun gun may not necessarily take an attacker down and leave him immobilized. The higher powered stun guns (300,000 volts and higher) have more effective take-down power. A direct contact of 3-5 seconds can immobilize an attacker for 5-15 minutes without causing any permanent harm.

Is Pepper Spray legal?
In most States Pepper Spray is legal to possess and carry. You should check with your local law enforcement office or your states Attorney Generals office for any regulations your state may have. There are states where pepper spray is legal but there may be size, age or OC concentration restrictions. You should check on these restrictions as well.

Is there anyplace where I cannot carry my Pepper Spray?
Yes. You cannot carry Pepper Spray on board commercial aircraft. This is a Federal crime that can carry up to a $25,000 dollar fine. It is ok to carry pepper spray in your checked baggage although it is highly advisable that you notify the ticketing agent when you check your baggage. Also since 9/11/01 you may have issues when carrying Pepper Spray into secured locations such as a Federal buildings, State buildings or anyplace where you pass through a security check point.

How does Pepper Spray work?
Pepper Spray's active ingredient is OC or oleoresin capsicum. The OC is derived from Cayenne Peppers these are some of the hottest Peppers in the world. Unlike MACE or tear gas, which are irritants, Pepper Spray OC is an inflammatory agent. Contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, throat and lungs) causes immediate dilation of the capillaries. This can result in temporary blindness and instant inflammation of the breathing tube tissues and systematically cuts of all but life support breathing. OC also will create an intense burning sensation on the surface of the skin. However, OC will cause no lasting after effects. The effects last from 15 to 60 minutes. Because OC is an inflammatory agent and not an irritant it is effective on those who feel no pain such as psychotics and those under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Is Mace the same as Pepper Spray?
No, Mace or tear gas are irritants only, Pepper Spray OC is an inflammatory agent. Contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, throat and lungs) causes immediate dilation of the capillaries.

When should I use my Pepper Spray?
Although no defense item is 100% effective in every situation you will need to assess the situation as it happens. You should ONLY use pepper spray if you are threatened or your life is in danger. please note that it IS a crime to use Pepper Spray to commit malicious acts.

How do I use my Pepper Spray?
If you have to use your Pepper Spray make sure you have distance between you and the threat if at all possible. Aim the spray at the eyes and facial region of the threat then release a 1 to 2 second burst of spray. After you have done this MOVE out of the way but keep your eyes on the threat. Pepper Spray can take a couple of moments to cause a reaction and by watching the reactions of the threat you will be able to determine if you will require another shot of Pepper Spray. Boxers have a saying "Stick and Move" well the same applies here. Just remember "Spray and Move", "Spray and Move". Once the threat is eliminated seek help and call the police.

What is Pepper Spray made of?
Pepper Spray is a derivative of Cayenne pepper. The oils are extracted from the pepper using a high-pressure process. This process leaves you with the active ingredient in Pepper Spray known as OC or Oleoresin Capsicum. The pure Pepper extract is then diluted with an inert ingredient that reduces the SHU or Scoville Heat Unit to get it down to a useable SHU for Pepper Spray. SHU is a unit of measurement that determines how hot something is the rating goes from 1 million SHU up to 5 million SHU. 1 million SHU is detectable on the palette in concentrations as little as 1 part per million or 1 drop of OC in 1 million drops of water. All of our sprays are 2 million SHU and in much higher concentrations than 1 part per million.

Will my Pepper Spray expire?
Yes. That is why we print an expiration date on every can of Pepper Spray. Usually this expiration date is 3 to 4 years from the date of purchase. Although the spray life is indefinite it does start to lose potency over time. Any use of the spray beyond the expiration date is HIGHLY unadvisable. We strongly advise you to replace your Pepper Spray every year! That way you are always assured of the potency of the spray.

How can I be assured my Pepper Spray will work when I need it?
You should get in the habit of testing your defense spray every 90 days. To do this first go outside and determine which direction the wind is blowing. Remember to always stand upwind from the direction you are spraying. Depress the firing mechanism for ½ second. This test should be performed upon purchase and every 90 days after that. Be aware that every time you test your spray you reduce the contents of the canister. If you are using a key chain model and you test regularly you will need to replace the unit every 9 to 12 months if you follow the recommended testing procedure above. See the reference chart on the back of the packaging for additional information.

Can you ship Stun Guns or Pepper Spray anywhere?
No, Pepper Sprays cannot be shipped outside the continental US, which includes Alaska, Hawaii, US Territories. Pepper Sprays cannot be shipped by any other method other than GROUND. Pepper Sprays cannot be shipped to the following states: New York, Massachusetts, or Wisconsin. Also, Pepper Sprays, or any type of Weapon including Stun Devices, Knives, and Batons, cannot be Shipped outside the United States (including its territories). Stun Guns may be illegal in some States or Cities, see Stun Gun Restrictions to find out more.

What's an Air Taser Gun?
An Air Taser is a small handheld personal protection device that utilizes compressed air to shoot two small probes up to 15 feet. These probes are connected by special Taser wire back to the handheld Power Handle. An electric signal is automatically transmitted along the wires to the body of the assailant (even through clothing).

How Does the Air Taser Work?
Upon firing, compressed nitrogen projects two probes 15 feet at a speed of 135 feet per second. An electrical signal transmits throughout the region where the probes make contact with the body or clothing. The result is an instant loss of the attacker’s neuromuscular control and any ability to perform coordinated action. This stun device uses an automatic timing mechanism to apply the electric charge. It releases an electric current in a pre-set time sequence (an initial seven seconds followed by several 1.8 second breaks for a total time of about 30 seconds in each cycle). This cycle ensures that the nervous system of the target does not recover instantly to allow him to remove the probes. The follow-on bursts disrupt the process of re-equilibration of the nervous system. While the target is disabled, the user can place the device on the ground and escape.

How effective is the Air Taser?
The Air Taser is effective because it overrides the nervous system of the human body. The Air Taser sends a series of electrical signals called Taser Waves or T-Waves quite similar to those used by the brain to communicate with the body. Much like radio jamming, the T-Waves overpower the normal electrical signals within the body's nerve fibers. The human target instantly loses control of his body and cannot perform coordinated action, falling to the ground. The Air Taser electrical output simply "jams" the communication system of the body. The electrical output of the Air Taser is 50,000 Volts. The voltage may seem high, however, AIR Tasers output is 1/1000th of a potentially dangerous level. Studies have shown there are no long-term effects from being shot by Taser. A study performed at the University of Southern California Medical Center concluded that in addition to its non-lethality, the Taser leaves 0% long-term injuries.

What is an Advanced Taser?
The Advanced Taser is a conducted energy weapon that utilizes compressed nitrogen to shoot two small probes up to 15 feet. These probes are connected to the weapon by high-voltage insulated wire. When the probes make contact with the target, the Advanced Taser transmits powerful electrical pulses along the wires and into the body of the target through up to two inches of clothing.

How does the Advanced Taser Work?
The Advanced Taser (EMD) weapons use a more powerful 18 to 26 Watt electrical signal to completely override the central nervous system and directly control the skeletal muscles. This EMD effect causes an uncontrollable contraction of the muscle tissue, allowing the M-Series to physically debilitate a target regardless of pain tolerance or mental focus. The Advanced Taser M-Series are EMD weapons -- specifically designed to stop even the most elite, aggressive, focused combatants. Rather than simply interfering with communication between the brain and muscles, the Advanced Tazer EMD systems directly tell the muscles what to do: contract until the target is in the fetal position on the ground. The Advanced Tazer provides for maximum safety for both the officer and the subject by bringing dangerous situations quickly under control before force escalates to lethal levels.

How Effective is the Advance Taser M- 18?
The Advanced Taser M-18 series has almost 100% effectiveness rating. It combines the injury reducing benefits of traditional stun technology with a quantum leap in stopping power via new Electro-Muscular Disruption (EMD) technology. In police studies, the new Advanced Tazer has a higher instant incapacitation rate than a 9mm hand gun. The Advanced Tazer shoots out 2 darts attached to 15 feet of wire. 50,000 volts travels over the wires and over-rides the central nervous system providing incredible takedown power.

Can Tasers be shipped anywhere?
Tasers is treated like an Stun Gun and cannot be shipped to the following states: New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, Hawaii, or to the city of Philadelphia, also see Stun Gun Restrictions.