Summary of Recent Happenings

Thought you guys would like to know some of the stuff that's been going on recently.
There's a couple of things, including a game report of a small game on 30/7/14, a look at some of my recent acquisitions, and just general news on what's happening.

Review: Nerf Elite Rapidstrike CS-18 (20m grey trigger Aus)

The Rapidstrike CS-18 was one of the most exciting Nerf releases of 2013 for many. Since the Stampede of 2010, there weren't any other similar "assault rifle" styled full auto blasters, and some people were modding their N-Strike Rayvens to be full auto. And of course, even from the initial leaked pictures, the Rapidstrike looked like a beast.
So does the Rapidstrike live up to all of its hype?

N-Strike vs Elite Round 5: Elite Rapidstrike CS-18 vs N-Strike Stampede ECS

Today's comparison post will be of Nerf's two full-auto clip (mag) system blasters. Hopefully this will keep you guys occupied until I get my Rapidstrike review done.

HFCBE: Nerf Elite Rapidstrike CS-18 (stock)

Nerf claims the Rapidstrike can empty an 18 clip (mag) in 5.62 seconds. I put that claim to the test in a quick video.

Batteries: 4 x Toys 'R' Us branded C batteries
Time: 4.923
No. darts: 18
ROF: 3.45dps or 207.2dpm

So yes, the Rapidstrike can achieve the claimed ROF. Considering Nerf's recent track record with performance claims, this is a surprise, and a good one at that.

Mod: Shortened Retaliator Barrel

This one's purely for tacticool, since it's been pretty well established that Nerf faux barrel are typically more detrimental to performance than helpful.

This shortened barrel is pretty easy to make. Just cut a regular Retaliator barrel down the middle, just in front of the screw ports. Then add useless tacticool things to make it look cooler. In my case I added barrel's iron sight and the muzzle from an Alpha Trooper.
One important feature I kept was the bottom tactical rail. Because of the blocks that usually keep a grip forward, these blocks now serve to keep attachments from falling off, since the usual tactical rail lock has had to be removed.
More pics after the break.