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Introduction
S-Thunder is continuing their line of compact grenade launchers with these two new launchers, a polymer long barreled 40mm pistol, and a metal short barreled 40mm pistol. These complement the polymer short barreled pistol that is already on the market, and give you additional usage options, including the use of longer shells, as well as the ability to mount optics on the metal launcher. This will be a brief review, as there aren’t too many differences between these launchers and the one I’ve reviewed HERE, so I will try my best to keep this brief and to the point!

First impressions/Packaging:
The launchers came packaged in foam lined cardboard boxes, to keep them safe during shipping. Unlike the first launcher I received, these launchers had orange plastic rings glued onto the muzzle to comply with federal regulations. The launchers also included a basic manual to show the proper functioning and maintenance.

Gun Specifications:
Long Launcher
Weight: About .5 lbs
Length: 11.75″
Width: 2″
Height: 6″

Short Launcher
Weight: About 1 lb
Length: 8.75″
Width: 2″
Height: 6″

Externals:
As mentioned, these launchers differ mainly in their construction material, as well as their barrel length. The long launcher’s barrel is a bit longer than 7″, while the short is the same length as the older model, just under 4.5″.

Comparison of the three launchers

Starting with the short, metal launcher, you can see the other major difference, which is the top rail. This allows you to mount optics, as well as perform a rail to rail mount to place this launcher underneath another gun, like an M203. The rail is slightly smaller than spec, however, it will mount the vast majority of optics with no issues.

Short launcher

Top rail

Optic mounted

The latch system on the short launcher is made of metal, instead of the plastic on the polymer launchers. It feels a little bit sturdier, and it uses a spring opening device on the barrel. The overall construction is pretty much the same as the old launcher, aside from the metal build material.

Barrel opened

Spring opening system

The long launcher is pretty much identical to the old launcher I reviewed, aside from the additional barrel length. It does not have a top rail, so you cannot mount optics on it without custom work. The balance of the longer barrel allows the long launcher to flip open and closed much easier than the old short launcher.

Long launcher

Shell inserted

Both launchers feature the same M4 type pistol grip, which can be replaced with a real steel grip if you so desire. They also feature the same S-Thunder trademark on the side of the frame. The trigger pull is dependant on the shell/gas used, but it is certainly manageable for skirmish use. This isn’t a high precision tactical pistol we’re talking about here, it’s a grenade launcher that can fit in your pocket, and in that regard, it certainly does its job well.

Magazines:

These launchers are chambered in 40mm, and as such, can use the wide variety of 40mm grenade shells that are on the market. I haven’t had any issues with my cache of 40mm shells, so it’s pretty safe to say that these will work with anything on the market currently. I prefer to run S-Thunder shells, mainly because they can run a wide variety of gasses and projectiles, plus they are damn loud, and quite powerful.

Performance:

As mentioned above, these are tools to fire 40mm shells, so your performance will vary depending on the shell used. You can have everything from hundreds of BBs in one shot, to large rubber slugs. The sky is the limit with 40mm power.

Modifications:
Since these use M4 style pistol grips, you can install pretty much any real steel aftermarket grip you want to make it more comfortable, or to add a unique look. The rail on the short launcher will mount optics to allow for more precise aiming, or, with some additional hardware, let you mount it onto another rail for underslung use.

Pros:
Tiny little 40mm launchers
Relatively inexpensive – Sub $100
Fits most inexpensive universal holsters
Able to fit aftermarket grips

Cons:
No iron sights
Slightly out of spec rail on short launcher

Overall:
I continue to be impressed with S-Thunder’s products, especially their launcher pistol lineup. They keep tweaking their launchers, adding new materials, barrel lengths, and in the future, additional barrels. My hope is that they eventually make a full size launcher with a stock, but for now, I love the launcher pistols!

To Order S-Thunder Wholesale Products For Your Store Call 414-943-7527

Since the successful introduction of S-Thunder’s Short Barrel Composite Grenade Launcher, S-Thunder (www.s-thunder.com) is pleased to announce the launch of the following new products,

* Short Barrel Full Metal Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB02)

* Long Barrel Composite Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB11)

* Long Barrel Composite Grenade Launcher Kit (Item ref # ASG-SB22)

Highlights of the new grenade launchers are as follows,

Short Barrel Metal Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB02)

Long Barrel Composite Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB11)

Similar to S-Thunder’s Short Barrel Composite Grenade Launcher, the trigger pull and hammer force of the new grenade launchers also are ideal for use with CO2 powered grenades as well as grenades charged with HPA/Top Gas/Green Gas/Red Gas/R134A etc. Trigger is not excessively “tight” and the lighter trigger force will significantly “reduce” a player’s reaction time when firing at stationary or moving targets.

S-Thunder is also introducing a new Long Barrel Pistol Grip Composite Grenade Launcher Kit. This is an affordable starter grenade launcher kit for players,

* Long Barrel Grenade Launcher Kit – Item ref # AGL-SB22 includes,

* “long barrel” Composite Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB11)

* one (1) Gas Powered Standard Length M203 Style Shocker Grenade Shell

* one (1) Single Cartridge CO2 Cylinder

* one (1) CO2 Cylinder Adaptor nozzle

* Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of US$174.99 (*)

Demonstration videos and media reviews of the Composite Grenade Launcher can be seen here,

* CQB Radio, USA (www.cqbradio.com)

* http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5EVF8EwEO0

* http://c4.libsyn.com/media/23963/MiniCast_205.mp3?nvb=20101118014354&nva=20101119015354&sid=10121e2fa0a4c3168d34b71779b6efd4&l_sid=23963&l_eid=&l_mid=2277116&t=007c0bd41da61e88be0fd (audio review at time 13:23)

* Airsoft Retreat, USA (www.airsoftretreat.com)

* http://www.airsoftretreat.com/forums/index.php?topic=96867.0

Tim of CQB Radio states that “these are two really cool options … I like the fact that they you can carry these around and they have the pistol grip on them.”. Compared to other hand held grenade launchers, Tim notes that S-thunder’s are “more functional since it does have the pistol grip, real trigger, its got a safety. This is a good option if you want to be a grenadier, but don’t want to carry an M203 underneath a gun or attached to your gun which adds a lot of extra weight…”.

Booligan of Airsoft Retreat comments that “…it’s a grenade launcher that can fit in your pocket, and in that regard, it certainly does its job well…I continue to be impressed with S-Thunder’s products, especially their launcher pistol lineup.”.

Commenting on S-Thunder’s growing line of grenade launchers and grenade shells, Yu-Hon Li, Director of Business Development states that “we are very pleased with the results from the earlier release of the Short Barrel Composite Grenade Launcher. After selling several thousand units since September, we look forward to offering our new short barrel metal grenade launchers and the long barrel composite grenade launchers to the milsim community to enhance the playing experience of both paintballers and airsofters with a line of functional, durable and affordable products.”.

Yu-Hon also notes that “players, media, distributors and retailers will be able to keep track of S-Thunder’s latest releases at its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/pages/S-Thunder-Paintball-Airsoft/164846156880820) offering everyone an open forum to learn and discuss about S-Thunder’s products. S-Thunder will also be participating at upcoming trade shows worldwide including the Hong Kong Toy Fair, IWA & Outdoor Classics in Germany and the North Atlantic Airsoft Expo in the USA.”.

To Order S-Thunder Launchers Call 414-943-7527 or email wholesale@ontargetairsoft.com

Note:

(*) Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for items listed are S-Thunder Limited’s suggested price for these items. Please check local retailers for exact pricing, specials, promotions, or other pricing. MSRP is subject to change without notice

Want To Offer Your Customers More Realism In Their Airsoft Games?

The people who are interested in air soft products and competitions are often looking for the most realistic experience and accessories to make the battle as intense as it can be. One of the more popular accessories that have entered the market is the airsoft hand grenade from SRC.

Examining The James Boom MKIII Airsoft Grenade

This is a realistic green gas powered device that holds approximately 72 BB’s. The nice thing about this is that you can use the cheap.12 gram BB’s or even high grade ammunition that has already been shot from a gun. This gives you a way to get double usage from your expensive ammunition.

When discharged the BB’s leave the device at a velocity of 250-350 FPS. The lighter the projectile the faster it will go! And the best part is that they will shoot in every direction possible giving you a great way to eliminate multiple enemies fast!

The construction on this unit is very solid and made from solid rubber with a nylon plastic cover that you must remove before you use in battle. This new air soft battle accessory weighs in at a modest empty weight of 9 oz. Is a easy to carry 5 1/4″ tall and it will fit in most of the widely available battle pouches. It is also very easy to disassemble for cleaning and repairs.

Some nice touches to this product that add alot of realism are the adjustable timer that allows you to set how long it will take to detonate upon being activated. It gives you infinite adjustments between 1 second and 1 hour so it is perfect for ambushes and booby traps! It also produces a hissing sound prior to exploding which adds to the realism of a battle situation. If you want to add more fun and realism and take your air soft battles to the next level then you really should check out the new James boom MKIII airsoft A2 hand grenade.

To Buy James Boom Grenades For Your Retail Store Please Call 1-414-943-7527

The news of these new releases from S-Thunder have been circulating around and finally they have sent more information about this to our Inbox. Interesting news items for those who have a destructive streak in airsoft. These products are the pistol grenade composite launcher and kits… “S-Thunder is pleased to announce the launch the first in a new series of grenade launchers.

S-Thunder’s “short barrel” Pistol Grip Composite Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB01) is first entry level release in this new product line.  Highlights of the new grenade launcher are as follows:

• Entry level unit (Item ref # ASG-SB01) of a new line of single barrel grenade launchers from S-Thunder
  Pistol type grip grenade launcher
• Easy to use and comfortable to hold
• Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of US$69.99 (*) – making S-Thunder’s grenade launcher one of the world’s most affordable grenade launchers
• Body is made of a durable engineered composite material allowing the grenade launcher to be durable, light weight and easy to carry
• Trigger pull and hammer force are ideal for use with CO2 powered grenades as well as grenades charged with HPA/Top Gas/Green Gas/Red Gas/R134A etc.  Trigger is not excessively “tight” and the lighter trigger force will significantly “reduce” a player’s reaction time when firing at stationary or moving targets
• Accommodates all 40mm diameter paintball / airsoft grenade shells including S-Thunder’s 40mm Shocker M203 style grenade shells and CO2 powered foam ball grenades
• Breech loading allows for fast reloading
• Safety and release switch is included in unit as an added safety precaution
• Interchangeable pistol AR grip – users can customize the grenade launcher grip by changing the standard M4 / M16 style pistol grip with other AR grips available in the marketplace

S-Thunder is also launching its Pistol Grip Composite Grenade Launcher Kits.  These are affordable grenade launcher kits for players and S-Thunder will offer two (2) styles of kits as follows:

• Grenade Launcher Kit #1 – Item ref # AGL-SB21 includes:
  • “short barrel” Composite Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB01)
  • one (1) Gas Powered Foam Ball Grenade Shell
  • one (1) Single Cartridge CO2 Cylinder
  • one (1) CO2 Cylinder Adaptor nozzle
  • Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of US$149.99 (*)

• Grenade Launcher Kit #2 – Item ref # AGL-SB21-A includes:
  • “short barrel” Composite Grenade Launcher (Item ref # ASG-SB01)
  • one (1) Gas Powered Grenade Shell (short M203 style)
  • one (1) Single Cartridge CO2 Cylinder
  • one (1) CO2 Cylinder Adaptor nozzle
  • Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of US$149.99 (*)

Demonstration videos and media reviews of the Composite Grenade Launcher can be seen here:

• Airsoft Retreat, USA

• CQB Radio, USA

Booligan of Airsoft Retreat has reviewed S-Thunder’s Composite Grenade Launcher mentioning the interchangeability pistol grips and they ‘mounted up a .45 style grip adaptor for a paintball gun, however it is the same design as real steel ARs, so your options are limitless’ and in his conclusion, Booligan states that ‘I am very pleased with this launcher, namely because it is so incredibly compact, and it gives you impressive firepower.’

Yu-Hon Li, Director of Business Development at S-Thunder mentions that ‘we will soon be releasing long barrel composite grenade launchers as well as metal versions.  One of our goals is to offer a line of grenade launchers which grenadiers can easily set up and quickly fire at targets when needed.  During our research, we found that many grenade launchers were not effective when firing M203 type grenade shells when filled with CO2.  The trigger and hammer mechanism of several other grenade launchers we tested were either:

• not strong enough to properly trigger the CO2 powered grenades when needed
• had very tight triggers and required excessive trigger force to activate CO2 powered grenades’

Both of these issues significantly increases the reaction time and reduces the performance of grenadiers.  Our engineering team designed a simple, but effective mechanism to resolve this and S-Thunder now offers a line of grenade launchers that have:

• a trigger mechanism that is slightly lighter to the touch allowing for a more comfortable and smooth trigger control
• a hammer mechanism that has enough ‘force’ to quickly activate CO2 powered grenades when required

S-Thunder’s enhanced trigger and hammer mechanisms will allow players to fire their grenades easier and faster.  This is extremely important as it provides grenadiers an added edge by reducing reaction time when firing upon a target and therefore increase an individual’s performance.’

S-Thunder’s grenade launchers are compatible with all brands of 40mm M203 style paintball / airsoft grenade shells, including S-Thunder’s line of Gas Powered Grenades and its line of short & long barrel Gas Powered Foam Ball Grenades which can be used to launch paintballs, bbs, rubber pellets, colored water, smoke powder, confetti as well as 40mm foam rockets.  S-Thunder will be introducing additional short and long barrel grenade launchers in the coming months to provide a wider range of choices to best suit each player’s individual needs.

Commenting on the use of composite materials, Yu-Hon states that “S-Thunder is taking full advantage of the wide range of specialty engineered materials that are available today.  Several years ago and due to the fact manufacturers were limited by the number of material choices available, metals were used for manufacturing many items.  For example, several components in todays modern automobiles utilize engineered composite materials, whereas up to a a few years ago, these same parts were made of more heavy and costly metals.  Today, when the choice of materials available is so vast, S-Thunder is utilizing leading edge composite materials in our new line of grenade launchers that are as durable as metal, light weight and more cost effective to manufacture.  In keeping with our mission, S-Thunder continues to offer customers functional, innovative, quality and durable products at affordable prices.  Our engineering team found unique ways to reduce the manufacturing costs of S-Thunder’s new line of grenade launchers and we are happy to pass these savings directly to our customers.

We feel that S-Thunder’s pistol type grenade launchers perform as well or better than most others and are among the lowest priced units available in the market, undercutting many others by 30 to over 50% in price.  This will allow for a wider range of grenadiers to have access to these products for use in milsim, scenario, woodsball, CQB as well as for law enforcement and tactical / military training use.”.

To Order The New S-Thunder Launcher Please Call 414-943-7527