Click here to download the catalog as a PDF file. To view this site you need Adobe Flash Player and your browser must allow javaScripts. Go here to get the latest Flash Player. GoinG WWii AuTos FAce oFF J. i. Galan T here’s no arguing two of the most famous and efficient military sidearms of the WWII period are the .45 ACP Colt 1911A1 and the 9mm Walther P-38. Given these guns’ huge reputations and respective service records, it’s not surprising to find airsoft clones of both, faithful enough in looks and function to satisfy even the most nitpicker of us. Both of these are gaspowered and feature incredibly realistic blowback function, propelling their plastic 6mm BB ammo at muzzle velocities of approximately 325 fps. The airsoft 1911A1 tested is manufactured by KWA in Taiwan. KWA has been a leading producer of gas-powered softies for a long time, These amazingly realistic airsoft copies of the Walther P-38 and Colt 1911A1 semiautos feature realistic blowback operation. with a wide array of models to their credit. The sample we had is so realistic it would be indistinguishable from a real 1911 were it not for the government-mandated red marking around the front of the slide. The slide is actually made of metal, while the lower frame is molded ABS. Finish is an authenticlooking matte black. The heavy zinc alloy magazine has capacity for up to 14 6mm BBs and also doubles as the gas reservoir. So-called Green Gas is the preferred source of power, although propane gas can also be used by means of a special nozzle adapter available from several major airsoft retailers on the Internet. Although airsoft gas has become scarce in recent months, it’s still available through local airsoft sources. Sporting basically the same dimensions as the real Colt, the KWA airsoft copy tips the scales at 1.5 pounds, thus being about one pound lighter than the real deal. For all practical purposes, though, the weight difference is not that significant, as the softie truly feels quite hefty and solid in the hand, especially with its traditional checkered brown grip panels. The manual safety and grip safety on the 1911A1 work like the real thing too. All the controls on the airsoft P-38 work as in the original gun. Notice the “chamber loaded” indicator pin. 46 WWW.AMERICANHANDGUNNER.COM • JULY/AUGUST 2009