The quality of Nerf cross-overs varies. Theres a balance between the looks/cosplay value and actual blaster function to consider. Some examples, like the Nerf Halo MA40, are a great blend of working blaster and semi-accurate prop. Some others, such as the Mangler, may be a little lacking.
The Mangler is a decent prop, although it’s brightly colored to make it clear that its a toy. It is uncomfortable to use and doesn’t make the most of all the available real estate. It is definitely affordable, but I wished for more.
Compare And Contrast
For obvious reasons, Hasbro didnt make a grey blaster. There are some other differences. In-game, the weapon holds eight rounds. In real lifeits a Nerf Disruptor (six shots) with a plastic cowl covering all of the unused space. Although the cowl appears to have eight rounds, you actually get six. One side also flips out for loading the cylinder, even though doing so doesnt actually open up any barrels for loading. I realize that more plastic is more cost, but would it really hurt the bottom line that much to make the ammo count match when theres clearly space? You dont even need to make the cylinder that much larger to hold eight rounds, while still having a cowl.
The blaster primes via a rod on top of the blaster. Given the in-game model, having a large slide would stand out. Even so, it’s not enough. Sweaty hands make it more difficult to use without falling.
The handle, meanwhilefeels cramped. The trigger can pinch your middle finger, especially if it is designed so that you cannot press it. Small hands may have room, but larger ones will find the last few fingers cramped.
The blaster’s melee section is made of hard plastic. As a toy company, I understand that they don’t encourage you to use your blaster as you would in a game. In reality, people will. It would make better sense to at least have a bit of foam coating the blades for safety, even if it meant a few more dollars on the price. Its a Nerf toy, most consumers would understand.
Performance
If there is one saving grace, its that the blaster is up to Elite standards, averaging 72fps. I can fire roughly two darts per second with it.
Internals
The blaster is, as previously stated, a Disruptor within a new body. There is no slamfire mechanism but the basic platform remains. Given how much spare there would be to expand capacityits still a bit disappointing.
I wonder if Flipfury internals could be stuffed in here.
