Tanaka M500 Magnum Revolver (Gas Shell Casyopea Series) - BANNED IN JAPAN

Although airsoft guns can be classed as toys, there's no denying that a lot of them are made to closely resemble the real deal. Yet, though the aesthetics may be an exact replica, there is still the sobering fact that it doesn't operate exactly like the real thing, whether it be winding a hi-cap magazine or filling gas into the grip of a revolver. Well, recently, we've seen a number of manufacturers taking steps to make their real-steel replicas not only look and feel like its real gun counterpart, but operate just like one too.

So, what have Tanaka tinkering away at? Well, revolvers have always played a major part of their product line-up, so it comes as no surprise that their quest for realistic operation comes in the guise of a revolver. The charming things about revolvers are the mechanism and the whole process of placing the shells into the chamber and Tanaka have concentrated on making this experience as authentic as possible with their new M500 revolver. As you can see from the photo above, the shells are removable, but instead of filling the gas into the bottom of the grip, each individual shell is charged with gas that is used to propel the BB held within the shell. Some may feel that it is a bit troublesome, but that's what makes revolvers so intriguing to play with, if you don't want the hassle then a semi-auto blowback pistol is probably more to your liking, revolver fans will most likely appreciate this little gem from Tanaka.

Able to shoot 250 fps on HFC 134a and up to 350 fps with Top Gas (propane). One charge is good for three shots of BBs (per shell) before you need to recharge gas again.

Need some shells? Get some spare ones here

NOVEMBER 2008 NEWS UPDATE:
Japanese police have deemed this model as illegal and too close in design to a real firearm. Tanaka has been forced to stop production of this model immediately and their top management responsible for this product have been arrested for questioning. As a result, this has immediately become a collector's piece and will surely appreciate in value.