:: Super Soaker XP Backfire

The Super Soaker XP Backfire is a dual-trigger, dual-nozzle blaster capable of soaking foes in front of and behind the user at the same time. The shape and trigger placement on the blaster means that when holding the blaster, the side which the cap faces is forward. The XP Backfire has two notable inconveniences when pressurizing the firing chamber. First, the blaster relies on a pressurized reservoir. Thus, the cap must be securely fastened otherwise air/water will leak out resulting in loss of pressure and decreased firing range. The second pumping problem arises due to the placement of the rear-nozzle trigger. Since the trigger is set high on the rear-hand hold, one has a tendency to activate the trigger when pumping the blaster. To prevent this, the XP Backfire should be held closer to the body than other blasters, hugging the read end of the blaster between one's arm and body. This way of holding a water blaster is a little different, but makes sense since one wants the rear nozzle to be pointing behind oneself and not at oneself.

Once pressurized, the Super Soaker XP Backfire actually performs well for an XP-class blaster. The rear nozzle appears to dish out water a little more quickly than the front nozzle. When both triggers are depressed, the streams fire fairly equally though reservoir pressure drops twice as quickly (for obvious reasons). Oddly, when the reservoir is pressurized, if the blaster is not held, the pump will expand. Overall, the XP Backfire is a functional blaster, though its characteristics leaves a lot to be desired. Can be outclassed by most mid-to-large XP-class and higher water blasters.

Pros

Dual directional nozzles with independant control. Fairly light and not to difficult to pump. Able to defend one's backside without needing to turn around.

Cons

Based on a pressurized reservoir system. The rear-nozzle's trigger is poorly placed and can be accidently activated when pumping.

Related Links :.

 Product Listing Page | Super Soaker Product Evolution Tree 

Super Soaker Xtra Power (XP) Series

Reviews on Other Sites

Aqua-Zone

Super Soaker Central

Additional Resources

Water Blaster: Basics | Care, Cleaning, and Storage | Soaker Use: Basics|Repair Articles|Pressurized Reservoir Tech Troubleshooting|Pressurized Reservoir Blaster Usage|Quickfill Tech Troubleshooting