The Water Warriors M16 is a pump-action blaster stylized after the real M16 assault rifle released in 2008 by Buzz Bee Toys Inc. In the same vein as the Water Warriors Hydro-Blast, the Water Warriors M16 is more realistically styled, albeit smaller than actual the life-size weapon. Leaning more towards realistic styling as opposed to performance, the M16's functionality on the water warfare field is more limited as is detailed below.
The Blaster ::
Nozzle ::
The M16 features a single nozzle positioned above the pump as opposed to one the water blaster's barrel. From our understanding, this was done such that the M16 would pass certain toy gun restriction law in certain states in the United States of America. Despite the nozzle's odd positioning, it does function well, producing a decent stream for its size. Being a pump-based blaster, the Water Warriors M16 is not capable of continuous firing.
Pump ::
As already noted, the Water Warrior M16 is a piston-based blaster, thus it fires from the nozzle with every pump. Pumping, itself, is smooth and the pump pushes a decent amount of water per cycle. The pump is located at the front, beneath the true nozzle. Due to its positioning, the pump is actually semi-tracked, extending forward to fill the pump shaft.
Triggers / Grip ::
The trigger on the M16 is ornamental only. The grip, however, has a good size and length, accomodating even larger hand comfortably. The grip is nicely shaped and even textured, making for a solid, secure hold even when wet.
The Reservoir ::
The M16 holds a decent amount of water in its reservoir. The reservoir occupies the shoulder-stock region of the water blaster. Interestingly, the plastic is semi-transluscent, thus one can see how much water is remaining. The reservoir's intake appears fastened to the bottom of the reservoir, able to make use of the majority of water within.
The cap on the M16 is a simpler snap-on design. As it is tethered, this should prevent its loss. The snap-top aspect should also simplify refilling and should not present any significant problems while the blaster is in use. However, due to the less effective seal on this type of cap, leaking becomes a problem if a filled M16 is left on its side for longer periods of time.
Overall ::
As a whole, the Water Warriors M16 is a decent, light, piston-based blaster. The M16 is able to produce a decent strength stream and allows its users to do some mock roleplaying despite the fact that the overall size is scaled to a little over 50% actual size. The main drawbacks are the M16's limited output per pump stroke and the funny positioning of the actual nozzle not being where the real weapon's nozzle is located. Good for smaller water fights, the Water Warriors M16 is still geared more towards styling than actual water blaster performance.
Pros
Simple styling, clean lines, and good solid feel to the soaker. Decent pump volume and reservoir capacity. Modeled after the real M16.
Cons
Modeled after the real M16 (some parents and/or law-enforcement members may disapprove). Piston-based; continuous streams not possible. Snap-cap reservoir closure not as tight as screw-on caps. No strap.
60
Nozzle ::
Pump ::
Triggers / Grip ::
The M16 holds a decent amount of water in its reservoir. The reservoir occupies the shoulder-stock region of the water blaster. Interestingly, the plastic is semi-transluscent, thus one can see how much water is remaining. The reservoir's intake appears fastened to the bottom of the reservoir, able to make use of the majority of water within.
