The Water Warriors Aqua Pulse - Pulse Master is the largest spring-based water blaster in the Pulse Series, featuring futuristic styling released for 2009 by Buzz Bee Toys Inc (though actually available in Australia in October, 2008).

The Blaster ::

Nozzles ::

The Water Warriors Pulse Master features a multiple nozzle selector with three different stream settings. The nozzles are powered by the blaster's spring-based pressure chamber; the chamber pushes the streams out quite forcefully, though the pressure chamber's capacity is on the low side. Nevertheless, streams produced by the Pulse Master are very smooth and potent. This smoothness is likely due in part to Buzz Bee Toys' choice to use a pull valve instead of a ball valve as well as the extremely linear layout from pressure chamber to nozzle. The smaller settings offer varying levels of water conservation while the largest nozzle allows the power of the pressure chamber to shine, bursting forth with a small kickback felt. While not a problem on its largest setting, the two smaller settings seem to have a slight problem on the model tested. There appears to be some amount of backflow during firing, causing some water to drain out of the bottom of the blaster after firing.

Pump ::

The pump on the Pulse Master has a good, solid feel to it. Upon first removal from the packaging, the pump seemed to be a little stuck and required a little extra force to get it moving. However, once the initial stiffness was overcome, the pump moved smoothly with just the right amount of resistance. The pump's grip feels comfortable to hold and its shape should minimize slipping. One minor problem is that the pump can end up stuck in an extended position once the pressure chamber is full; the pressure release valve does kick in if one forces the pump.

Triggers / Grip ::

The Pulse Master's trigger feels solid and pulls well. However, due to the sheer force exerted by the pressure chamber on the nozzle valve, while the trigger opens the valve readily, the nozzle valve does lag momentarily upon release. As the pressure chamber is not particularly large, this is a minor problem. However, as the pump works well to quickly recharge the pressure chamber with just a few strokes, one would not be left depressurized for long. The grip, itself, is nicely moulded and feels sturdy, albeit a little on the short side considering the overall size of this blaster. However, as the grip is open, even large hands can be accomodated.

The Reservoir ::

The reservoir of the Pulse Master offers ample volume, but is unfortunately opaque, making it a little trickier to determine how much water one has remaining. Within the reservoir is a pump intake tube which allows the Pulse Master to make use of the majority of its payload. On a full tank, a Pulse Master user can look forward to roughly 28 full pressure chamber shots before running out of juice. The reservoir is capped by a threaded, tethered cap.

Overall ::

The Water Warriors Aqua Pulse - Pulse Master is a definite step in a promising direction in water blaster technology. Mixing spring-loaded firing chambers with the smooth flow of pull valves results in a blaster that is quick to charge and can push out beautifully smooth streams. The main drawback to the Pulse Master stems from its limited pressure chamber capacity resulting in shorter available shot times. However, shorter shot times does also equate to more shots available, thus potentially extending a player's playing time on the field. Great as a primary blaster or even as a heavy backup, the Water Warriors Aqua Pulse - Pulse Master can keep pace with most other water blasters out there. Just be wary of larger, true CPS-class weaponry.

Pros

Solid streams, good power, and shoulder strap. Three stream nozzle selection offers good flexibility on the field. Blaster feels well built and can be pumped easily.

Cons

Small pressure chamber volume means short available shot times. Some leakage/wasted water on smaller nozzle settings (at least on the model tested). Grip on the short side.

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Related Links .:

 Product Listing Page | Water Warriors Product Evolution Tree 

Water Warriors Aqua-Pulse Series

Additional Resources

Water Blaster: Basics | Care, Cleaning, and Storage | Soaker Use: Basics|Repair Articles