The KWA booth had several unexpected surprises!
First up were several configurations of the new KWA MP9: The KPM9 and KPM9R. This is not a rebranding of KSC's MP9 by any means. The SMG has been re-engineered with the NS2 Gas Blowback System. The KMP9 will be available with either a tac-rail or a foregrip. Both of these configurations will be available in Black, Tan, and Ranger Green. Expect to see them released around March or April!
The KMP9 with foregrip
The KMP9R with tac-rail
There were rumors that KWA would be showing their prototype GBB M4. Well, here they are... Too bad you won't be able to get your hands on em until June or July!
The LM4 PTR and LM4 SR7 will be the two initial releases for KWA's GBB M4 line, but others are already planned. The guns feel incredibly solid. The only potential downside is that the grips will be proprietary. This design was necessary to support the blow back action and still conform with the ATF regulations that prevent the airsoft gun from being converted to fire a real rifle round. Overall, this was the best way to go. KWA will be making alternative compatible grips, as well as encouraging third party manufacturers to do the same.
The prototype is pretty much complete, but KWA is still working to improve the durability of the magazines. Anyone who has used existing GBB M4s (such as the WE or Western Arms) may have encountered magazines that break from a few drops. Having GBB rifles supported by US distributers will be awesome for the airsoft community. In the event issues do arise, or repair parts are needed, they will be much easier to obtain. Classic Army had a GBB M4 prototype as well, stay tuned for the Spartan Imports booth write-up.
Speaking of gas powered guns, KWA is now making their own Green Gas! Air Armory will be carrying this product soon. Not much else to say, but I was able to man-handle a can of it.
Also on display were the latest line of KWA Gas Blowback pistols. There are many new designs and grips for the 1911 PTPs, as well as the brand new 2011.
The 1911 Mark I and Mark II PTP
The 1911 Mark III PTP
The 1911 Mark IV PTP
And here are the 2011 Formula 5.0 and 5.1
There was also a new MK23 pistol on display, but we failed to snap a picture of that one... so here is a stock KWA image!
We'll post up as soon as these products are on the way to our shop!