The new M4 Carbine by Tippmann is a promising introduction to their airsoft line. The unit is designed to run off of either HPA via a remote air rig or standard 12g CO2 cartridges and is the first of its kind to incorporate a design without the use of any electronics. The rate of fire and velocity is adjustable using a standard Allen key instead of a complex fire control unit. This is all thanks to Tippmann’s patented pressure valve system which provides a simplistic and incredibly durable mechanism.
Here at AirRattle, we received a prototype based off the commercial model that will be available shortly. The gun itself is incredibly solid and is sure to be a testament to Tippmann’s quality in the future. Externally, the gun is constructed out of CNC machined aluminum & steel with tight tolerances. The pistol grip is made from glass-reinforced polymer while the LE-style stock is made from nylon-fiber polymer. Tippmann also claims that this airsoft platform can fit many true M4/AR (Mil-Spec) mods such as rail systems, pistol grips, stocks, etc. We tested out the compatibility and affirmed this by installing a Magpul MOE pistol grip and Knight’s Armament crane stock. Additionally, this airsoft M4 is made to break down and field-strip just like its real-steel counterpart. For the breakdown, simply pop-out the rear lower receiver pin and separate the upper & lower receiver from each other. This allows the upper receiver to swing upwards for easy access to the internals.
The internals consist of high-strength valves and springs which contribute to the simplicity of the system as a whole. Out of the box, our model was configured to hook directly to an HPA-powered rig. Converting the airsoft rifle to take CO2 instead of HPA or vice-versa is incredibly simple and can be done in a matter of minutes. We’ll be providing an in-depth guide of the conversion provided by AirRattle’s head tech within the next couple of days.
Weighing in at 5.5 lbs, this rifle is lightweight and easy to handle. The rail system is attached via the delta ring and sits flush with the upper receiver which allows optics to be placed further up. Additional angled rail segments can be installed much like a standard keymod rail utilizing a hex key and bolts to secure the segments. The buffer tube is adjustable to 3 different positions. Firing the M4 is incredibly satisfying. The trigger response is snappy, the blowback/recoil is crisp, and the rate of fire is astonishingly high considering the low-consumption gas system.
Tippmann has proved to be a strong contender in the airsoft HPA market by revolutionizing a seemingly simple firing mechanism and making it even more durable and minimalistic. Their M4 is also made in Fort Wayne, Indiana, which shows Tippmann’s dedication to top-of-the-line quality and performance that will be hard to surpass.
