Airsoft Hawaii
would like to thank
for their support of the
2007 ASH BASH
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by: Q
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Our initial impression of the Hi-CAPA 5.1 by Marui was, honestly, met with a half-hearted sigh due to the overall plastic composition and balance of the handgun. Power seemed weak at 250fps via .20g BB. However, we soon found ourselves challenging our biases in Western Arms 1911 pistols after comparing the overall pros of Marui’s contender. Upgradeability relies heavily on the strength of the slide and internal assembly of the pistol. And since the recommended 134a gas isn’t as prevalent as one would hope, many have found out the hard way that using the more common HFC122 gas in Marui gas pistols result in damaged goods!
WA’s chamber mechanism contains more metal but the feed nozzle can be more finicky than the larger counterpart of TM’s. The O-ring is external on the stroke for WA’s Para 1911 versus TM’s design of a separate piston-head that is internal to the nozzle. (Upgrading the O-ring after wear is usually required after constant use – Q’s soon to be released “X-D” piston replacement is an option.)
Perhaps simplicity is better when examining the barrel and hop-up design of TM since the outer barrel is a single piece versus many of WA’s two piece chamber and barrel assemblies which require help from accurizer (spring and part 207) to ensure correct blowback action with the inner barrel.
TM’s sear and levers associated with the hammer and strike piece are unlike WA’s in that they do not as closely resemble real steel but contain added durable material. A nice touch is the chrome surfacing done on the hammer group vs. the anodized aluminum found on many of WA’s. This is important for solid contact with the mag valve for consistent output pressure.
Some cons of the 5.1 were:
The most important installation involved a metal Hi-CAPA 5.1 slide that was by far the part that catalyzed our upgrade. Though aware of Tanio Koba, Shooters, and Zeke’s metal slides, we choose to go with PGC due to availability at the time. (Q Machining by mill was performed on slides and frames.)
We’ve always been impressed by the Laylax parts though they usually comand top dollar for the smallest parts versus X-fire and a few others. Aluminum Casting, Powder-coat, and Anodization make for smoother installation knowing that the homework was done at the factory. The SAS front kit: In addition to increasing length, the kit allows for tactical light/laser as well as suppressors to adorn the 14mm CW threaded barrel.
The 3-hole trigger: Slightly thicker and more heft in material provide a solid feel for fingers when shooting. The Tactical Strike kit: For those who prefer an edge, brings forth a fierce look with tactical light/ laser; and is useful for close-quarter gun in hand to body engagement. Inspired by the recent fad in tac-lights; recall the Doberman by WA.
Power-Up Valve: Necessary to increase output pressure for more powerful shots and maximum use of gas per expulsion in combination with 6.03 inner barrel. A 20% increase in FPS was recorded which allowed for 340-350fps via .20g Excel and HFC122 Gas. (Image: Courtesy Laylax) Precision 6.03mm inner barrel: High polished steel barrel improved both power and shot groupings. Grouping at 30ft. was 1.5 inches using .20g Excel via HFC122 gas. (Image: Courtesy Laylax)
Q Tech Labs proudly services and upgrades the Marui HiCAPA 5.1. We take pride in this latest release that will find its place in the custom Gas blowback lineup at Q!
Editorial Note:
Article by: Q |
