Nerf N-Strike Elite Rapidstrike CS-18 Blaster

Better living through superior firepower
My wife and I have two young nieces and a nephew who stay with us on weekends when their parents need a break. It's fun for everyone, but the kids all have their own Nerf weaponry, and I got tired of being their prime target, so a couple of years ago, I got my own Nerf N-Strike Stampede ECS, and we've had some nice little wars in the yard (my wife won't let us play inside unless it's raining). But with three of them, I was still outgunned. Until I got the Elite Rapidstrike CS-18 Blaster, that is. With the longer range and superior rate of fire, those poor kids will never know what hit them. I'll make mincemeat of them.

But just how good is the CS-18? I'd say pretty doggone good. First and obvious, the transparent magazine is a real plus, letting you see exactly how many rounds you have left. And it doesn't take long to empty the clip. The rate of fire is noticeably higher than my Stampede ECS, thanks to the motorized flywheel drive that speeds up the firing mechanism. I...
A fun Nerf rifle that needs C batteries to operate.
The Nerf N-Strike Elite Rapidstrike CS-18 Blaster Rifle is a fun toy. If you love the Nerf rifles and pistols then you will want to add this one into your collection. The CS-18 Blaster Rifle is a whole lot of fun but before the fun starts get a four pack of C batteries. Unlike the other models, this one doesn't need any pumping to shoot. Also included is eighteen Nerf bullets and a detachable clip. The rifle has a safety mode that you will need to press in order to get automatic mode. Once you have the batteries in that's when the fun begins.
Another Level of Nerf
As part of the Nerf N-Strike Elite series, the Rapidstrike CS-18 Blaster is a more sophisticated gun than the older ones that my teen has owned in the past. We thought his Nerf days were long gone...That was the case, until he saw this one.

Upon first opening the box, my son immediately identifies the pixel texture that is imprinted on most of the blue plastic. This pattern echoes the digital camouflage that you find on the newer US military uniforms/gear. That, along with the extended clip and hefty feel/weight of the gun give the Rapidstrike a more realistic and rugged style.

The overall look is more of a colorful assault rifle rather than a mere toy, making this a great choice for some serious creative play.

The Rapidstrike CS-18 Blaster appears to be extremely well made, with one possible exception: the wire mechanism inside of the see-through clip. Ideally, it would have been reassuring to see a heavier gauge spring used for the critical task of...
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