The next phase of Nerf is the new N-Strike Elite line. This new l
ine is a definite step up from the regular N-Strike line. The new line boasts ranges up to 75 feet and a brand new color scheme finally moving away from the garish yellow that has a been a staple for the past few years; opting instead for blue and white. I have to admit that I am really a fan of the new color scheme.
One of the first of these new “Elite” models I was able to test was the Stryfe. The Stryfe is powered by 4 “AA” batteries making it a semi- automatic machine pistol. I have to say that the upgrade to the range is not a lie. I hadn’t actually thought that the range would be so improved but it really was impressive. The range that I was able to achieve was almost 45 feet, never actually getting the 75 feet that is claimed on the box. There are several factors that could have affected my tests including wind and the batteries. I am sure that under optimal conditions achieving the 75 feet may be possible.
According to the back of the box: “The Stryfe Blaster lets the well-equipped N-Strike specialist quickly overwhelm a ta
rget with a flood of semi-automatic fire. This one-handed, semi-automatic blaster equips you with elite power and performance in a compact, high speed package.” The description on the package does ring true but with a fair amount of embellishment. The Stryfe only comes with a six dart clip, which isn’t actually a flood, but you can upgrade to an 18 dart clip or one of the barrel clips bringing it closer to a flood. It is compact and lightweight which makes it a great secondary weapon for your next battle.
The Stryfe has two tactical rails for adding accessories such as scopes, sights or lights. The Stryfe can also accommodate a stock and a barrel extension. These accoutrements can only add to the coolness factor of this blaster. As mentioned before, this blaster only comes with a six dart clip, which I found lacking despite the clip being clear orange. That is the only thing I really didn’t like about this gun, otherwise for around 20 bucks US it is a great gun.
Speaking of great guns the N-Strike Firestrike is proof that good t
hings come in small packages. No pun intended, but I was blown away by the performance of this new blaster. The Firestrike is the replacement for the Nite-Finder and it is a worthy successor. The best way to compare was to test them side by side, which I did.
The first test was the Nite-Finder. Before I go any further I must admit that I have owned this Nite-Finder for 10 years and that could have affected the results. All 3 shot went no further than 15 feet. It was a bit sad. I really didn’t know what to expect of the Firestrike. Impressive doesn’t begin to describe what I saw.
The Firestrike though similar to the Nite-Finder is much more powerful. All 3 shots went 60 feet. The distance was shorter than the 75 feet specified on the package but not at all disappointing. This is a very powerful single shot blaster, so do not shoot anyone in the face at close range. The Firestrike has a “laser” site built in that is activated by a button separate from the trigger and a tactical rail making it the epitome of basic. The Firestrike requires 2 “AAA” batteries for the light to operate; since you don’t really need the light the batteries would be optional. The Firestrike retails for around 10 dollars US which gives big firepower at a bargain price.
The only thing that I am not too happy with about the Firestrike is the size. The Firestrike 
is about 1/5 smaller than the Nite-Finder it is most noticeable when you compare the grips on the guns. (You can see this for yourself in the photos). The upside of the size is that it shouldn’t be too hard to find a holster for your Firestrike. You could probably make it work in a shoulder holster since it is so small.
The Firestrike is only the second of the N-Strike Elite that I have played with and I have to say that I really like what Hasbro has done to the Nerf brand. Both the Firestrike and the Stryfe are not going to disappoint you. Both guns are great for Zombie Wars on campus, modifying for Cosplay or if you just want it for shooting your friends.
So far the Elite line is proving worth a go. I am looking forward to the re-release of the Rayven under the Elite banner later this year. Bottom line is, if you haven’t invested your money on a spiffy blue and white Elite blaster pick up one or both from this review. You shouldn’t be disappointed!
