Tokyo Marui constantly introduces improvements to its products. After the high-profile gas-powerd releases such as the Saiga replica (Saiga 12K by Tokyo Marui is coming soon), the company has now focused on refreshing its AEG replicas. The new proposal is the EVOLT series, bringing a completely new approach to Tokyo Marui replicas. The first ones in this series are AR-15 carbines in the form of the M4A1 and FPR Mk IV models.
The replica features all changes on the inside, housing a new split gearbox frame, a single-piece safety/selector instead of the previous gear-based system, the ETU M-System Type II control unit (based on magnetic sensors) along with sensors for the last-shot simulation, bolt catch, and charging handle. Changes also include mechanical parts such as new gears (not compatible with any currently available products on the market), a dedicatedhop-up chamber and nozzle set with stabilizing elements (preventing nozzle misalignment, also known as the mid-cap syndrome).
Further changes involve the magazine and BB feeding system. These components were designed to work together by feeding only a single BB (which allows the remaining BBs to stay inside the magazine when it is removed from the replica) thanks to a system lever instead of the usual magazine lock released by the hop-up chamber parts. The magazine inserts are additionally cushioned, enabling extra compression of the magazine shell when inserting it. Regardless of the version (classic or with the NGRS recoil system), the replica will feature a moving dummy bolt with last-shot hold-open functionality.
Replicas of the EVOLT series will be available in a variant with a recoil simulation system placed in the stock tube (the EVOLT FPR Mk IV model) and in a classic variant without this feature (the EVOLT M4A1 model). There will be no differences in the internal construction between these variants, and the same parts will be used. The official information lists the expected prices as 90,000 ¥ (about 500 EUR) for the classic EVOLT M4A1 replica (available in winter) and 120,000 ¥ (about 670 EUR) for the EVOLT FPR Mk IV with recoil simulation, which will be available sometime later.
Another new product is the replica of the Japan Self-Defense Forces' carbine, the Howa Type 20, under the designation OTS (Operation Training Services). The design, derived from the AR-18 platform and somewhat similar to the Polish MSBS Grot carbine, it has been created as a gas-powered variant based on the Tokyo Marui MWS standard. OTS replicas are distinguished by colored magazine and pistol grip elements. As stated by Tokyo Marui, this product will not be offered on the civilian market and will remain available exclusively to the Japan Self-Defense Forces as a training tool.
Other new items include the MP5K Plus replica, a modernized version of an already available design. The Plus series focuses mainly on compatibility with LiPo batteries and the introduction of Mosfet units.
There are also new sidearm replicas, including the Glock 19 MOS Gen.5, HiCapa DOR 4.3, a pneumatic replica of the Colt M1851 Navy revolver (this time with white grips and silver finish), and a pistol inspired by the Smith&Wesson M&P9 used by Takina Inoue (a character from the “Lycoris Recoil” anime series).
Photos: Tokyo Marui
