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Best Nerf Guns 2020
There comes a time when everyone in your family or office, is war hungry and there’s no better way to satiate that war mongering and fun thirst than with a Nerf gun. Before its full out war, you need to be the one with the best Nerf gun there is, and to help you out we have rounded up ten of the best out there, to help you out.
1. Nerf Rival Artemis XVII-3000 Blue
Another dream come true for all Nerfers, here comes Nerf Rival Artemis, the king of slam-fire action. Aptly named after Artemis goddess of the hunt, this blaster is perfect for that backyard trail hunt you have been planning. This pump-action blaster has rotating barrels as you pump the priming handle.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: High-Impact Rounds
- Stock capacity: 30
- Priming mechanism: Pump-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire/ Slam fire
- The maximum rate of fire: 30 rounds in 10 seconds
- 100 feet per second velocity
The Artemis has 30 round capacity, with three easy to load integrated magazines that hold ten rounds each. It is loaded from the top, by sliding a hatch open and popping Nerf Rival high impact rounds in individually. It is time-consuming but you do not have to load to full capacity to fire. We love the bazooka launch sensation you experience while firing this bad boy, and it is reason enough to get yourself one of these.
The blaster is designed with a tactical rail and a trigger lock to prevent accidental firing and has a larger grip that works well both for adults and children. Its power is a bit of a downer when compared to other Rival blasters, but its accuracy and reliability is perfect. The blaster’s design has two color choices, one for team blue and one for team red, perfect for group play.
We love that it has a priming indicator that is either up when primed or down when it is not. You need no batteries with this baby, making it easy to get started. As a heads up, we love how well this blaster works in confined spaces. So corner them varmints, in the bedroom, and without wasting much time aiming, slam fire them into oblivion.
Verdict
The Nerf Rival Artemis’s revolving barrels are a beauty to behold and work well. Its large ammo capacity ensures that you will run out easy at the peak of the battle, leaving you defenseless. Users say that its high impact rounds pack quite a punch and leave a sting, so if you are looking for a big boy retribution blaster, this is it.
Pros Of Nerf Rival Artemis XVII-3000 Blue
- High capacity; 30 rounds in magazines
- Ability to slam fire
- Allows partial reloading
- Light and easy to grip
- Has a trigger lock
Cons Of Nerf Rival Artemis XVII-3000 Blue
- Low-velocity missiles
- One tactical rail
- Lacks a stock
- Takes time reload
Summary
2. Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster
Every self-respecting Nerf gunslinger would die for a chance to “dual-weld”, and the Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster assists you to do just that. Yes, we know how impractical it is in real life but hey, the kick is worth it. With this one hand blaster, you can prime and fire darts using one hand as your other hand welds another blaster. This much sought after capability alone makes the Hammershot Blaster our favorite Nerf gun but it is also a well-rounded blaster as you will come to see.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Zombie Strike Darts
- Stock capacity: 5
- Priming mechanism: Hammer-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
- Maximum rate of fire: 2 darts per second
- Firing range Flat: 55 feet
- Firing range angled: 65 – 70 feet
This Nerf gun is perfect for you if you are into revolvers as it perfectly mimics a single action revolver. Its hammer action priming mechanism is perfect for dual-wielding as it allows you to it with one hand pulling it each time you need to take a shot. Once pulled the hammer locks back and the gun becomes fire ready; all you need is to pull the trigger. This blaster’s design has also hit a high note with many of its users. Its faux-wood and fake fabric wrap on the handle gives a wild west feel. The Z-Strike logo design on its cylinder has also been a hit with the fans. The blaster has a sling strap point and a tactical rail for holding extra ammunition.
This baby’s cylinder only holds 5 darts, so you will need an ammo holder if you are getting into a serious fight. With a maximum range of 50 feet, you can fire all five in under 5 seconds. This gun is also super accurate so it will not let you down in your time of need.
Verdict
The Zombie Strike theme on this blaster not only looks great but makes the blaster fun to wield and offers the dual wielding advantage over other blasters in certain scenarios. Its reliable and its performance is indisputably great. We recommend the Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster as the perfect sidearm or the perfect Nerfer dual wielding blaster.
Pros Of Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster
- Great range; 50 feet
- Good blaster accuracy
- Easy to operate
- Single-handed blaster
- Mimics a revolver perfectly
Cons Of Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster
- Holds only 5 darts
- Priming the hammer takes time
- Sensitive trigger causing accidental firing
Summary
3. Nerf Zombie Strike Crossfire Bow Blaster
This Katniss Everdeen and Daryl Dixon inspired crossbow blaster is the Nerf gun you need to impress other Nerfers before the real Nerf War begins. We say impress because while this baby looks great in green and brown Zombie Strike color scheme, it has a low ammo capacity, so it may not save your life once your back is against the wall.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Zombie Strike Darts
- Stock capacity: 4
- Priming mechanism: Slide-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
- Firing range Flat: 50 feet
- Angled: 75 feet
The Crossfire blaster is not really a bow at all but a two-handed gun, that allows you to load and fire its four green elite foam darts in rapid succession. Its raison d’etre though is to allow you subdue your zombie opponent in style and with the silence that only a crossbow can offer. It’s a Nerf blaster at the core though, so do not expect much of silence. We love the visceral “pop” sensation it sends once you launch a dart, and the high levels of intimidation it causes your opponent as you aim and stare them down with it.
Its bow arm and the see-through slats on the handle are pretty cool too. You might not like its front-heavy feel though, caused by the location of the otherwise decorative crossbow. It does not do well in close combat too because of its wide bow portion. The Crossfire Bow utilizes a direct plunger system to fire using the intelligent air restrictor system. It has a tactical rail as well as an integrated sling and sight point on the trigger. Besides its looks, it is also fairly easy to use.
Verdict
This modern take on an awesome classic weapon may not be as functional as other Nerf guns, but it is appealing and is a great item to have in store as a Nerfer. It is also well constructed and it’s solid but the intimidating design should make it a delight in any Nerf war.
Pros Of Nerf Zombie Strike Crossfire Bow Blaster
- Great crossbow design
- Utilizes darts
- Has a drawback string
Cons Of Nerf Zombie Strike Crossfire Bow Blaster
- Slow
- Low ammo capacity
Summary
4. Nerf N-Strike Elite Mega CycloneShock Blaster
This blaster is a monster; it is huge, it is intimidating and it is accompanied by mega-sized screaming darts, that should melt your opponents limbs into butter. This is the perfect shock factor blaster that ensures you win the battle before it even started. Besides the screaming in the air darts, this monster also hits like a tank. By the time you are done shooting, it will be undebatable as to who the real Nerf champ is.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Mega Darts
- Stock capacity: 6
- Priming mechanism: Slide-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
- Firing range Flat: 65 feet
- Angled: 90 feet
The Mega Cyclone Shock blaster has been touted as the blaster with the best part of every other blaster in Hasbro. It is no Frankenstein either, as the cocking mechanism of the Elite Strongarm, the aesthetics of the Mega Magnus and the dart barrel of the Elite Stockade mesh together seamlessly into one cohesive design and function. We love that this blaster has a design that makes it look sleek despite its enormous size.
This revolver style blaster has a single tactical rail on top and while it has no slamfire feature and regrettably so, it can shoot 1.4 darts per second, meaning that in less than 5 seconds you should be flat out of ammo. It might be too bulky though to hinder you from carrying it around though, and its accuracy is not high up there either.
Verdict
During a huge Nerf war, this is the right weapon to bring along. It will not only intimidate your Nerf opponents but its 90 feet range is a huge plus in any Nerf war.
Pros Of Nerf N-Strike Elite Mega CycloneShock Blaster
- Looks amazing
- Sturdy build
- Fast firing mechanism
Cons Of Nerf N-Strike Elite Mega CycloneShock Blaster
- Takes time to reload
- Not particularly accurate
- Too large for young Nerfers
Summary
5. Nerf N-Strike Mega BigShock Blaster
The Mega BigShock blaster’s Mega darts sounds like WWII bombs as they fly towards your opponents. Besides the whistling as the Mega dart roars towards your Nerfenemy, this powerful pocket-size blaster can double up as a surprise secret weapon neatly tucked on your belt for those moments when the element of surprise is just what the doctor ordered.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Mega Darts
- Stock capacity: 1
- Priming mechanism: Slide-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
- Firing range
Flat: 45 feet
The blaster has a hefty, sturdy and solid feel about it, and its grip is one of the largest seen in Nerf guns. This helps fit a plunger big enough to propel a Mega dart, and while huge darts are fun, small hands may not perfectly grip this monster. We love that this blaster has single dart storage on top of it that doubles up as an iron sight. While the iron sight may not be totally beneficial being too small for use, an extra Mega dart plays out perfectly as a surprise element.
Loading this blaster is pretty easy; just pop in the dart, pull the hammer down then fire away. Its large red/grey shell looks cool but its strength lies in its power and large darts. There is not much to write home about though about its accuracy and consistency, but as a backup or last resort blaster, it does its job perfectly.
Verdict
There’s nothing more fun than shooting monstrous projectiles during Nerf wars and this blaster ensures that you get this hilarity to satisfaction. It is powerful shot is both satisfying and terrifying at the same time depending on which end of the blaster you are facing, and your blaster arsenal will feel incomplete without it.
Pros Of Nerf N-Strike Mega BigShock Blaster
- Fires Mega Darts
- Extra dart storage on top
- Purchased with two Mega Darts
- Powerful blaster
- Sturdily built
Cons Of Nerf N-Strike Mega BigShock Blaster
- Not very accurate
- Shoots only one dart at a time
Summary
6. Nerf Zombie Strike Brainsaw Blaster
This zombie apocalyptic weapon is perfect for the hardcore Nerfer since we all know, chainsaw-wielding is as hardcore and as gory as it can get in a zombie war. This spinning foam chainsaw blaster begins its intimidating motion only at the pull of the blaster’s string, commanding all zombies to back off. Its second mode of defense includes the pump action blasting of 8 darts into the brains of the enemies you might miss with the Brainsaw. How cool is that?
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Zombie Strike Darts
- Stock capacity: 8
- Priming mechanism: Pump-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
- Firing range Flat: 11 meters
- Maximum rate of fire: 4 darts per second
This zombie apocalypse weapon not only has the intimidation factor on fleek but it also is beautifully detailed..at least on one of its sides unfortunately. Most users feel that Hasbro should have ensured that the entire chainsaw rotated and can be used as a melee weapon instead of its front part only, as is with the blaster currently. To prime, this blaster just pull and push on its green handle, at the bottom of the blaster then keep firing.
The blaster can only fire one dart at a time which is a bit of a downer considering the fact that it a weapon of choice when facing massive odds. It is also very low on velocity and accuracy but on the upside, you can slam fire with it. It also has a smart air restrictor system that enables you to fire darts from the blaster despite which barrel you load the darts into. This Nerf weapon has a tactical rail at an angle on the right side of the blaster.
Verdict
This blaster delivers tons of fun due to its chainsaw, Brainsaw design and has a decent dart capacity. It is perfect for cosplay and for young Nerfers looking for something different, despite its low power capacity.
Pros Of Nerf Zombie Strike Brainsaw Blaster
- Great fun for young kids
- Has a spinning blade
- Fast firing of darts
- Great design aesthetics
- Can slam fire
- Easy to grip handle
Cons Of Nerf Zombie Strike Brainsaw Blaster
- Lower power
- Low accuracy
- Fires one dart at a time
7. Nerf Rebelle Secrets and Spies Secret Shot Blaster Pink
This baby is a deadly rifle, fashion accessory and message decoder all rolled into one powerful blaster and looks like it came straight from a scene in Totally Spies. Disguised as a purse, press a diamond-shaped button and turn the Secret Shot into a blaster, complete with four darts. These four darts can be stashed inside the bag during super-secret spy missions and they can all be loaded and shot rapidly one at a time. Once done with the mission, the blaster can be converted back into a bag by sliding the button, and swinging it closed.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Collectible Darts/ Message Darts
- Stock capacity: 4
- Priming mechanism: Pump-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
- Firing range: Flat -75 feet
- Maximum rate of fire: 4 darts per second
The blaster’s plastic handle doubles up as the bag’s handle, and the bottom of the bag acts as a shoulder stock when in battle. To prime this blaster pump the priming handle then pull the trigger to fire. Of the four darts, one is a messenger dart, whose secret message can only be deciphered by use of the decoder, included in the package. We love that while it is loads of fun to play with this blaster it is also super easy to carry, and it’s also super cute. It has two color choices; the purple and the pink Secrets & Spies Secret Shot Blaster.
With the ability to fire at over 75 feet this little missy is a heroine Nerf gun too, with powerful blasting capability as well as great accuracy.
Verdict
This blaster is perfect for girls and has very enticing colors. The spy mission factor will excite all female Nerfers and its firing range is nothing but decent.
Pros Of Nerf Rebelle Secrets and Spies Secret Shot Blaster Pink
- Super secret blasting fun
- Great firing range
- Fast firing mechanism
- Ability to transform from a purse to a gun
- Has message darts.
Cons Of Nerf Rebelle Secrets and Spies Secret Shot Blaster Pink
- Not easy to cock for younger kids
- Not as powerful as other Nerf guns
8. Nerf Nitro DuelFury Demolition
Now if you are the lucky parent whose kid does not enjoy shooting you or his siblings down, then the Nitro Duel Fury Demolition blaster is the perfect Nerf blaster for them. This blaster fires Foam Cars, heaping up loads of fun with crazy car stunts. The package includes four Nerf foam cars, two ramps, two flame rings and two smashable obstacle sets.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Foam Cars
- Stock capacity: 1
- Priming mechanism: Slide-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
To work it, crank the primer at the rear and shove a foam car into the front of the blaster. Placing the blaster flat down, shoot toward the ramps or any other obstacle, preferably a nonliving one. The stunts possible with the ring of fire, obstacles and long jump ramps are what makes this blaster such complete fun.
We love the safety features of this blaster. It can only fire when placed on a level surface, to ensure that your kids do not get bloodthirsty and break each other’s nose or teeth, as this blaster fires real hard. Its recoil and sound will shock you, but mercifully the cars are safe and made of Nerf foam, though their wheels are plastic. Both the blue and lime green Nitro variant color schemes look great and since it comes in packs of two its perfect for playing stunts with a buddy.
Verdict
This blaster is a great way to have diversity in your house if you have Nerf heads looking for Nerf fun. It offers great versatility in terms of challenges and will ensure that your kids keep entertained and creative.
Pros Of Nerf Nitro DuelFury Demolition
- Great safety feature on blasters
- Perfect for head to head challenges
- Different kind of action; car blasting
- Powerful blasting
- Easy to set and fire
Cons Of Nerf Nitro DuelFury Demolition
- Not as long time engaging as other Nerf blasters
- Aim not too great and cars rarely land on their wheels during stunts
9. Nerf Zombie Strike FlipFury Blaster
The Nerf FlipFury has dual barrels and two triggers to match, making this monster a force to reckon with. Use the main trigger to fire and the bottom one for rotating your barrels.
This bottom trigger is the FlipFury’s secret weapon as it is what allows Nerfers to flip and rotate their barrels. We love this mechanism, because the faster you spin your barrel, the faster you can pull the trigger.
How about its four firing modes? Out of this world FlipFury madness! You can pick between a quick draw, suppressing fire, normal fire or slam-fire depending on your zombie situation. The most popular mode with most Nerfers is the slam fire mode, whereby you use all barrels to tear into your opponents, firing all 12 shots in seconds.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Zombie Strike Darts
- Stock capacity: 12
- Priming mechanism: Slide-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire/ Slam fire
- Firing range Flat: 65 feet
- Angled: 90 feet
- The maximum rate of fire: 2.3 darts per second.
Its ergonomic handle is designed to mimic wood with a dirty cloth wrap, to show zombie-slaying wear and tear, and its make is pretty heavy duty and sturdy. This blaster has a futuristic look, with its huge size and squarish ammo system design plus matte orange finish. The other factor we are very particular about is this blaster’s mechanical sound, that mimics that of traditional guns, and its noiseless stealth shot darts.
Verdict
This undisputed dual-barrel Nerf blaster is a game-changer and is both powerful and sturdy to withstand all rigours of Nerf wars. This monster will give double the madness, double the rush and double the action.
Pros Of Nerf Zombie Strike FlipFury Blaster
- 12 dart storage and firing capacity
- High stealth factor
- Double dart drums
Cons Of Nerf Zombie Strike FlipFury Blaster
- Slow in reload
- Malfunctions mentioned by reviewers
10. Nerf N-Strike Jolt Blaster (blue)
This single-shot blaster is the king of stealth and surprise, as it the blaster that get the job done just when your opponent thinks he’s got you right where he wants you. Due to its minute size, you can load this micro blaster with its two Elite darts, hide it in your pocket, close in on your enemy and fire your shot at the right moment, catching them dead on. This is the perfect assassin’s blaster, your opponent will never know what hit them.
Specs
- Stock ammunition type: Whistler Dart, Elite Dart, Zombie Strike Dart, Collectible Dart
- Stock capacity: 1
- Priming mechanism: Slide-action
- Mode of fire: Single-fire
- Firing range Flat: 40 feet
- Angled: 45 feet
- The maximum rate of fire: 1 dart per two seconds
When using the Jolt, the secret is to ensure that you have great aim, since you only have one chance to deliver the kill shot. Though small it is a powerful addition to your Nerf arsenal, and its range is also perfect for close-quarter combat.
Verdict
This tiny monster gives you the upper hand when it comes to head-on combat if of course, you are fast at reloads and great at aiming.
Pros Of Nerf N-Strike Jolt Blaster (blue)
- Fast reload times
- Low priced
- Easy to hide
- Easy to grip
- Great accuracy
Cons Of Nerf N-Strike Jolt Blaster (blue)
- 2 dart clip
- Needs frequent reloads
Things to consider when purchasing the best Nerf gun
- How easy is it to hold?
Nerf guns are very popular with kids and while a high ammo capacity and multiple ammo ejection facilities are exciting, they can make a blaster as heavy as lead, especially for small hands. So if you do not want your youngster tiredly lugging around their blaster, then pick something light enough for their age. - Purchase extra ammo
Nerf wars are tasking on ammo, and one can never have too much of it. On purchase, most blasters come with an initial minimum amount of ammo, so you will need some extra packs when making your order. - How easy is it to load the blaster?
Great zombie slaying blasters must be quick to reload, otherwise, you’ll be caught unprepared and have your brains eaten. Purchase a blaster that you can reload pain-free, fast and without it jamming. - Can you accessorize?
There are loads of ways to accessorize your blaster, some sold by your manufacturer or other third-party manufacturers. Some accessories, like higher capacity magazines, can be pretty useful, while some add-ons are purely cosmetic. When purchasing accessories, ensure compatibility with your blaster to avoid disappointments. You can also choose wearable Nert warfare accessories from Hasbro, including bandoliers and vests.
Conclusion
Nerf guns are pure unadulterated fun for youngsters and competitive diehard Nerfers. The best Nerf gun for you is largely dependent on your Nerf war scenario, individual visual appeal, and stealth and firepower. Obliterating your family and friends though has never been this fun, thanks to the almighty Nerf gun.
