In the center of the ATF controversy is Airsoft Outlet North West (airsoftoutletnw.com). It all started with a shipment of Wei-Tech GBB Rifles that was confiscated because of the lack of orange tips. While we all may cringe at the thought of brand new gas blowback rifles melted down by misguided bureaucrats on a witch hunt, we must ask, did Airsoft Outlet NW deserve it? Are they a less reputable retailer with a less than stellar track record?
The answer is a resounding "No!" They have been one of the best retailers I have ever dealt with, and here's why:
The Site
When you first enter airsoftoutletnw.com, you will notice the simple layout with the most current announcements on the front page. Announcements come in the form of restockings, reviews, and valuable insight into the airsoft market.
On the left side of the page is a navigation bar. Unlike some other sites that feature cluttered, almost unnavigable lists of links, Airsoft Outlet NW has simplified its top layer menu into basic categories.
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| (from Airsoft Outlet NW Homepage) |
The most helpful tool I have found on the site is the "Shop by Airsoft Rifle Type" and similarly, the "Shop by Airsoft Pistol Type" links. These links allow you view guns that according to their style. For example, if you only want to view M4-style rifles, you do not need to wade through all the MP5s or AK47s. This way, you can see which manufacturer makes the M4, instead of searching through each manufacturer alphabetically until you've found all the M4s. This saves time and effort. I'm sure that we have all had those nights where we have had all the M4 pages open in separate tabs and windows and flipped back and forth comparing prices and specs.
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| Shop by Rifle Type? Why yes, thank you! |
The site also has a very informative Airsoft 101 Section full of important information for beginners or those who wish to refresh their knowledge of the sport. A word of caution, however, rules posted there are field or region specific. Always check with your local field for their version of the rules.
Inventory
The variety is plentiful, but less than some of the bigger online retailers. As with all airsoft retailers, there are always some items that are priced higher than competitors and some items that are priced lower. They don't have too much in the ways of accessories, but they do have quite a bit of AEGs and GBB Rifles. The website appears to reflect the real inventory, I have never purchased an item marked as "In stock" and have it actually out of stock.
Since they are based in Oregon, they also do not have sales tax, which is a God-send for overtaxed Californians. Also, they offer free shipping on orders over $100.
Service
The service is very friendly. If you had a concern, you could call or email them and they will try their best to answer your question. I have called them on several occasions, seeking advice on which parts to buy. The person on the other line was very polite and honest. He told me exactly what he thought would be the best option for me, even though it wasn't the more profitable one. Shipping is prompt and they will never try to swindle you.
Searching for them on the Better Business Bureau yields no results, probably because no one complains about them.
Conclusion
Despite having a smaller inventory than some of their competitors, Airsoft Outlet NW has suited my needs time and time again. They are very active in the airsoft community in Oregon, and treat each player with respect. No condescension can be heard in their correspondence, and their honesty is greatly appreciated in a profit-driven market. I definitely recommend shopping with Airsoft Outlet NW to anyone looking for a new rifle, or upgrade parts.
