Nerf Stinger Review

Performance stats

Figures are TeamNC's original bench measurements from 2000–2001 testing; see how we tested.

How it works

1. Load: Insert one micro dart into the front orange-and-green barrel of the Stinger.
2. Prime: Pump the orange priming handle until it cannot be pumped anymore. We recommend pumping the blaster eleven times to achieve the blaster's maximum distance.
3. Fire: Do not try to force more air into the blaster once it becomes difficult to pump the priming handle. You can damage the air tank.
4. Step: Press the Stinger's dark gray trigger to fire. You must reload and prime the blaster after each shot.

TeamNC reviews (2000 era)

Review by Andy Grau

The Nerf Stinger represents all of the things which a Nerf blaster should never be: inaccurate, underpowered, time-consuming to prime, and awkward to hold. The blaster's technical performance is very poor, especially for a pumping blaster. In addition, the Stinger takes way too many pumps (six, to be exact) for the weak single shot it produces.

The Stinger's design also leaves much to be desired. The blaster is designed to act as a backup launcher, but is too bulky to serve this purpose. The Stinger does have a feature where the handle can be folded up toward the blaster's body, but the blaster is still very bulky in this "compact" form.

A very poor product all around, the Stinger represents the poorest of the Nerf blasters produced in 2000.

Review by Matt Michal

When I look at Nerf Stinger, my head begins to hurt. At first glance, I think the Stinger is a pocket blaster. After all, it does have in inward folding handle to make itself smaller. However, the Stinger is far too big to fit in a pocket. So then I think the blaster is a small sidearm, like the SuperMAXX 250; but the launcher has the stats of a small pocket blaster.

So, I don't recommend purchasing this blaster - unless you can figure out what it is.

Review by Andi Hlabse

Despite its upper class accuracy, the Nerf Stinger is wayyyyyyy underpowered. Max distance and PTG distances are minute. The required six pumps for one shot is very expensive for such a weak blast. This blaster could have been much more effective if it were even smaller, but it is relatively large for such an impotent launcher, especially when it is unfolded. The Stinger does, however, have a few benefits. It possess some of the few extra ammo holders that actually work. The construction is very sturdy, and the pumping mechanism is comfortable. The Stinger also has incredible accuracy . . . for the distances it can reach!

Overall the Stinger is ineffective and underpowered for its size. Velocity is mediocre, giving most shots a nasty arc. Better pocket micro dart blasters are out there.

Pros & cons