X Shot Gel Blaster Honest Review: Is This Gel Blaster Gun Worth It?
This is the XSHOT Hyper Gel Trace Fire Blaster. Marketed as a high-capacity, semi and fully automatic powerhouse designed for ages 14 and up, it promises intense backyard battles with minimal reloading. The specs sound impressive: 1,450 gel balls capacity, 170 feet per second velocity, and protective eyewear. It positions itself as a serious contender in the gel blaster space, aiming to deliver Nerf-like fun with a unique, water-based twist. But does it live up to that promise, or does it fizzle out faster than a dried gel ball? We spent significant time testing it to find out.
The appeal is undeniable. The idea of a gel blaster gun that holds over a thousand rounds of gel blaster ammo, fires automatically, and offers rapid-fire action taps into that pure, unadulterated fun factor. It seems perfect for group play, target practice, or just unleashing a storm of harmless projectiles. However, diving into the real-world experience reveals a more nuanced picture. While the potential for excitement is high, several critical performance and reliability factors emerge that potential buyers need to consider before hitting ‘purchase’. This isn’t just about specs; it’s about whether this gel blaster delivers consistent, lasting enjoyment or becomes a frustrating paperweight.
Our goal here is straightforward, cut through the marketing and provide a clear-eyed assessment based on actual use. We’ll examine its build, firepower, reliability, value, and safety, the complete picture you need to decide if the XSHOT water bead blaster deserves a spot in your arsenal or if your money is better spent elsewhere. Forget generic praise; we’re focusing on how it actually performs when the gel balls start flying.
Gel Blaster Gun Overview
Right out of the box, the XSHOT water gel blaster makes an impression with its size and distinctive sci-fi aesthetic. The predominant orange and gray color scheme is a deliberate safety choice, clearly distinguishing it from real firearms, a responsible and necessary design decision for any gel blaster toy. The plastic body feels reasonably solid for its price point, though the texture and seams hint at its position as a mass-market toy rather than a premium replica. It features a collapsible stock, adjustable for different arm lengths, and an integrated carry handle, adding to its tactical feel. Controls are straightforward: a fire selector switch toggles between semi-auto and full-auto (rapid fire), and the trigger has a decent if slightly long, pull.
The core of its design is the dual ammo system. The top-loading 600-round hopper is where the action starts. When it runs dry, the innovative (in theory) “Trace Fire” system kicks in: simply flipping the entire blaster upside down allows the 850 rounds stored in the main magazine to flow into the now-empty hopper chamber. This promises a combined 1,450 Hyper Gel Pellet capacity, minimizing mid-battle reloads dramatically. Loading the main magazine itself involves opening a hatch and pouring in the hydrated gel balls. The package includes a substantial 10,000 Gellets, a USB-C charging cable for the rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, and a pair of essential protective eyewear.
Power comes from a removable, rechargeable battery pack. The inclusion of a USB-C charging cable is a modern touch, though the battery’s proprietary nature means replacements must be sourced from ZURU. The claimed firing velocity is 170 fps, placing it firmly in the mid-range for electric gel blaster guns, promising decent range and impact. The overall ergonomics are generally good, though the weight distribution can feel a bit front-heavy when the hopper is full. It’s a feature-rich package designed to offer a significant step up from basic spring-powered models.
XSHOT Hyper Gel Trace Fire Blaster
A gel blaster with semi and fully automatic modes, featuring a large capacity hopper and magazine, rechargeable battery, and included protective eyewear for ages 14 and up.
Key specs
- Firing Mode: Semi Auto and Full Auto
- FPS: 170 FPS
- Fire Rate: 10 rounds per second
- Magazine Capacity: 1,450 rounds
- Weight: 2.65 pounds
What’s in the box?
- Gel blaster gun
- Protective eyewear
- Rechargeable battery
- 10,000 dehydrated gel balls
- 600 capacity hopper & 850 capacity magazine
Pros
Cons
- Cool and appealing design
- Large gel ball capacity of around 1,450 rounds
- Stops working after minimal use
- Frequently jams during play
- Short battery life
- Requires a weird, non-standard USB charging cable
- Battery often fails to charge
- Limited shooting range
- Hopper lid fails to stay closed, causing spills
Performance Evaluation
Firing up the XSHOT gel ball blaster is where the excitement and sometimes the frustration begin. On its best day, this x shot gel blaster delivers a satisfying experience. Selecting full auto unleashes a rapid stream of gel balls. The cyclic rate is impressive for its category, easily emptying the hopper in sustained bursts. The 170 FPS velocity translates to a reasonably flat trajectory out to about 25-30 feet, with water bullets being carried effectively to 40-50 feet before dropping significantly. Hitting a gel blaster target like a cardboard box or hanging sheet within that effective range feels impactful and fun. The distinct whirring motor sound adds to the immersive, toy-battlefield atmosphere. Switching to semi-auto offers more precise shot placement, useful for picking off targets or conserving ammo.
However, its performance isn’t consistently smooth. The Achilles’ heel of many gel blasters, including the Trace Fire, is susceptibility to jams. Using the included Hyper Gellets, properly hydrated for the recommended 4-6 hours, helps but doesn’t eliminate the issue. Under-hydrated pellets are too hard and jam the mechanism instantly. Over-hydrated pellets become too soft and fragile, often shattering in the barrel or feeder, creating a gummy mess that requires disassembly to clear. Even with perfectly prepared ammo, occasional misfeeds occur, manifesting as dry fires or sporadic bursts instead of a steady stream. A firm shake often clears minor jams, but it disrupts gameplay flow. The top hopper lid’s latch mechanism is also a noted weak point; it doesn’t always secure firmly, risking pellet spillage during vigorous movement.
Battery life presents another variable. Under ideal conditions (moderate temperature, avoid constant full-auto), the battery provides roughly 60-90 minutes of active firing time – sufficient for several skirmishes. However, performance degrades noticeably as the battery depletes, with the rate of fire and projectile velocity dropping. More concerning is the battery failing to hold a charge effectively after relatively few cycles, or experiencing sudden drops in output. This inconsistency in battery longevity is a significant drawback. The proprietary nature of the battery cables complicates easy replacement. When functioning optimally, firepower is enjoyable, but reliability is its biggest hurdle.
Value for Money
The XSHOT gel shooter sits in a competitive segment of the gel blaster market. The value proposition hinges heavily on its enormous ammunition capacity and the inclusion of 10,000 gel blaster ammo. Compared to buying a basic blaster and gel packs separately, this bundle offers significant upfront savings and convenience. The sheer volume of ammo means extended play sessions without the immediate need for refills, a clear advantage over many rivals with smaller hoppers or magazines. When compared directly to other electric gel blaster guns in its price range, its capacity and firepower specs are often superior on paper.
The build quality, while generally adequate for casual use, reflects its price point. The plastics used are functional but not premium; they can withstand normal handling but might not survive significant impacts or rough treatment in the long term. Internal components, particularly gears and the feeding mechanism are points where cost-saving measures become apparent, contributing to the potential for jamming and the long-term durability issues. The included protective eyewear is a basic but necessary addition, saving the extra cost of purchasing safety gear separately. The fun factor, when it’s working well, is undeniable and justifies the cost for many seeking active outdoor entertainment.
However, the value equation is heavily influenced by the potential for reliability issues. A gel blaster that frequently jams, suffers from battery degradation or stops working prematurely transforms from a value leader into a frustrating disappointment. The cost of replacement proprietary batteries adds to the long-term ownership expense if the original fails. While the upfront package is compelling, the potential for additional costs or a shortened product lifespan due to component fragility means the overall value isn’t as clear-cut as the initial specs suggest. It offers a lot if you get a unit that performs reliably, but there’s an element of gambling regarding longevity. For pure, high-capacity firepower on a budget, it scores points, but durability and consistency cost extra elsewhere.
Safety and Maintenance
Safety is paramount with any device that projects objects at speed. The XSHOT gel gun shoots biodegradable gel balls at 170 FPS. While designed to be less painful than airsoft BBs, impacts can sting, especially when bare skin is in close range. Protective eyewear is non-negotiable. A direct hit to the eye could cause serious injury. The included goggles meet basic safety standards and should always be worn by all players. Always be aware of your backdrop and ensure a safe, controlled environment free of unintended targets or breakables. Treat it with the same respect as any projectile-firing device.
Maintenance is crucial for performance and longevity, especially given the device’s sensitivity to ammo and moisture. Preparing gel blaster ammo correctly is step one. Dehydrated gel balls must be soaked in clean, cool water for the full 4-6 hours. Insufficient soaking leads to hard pellets that jam and damage the internals. Oversoaking creates fragile balls that burst easily, clogging the barrel and feeder with gel residue. After soaking, drain the excess water thoroughly. Wet pellets feed poorly. After each use, it’s vital to clear the blaster of any remaining gel balls. Moisture from the gel balls or the environment can seep into the mechanism. Wipe down accessible internal areas (like the hopper and mag) and the exterior with a dry cloth. Never store the blaster with water gel balls inside, as this promotes mold and corrosion.
Battery care is another key aspect. Remove the battery when it is not in use for extended periods. Store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing the battery or the blaster to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time, as heat accelerates battery degradation. If the blaster gets wet (from the weather or spilled water), remove the battery immediately and dry all components thoroughly before attempting to use it again. Moisture damage to the battery contacts or electronics is a common failure point. Regularly inspect the hopper lid latch and feeding mechanism for debris or damage. While not a complex machine, proactive care significantly reduces the chances of jamming and extends the functional life of this xshot gel blaster. Neglecting maintenance almost guarantees performance issues.
Conclusion
The XSHOT Hyper Gel Trace Fire Blaster is a product of compelling contrast. On the one hand, its high-capacity, dual-magazine system and rapid semi/full-auto firing deliver genuinely exciting moments of backyard battle fun. The sheer volume of included gel blaster ammo (10,000 Gellets) and the innovative hopper-flip reload offer extended play sessions that few competitors in its price range can match. When functioning optimally, the 170 FPS velocity provides satisfying range and impact on a gel blaster target, making it a potent tool for friendly skirmishes. Its distinctive, non-realistic design and included safety gear are responsible touches.
On the other hand, its potential Achilles heel is reliability. Susceptibility to jamming, even with well-prepared ammo, can disrupt gameplay. The durability of internal components, particularly under stress, and the inconsistent longevity of the proprietary battery pack are legitimate problems. The hopper lid’s insecure latch is a notable design flaw. These factors mean that while the potential for fun is high, the consistency of that fun isn’t guaranteed. It requires diligent maintenance and a bit of luck with component quality control.
So, is it worth it? The final answer is NO. For teens and adults seeking high-capacity, electric-powered gel blaster action on a budget, and who are willing to meticulously prepare ammo and perform constant maintenance, the Trace Fire offers a thrilling, feature-packed experience. However, if you prioritize absolute reliability, minimal jamming, and long-term durability without tinkering, investing in a high-end gel blaster gun or a simple spring-powered model might be wise.
Related Reads
Check out our expertly compiled list of the Best Gel Blasters for 2025. Our extensive guide provides the rookie or the hardcore player with everything needed to find the ideal blaster that fits his needs and budget-from the high cap versions that keep you playing longer to the ultra-accurate shooter that makes every shot worth it.
FAQs
What is the best gel blaster?
There’s no single best gel blaster; it depends on your needs. Prioritize power (FPS), accuracy, build quality, magazine capacity, and budget. Research user reviews for reliable blasters, focusing on models matching your intended use (target shooting vs. skirmishes).
How to fix a gel blaster that won't shoot?
First, safety-disconnect the battery. Check 1) Battery charge/connection, 2) Gearbox jam (clear manually), 3) Hop-up chamber obstruction, 4) Magazine feeding/seating. Ensure the gels are properly soaked. If unresolved, consult a reputable seller or technician.
How do weather conditions affect gel blaster performance?
Weather significantly impacts gel blasters. Humidity swells/damages gels. Cold drains batteries faster and makes plastic brittle. Heat can warp components. Wind drastically reduces accuracy. Dry air shrinks gels. Always plan accordingly for conditions.
How do gel blaster power levels compare to airsoft guns?
Gel blasters typically have lower power than airsoft guns. Measured in FPS, gels travel slower than airsoft BBs due to weight and air resistance. High-end gel blasters might reach 250-350 FPS, while airsoft often exceeds 400 FPS. Impact energy is significantly less. Always wear eye protection.
How can I improve my aim with a gel blaster?
To improve your aim with a gel blaster, practice regularly, use high-quality gel balls, adjust your hop-up, maintain a stable stance, and apply smooth trigger control.