As an avid Nerf battler, I was eager to get my hands on the newly released Stormcharge blaster the moment I saw that familiar Stryfe silhouette dressed up in slick Elite 2.0 trim. The Stormcharge delivers the rapid-fire fun of a semi-auto flywheeler but modernizes the experience with improved ergonomics and greater attachment flexibility.
I put this shiny new shooter through extensive testing to see if it lives up to the Stryfe‘s hallowed legacy while bringing its own identity to the table. Read on for my full breakdown on if the Stormcharge has what it takes for both stock and modded performance. Grab some extra clips and prepare to dive in!
Flywheel Evolution: How the Stryfe Changed the Game
Before assessing what the Stormcharge brings to the table, it helps to understand the shooter it intends to succeed. The Stryfe entered the arena back in 2013 as the first NERF clip-system blaster with semi-auto flywheel firing, and it delivered a massive impact.
Rather than using a spring-powered plunger tube, the Stryfe utilizes battery-powered flywheels to instantly fling darts. By holding the acceleration trigger, players spin up the wheels to achieve maximum rate of fire. The full-auto Rapidstrike took this concept to the next level the same year, but the Stryfe‘s more wieldable size and clip-based reloads kept it firmly planted as the go-to for accessible flywheel fun.
While earlier battery-operated blasters like the Switch Shot and Vulcan had limiting quirks, the Stryfe proved a revelation with instant startup, a comfortable form factor, tactical rails, and widely available 18-dart clips. It didn‘t take long for the modding scene to embrace the Stryfe‘s potential too, selling over 5 million units to date and cementing its popularity.
But now in 2023, the Stryfe shows its age against sleeker Elite 2.0 offerings. While still a battles staple, it lacks the modernized flair expected from contemporary NERF. And that‘s where the Stormcharge comes in – bringing classic flywheel fun into the future!
Unboxing the Cutting-Edge Stormcharge
Cracking open the Stormcharge reveals a familiar silhouette with more angles than a geometry class. The smooth curves and aggressive angles give it a sinister edge, like a stealth fighter ready for combat.
While instantly recognizable as a Stryfe descendant, the Stormcharge sports several enhancements:
- Snappier color scheme: The black, red, and grey pops visually while still keeping a tactical vibe
- Deeper grip profile: Provides improved ergonomics and control
- Textured grip tape: Anti-slip finish further enhances the locked-in feel
- Refined acceleration trigger: Redesigned with deeper grooves and crisper corner lip
- Two-tone acceleration button: Handy visual indicator to rev status
- Easier jam access: Convenient when darts inevitably get stuck
- Extended mag release: Makes reloads more intuitive for small hands
- Enhanced attachment point: Sturdier, with wider accessory compatibility
The ten included whistler darts load smoothly into the bundled 10-round magazine. While starting ammo seems sparse, extra 18-round clips from previous NERF blasters work flawlessly as well when more firepower gets needed!
With its meaner aesthetic and ergonomic touches, the Stormcharge leaves an excellent first impression. But you can‘t judge a blaster solely by its shell. The real test would be sending foam downrange!
Storming the Testing Range
Great looks and comfort don‘t mean much without performance to back it up. To see how the Stormcharge stacks up to the legendary Stryfe, I rigged up the trusty chronograph and put both blasters through their paces with various ammunition.
For control and data collection, I performed multiple test rounds in a covered firing range using flat level shots from 30 feet. Both the Stormcharge and Stryfe received fresh batteries before each test round.
Here is a comparison of key ballistic results:
Firing Velocity by Dart Type
| Dart Type | Stormcharge FPS | Stryfe FPS |
|---|---|---|
| NERF Elite | 71 | 70 |
| Adventure Force | 68 | 66 |
| NERF AccuStrike | 73 | 71 |
| NERF Rival (High Impact) | 63 | 61 |
Firing Rate
- Stormcharge: 4 darts per second
- Stryfe: 4 darts per second
Accuracy
Testing on 8" diameter target from 30 feet
- Stormcharge: 6/10 darts within circle
- Stryfe: 5/10 darts within circle
Misfires
- Stormcharge: 1 in 250 shots
- Stryfe: 1 in 200 shots
Jam Rate
- Stormcharge: 1 jam every 3 clips (30 darts)
- Stryfe: 1 jam every 2 clips (20 darts)
Here is a video demonstrating the test firing methodology:
While ballistic performance proved nearly identical, the Stormcharge showed modest advantages in accuracy and reliability. This likely comes down to manufacturing refinements rather than internals changes. Nonetheless, every bit helps on the battlefield!
Internals and Mod Potential
Given the performance similarities, Nerf likely utilized much of the existing Stryfe tooling for the Stormcharge. Looking at the gearbox and flywheels side-by-side reveals near identical build:
This means much of the modding knowledge for the Stryfe also applies here. Replacing the cage and wheels with higher crush aftermarket hardware should yield similar results. The Stormcharge introduces minor shell differences however, so custom body kits require some adaption from existing Stryfe versions.
With its ERG-V grip and denser shell plastic, I‘d expect stock Stormcharge ergonomics to still outclass a modified Stryfe. Nonetheless, the huge variety of metal Stryfe kits offer more radical customization allowing builders to differentiate.
The Stormcharge wins on modernized stock form, while the Stryfe likely maintains an edge for hardcore modding thanks to tremendous community support. Both remain excellent platforms depending on your needs.
Tactical Configuration and Loadout Options
While fresh out of the box functionality impresses right off the bat, the Stormcharge caters well to gamers itching to amplify their loadouts with some extra gear.
Taking advantage of the barrel attachment point opens up some playstyle versatility. Want to improve aiming down sights? Throw on a tactical scope with reflex sight. Need to reach out further? Extend engagement range by equipping the 28" AlphaStrike sniper barrel.
The side accessory rail also introduces welcome flexibility compared to the Stryfe‘s bottom-only option. Mounting a vertical grip lets you wield the Stormcharge like an SMG for stabilized handling when advancing across the battlefield.
Outfitting mags with higher capacity lets you extend the fight as well. An 18-round banana mag coupled with some backup 12-round sticks offers plenty of ammo to press the attack. Mix in some AccuStrike darts for precision or Rival rounds when facing heavily armored opponents.
I put together this example loadout which has served me well:
With the right gear, the Stormcharge adapts well beyond its out-of-box setup for both defensive and offensive roles. The modular attachments combined with high mobility prove extremely effective for capturing objectives in intense Nerf squad skirmishes.
Verdict: Stryfe 2.0 Brings Welcome Upgrades
When first revealed, I‘ll admit to some skepticism whether the Stormcharge could live up to the Stryfe‘s towering legacy across both casual play and modding scenes. After extensive testing though, the Stormcharge brings welcome design and ergonomic upgrades while maintaining core flywheel enjoyment.
Nerf perfected a proven formula, then modernized it. The familiar functionality now ships with better aesthetics, comfort, and reliability. While the Stryfe likely retains an edge for diehard modders, I expect Stormcharge adoption to gain steam thanks to sheer Play-Doh pleasure right out of the box.
The Stormcharge reminds the world that battery-powered battle can still innovate and thrill while respecting heritage. I‘ll be carrying one (or two) into my next foam war. For just $24.99, you should as well!
Pick up the Nerf Elite 2.0 Stormcharge on Amazon now to elevate your next dart-slinging skirmish!