The Nerf Rival Pathfinder XXII-1200, a spring-powered pump-action blaster with an integrated shoulder stock and adjustable iron sight, was released in 2022.
The Pathfinder is a member of the Rival subseries, which also includes blasters that are colored in yellow and light blue and a brand-new kind of ammo called Accu-Rounds.
Is the Pathfinder on par with the Nemesis and Artemis, two of the most iconic Rival Guns?
Here is my review of the Rival Pathfinder XXII-1200, where I go over some of its best features and give you my frank opinions.
The Nerf Rival Pathfinder: What Is It?
Nerf began introducing new Rival Blasters in 2022, and The Pathfinder is one of them. These blasters, like as the Pathfinder, shoot with a new type of ammo called Accu-Rounds, have adjustable iron sights, and have a lovely yellow and light blue color scheme.
Though that’s primarily just marketing speak, the goal of this Rival sub-series was to further increase accuracy. Actually, these blasters are only a new twist on the well-liked Rival line, which has been around since 2015.
The actual Pathfinder is a very small pump-action blaster that runs on springs. It has an integrated shoulder stock, a removable 12-round magazine, and is capable of firing shots.
A.) Precision Rounds
Although Accu-Rounds and the original Rival Rounds have very similar dimpling patterns, Accu-Rounds have substantially larger dimples.
Although firing accuracy and velocity are supposed to be improved by this revised design, there isn’t really much of a difference. It’s not worse, though.
The Rival Blasters in this subseries may all be used with the original Rival Rounds, so if you already own them, you can continue to use them.
Why Nerf Pathfinder might be good for you
1.) Invigorating Style
The traditional Rival series color palette of red and dark blue is something we’ve all grown accustomed to. Indeed, in my perspective at least, Rival Blasters have always had a great appearance.
However, the color scheme has drastically changed to yellow and light blue with this new subseries. I find the new color palette appealing, however others may argue it makes the blasters appear softer and less menacing.
Aside from its color scheme, the Pathfinder has a very distinctive look and feel thanks to its pump handle, long, pointy magazine, and overall unique design.
Although the magazine may only contain 12 rounds, the ergonomics are good. It is also noteworthy to mention that magazines published prior to 2019 will not work with the Pathfinder.
2.) Adjustable Rear Sight
The Pathfinder has two iron sights, the rear of which is adjustable. This is one of its most awesome features.
Two adjustment wheels are included with the rear sight: one for left-to-right movement and another for up-and-down movement.
The fixed front sight is positioned above the muzzle and has a quirky appearance. You cannot remove either sight because they are fixed.
3.) Passable Work
Performance is one incentive to buy any Rival Blaster. Comparing the average Rival Blaster to the average dart blaster, it performs admirably.
One should normally anticipate an average shooting velocity of 100 FPS (feet per second) when purchasing a Rival Blaster. Rival Blasters usually have really decent accuracy as well. Furthermore, the kind of gun can have a significant impact on the rate of fire.
Because it shoots very fast, you need to be 14+ years of age to use it; there is a 14+ low warning given on the packaging of the product regarding this.
How does one perform with a Pathfinder? The Pathfinder’s performance is undoubtedly impressive. The FPS is approximately 90, the rate of fire is almost 2 per second, and the accuracy is fairly decent (though it’s difficult to determine if that’s due of the new ammo).
Closing Remarks
The Pathfinder is appealing to me. Really, I do. I am just glad that Nerf is preserving the Rival brand even though there isn’t much to say about any improvements in shooting velocity or accuracy.
Since the beginning, I have been a fan of Nerf’s Rival blaster line, which has been one of their most popular releases. Though Nerf has since released a brand-new blaster sub-series, I was a little worried that the 2020 Rival models might be the last in the line.
All things considered, the Pathfinder is really well-priced, has a great aesthetic, and operates just how a Rival Blaster should. I say go ahead and purchase it.
