Let's all admit it, as airsoft players, nowadays we never had it so good. We're getting new models left and right, more companies coming in, and crossovers between airsoft and real steel happening. Acceptance of airsoft is really that high, that even big name tactical gear and firearms companies take the airsoft market into consideration when making new business decisions.

Not only that, more airsoft technologies or innovations are coming in. Last Monday, we wrote about PolarStar Fusion Engine which has breathed new life into HPA-powered airsoft guns. And now we have this new Mechbox concept from Dev 4 Airsoft, a new group from Czech airsoft company, Guru Arms, and will focus on the development of airsoft components.

Since crowdfunding is the trend nowadays to start products and companies not wanting to rely on investors and venture capitalists, Dev 4 Airsoft also takes this approach to "kickstart" their Mechbox project. This is a Mechbox II which innovates on the existing gearbox, and using materials only seen in some high-end airsoft upgrade parts, also integrates a hop-up chamber. This way. it eliminates the need to use a separate hop-up. But how it will perform depends on how the development goes.

This project is in the concept stages, and there's no prototype available, or even a 3D simulation. The material to be used is Duralumin a type age-hardenable aluminium alloy comprised of copper, manganese and magnesium. And there's only one company that has been developing airsoft upgrade parts that we know of, PDI-Japan, and their upgrade parts are well praised, as well as these fetch premium prices in the airsoft market. Duralumin is a very durable material that is used on military equipment and aviation.

With this Mechbox II with integrated hop-up chamber by Dev 4 Airsoft, they guarantee compatibility with existing spare parts from already known airsoft brands such as Tokyo Marui, Classic Army, and other companies that produce TM-compatible spare parts, which will also cover ACM airsoft guns. The bearings will be 8mm and can be dropped in easily into TM-compatible airsoft guns, and a quick spring change is part of the features of this gearbox.

Whilst we mentioned compatibility with other brands' spare parts, Dev 4 Airsoft will also mass produce the various gearbox components for easy replacement and better compatibility with this gearbox. They will provide a 24-month guarantee even if you assemble the gearbox yourself.

So far, only 3D drawings available, which you can view larger images by clicking here:

This gearbox will become a reality if and only if you help them raise 7,700.00 Euros or approximately US$10,000.00 with the breakdown shown below:

• To finish the Mechbox development – 1000 EUR
• To make the prototype for verifying of right dimension – 1000 EUR
• Tools for production and the mould – 5700 EUR

You can contribute at least 20 Euros via PayPal to get the project going and this amount will also provide you a 20% discount once this becomes available for delivery as they project the retail price to be around 100 Euros (US$138.00). You can contribute more than 20 Euros and that amount will be offset from the retail price.

As for the deadline in raising the funds, there's none indicated at their website. But the earlier they receive their target amount, they earlier can they start moving the project from concept to production. In case they don't achieve their funding goals, they especially setup a Paypal account that will refund your contribution. This means that if the project fails, you get your money back (perhaps after transaction fees are deducted).

If you think that this is a worthwhile project, then better login to your PayPal account and send the amount you think would be appropriate. You can help spread the word around to help gather more funders for this. If you think you need more evidence about this product to convince you send money, then contact them. It would be really great if they do have a prototype showing it would work and perform, as it is usually the best way to convince people to send money if the project shows promise.

You can visit their website called "Help us with the airsoft project" as there are more information and FAQ section. If it does convince you, then help them out realise their project by sending money their way.