NERF DinoSquad Raptor-Slash vs AGM Mastech AWM Sniper Blaster

Buy the Nerf DinoSquad Raptor-Slash for a younger kid who wants a tough, simple blaster with slam-fire and no loose parts. Buy the AGM Mastech AWM for an older child or teen who wants a sniper-style rifle with a scope, bipod and shell ejection. The Nerf is smaller, lighter and rated from age 8; the AWM is a 0.9 kg rifle rated 12+ with a 4-dart clip and 40 darts included. Owners of the AWM call it fun but report fragile plastic and shorter-than-hoped range, while the Nerf's slam-fire and 6-dart drum are its main draws.

• Choose the Nerf DinoSquad Raptor-Slash if the shooter is 8 to 11, you want slam-fire and a self-contained 6-dart drum, and durability matters more than a sniper look.
• Choose the AGM Mastech AWM if the shooter is 12 or older and wants a scope, bipod, shell ejection and a 4-dart clip for backyard sniper play.