Nerf guns are part of our childhood memories and with the best non automatic nerf gun, you can get the same joy and laughter today. There is no age limit for Nerf, and you can play all year long. And we want you to have the best.
There are an impressive number of Nerf guns on the market. So many styles, colors, designs, abilities. It can be challenging to know what the best non automatic Nerf guns are. To have the most epic battles and fun you need to make the right choice.
| Category | Nerf Gun |
|---|---|
| Best Overall Non Automatic Nerf Gun | Nerf Rampage N-Strike Elite Toy Blaster |
| Runner Up Non Automatic Nerf Gun | Nerf Zombie Strike Doominator Blaster |
| Best Budget Non Automatic Nerf Gun | Nerf N Strike Elite Strongarm Toy Blaster |
The good news is, that we have done the hard part for you. We have researched products and reviews to deliver a guide to help you. Nerf guns are timeless fun and great for the whole family.
No need to feel overwhelmed. Simply follow our guide and recommendations. It will be one of the best decisions you make all year. And, it will be the easiest.
Table of Contents
Non Automatic Nerf Gun Buyers Guide
The Nerf brand speaks for itself in terms of quality and popularity. Non automatic nerf guns are timeless. Although rapid-fire and automatic guns are available now too, non automatic Nerf guns are nothing but fun.
You may know the name, but you also need to know what to look for. Here are a few of the important features to consider when looking for the best non automatic Nerf gun.
Type
There are multiple types of Nerf guns on the market, like semi automatic and non automatic. Each has their own benefits and appeal to different users. When it comes to non automatic Nerf guns there are three distinct types to consider.
- Bolt-Action: These are not as popular but are great fun and often resemble rifles. For the hunters in the family, this is the way to go.
- Pump-Action: These are like pump-action shotguns and make you feel like a true enforcer. These typically have larger darts and cause a little more damage.
- Hammer-Action: These are slower to fire and need some practice to get good with them.
Gun Size
The size you want is critical to consider before you buy. It will narrow down your choices quickly. It also makes sure you do not get anything oversized for younger players. The larger Nerf guns may look really cool, but they can be difficult to hold and operate for some kids.
Decide on the size that is suited for the style of play you have in mind. Larger weapons are harder to aim and pack a bigger punch. So, keep that in mind when choosing a size.
If you are looking for a Nerf gun to be used more generally, go with a smaller or medium-sized one. They are easier to use and are more practical if you need to play indoors. You can pick up the larger guns for outdoor play and older players.
Gun Capacity
Different Nerf guns hold different amounts of ammo. Some hold and shoot one dart at a time. Others are fully loaded with multiple darts.
Depending on your style of play, you may want more darts on hand. Rather than having to constantly stop and collect darts from off the ground.
The blaster type of Nerf guns are the ones that typically carry more darts. If you want a smaller, simpler gun but want extra ammo, consider grabbing some extra magazines and keeping multiple darts on hand. Then you don’t have to worry that reloading will take too long.
Darts or Balls
Nerf ammo is most commonly darts. But you can also get Nerf balls. Both are great ammo, but they do not both work for all guns. If you have a preference about your ammo, you will need to look for Nerf guns that are compatible.
Once you decide on the ammo, you want to stick with it. This will end up cheaper and more practical for you. You can use the same ammo for multiple guns so long as they are all compatible.
You also need to consider where you will be playing. When playing indoors, you have limited range and space, so Nerf darts are typically more practical. Outdoor play offers greater distances for play and is better served by Nerf balls.
Pricing
Always consider pricing before you buy a Nerf gun. With Nerf, quality does not vary with price. So, no matter what you spend you are getting a product you can trust. That being said, Nerf has guns that span a large price range.
There are also accessories, ammo, protective equipment, and other items you will likely want to buy. Think about your budget and what you can afford to get.
With such a wide range of guns, you will always get something. No matter what your budget is. Nerf wants everyone to be able to play.
Themes
Within the Nerf brand, there are different themes. Under each theme that is released, guns of different styles are available. There is always a common factor or two that links all the guns within a theme.
Some people like to collect all the Nerf guns in the same theme, like a collection. Themes can be based on a shooting style, a color scheme, or a trademarked brand such as Fortnite.
There are over thirty-five themes under the Nerf brand and new ones are being developed all the time. The most popular themes that you may want to consider buying are in the table below.
| Name/Series | Theme Type | Blasters |
|---|---|---|
| Zombie Strike | Zombie apocalypse-themed blasters/weapons | 18 |
| N-Strike Elite | Realistic long-range blasters | 25 |
| SuperMaxx | Long-range air powered blasters | 12 |
| Dart Tag | Competition-geared blasters | 15 |
| CyberStrike | Futuristic blasters | 9 |
| Rebelle | Blasters geared towards girls | 15 |
| Hyper Sight | Precision blasters | 5 |
| Vortex | Long-range disc blasters | 5 |
Safety
One of Nerf’s top priorities has and always will be safety. It is also likely to be your top priority too. There are guidelines to keep in mind for safety during any Nerf play.
The biggest aspect of safety is only getting a gun that can be safely handled. Follow the age guidelines on the packaging. Do not let smaller and younger children play with larger guns.
Nerf also provides safety equipment such as protective eyewear. Only buy a Nerf gun that can be safely used. The player needs to be comfortable holding it in order to use it properly.
Accessories
Nerf offers all sorts of extra stuff to accompany your Nerf guns. Many of the guns within a theme will have modular accessories. You can get scopes, flip-down grips, and bi-pods, as well as extra magazines.
These accessories are ideal for making a simple gun more accurate. You may have to start with a small gun for some reason, but you can level up your play once you get the hang of it.
You can also get different darts. Typically, Nerf guns come with a few darts that compliment it, but often upgraded darts can also be purchased separately. Just make sure you know which ammo is compatible for the gun you have before you buy.
Top 10 Best Non Automatic Nerf Guns
You already knew the brand. And, now you know the styles, popular themes, and what ammo to get. Once you have decided which features matter to you, the choice of Nerf gun is reduced.
We have looked through consumer reviews and research across the various themes and styles to come up with a list of the best non automatic Nerf guns. Below are the top ten guns to keep your Nerf play on point.
1) Nerf Rampage N-Strike Elite Toy Blaster – Best Overall
The Nerf Rampage N-Strike Elite Toy Blaster on Amazon is designed for fun and looks better than your average blaster. The gun is heavier and larger than most but delivers accurate shots every time. You get 25 darts and a shooting range of 90 feet.
Reloading is quick and easy, and the gun never jams. Switch to the Slam-Fire mode to release darts at a faster speed. This is the top non automatic Nerf gun that will make you feel like you are holding an automatic one.
What I like:
- Comes with 25 darts
- Includes the Slam-Fire mode
- 90-feet shooting distance
- Easy to reload and use
What I don’t like:
- Slightly more expensive
2) Nerf Zombie Strike Doominator Blaster – Runner Up
When you want to go on a rampage mission and take down everything in your sight, count on the Nerf Zombie Strike Doominator Blaster on Amazon.
Take on zombies or anything else headed your way. When you use the 6 darts, there is another barrel of 6 ready to go.
It is a bulky weapon so better suited for older kids and adults. Shooting is precise and on target every time from 90 feet away and you can make even the most unlikely shots.
The Doominator is powerful, precise, and not scared of anything. Whoever is not on your team, beware.
What I like:
- 24 Shots Without Reloading
- Four 6 Dart Drums
- Looks cool
- Takes out all targets accurately
What I don’t like:
- Slow Reload Time
- Bulky
3) Nerf N-Strike Elite Strongarm Toy Blaster – Best Budget
When you have a budget to stick with but still want an awesome Nerf gun, the Nerf N Strike Elite Strongarm Toy Blaster on Amazon will not let you down.
Designed to be small and portable, it is great for all ages. It may be lightweight but it is also durable, so it is ready for any Nerf war. The rotational barrel holds and delivers 6 darts. You get 2 shooting modes, one of which is rapid-fire.
As far as smaller guns go, this one packs a big punch and you can shoot up to 90 feet with ease.
What I like:
- Lightweight but durable
- 2 fire modes
- Affordable
- 90-foot range
What I don’t like:
- Blaster colors may vary
- Grip may not fit everyone’s hands
4. Longstrike Nerf Modulus Toy Blaster
The Longstrike Nerf Modulus Toy Blaster on Amazon is the only Nerf gun that allows you to customize your weapon. Add any features that you like to design the perfect gun for you.
The bipod and scope allow you to shoot accurately and you get 3 clips that hold 6 darts each. Bolt-action mechanism means you don’t have to worry about needing batteries.
This gun has great range and is a popular choice among Nerf enthusiasts.
What I like:
- Includes numerous accessories
- Extremely accurate
- No batteries required
- Can be customized
What I don’t like:
- Cocking makes a lot of noise
5. Nerf N-Strike Elite AccuStrike RaptorStrike
The Nerf N-Strike Elite AccuStrike RaptorStrike on Amazon gives you the ultimate sniper experience. If you want accurate shots, this is the gun for you. You get 18 darts to load one at a time as you hit your targets from the distant shadows.
Your range is up to 90 feet and this is the first Nerf gun to feature bolt action. This is a great option for kids and adults that like the feel of hunting. It is perfect for waiting patiently as other players run around. The thrill of sniping is at your fingertips.
What I like:
- Bolt action design
- 18 darts included
- Range of 90-feet
- Incredibly accurate
What I don’t like:
- Slow reloading
6. Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster
Looking for a shotgun style toy? The Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster on Amazon has you covered. It is comparable to the top shotgun designs on the market.
Fire 5 darts while easily holding the gun with one hand. Reloading is simple and easy, and it is great for close targets.
This gun is lightweight and durable so great for all ages and levels of play. It also uses different darts to other Nerf guns, so you can be assured you will always find your darts on the playing field.
What I like:
- Lightweight
- Hammer-action design
- Really affordable
What I don’t like:
- Only holds 5 darts
7. Nerf Vagabond Doomlands Toy Blaster
From the Doomlands collection comes the Nerf Vagabond Doomlands Toy Blaster on Amazon. Straight out of a Hollywood movie, you get pump-action and a rotating barrel that holds 6 darts.
It is easy to reload and shoots as far as 90 feet away. Kids and adults love this gun and compared to others that only hold 6 darts, this one has accuracy and durability to make up for it. It is also a great beginner gun for newbies to the Nerf world.
What I like:
- Reasonable firing rate
- Easy to reload
- Pump-action design
- Includes the rapid-fire mode
What I don’t like:
- A little heavy
8. Nerf Persuader Doomlands Toy Blaster
Explore the Wild West with the Nerf Persuader Doomlands Toy Blaster on Amazon in your hands. The hammer-action motion makes you look and feel like a cowboy. Simply pull back, aim and start shooting. You have the option to slowly fire the 4 darts or fire all four in a row.
The unique design lets you look inside the blaster so you can see your firing mechanism in action. Loading and reloading is simple, and it is lightweight and comfortable to hold. This perfectly balanced gun is great for kids and beginners.
What I like:
- Small, compact design
- Easy to reload
- Very affordable
What I don’t like:
- Only shoots 4 darts
9. Nerf N-Strike Elite DoubleBreach Blaster
Nerf N-Strike Elite is one of the top collections and two of their guns are highly recommended. The Nerf N-Strike Elite DoubleBreach Blaster on Amazon offers pump-action shooting that reaches 90 feet.
It comes with a double barrel and an accurate triggering mechanism. You can fire two shots with one pump. It is compatible with all darts and can use Mega darts so you can do some serious damage. To be a true enforcer, the DoubleBreach is the way to go.
What I like:
- It’s compatible with all darts
- Quick action
- Darts don’t fall out at random
- Light trigger
What I don’t like:
- Occasionally the cylinder gets stuck
10. Nerf N-Strike Elite Disruptor
The larger version of the Strongarm, the Nerf N-Strike Elite Disruptor on Amazon is something to be taken seriously. Fire up to 6 darts at your target from 90 feet away with impeccable accuracy.
This quick draw blaster includes a rapid-fire setting and as one of the more affordable Nerf guns on the market, it is great for everyday play.
What I like:
- Includes rapid-fire
- Reaches up to 90-feet
- Really affordable
- Quite accurate
What I don’t like:
- Might be a little too big for smaller children
Helpful Tips To Choose The Best Non Automatic Nerf Gun
Nerf guns may be fun, but you have to be practical when you choose the right one to play with. The buying guide we provide is to help you decide which features matter so you can find the right fit for you.
That will be the best way to up your game. In addition to the guide above, we have some extra tips to help the decision making.
- Choose according to your play style. Are you offensive, defensive, or looking to be a sniper?
- Pick a size that is comfortable to hold
- What is your location? Are you playing indoors or outdoors, or both?
- Consider getting additional ammo and additional weapons
Final Thoughts
The world of Nerf is yours for the taking. Our goal is to bring you closer to successfully completing those Nerf missions.
You now have the ultimate guide to help you discover the features that matter. And you have a list of the top ten and highly rated non automatic Nerf guns to choose from.
Nerf is a name you can trust for toys and you are guaranteed a day of fun with any of the blasters we recommend. It is sure to be one of the best decisions you make. So, get armed, get ready to impress your friends, and get one of the best non automatic Nerf guns.