The Good:
While not quite as heavy as the AEG Thompson M1A1, the SPAS-12 is a heavyweight replica. The construction is largely plastic with some metal parts, and there are mounting rings for a sling. The SPAS-12 is an extremely durable and well constructed replica. Propulsion comes from an amazingly powerful spring mechanism. It easily has as much power as my Tokyo MaruiAEG H&K MP5K. Each pump of the handle allows you to fire 3 bbs in a single burst, and spread is of course dependent on distance.

The two things that really set the Franchi SPAS-12 apart from other shotguns, by way of appearance, are the vented barrel shroud and the folding stock, which has a loop to allow you to fire one-handed (it is much too heavy to do so otherwise). Both of these features are recreated beautifully, including the three separate points of articulation in the stock. However the stock is optional, so you will want to make sure whether or not the version you are purchasing includes it.

One thing that sets AirSoft shotguns apart from their rifle and pistol brethren is the shells. Tokyo Marui utilizes a spring-loaded shell which replicates a 12-gauge shell and holds 30 bbs (10 shots at 3 bbs per shot). It is loaded into, and removed from, the SPAS-12 through the same port as the real steel. Spare shells can be stored in the choke tube by way of a removable endcap. The SPAS-12 includes one shell, and extra packs of 3 shells are available for approximately $40. The shells fit perfectly in any shotgun shell bandoleer, and can present an intimidating picture when seen on a skirmish field. I have heard rumors of a high-capacity magazine like that available for the real steel, but I have not seen it yet.

The Bad:
One of the biggest drawbacks of the SPAS-12 in particular, and spring-powered shotguns in general, is their lack of an ejection system. While gas-powered shotguns are higher maintenance and less convenient, due to replenishing the gas, there is no way to replace the "cool factor" of being able to load several shells and see them go flying out of the ejection port as they are spent. While you get more shots per shell from a spring-powered shotgun, it just feels like it's missing something.

Another drawback of the SPAS-12 is it's overall plastic appearance. Granted, there is no way to get plastic to really look like metal, but this model really suffers from that problem. While several of the important parts, like the barrels and receiver are metal, more than anything else it would have helped the appearance a lot if the vented shroud had been made from metal as well.

Finally, the SPAS-12 is a bit pricey compared to shotgun replicas by other companies. While worth every penny, expect to pay $250-$400 depending on the vendor and whether or not it has the folding stock included. This comes largely from a well proven and dependable reputation for both the replica and the manufacturer.

The Ugly Truth:
Rating: 5 - What are you waiting for? BUY IT NOW!
Like the AEG Thompson M1A1, I cannot possibly recommend the Tokyo Marui Spring Franchi SPAS-12 enough. It is an awesome looking and extremely powerful AirSoft replica. The SPAS-12 has been in production for quite a while now. It is an extremely reliable design, and the same mechanism has even been ported over to Tokyo Marui's Benelli M3 and new M203 kits. Whether you want a good skirmish weapon or just something attractive to hang on the wall, this is it.

Comments:
The SPAS-12 is used a lot in Sci-Fi movies, including Jurassic Park and The Matrix, due to it's high-tech appearance. One of the things that gives it this appearance is the vented barrel shroud which is easily the most recognizable part of the ALIENS Pulse Rifle. If you are going to pick up this replica, get the one that comes with the shoulder stock. You can buy it separately and add it later, but you'll pay more for it that way, and you'll regret not getting it in the first place.

Where to buy:
MFI
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