Stryker STR-1
by Bill Mills - Photos by Dawn Mills - May 2008

Features HowItWorks Disassembly Adjustment Testing Data

TESTING

Standardized WARPIG Ballistic Lab testing protocols of microprocessor controlled firing at both low and high rates of fire, and for target groupings unfortunately could not be performed on the Stryker STR-1. After no small amount of adjustment and reconfiguration, it was determined that the length and resistance of the Stryker's trigger was simply too much to be overcome by the pneumatic trigger actuator used in our standardized testing.

In an effort to provide similar testing, the marker was loaded with DraXxus Hellfire paint and manually triggered at a rate of approximately one shot per second for 30 shot strings. Velocity consistency with the disposable CO2 cartridge was compared to the same when powered by compressed air.

As previously, noted the Stryker ST-1's velocity responded very differently to CO2 than to compressed air. Using compressed air as the power source, with the velocity adjuster turned to its maximum, chronograph readings were in the mid 260s. Although higher velocities were easily achieved on CO2, 265 feet per second was used as the target velocity when making adjustments prior to firing comparison test strings, as this velocity could be achieved with both power sources.

Not surprisingly, velocities were more consistent with compressed air as a power source, delivering a much smaller spread between high and low values, and a standard deviation of 5.2 as opposed to 34. Statistically on CO2, the best 95% of the shots fired (eliminating 5% oddballs) were within + or – 14 fps from the average, while on HPA this figure dropped to a mere 2 fps. For full chronograph data click here.

Twenty-shot target groupings at 75 feet with the marker locked too the test stand were compared between the stock barrel, and the WARPIG Ballistic Labs standardized test barrel, a Freak barrel with All American 14-inch Front. As computer timing the trigger pulls to ensure equal valve recharge time for each shot was not practical, the shots were manually fired at a rate of approximately one per second.

The results showed a noticeable variation in shot patterns, with the stock configuration sending three shots wide of the target.

The Stryker STR-1 combines a long-proven operational concept with manufacturing techniques that are unusual for its product class. The result is a marker priced for the beginning player, matched with a style that usually costs more, available in a ready-to-go player pack that even supplies CO2.