Welcome back, connoisseurs of airsoft replicas from days gone by! Today’s Flashback Friday spotlight features a blast from the past from Western Arms (WA), a Japanese manufacturer better known for their 1911s and their early role in starting the gas blowback rifle (GBBR) craze.

Overview: WA Model 4013 Tactical Smith & Wesson (TSW)

The WA Model 4013 TSW closely mirrors the real firearm. It uses a double-stack magazine, fires in both single-action and double-action, features a safety that doubles as a decocker, comes with replica Novak Lo-Mount Carry sights, and is engraved for authenticity.

Build Quality

Like many Japanese replicas, the slide and frame are made of durable plastic. However, key components such as the safety/decocker, hammer, slide lock/takedown lever, barrel, spring guide, sights, and magazine release are made of metal, giving a solid, realistic feel.

Magazines

Western Arms is known for its heavy-weight magazines, which enhance realism despite the plastic slide and frame. These magazines feature metal feed lips integrated into the body mold. This means that if a feed lip breaks, there’s no simple fix — a small risk that adds to the collectible nature of the replica.

Performance

The WA Model 4013 TSW shoots between 266–277 FPS. The highest FPS is achieved on the first shot from a fully pressurized magazine, gradually dropping as the pressure depletes with each consecutive shot.

Collector Notes

When first released, the Model 4013 TSW retailed for around $175 USD. Currently, the Gen3 version is available for approximately $490 USD. The Gen3 has more subtle engravings compared to the original, replacing the large, ornate markings with a simple "Smith & Wesson" engraving.

Outside of spare magazines, aftermarket upgrades and repair parts for this gun were virtually nonexistent. Many collectors kept these replicas as "safe queens" or wall hangers. Would you break yours out of airsoft jail and play, or display it for others to admire?