Matrix FN Herstal Mk13 40mm Enhanced Grenade Launcher Module
Aug 15, 2014 15:47:20 GMT -5
Post by triggs (SABR) on Aug 15, 2014 15:47:20 GMT -5
Full Album Review – Matrix 40mm EGLM
Matrix FN Herstal Mk. 13 40mm EGLM Grenade Launcher
- Real Steel History
- Overview
- Accessories
- Externals review
- Internals review
- Performance
- Final Thoughts and Upgradeability
Real Steel History
Introduced in 2004 as an addition, the Enhanced Grenade Launching Module (EGLM), officially referred to as the FN40GL, or Mk 13 Mod 0, is a 40 mm grenade launcher based on the 'GL1' designed for the F2000. The FN40GL is marketed in both an L (Light) and H (Heavy) model, for fitting the appropriate SCAR variant. The EGLM system features a double action trigger and a swing out chamber. (taken from www.wikipedia.org )
Overview
After some debate I finally decided to break down and invest in a full grenadier setup for my trusty VFC Mk17 SCAR-H. Having had previous experience with the ARES Mk 13 EGLM I knew for a fact it would not fit the VFC design due to the style of mags the VFC uses, and the style of trigger group the ARES EGLM uses. So that leaves most people with very limited choices. i.e. just the VFC made EGLM. However, there a few brand names that muddy the water so hopefully this review will help people sort out what’s what.
This particular review will focus on the “Matrix” brand EGLM found on Evike.com. I did not purchase the Mk13 stand alone carrier since I intended on mounting it on the Mk17, but I may at some later date. My “Matrix” EGLM came in a very nicely packaged box with EGLM clearly printed on the box, as well as 2 very unusual packing straps, I’ve never seen this on any airsoft gun or accessory before, very strange…
Inside the box everything was tightly packed with no wiggle room and shrink wrapped to keep out dust and foam chunks in.
Accessories
As accessories go, the “Matrix” ELGM is pretty sparse. Besides the launcher body itself it includes the Mk16 (SCAR-L) trigger group, and the larger Mk17 (SCAR-H) trigger group. They both have the basic pull trigger as well as a safety. My only gripe here is that they are not marked, but this is easily fixed by a little red paint.
For those of you that might not be familiar with the SCAR series. The Mk16 is based on the standard STANAG 5.56x45 magazines thus the magwell is shorter. The Mk17 on the other hand uses a FNH designed 7.62x51 magazine that looks somewhat similar to a SR25 7.62x51 magazine.
I do know of a number of people that have attached the EGLM with the 7.62 magwell trigger group to various M4’s and other various rifles. The larger magwell allows smaller mags some wiggle room in case the RIS does not allow the launcher itself to sit at just the right distance from the magwell like you would find if you attach it to a real spec Mk16 magwell.
It goes without saying that a basic instruction manual is included, though it’s very basic and doesn’t even include an exploded parts diagram (you’ll know why later!)
Externals Review
Overall the launcher is nicely put together. The plastic body feels very strong, and is a polycarbonate, nylon reinforced ABS. It can definitely take some good hits, not that I generally abuse my stuff like that. This costs me good money after all. Compared to my friend’s EGLM this one had decently cleaned up casting lines, and the only really noticeable spot was on the handguard.
I was pleased to see the inner barrel has rifling grooves cut into it. This is however a plastic insert, but it helps cut down on the weight of the overall unit. The end cap and barrel extension are metal however.
The launcher also includes a unique serial number plate, which is cleanly cut and firmly embedded. The release tab to open the chamber is also on the left side. The front includes a sling attachment point, though I am not confident of its strength so I don’t plan on using it.
The right side features 2 quick release levers to quickly attach other accessories. The front features an additional sling point like the left.
As promised I want to spend some time discussing the various companies that offer this, and similar built EGLMs.
ARES EGLM: The ARES EGLM is specifically designed to fit the ARES Mk16/Mk17. The Mk16 trigger group might actually fit a VFC Mk16, but no promises and I never tested before selling my ARES EGLM. However, I do know for a fact the ARES EGLM with the 7.62 trigger will not fit a VFC Mk17. The reason for this is the previously mentioned proprietary real steel style VFC Mk17 mags. The ARES Mk17 uses their own M14 mags that are adapted to work with the rifle, so it’s not only unrealistic but different dimensions. The ARES EGLM Mk17 trigger has a screw that pushes against the back of the VFC Mk17 mags and makes it impossible or nearly impossible to change mags, certainly not quickly and without risking damage to either the launcher or the rifle. The ARES EGLM will not fit the DBOY/Echo 1 Mk17/ASC-H since it is a direct clone of the VFC Mk17. The ARES EGLM will also not fit the Classic Army Mk16 or Mk17 and the DBOY/Echo 1 Mk16 due to the design of the CA SCAR. The bottom rail that the EGLM mounts to is slightly longer than ARES spec, thus the magwell does not line up properly with the EGLM trigger magwell.
VFC EGLM: The VFC made EGLM was not available for some time even after the initial release of the SCAR series. The first gen molded cases even came pre-molded to hold the EGLM, but it remained unavailable for some time. Unlike the ARES, the VFC is designed to real steal measurements, it will fit the VFC Mk16/Mk17 without issue, as well as the WE Mk16 GBBR. It is not known if the VFC EGLM will fit the ARES Mk16/Mk17, or the new WE Mk16/Mk17 AEG series. Since the DBOY/Echo1 Mk17/ASC-H is a clone of the VFC the VFC EGLM will fit the rifle without issue. However, it will not fit the Classic Army Mk16/Mk17 due to the aforementioned out of spec lower RIS. Since the DBOY/Echo1 Mk16 is a copy of the CA Mk16 it will not fit it either.
Matrix EGLM: The “Matrix” brand EGLM is a semi-clone of the VFC design. This is easily distinguishable if you examine the trigger group.
- The ARES uses a large plunger type pin that is also the firing pin for the actual grenade.
- The VFC on the other uses a more complicated spring system. NOTE that the VFC has chemically blackened springs that have very little shine.
- While not an exact clone, the Matrix uses a system similar to the VFC except the two actuating springs are in different locations. There are a number of ACM made EGLM’s that share this design, including “SEALS” at ebairsoft.com, “Lancer Tactical” at airsoftgi.com, and of course “Matrix” at Evike.com. Some websites claim it is made by VFC, but the design difference of the springs is fairly clear they are not legitimate VFC, but as a clone (of dimensions) they are a good alternative and cheaper in price.
So what exactly did I buy? I honestly have no idea... it does not match any pictures of the Matrix/Lancer Tactical ones I have seen before. Suffice to say it is simply a VFC clone from somewhere in China.
Sadly I do not have a VFC Mk16 to test the magwell on, but from reading some reports, the “Matrix” made EGLM’s will fit a VFC, and WE GBBR Mk16. Since the WE Mk16 AEG has just been released it is unknown if they fit and work with the new AEG. As for it fitting the VFC Mk17 with the “Matrix” EGLM Mk17 trigger group, it fits perfectly, the mags slide in and out freely, unlike the ARES version.
Internals Review
Quality wise I’m always skeptical of polymer and metal combinations, especially when it comes to these SCAR’s. You also have to worry about the metal quality, and there is no guarantee the “steel” parts aren’t in fact pot-metal or cheap steel that wears quickly.
A word of caution, for the technically inclined that enjoy taking things apart, be very careful with this unit. This particular EGLM has a front threaded barrel, this allows you to pull the inner barrel out of the unit and clean it. There is a traveler guide and spring that allow the tube assembly to pop free when loading/unloading the launcher, if you unthread the barrel, and pull out the inner barrel the traveler can and will go flying out under spring pressure. Doing this on the field is not advised!
Performance
FPS: sub 250FPS
Range: Variable
Honestly, it’s impossible to chrono these things; 40mm airsoft grenades are designed as mostly large shotgun blasts (with the exception of the slug firing grenades), and chrono’s just don’t register them. The range is also variable depending on the weight. I like to use a mix of .12 - .28g BB’s so I get a wide and longer blast. Testing with my “Matrix/Eagle Force” High-Power grenades was simple and straight forward. Load the grenade, aim in a general direction and pull the trigger. Followed by a nice loud pop, and if there’s a target unfortunate enough to be caught in the blast, usually a large jump from surprise, not from the high FPS.
Without the trigger group attached there is an emergency button at the back, when using the launcher in this configuration be sure to have the launcher pointed in a safe direction…the instruction manual does not mention what this button does…
Final Thoughts and Upgradeability
For the price I’m fairly happy with the “Matrix” EGLM. I paid slightly more than the identical “Lancer Tactical” labeled version, but since it was out of stock at the time I don’t really mind. The VFC is slightly more money although not a terrible amount, but it too was out of stock so I just went ahead and got the “clone.” Launchers are simple machines, and there’s really not much to break so I’m sure this will last me awhile.
Externals Score: 9.5/10
As mentioned the casting and cleanup was a bit lacking so I’m going to knock half a point off just because it means I have to work on it a bit. But otherwise I’m happy.
Internals Score: 10/10
Until something breaks I’m going to give internal build quality full points.
Overall score: 10/10
Compared the more expensive and less compatible ARES Mk13, and the slightly more expensive VFC EGLM I’m pleased with the quality and price. It will serve its purpose admirably I’m sure.
© Copyright triggs 2015
Matrix FN Herstal Mk. 13 40mm EGLM Grenade Launcher
- Real Steel History
- Overview
- Accessories
- Externals review
- Internals review
- Performance
- Final Thoughts and Upgradeability
Real Steel History
Introduced in 2004 as an addition, the Enhanced Grenade Launching Module (EGLM), officially referred to as the FN40GL, or Mk 13 Mod 0, is a 40 mm grenade launcher based on the 'GL1' designed for the F2000. The FN40GL is marketed in both an L (Light) and H (Heavy) model, for fitting the appropriate SCAR variant. The EGLM system features a double action trigger and a swing out chamber. (taken from www.wikipedia.org )
Overview
After some debate I finally decided to break down and invest in a full grenadier setup for my trusty VFC Mk17 SCAR-H. Having had previous experience with the ARES Mk 13 EGLM I knew for a fact it would not fit the VFC design due to the style of mags the VFC uses, and the style of trigger group the ARES EGLM uses. So that leaves most people with very limited choices. i.e. just the VFC made EGLM. However, there a few brand names that muddy the water so hopefully this review will help people sort out what’s what.
This particular review will focus on the “Matrix” brand EGLM found on Evike.com. I did not purchase the Mk13 stand alone carrier since I intended on mounting it on the Mk17, but I may at some later date. My “Matrix” EGLM came in a very nicely packaged box with EGLM clearly printed on the box, as well as 2 very unusual packing straps, I’ve never seen this on any airsoft gun or accessory before, very strange…
Inside the box everything was tightly packed with no wiggle room and shrink wrapped to keep out dust and foam chunks in.
Accessories
As accessories go, the “Matrix” ELGM is pretty sparse. Besides the launcher body itself it includes the Mk16 (SCAR-L) trigger group, and the larger Mk17 (SCAR-H) trigger group. They both have the basic pull trigger as well as a safety. My only gripe here is that they are not marked, but this is easily fixed by a little red paint.
For those of you that might not be familiar with the SCAR series. The Mk16 is based on the standard STANAG 5.56x45 magazines thus the magwell is shorter. The Mk17 on the other hand uses a FNH designed 7.62x51 magazine that looks somewhat similar to a SR25 7.62x51 magazine.
I do know of a number of people that have attached the EGLM with the 7.62 magwell trigger group to various M4’s and other various rifles. The larger magwell allows smaller mags some wiggle room in case the RIS does not allow the launcher itself to sit at just the right distance from the magwell like you would find if you attach it to a real spec Mk16 magwell.
It goes without saying that a basic instruction manual is included, though it’s very basic and doesn’t even include an exploded parts diagram (you’ll know why later!)
Externals Review
Overall the launcher is nicely put together. The plastic body feels very strong, and is a polycarbonate, nylon reinforced ABS. It can definitely take some good hits, not that I generally abuse my stuff like that. This costs me good money after all. Compared to my friend’s EGLM this one had decently cleaned up casting lines, and the only really noticeable spot was on the handguard.
I was pleased to see the inner barrel has rifling grooves cut into it. This is however a plastic insert, but it helps cut down on the weight of the overall unit. The end cap and barrel extension are metal however.
The launcher also includes a unique serial number plate, which is cleanly cut and firmly embedded. The release tab to open the chamber is also on the left side. The front includes a sling attachment point, though I am not confident of its strength so I don’t plan on using it.
The right side features 2 quick release levers to quickly attach other accessories. The front features an additional sling point like the left.
As promised I want to spend some time discussing the various companies that offer this, and similar built EGLMs.
ARES EGLM: The ARES EGLM is specifically designed to fit the ARES Mk16/Mk17. The Mk16 trigger group might actually fit a VFC Mk16, but no promises and I never tested before selling my ARES EGLM. However, I do know for a fact the ARES EGLM with the 7.62 trigger will not fit a VFC Mk17. The reason for this is the previously mentioned proprietary real steel style VFC Mk17 mags. The ARES Mk17 uses their own M14 mags that are adapted to work with the rifle, so it’s not only unrealistic but different dimensions. The ARES EGLM Mk17 trigger has a screw that pushes against the back of the VFC Mk17 mags and makes it impossible or nearly impossible to change mags, certainly not quickly and without risking damage to either the launcher or the rifle. The ARES EGLM will not fit the DBOY/Echo 1 Mk17/ASC-H since it is a direct clone of the VFC Mk17. The ARES EGLM will also not fit the Classic Army Mk16 or Mk17 and the DBOY/Echo 1 Mk16 due to the design of the CA SCAR. The bottom rail that the EGLM mounts to is slightly longer than ARES spec, thus the magwell does not line up properly with the EGLM trigger magwell.
VFC EGLM: The VFC made EGLM was not available for some time even after the initial release of the SCAR series. The first gen molded cases even came pre-molded to hold the EGLM, but it remained unavailable for some time. Unlike the ARES, the VFC is designed to real steal measurements, it will fit the VFC Mk16/Mk17 without issue, as well as the WE Mk16 GBBR. It is not known if the VFC EGLM will fit the ARES Mk16/Mk17, or the new WE Mk16/Mk17 AEG series. Since the DBOY/Echo1 Mk17/ASC-H is a clone of the VFC the VFC EGLM will fit the rifle without issue. However, it will not fit the Classic Army Mk16/Mk17 due to the aforementioned out of spec lower RIS. Since the DBOY/Echo1 Mk16 is a copy of the CA Mk16 it will not fit it either.
Matrix EGLM: The “Matrix” brand EGLM is a semi-clone of the VFC design. This is easily distinguishable if you examine the trigger group.
- The ARES uses a large plunger type pin that is also the firing pin for the actual grenade.
- The VFC on the other uses a more complicated spring system. NOTE that the VFC has chemically blackened springs that have very little shine.
- While not an exact clone, the Matrix uses a system similar to the VFC except the two actuating springs are in different locations. There are a number of ACM made EGLM’s that share this design, including “SEALS” at ebairsoft.com, “Lancer Tactical” at airsoftgi.com, and of course “Matrix” at Evike.com. Some websites claim it is made by VFC, but the design difference of the springs is fairly clear they are not legitimate VFC, but as a clone (of dimensions) they are a good alternative and cheaper in price.
So what exactly did I buy? I honestly have no idea... it does not match any pictures of the Matrix/Lancer Tactical ones I have seen before. Suffice to say it is simply a VFC clone from somewhere in China.
Sadly I do not have a VFC Mk16 to test the magwell on, but from reading some reports, the “Matrix” made EGLM’s will fit a VFC, and WE GBBR Mk16. Since the WE Mk16 AEG has just been released it is unknown if they fit and work with the new AEG. As for it fitting the VFC Mk17 with the “Matrix” EGLM Mk17 trigger group, it fits perfectly, the mags slide in and out freely, unlike the ARES version.
Internals Review
Quality wise I’m always skeptical of polymer and metal combinations, especially when it comes to these SCAR’s. You also have to worry about the metal quality, and there is no guarantee the “steel” parts aren’t in fact pot-metal or cheap steel that wears quickly.
A word of caution, for the technically inclined that enjoy taking things apart, be very careful with this unit. This particular EGLM has a front threaded barrel, this allows you to pull the inner barrel out of the unit and clean it. There is a traveler guide and spring that allow the tube assembly to pop free when loading/unloading the launcher, if you unthread the barrel, and pull out the inner barrel the traveler can and will go flying out under spring pressure. Doing this on the field is not advised!
Performance
FPS: sub 250FPS
Range: Variable
Honestly, it’s impossible to chrono these things; 40mm airsoft grenades are designed as mostly large shotgun blasts (with the exception of the slug firing grenades), and chrono’s just don’t register them. The range is also variable depending on the weight. I like to use a mix of .12 - .28g BB’s so I get a wide and longer blast. Testing with my “Matrix/Eagle Force” High-Power grenades was simple and straight forward. Load the grenade, aim in a general direction and pull the trigger. Followed by a nice loud pop, and if there’s a target unfortunate enough to be caught in the blast, usually a large jump from surprise, not from the high FPS.
Without the trigger group attached there is an emergency button at the back, when using the launcher in this configuration be sure to have the launcher pointed in a safe direction…the instruction manual does not mention what this button does…
Final Thoughts and Upgradeability
For the price I’m fairly happy with the “Matrix” EGLM. I paid slightly more than the identical “Lancer Tactical” labeled version, but since it was out of stock at the time I don’t really mind. The VFC is slightly more money although not a terrible amount, but it too was out of stock so I just went ahead and got the “clone.” Launchers are simple machines, and there’s really not much to break so I’m sure this will last me awhile.
Externals Score: 9.5/10
As mentioned the casting and cleanup was a bit lacking so I’m going to knock half a point off just because it means I have to work on it a bit. But otherwise I’m happy.
Internals Score: 10/10
Until something breaks I’m going to give internal build quality full points.
Overall score: 10/10
Compared the more expensive and less compatible ARES Mk13, and the slightly more expensive VFC EGLM I’m pleased with the quality and price. It will serve its purpose admirably I’m sure.
© Copyright triggs 2015