For those who may not know this soaker (I know I didn't know much about it before), it looks like this:
Full Size Image
However, picking up a second-hand blaster, the Pumper II didn't at first seem to work as it should. The pump had some sealant problems, pushing a lot of water backwards when pumping due to problems with the reservoir-to-pump check valve. However, after some poking about and flushing with clean water, the pump seems to have corrected itself. It's a good thing too, since while I tried opening it to clean the valve area, the internal tubings are glued shut, making a simple cleaning and repair impossible.
This blaster is a potential beast if functioning fully. Each full pump draws a healthy >200mL (7oz) into the pump shaft which can be pushed out through its dual-forward facing nozzles. Being piston-based, blaster power is user-dependent. However, an average strength user should be able to produce good, solid dual streams to drench anyone who dares wander within range. The grips are comfortable to hold. The rear grip offers a good amount of space, able to accommodate all but the largest of hand sizes.
The main shortcoming is the design and capacity of the reservoir. 1.2L (40oz) just won't last long with each pump drawing about 1/6th of the capacity. However, the main problem is the shape of the opening. The opening of the reservoir to intake tube is small and rear-positioned as opposed to being on the bottom. As such,the blaster must be tipped backwards to ensure the intake tube can draw in water.
At any rate, I need to do a little more testing before I can write up a full review. Neat blaster and an interesting glimpse into an older, less common soaker-design.
More to come...
