Press the lever down, watch the shell casing flip out, load another dart, and fire again. That is the loop that makes a foam dart shotgun the most satisfying toy gun in a shell ejecting collection — and POPLAYO has two very different ways to get it: the lever-action M1887 at $68.99 and the break-action Double Barrel.
This guide answers one question: which foam dart shotgun should you buy in 2026? We compare the two models the way a buyer actually shops — reload speed, realism, included accessories, and price — and we only use the specs published on each product page.
Step by Step: How a Shell Ejecting Shotgun Works
Before comparing models, here is the four-step cycle every shell ejecting toy gun in the shotgun category follows:
- Load the dart. Push one EVA foam dart into a shell casing.
- Chamber the round. Insert the loaded casing into the gun.
- Cycle the action. Work the lever (M1887) or crack the barrels open (Double Barrel) to eject the spent shell.
- Fire. Pull the trigger to launch the dart.
This mechanical ritual is why players search for a “toy gun with ejecting shells” rather than settling for a plain foam dart gun. Every shot is a deliberate action.
M1887: The Lever-Action Shell Ejecting Nerf Gun
The M1887 Shell Ejecting Toy Gun is POPLAYO’s flagship tactical shotgun-style blaster: $68.99, 68cm long, nylon and metal build. Modeled on the classic lever-action shotgun, it ejects a casing on every lever press.
- Action: Press-down lever cocking with shell ejection every cycle
- Build: Nylon + metal frame for a solid, weighted feel
- Rail: Picatinny top rail for optics
- In the box: 6 red shell casings with golden tips, 20 EVA foam darts, safety goggles
- Colors: Blue or wood-grain brown
If you are looking for the most realistic foam dart shotgun with the full mechanical experience, this is the one.
Double Barrel: The Break-Action Alternative
The Double Barrel Shell Ejecting Shotgun swaps the lever for a break-open reload: snap the barrels open, drop in the shells, close it, and fire. Both casings eject as the action breaks, creating a fast two-shot rhythm that feels completely different from the M1887.
- Action: Break-action reload with dual shell ejection
- Rhythm: Two-shot loop for quicker cycling
- Best for: Players who prefer classic break-open styling over lever pumping
Side by Side: M1887 vs Double Barrel
| Feature | M1887 Lever-Action | Double Barrel Break-Action |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $68.99 | See product page |
| Length | 68cm | See product page |
| Materials | Nylon + Metal | See product page |
| Reload style | Press lever down | Break open the barrel |
| Shell ejection | One casing per cycle | Two casings on break |
| Extras included | Goggles, 6 shells, 20 darts | See product page |
| Best for | Collectors who want maximum realism | Players who want a fast two-shot loop |
Bottom line: want the most authentic shell ejecting nerf gun experience with optics ready to mount? Take the M1887. Want a quicker, simpler reload rhythm? Try the Double Barrel.
Safety Rules for Foam Dart Shotguns
- Wear the included goggles — the M1887 ships with a pair.
- Load only the supplied EVA foam darts; never modify the shells.
- Shell-ejecting blasters suit ages 12+ with adult supervision.
- All POPLAYO toys carry orange safety tips per U.S. federal toy firearm regulations (15 USC Sec. 5001).
Foam Dart Shotgun FAQ
- Do foam dart shotguns hurt? No — they fire soft EVA foam darts at low speed, and goggles protect the eyes during play.
- How many shells come with the M1887? Six shell casings with golden tips plus 20 EVA foam darts and safety goggles.
- Can I mount a scope? Yes, the M1887 has a Picatinny top rail for compatible optics.
- What age is a foam dart shotgun for? Ages 12+ with supervision; younger kids can play with eye protection.
- Where can I buy one? Browse the soft dart gun collection or the full POPLAYO shop.
Your Next Move
Start with the M1887 lever-action foam dart shotgun for the most authentic shell ejection, then check the rest of the soft dart gun range for pistols, snipers, and automatic blasters. Looking for more shell ejecting models? Browse our shell ejecting nerf gun alternatives guide.