Buying a toy blaster as a gift is easy to get wrong in one way: the age. A blaster that is perfect for a 15-year-old can be the wrong choice for an 8-year-old. This guide sorts picks by the maker’s age rating, so you can pick with confidence.
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Ages 3 and up: bubble blasters
For toddlers and preschoolers, skip the blasters and give bubbles.
- Maxx Bubbles Bubble Barrage: a front face of small wands you dip in the included tray, then trigger for a burst of bubbles. Rated 3+.
- Gazillion Bubble Flare: a handheld bubble machine with lights and sound effects, 4 oz of bubble solution included. Rated 3+.
- Gazillion Tiny Typhoon: a compact battery bubble machine, 4 oz of bubble solution included. Rated 3+. It uses 4 AAA batteries, which are not included.
Ages 6 and up: water blasters
Water blasters are an easy, safe first “blaster” for kids who want to join in.
- Super Soaker Hydro Frenzy: pump action with three nozzle settings. Rated 6+.
- Super Soaker Flip Fill: a flip-open tank for fast fills. Rated 6+.
See the best water blasters guide for more.
Ages 8 and up: Nerf foam blasters
Foam is the classic first Nerf. These are rated 8+ by Hasbro.
- Nerf Elite 2.0 Commander RD-6: a 6-dart rotating drum, no batteries. The easiest first blaster.
- Nerf Elite 2.0 Shockwave RD-15: 15 darts with pump action, no batteries.
- Nerf Ultra Select: motorized, with two 10-dart clips. Needs batteries.
The best Nerf blasters for kids guide compares them in more detail.
Ages 8 and up: motorized water
- X-Shot Hydra Pulse: a motorized water blaster with a rechargeable battery. Rated 8+.
Ages 14 and up: gel blasters
Gel blasters are rated 14+ by their makers, so they are a gift for teens only.
- Gel Blaster Surge 2.0: up to 175 fps claimed, a 1,000-gellet magazine.
- SplatRBall SRB400-SUB: a kit with a 400-round magazine and safety glasses.
If the teen is new to gel blasters, read what is a gel blaster first.
Gift tips
- Follow the age rating on the box. It is the maker’s call, not ours.
- Add goggles. A pair of clear safety goggles makes a great stocking stuffer and keeps every game safe.
- Check batteries. Some blasters need batteries or a charge, and the gift is better if it works on day one.
- Think about the group. A single blaster is more fun with friends. A loadout gives you a matched set for a party.
Local rules vary; check yours before you buy or play.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best first blaster for an 8-year-old? The Nerf Elite 2.0 Commander RD-6: no batteries and rated 8+.
Is a gel blaster a good gift for a 12-year-old? No. Gel blasters in our catalog are rated 14+ by the makers. Choose foam instead.
What can I give a toddler? A bubble machine, rated 3+, instead of a blaster.
Do I need to buy ammo separately? Most kits include some ammo. Foam darts and gel beads are sold separately when you need more.