Strike Industries ARK17 Two Tone Blowback 4.5mm BB CO2 Air Pistol by EMG/KWC
This is the ARK17 in its “absolutely not trying to blend in” form. The polished, diamond-cut finish turns an already aggressive design into something that’s very clearly built to stand out.
If subtlety is your thing, this is not your thing.
Build & Finish
The polished two-tone finish highlights every cut, contour, and angle in the slide. It looks sharp, it reflects light, and it draws attention immediately.
It also comes with the usual trade-off. Polished surfaces will:
- Show fingerprints
- Pick up marks more easily
- Require occasional maintenance to keep looking right
Leave it damp or sweaty and it will start to show it. Look after it properly and it’ll hold up fine.
Weight and construction are identical to the matte version, sitting around 800g with the same solid feel.
Handling & Operation
The grip texture is aggressive but usable, and the overall ergonomics follow the familiar Glock-style layout.
Blowback is snappy enough to keep things interesting, and like most pistols in this category, you’ll notice:
- Slight slide movement/play
- A bit of rattle
That’s normal. If anything, this design hides it better than most.
The 17-round drop-out magazine houses the CO2 capsule, keeping things simple and familiar.
Features
- Licensed Strike Industries ARK17 design
- Polished / diamond-cut slide finish
- CO2 blowback system
- Adjustable hop-up
- 14mm CCW threaded muzzle
- Raised iron sights
- 17-round drop-out magazine
Performance / Use Case
This is a short-range plinking pistol with a bit more usability than most, thanks to the hop-up system.
Adjustable hop-up gives:
- Flatter trajectory
- Better usable range
- More flexibility with BB weights
It’s not about raw power. It’s about making the most of what it has.
Practical Notes
- Suppressors will fit, but mostly for looks
- Avoid heavy or overly long attachments
- Expect normal wear on contact points over time
- Rail-mounted safety can interfere with some accessories
Specifications
- Calibre: 4.5mm BB
- Power Source: 1x 12g CO2
- Magazine: 17 rounds (drop-out)
- System: Blowback
- Barrel: 90mm smoothbore
- Muzzle: 14mm CCW
- Length: 210 mm
- Weight: 800 g
- Safety: Slide safety
Included
- Pistol
- 1x magazine
- Allen key
The polished ARK17 is the one you buy because it looks good, not because it’s practical.
Mechanically, it’s identical to the matte version. Visually, it’s a completely different story. If you’re happy to put in a bit of care to keep it looking right, it’s easily the more striking option.
If not, you already know which version to pick.
Important — read before purchase or storage.
All CO2 and green‑gas/propane powered guns and magazines are pressure systems and must not be stored pressurised for any length of time outside active shooting. Leaving gas installed will compress internal seals, accelerate permanent leaks, and shorten the life of your gun.
Temperature & Pressure Behaviour
CO2 and propane are temperature‑sensitive: they expand and contract with temperature changes. That expansion can force gas past worn seals or, in extreme heat, rupture seals or valves — creating dangerous failures. Keep guns and magazines out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Cold temperatures reduce pressure and can cause low power or feed problems, so always test a gas gun in the conditions you intend to use it.Always remove or fully vent gas after use. If you’re not shooting, remove the CO2 capsule or vent/empty magazines. Do not store with gas installed.
Lubrication Recommendations
To protect internals and seals we recommend using gas with added lubricants:-
CO2: use lubricated CO2 capsules — UMAREX branded CO2 is our recommendation.
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Green Gas / Propane: use gas with added lubricant such as Vorsk, UltraAir, Nuprol, or Abbey (Green Gas).
Seal & Lubricant Guidance
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Apply one drop of silicone oil (for polyurethane seals only — usually green or clear seals) to the tip of every 5 CO2 capsules or before long‑term storage to lubricate the piercing nozzle and protect seals.
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For silicone seals (typically semi‑translucent white), only use PTFE‑based lubricants (e.g. Super Lube PTFE). Do not use silicone oil on silicone seals.
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Never use gas cartridges showing rust or visible corrosion.
Leak Expectations & User Responsibility
All gas systems will slowly leak over time. Proper care reduces the rate of leakage but cannot prevent it entirely. Leaving cartridges installed dramatically speeds up seal wear. By using or storing gas guns you accept responsibility for regular maintenance, correct lubricant use, and safe storage.We Test Before Sale
We test every gas‑powered gun prior to dispatch or handover for major leaks and function. This may mean the gun arrives with gas installed — you may choose to use this free gas or vent the gun before storage. Testing does not guarantee seal life or prevent future leaks; seals remain consumable parts.If you’re unsure about seal types, lubricant compatibility, or safe storage, ask us before purchase — we’ll give honest guidance. Failure to follow these recommendations may void warranty or return eligibility where damage is caused by improper storage or lubrication.
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Important Notice for the Purchase and Delivery of Airguns, Pressure Components of Airguns, and Moderators
Effective Compliance with the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (VCRA): Sections 31 and 32
Under the provisions of Sections 31 and 32 of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, which were enacted through "The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (Commencement No 3) Order 2007: firearms measures," specific regulations now apply to air weapons, their Pressure-Bearing component parts, and certain accessories.
Key Points to Note:
Restricted Items:
- Airguns: All airguns are classified as restricted items.
- Pressure-Bearing Parts of Airguns: This includes barrels, cylinders, reservoirs, and pistons.
- Functional Moderators (Silencers/Suppressors): Moderators that reduce the sound of discharge are also classified as restricted items.
Definition and Registration:
- Component Parts: While the VCRA does not explicitly define "component parts," the Home Office interprets this to include pressure-bearing parts such as barrels, cylinders, reservoirs, and pistons.
- Accessories: Only moderators (silencers) require registration by dealers.
Legal Requirements for Transfer:
- In-Person Transfer: It is an offence under the VCRA to transfer these restricted items through standard postal systems or to the end customer directly without the presence of both the buyer and either the seller or a representative of the seller.
- Representatives of the Seller: This can be:
- An employee of the seller who is a registered firearms dealer (RFD).
- Another RFD authorized by the seller.
- An employee of the authorized RFD.
Collection and Delivery Options:
- Collection from Store: Customers are encouraged to collect their restricted items directly from the store where purchased.
- Transfer to Another RFD: Items can be transferred to a local RFD for collection, though the receiving RFD may charge a fee for this service.
- Home Delivery: We offer home delivery through our in-house team to some areas of the UK. However, please note that this service has location restrictions and incurs higher costs due to the need for dedicated transport, making it more expensive than a standard RFD transfer.
For more detailed guidance on purchasing and receiving VCRA Restricted Transfer items, please refer to our comprehensive guide here: VCRA Restricted Transfer Items Buying Guide
