Ah, summertime. To me, that’s memories of making s’mores around the campfire. Consequently, it’s also reminiscent of bags of stale marshmallows everywhere. What if I told you that you didn’t need to toss them? Turn them into ammo for your marshmallow blaster gun instead!
Things got a little sweet and sticky here, but I’m pleased to report that a lot of fun was had. So, here’s our review of the marshmallow blaster if you’re looking to add one to your summer arsenal.
What is a Marshmallow Blaster Gun?
A marshmallow blaster gun is a toy similar in style to a NERF blaster. However, instead of using foam darts as ammo, this variant uses squishy marshmallows.
This particular model uses mini-sized marshmallows you can find at nearly any grocery store. Thankfully, I find it works pretty well even if they’re stale, so it’s a great use for marshmallows that are “past their prime”.
Features of the Zing Marshmallow Blaster Gun
- Pump-action style firing
- Safe for use indoors and outdoors
- Dishwasher safe marshmallow compartment for easy cleanup
- Fires mini marshmallows up to 30 feet!
- “Magazine” holds 25 mini marshmallows at a time
- Recommended for ages 8+
Pros and Cons: Things to Know About the Zing Marshmallow Blaster Gun
Are There Different Versions of the Zing Marshmallow Blaster?
Yes, there are 5 different versions of the Zing marshmallow blasters:
Marshmallow Blaster Range and Capacity
| Blaster Model | Marshmallow Size | Firing Range | Magazine Capacity |
| Pump Action | Mini | 30 feet | 25 |
| Double Barrel Pump | Mini | 40 feet | 40 |
| Extreme | Standard | 40 feet | 1 |
| Mini | Mini | 30 feet | 1 |
| Bow | Mini | 30 feet | 20 |
| Mini Bow | Mini | 30 feet | 12 |
| Slingshot | Mini | 30 feet | 12 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Marshmallow Blaster Guns
How Does a Marshmallow Blaster Work?
A marshmallow blaster works by using air pressure to launch marshmallows. Load the marshmallows into the sealed chamber. Then, use the slide to build air pressure in the ammo compartment. On release, the built-up air will send the marshmallow flying.
Increasing the force increases the distance the marshmallow will travel. Those models with larger tubes that create more air compression will launch further.
How Do I Keep the Marshmallows From Sticking in the Blaster Gun?
To keep marshmallows from sticking in the ammo compartment of the blaster gun, there are two options:
1. Use stale marshmallows that are no longer sticky to the touch
2. Toss the marshmallows in a container with cornstarch to coat them
The latter option actually creates a fun “poof” when the marshmallow is launched that looks like smoke!
Can You Use a Marshmallow Blaster Gun With Other Candies?
No, the marshmallow blaster guns are specifically designed for use with marshmallows. Other candies will get stuck, refuse to launch, or just generally not work.
The only other option would be a foam marshmallow-shaped toy of the same size.
Similar Products to Zing Marshmallow Blaster Guns
Zing Marshmallow Blaster vs Buzz Bee Toys Air Warriors Blaster Mini Marshmallow Attack
Compared to the Zing, the Buzz Bee Mini Marshmallow Attack Blaster:
- Uses the same pump-action shot movement
- Has a raised, angled tube to hold the marshmallows
- Shoots up to 30 feet (the same)
- Holds up to 25 mini marshmallows (same)
- Is not dishwasher safe
- Has been discontinued
In short: While it’s actually a pretty comparable marshmallow launcher, unfortunately this little blaster isn’t currently in production. We know it first came out in 2009, but it’s unclear when it was pulled. However, if you’d like, you may still find some on eBay or other third party reselling sites.
Zing Marshmallow Blaster vs NERF Marshmallow Shooter
Compared to the Zing, a NERF Marshmallow Shooter:
- Is styled more like the Zing Mini Blaster
- Loads one marshmallow at a time
- Uses a burst of breath to launch
The NERF model is pretty cool as well, but there’s a catch (isn’t there always). See, they’re not actually available year-around. The NERF marshmallow shooter only comes as part of a special Easter basket release, along with some candies and other toys.
Since you’re only able to find it once a year (at retailers like Target, if you’re looking) this makes it tricky to obtain. Plus, you’ll get a lot of other items along with it which you may not care about.
If you’re truly ambitious, you can always modify an existing Nerf gun to turn it into a marshmallow launcher.
Zing Marshmallow Blaster vs Smart Gear Pump Action Marshmallow Raider
Compared to the Zing, a Smart Gear Marshmallow Raider:
- Holds 20 marshmallows (vs 25)
- Shoots 30 feet (same)
- Has the same angled tube like the Buzz Bee
- Uses pump action air-powered firing mechanism
- Is less reliable
In short: For what, at face value, appears to be a comparable toy, I was disappointed in the Smart Gear model. It’s slightly more expensive, holds less ammo, and is far more prone to jamming and misfiring than its Zing counterpart.
Zing vs the Marshmallow Fun Co Blasters
It should also be noted, if you’ve seen similar blasters under the Marshmallow Fun Co brand, they were acquired by Zing in 2019. So, these are the same toys, just under a different label.
Our Overall Ratings of the Zing Marshmallow Blaster Gun
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a fun activity that the whole family will enjoy, these marshmallow blasters are great fun. I do recommend using them outside though, unless you want to be finding marshmallows for weeks.
You do need to take the time to make your marshmallows stale (or use up old ones) or to coat them in cornstarch for the blasters to work well. Otherwise, they have a tendency to get sticky and not shoot, which isn’t a whole lot of fun.
Where to Buy
If you want to get your own marshmallow blaster gun, here are some different options for price comparison:
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Zing Marshmallow Pump Action Blaster - Great for Indoor and Outdoor Play, Launches up to 30 Feet For Ages 8 and Up
Features
- MARSHMALLOW FUN: This unique bow and arrow design allows you to launch marshmallows wherever you want! Featuring fiber glass arms and a gravity-fed ammo tube
- LAUNCH INCREDIBLE DISTANCES: With launching distances of up to 30 feet.
- SAFE PLAY: Marshmallows are safe, fun and allow for easy clean up when finished! This device's ammo tube is top rack, dishwasher safe.
- ADD CORN STARCH: For maximum performance and cool effects, put marshmallows in a sealable container or bag and add a little corn starch! Makes marshmallows easier to load, shoot further, and adds a cool smoke effect!
- EASY TO FILL: Cylinder holds 25 mini marshmallows.
