PARENTS may need to don their camo gear and duck for cover this Christmas, with toy guns flying off the shelves in the lead up to Santa's visit.

Warwick Toyworld owner Peter Tansky said the ever-popular Nerf Gun is enjoying a resurgence in popularity this year, with a range of new models peaking kids' interests.

The toys come in a range of sizes and strengths and their popularity has some kids fighting their parents for a turn.

For those wanting something a little more adventurous than the foam darts, paintball may be your thing.

Although paintball guns were available last year, Mr Tansky said this was the year they had taken off.

On a softer note, the most popular girls' toys are a little less intense, with the cute Pillow Pets soaring in popularity.

The cuddly bedtime friends come in all shapes and colours, including ladybug, lamb, dog, monkey and unicorn.

But the toy Mr Tansky has not been able to keep on the shelves is one that many parents - or grandparents - may remember.

The trusty pogo stick has reigned supreme this year, so much so that Mr Tansky is struggling to keep them in stock.

He and his wife Julie have spent many years working in the toy industry and said it could be difficult to foresee what new toys would take off and what older trends would resurface.

"If you had a crystal ball it would be great," he said.

"You can get a fair idea of what would be popular but it can be pretty hard to predict.

"Sometimes you get a new 'you beaut' and it doesn't tickle the kids' fancy and it's ultimately them who decide whether it's a goer," he said.

Mr Tansky had just one piece of advice for parents who have yet to complete their Christmas shopping.

"Get in quick so you don't miss out. A happy kid means happy parents," he said.

What is your foolproof Christmas present? Email edit@warwickdailynews.com.au.

2011 Hot toys

The big sellers ahead of this Christmas are:

Nerf guns- ranging in price from $12.99-$69.99

Paintball guns - from $49.99

Pillow pets - $19.99

Pogo sticks - from $39.99