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Learning how a gun works?

polycounter lvl 11
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Deforges polycounter lvl 11
I eventually want to design some of my own weapons and I know the basic parts of a gun but not much about how they work together. Does anyone have a source they'd recommend? I want to make sure whatever I concept is based somewhat in reality.

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  • kaptainkernals
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    kaptainkernals polycounter lvl 12
    Not all modern arms - but he does showcase some modern arms - and you'd likely find links to other resources for more modern weapons.

    But this channel gives a very detailed view on how guns work, down to the smallest mechanism, as well as providing some good slow motion video of a number of the weapons being fired. Also, very interesting historical backgrounds into why certain weapons are designed and built in the way they are:

    https://www.youtube.com/user/ForgottenWeapons

  • cromadbomber
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    cromadbomber polycounter lvl 10
    You can download World of Guns on Steam. It is free 2 play but with progressive unlock system or if you don't want to wait you can purchase some of the weapons. All guns have interior parts modeled and there are fire animations. You can use X-Ray mode, isolate parts or whatever to clearly see whats going on inside.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30KXYs1KsbA
  • beefaroni
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    beefaroni sublime tool
    Ya World of Guns + $50 to unlock every gun (over 100+).

    It's a pretty great deal for all of the knowledge you get.

    Also watch some AR builds online.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrBjoPMK_YA
  • Deforges
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    Deforges polycounter lvl 11
    Thanks guys, I got world of guns downloading now
  • PixelMasher
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    PixelMasher veteran polycounter
    woah that world of guns looks super cool, and thats coming from a canadian hahaha.
  • Amsterdam Hilton Hotel
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    Amsterdam Hilton Hotel insane polycounter
    Deforges said:
    I eventually want to design some of my own weapons and I know the basic parts of a gun but not much about how they work together. Does anyone have a source they'd recommend? I want to make sure whatever I concept is based somewhat in reality.
    As already said WoG is a great resource

    I also suggest looking up parts diagrams for various guns (google the name + "schematic" or "parts" or "diagram") as they're generally available

    Most guns, even handguns have a shitload of parts so if you're totally new to interpreting it, remember that the overall object is a device for projecting bullets. Try to trace the path of the bullet through the firearm. How does it even get into the chamber? How does the spent cartridge get removed? Then try to see how the force applied to the trigger moves through the system and finally hits the primer. It's more complicated than you might think. Usually the trigger itself activates several mechanisms at once besides just tripping the sear to release the hammer / striker. Look into how the (usually multiple) safety measures actually work mechanically to stop the bullet from being activated. See if you can explain these things to another person and have them understand it. 

    Materials reference can actually be harder to find than parts reference because it's less relevant to casual owners. Do some research on the specific types of metals and finishes and the polymers used in common models. https://youtu.be/bN6QZkD3xQ0  (bookmark this channel, it's a goldmine)

    Finally but not least important, I highly recommend going to a range, renting a few guns and trying them out. Just having IRL experience with guns helps a lot in terms of visual design. Most people don't realize quite how small and thin they are until they're holding one. The way most games make them take up 1/4 of your screen so they feel heavy and badass... it's not like that irl 
  • sacboi
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    sacboi high dynamic range

    Very nice resources here.

    Deforges wrote:

    I eventually want to design some of my own weapons and I know the basic parts of a gun but not much about how they work together. Does anyone have a source they'd recommend? I want to make sure whatever I concept is based somewhat in reality.

    Also if you happen to live State side and whether a feasible option for consideration is to purchase a replica none lethal (metal) or even full scale model (plastic/resin) weapon, enabling 'hands on' tactile familiarity with their inner workings either through stripping or dry firing, that I think will be useful info when it comes to generating your own customised designs.

    (couple of quick hits online)

    http://armory.net/replica-guns/assault-rifles

    http://www.metalcraftbyblair.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=9_219&zenid=95k2nddk8du02ri5e6js760g07

    EDIT:

    A contemporary example where 'smart' gun manufacture is heading:

    https://www.behance.net/gallery/604795/ASRH-C1-ASSAULT-SNIPER-RIFLE-concept-design-(3D)

    https://youtu.be/uhron05s1Ng

           

  • Deforges
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    Deforges polycounter lvl 11
    thanks guys! I have seen that channel before.
  • RyanB
    You can buy some rifles, like an SKS, for a few hundred dollars. 

    Some guns are extremely simple.  You can make a slam fire shotgun out of some schedule 40 pipe.  If you want to get fancy you can use a staple gun as a trigger.

    https://youtu.be/Q8cWsjnSAc4

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