Learning how a gun works?
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.
Replies
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
It's a pretty great deal for all of the knowledge you get.
Also watch some AR builds online.
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.
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
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)
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.