3D-Printed Nerf Gun

thingiverse

A Nerf gun takes shape from a collection of 3D printed components. Each piece is stronger than what can be found in an ordinary Nerf gun. The lack of support material needed during printing only adds to its appeal. Bringing it together for a test shot proves to be just as exciting. Before anything else, all the files need to be printed first. This includes parts not printed with 3D technology like CPVC components. One piece to prep is a length of 3/4" CPVC, which needs to be about two inches longer than the large handle that comes out from the printing process. It should line up so the back of the pipe faces towards the rear end of the gun. The spot where the trigger sear pokes through the handle should also be marked on the CPVC. Next is cutting a window in it, which allows the sear to pass into and press the piston back into place. To cut this part out use a dremel. It will need some more adjustments afterwards using a file. When it comes time to build the piston, there's more that needs attention. The end of the CPVC requires drilling a hole centered through its end cap for the long rod. It should fit in so it slides easily in place and there is a small printed part named "New Piston Assembly". This job contains 4 separate pieces but only three are identical with one piece slightly longer than others that include a small edge. A flat washer with a square hole attached needs to be glued on the long end of a printed rod that will go through this CPVC's end cap hole as it rests just against its outer surface when not in motion and can hold an additional part back, thanks to its center positioning. After these adjustments have been done take another longer spring (alternately, use 2 short ones instead) slide along with this last printed assembly of components while leaving one edge on a piece glued on after inserting it properly onto another. When the final components from both end caps line up and you follow the directions in order you'll get your first successful Nerf shot after assembling every part.