The crowdfunding campaign didn't reach its goal, so I'm releasing what I have for free.
What is this
This is a 3D-printable mechanical blaster that fires standard plastic 6mm BBs. It is designed to be fun to play and easy to assemble. To build it, you only need a Maker's Beginner Kit, OR you can easily source the parts yourself using:
3 to 6 standard rubber bands
16x BT3x8 self-tapping screws
How It Works
I wanted to capture the incredibly satisfying feeling of mechanical reloads. Instead of just pouring BBs into a hopper, this blaster uses custom 3D-printed bullet casings.
The Ammo: Standard 6mm BBs snap snugly into reusable 3D-printed bullet casings.
The Action: It operates as a single-shot, break-action blaster.
The Process: Pull back the mechanism to load it, break open the barrel, slide your loaded casing into the chamber, snap it shut, and fire. Afterward, break the barrel open again to extract the casing. It's hands-on, mechanical, and highly addictive to use.
Tuning tip: The firing pin and trigger use rubber bands for tension. Stack more than one band on each if you want a stronger, snappier action. Experiment to find what feels right.
Step files are included
IMPORTANT: Safety, Usage, and Liability Disclosures
Please read carefully before downloading, or printing this project.
Product Classification & Intended Use: The ArcShot is a 3D-printable mechanical toy, prop, and recreational item. It is not a real firearm. It is designed solely for recreational use and display, and must never be used in any way that could threaten, intimidate, or harm people or animals.
Safety Warnings & Eye Protection:Always wear eye protection when operating this toy. Never, under any circumstances, aim or fire the blaster at people, animals, or faces. Always ensure you have a safe, controlled backstop when firing.
Visual Representation & Public Safety: The sci-fi appearance of this blaster is purely aesthetic and is not intended to represent any real firearm, nor should it ever be marketed as such. I strongly advise printing the ArcShot in bright, distinctive, non-realistic colors (such as neon orange, green, or bright blue) to prevent any confusion. Never carry, display, or use this toy in public spaces, and never present it as a real firearm. It should only be used in private, controlled environments.
Age Restrictions & Choking Hazards: This project is recommended for users aged 14 and up. The build involves small parts, screws, rubber bands, and 6mm BBs, all of which present severe choking hazards. Adult supervision is strictly required for younger users.
Projectile & Mechanism Limits: The ArcShot is designed exclusively to fire standard plastic 6mm BBs using the tension of 3 to 6 standard rubber bands. Do not exceed this maximum tension and do not use metal bearings or unauthorized projectiles. Doing so greatly increases the risk of injury from snapping bands or shattered plastic.
Printing & Assembly Risks: The structural integrity of 3D-printed parts depends entirely on the user and the inherent limitations of plastic. Weak prints, incorrect filament, or using the wrong size screws/hardware may cause the blaster to break under mechanical tension, which can lead to malfunction or injury. Even well-printed plastic can experience unpredictable material fatigue over time. Follow all recommended print settings and instructions, and always test the mechanism in a safe direction before standard use.
Modification Risks: Modifying the 3D files (e.g., altering the projectile system, increasing the rubber band capacity, or changing the core mechanics) creates severe safety hazards. Any modifications are done entirely at your own risk.
Legal Compliance: Laws regarding replica weapons, toy blasters, and projectile devices vary drastically by country, state, and municipality. You, the user, are solely responsible for checking and strictly complying with your local laws before downloading, printing, assembling, or using the ArcShot.
Strict Liability Disclaimer: By downloading the files, or assembling the ArcShot, you acknowledge and agree that the designer, MakerWorld, and Bambu Lab are absolutely not responsible or liable for any injuries, property damage, or legal issues caused by the use, proper or improper, of this item. Because 3D-printed plastic under mechanical tension can be unpredictable, this liability waiver applies even if all instructions, hardware recommendations, and safety guidelines are followed perfectly. You assume all inherent risks associated with the fabrication and operation of this project.
Vostok Labs
