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Why is there a lack of 3D-printed airgun (PCP/CO2) projects compared to firearms? (forum.guncadindex.com)
submitted 6 months ago by to c/general@forum.guncadindex.com
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We've all seen the massive explosion in 3D-printed firearm development recently. Designs like the FGC-9 and Urutau are incredible feats of engineering. But this got me thinking: why don't we see the same level of innovation and high-quality projects for 3D-printed airguns?

Logically, it seems like airguns would be a much easier and more accessible path. Components like constant pressure valves, regulators, CO2 cartridges, and HPA (High-Pressure Air) tanks face far less regulation globally compared to live ammunition, primers, and barrels.

Given the current capabilities of 3D printing, shouldn't designing and building reliable CO2 or PCP platforms be easier? Is the core issue engineering-related (e.g., containing sustained high pressure in printed plastics vs. the momentary peak pressure of a 9mm cartridge)?

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[–] 7 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago) (4 children)

The production of airguns and acetylene cannons is primarily discussed on forums like spudfiles.com. I have designed two myself: one is an air bow based on a typical hammer valve system, and the other is a QEV (Quick Exhaust Valve) airgun.

QEV airguns are highly efficient; at only 1000 psi with a .40 caliber bore, they can produce approximately 100 joules of kinetic energy. Even in parts of Asia with the strictest regulations, these can be manufactured without the need for specialized high-pressure pneumatic equipment.

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  • [–] [S] 1 point 6 months ago (3 children)

    Hi there, your 3D-printed airgun design is really impressive! I saw that it can handle pressures up to 1000 psi, and I'm very curious about the engineering behind it.

    Could you share some details on the following?

    1. How exactly is the mechanism implemented? > 2. Which specific parts of the airgun are 3D printed?
    2. How does the design withstand 1000 psi? Are there specific filaments, print orientations, or reinforcements you used to prevent failure under such high pressure?
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  • [–] 2 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago) (2 children)

    1.Typical hammer valves used in air bows can withstand up to 2500 psi; these are often sourced from professional airgun kits, vintage airgun components, or even high-pressure spray equipment. However, hammer valves are inefficient. While they offer a higher shot count than QEV systems, their overall efficiency is significantly lower.

    2.Consistent with most 3D-printed designs, all pressure-bearing components are made of metal. 3D printing is reserved only for the trigger group and the receiver.

    3.Withstanding 1000 psi in a QEV system is quite straightforward for an airgun; virtually any metal piping can handle that pressure. The main requirement is modifying the rubber in the pilot valve. I have successfully used 95A TPU for the valve internals at 2000 psi in a hammer-valve airgun without failure. Aside from the TPU used for the internal high-pressure sealing component, all other high-pressure parts are metal. The external housing is printed in PLA+.

    (The attached photo only shows the airgun with the typical 2500 psi hammer valve system. The photo of the QEV system airgun is not included, as it was lost when I switched devices.)

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  • [–] [S] 1 point 6 months ago (1 child)

    Do they typically use standard, purpose-built airgun valve components?Because i am in China buy airgun value will face risks, it's very difficult for me to source specific airgun parts where I am. I was wondering if it's feasible to substitute them with standard, unregulated pneumatic valves (like generic off-the-shelf commercial valves)?

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  • [–] 1 point 6 months ago

    You can modify commercial valves for use in airguns. For instance, in a QEV system, standard commercial valves can typically be used as long as you modify the rubber pilot diaphragm. However, I have heard that even commercial QEV valves and hydraulic tubing are under surveillance or regulation by the authorities there.

    The hammer valve system is fundamentally simple; it has existed since the 17th century. You can easily understand the mechanics by studying a few design diagrams, and DIY fabrication is relatively straightforward. That said, hammer valves rely heavily on high-pressure systems to achieve significant power. If airgun-related components are strictly controlled in your area, sourcing high-performance equipment will be extremely difficult.

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