SpudFiles

Hello Everyone,
I am looking to try and make a simple portable Nerf launcher for paintball games and scenario tank killing.. I am new to this but I do have a few things and I am willing to go buy what I need. Also I want this to be a reusable thing on the field so I would prefer to use an extra 14 ounce Co2 tank that I have. My only idea for this gun at the moment is to have my tank attached somehow and just have a valve I switch on and off to fill up the air chamber. I have no idea how to use/mod/or even where to buy a solenoid, so unless someone can explain that also I guess its out and I use a manual switch. The Ammunition would be Mini Nerf Vortex Rockets. They are 2 inches in diameter and fly pretty well. Anyway this is kinda messy but thanks for your help =)

Indi

OMG! Do some damn research. All of the questions can be answered with 10 minutes of searching.

I have searched. I have tried to make one and it just sucks. I just wanted to ask here because this is where some of the best builders and designers are and I just cant seem to get on the right track. =/

ive must of seen 3 or 4 similar topics searhc these and spudtechs forums.

Thanks to both SpudStuff, and MrCrowley for contributing NOTHING! Dont post if you dont intend to contribute anything.

To start it off read up in the <a href="http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/inde ... >SpudFiles Wiki Article - Pneumatic Cannon</a>.

From what Id assume one would want such a launcher to be compact. So Id suggest a over/under configuration to reduce total length, while not losing barrel length. [<a href="http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/inde ... >SpudFiles Wiki Article - Over/Under</a>]

Also to increase the effective of such a launcher Id assume you need a fairly fast way to deliver the projectile [As I understand correctly, a Nerf Rocket] to the barrel. You may be able to get away with a muzzle loading system since the launcher will probably have a barrel length anywhere from 2-3 ft. [<a href="http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/inde ... >SpudFiles Wiki Article - Launcher Configuration</a> containing different projectile delivery systems]

Lastly for your means of creating a pressure difference. You mentioned using your 14 oz CO2 PB tank. Your going to get a regulator on the tank to cut the high-end pressures out the tank, and then a second regulator to control the input pressure [~0-250PSI][A air pressure regulator for in the use of air compressors would be sufficient, and found for rather cheap at a hardware store]. Also to keep space down id suggest you 'nest' the CO2 ttank into the gap between the chamber and barrel. This can be secured with a large dryer vent clamps. Also id advise to position this on the opposite side of were your body will be positioned when shooting. So if your the typical 'right-handed' shooter youd position the tank and regulating system on the right side. This is so not to obstruct your aiming, and also to reduce snagging due to the systems projecting components.

For the valve id strongly deter from a ball valve. In turn Id advise a modified sprinkler valve or even a piston valve in a 'T' config.

Hopefully that helps you out, ill be swooping back in on the topic if you may have any more questions, or request for suggestions.

Thank you Pimpmann22! I still have a few questions though. First, where do I buy valves and such? Havin a difficult time searching for them on home depot and c-tire.

From the wording you used I assume you mean over the site? In that case go to HomeDepot.com, and proceed to type 'Sprinkler Valve' into the search box. It yeilds 11 results so I dont know where you could go wrong. [Hopefully im not getting suckered by someone wanting to be spoon feed answers]

And in the event of finding a sprinkler valve at a physical store. Finding them will vary on your store layout, but it should be similar to my local HD. Obviously such is going to be next to all the PVC fittings and plumbing fittings, because its intended use is for in irrigation systems. At my store it is across from the DWV section.

Although as I advise, I suggest you look into piston valves. Take a fair mount of time, but there worth it.

I built my own piston valve for my 1st. Had to do some rebuilding because of my own design flaws, but i got it figured out, and things are looking good, i'm building the chasis now, little bits at a time when i can. Built mine in a 4way 2". Made the piston from wood, 2 o-rings, 1/8th" rubber washer to seal against the barrel. Useing a modded sprinkler valve i bought from BCarms to vent my piston valve. Hers about a 3 page thread about it. Good luck, keep us all posted.

Actually, I make piston valves and I'd be happy to make you a piston that will greatly outperform a sprinkler valve any day and look a crap-load nicer.

You wont need a second air regulator. Just buy a reg from <a href="https://palmer-pursuit.com/ecom/product ... ">Palmer's Pursuit</a> with the 0-250 psi option and a gauge.

You will want your chamber relatively small to conserve CO2. Keep your barrel at about twice the volume as your chamber for efficiency.

Thank you all! Btw Pimpman I was searching soliniod and valve and that was a bit to general I guess. I'm going to try and write up a basic blue print and post it so you guys can tell me what you think.

Thanks Again!
Indi