The maker Ekcnheb has developed the “E18” model, a compact, mechanical toy gun based on the functional principle of a slingshot. Ekcnheb has made the design data available free of charge on Thingiverse. The aim was to reduce the size of an existing slingshot mechanism so that it would fit into a pistol-like format. The model also needed to be fully 3D printable and require as few external parts as possible.
From a mechanical point of view, the E18 is not a firearm, but a classic slingshot in which rubber bands generate the necessary kinetic energy. The special feature lies in the design of the mechanism. A combination of a few small parts printed with standard PLA filament creates a robust construction.
In addition to the printed components, only elastic rubber bands and superglue are needed to assemble the E18. The maker has published PDF instructions for assembly. The realistic appearance of the model requires responsible handling, as confusion with real weapons is conceivable. Ekcnheb expressly emphasizes that users must not point the toy at living beings and should only use it on private property.
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