2012
Kent Weber
Buffalo, NY
The term "franken-gun" is frequently used in gunsmithing circles to describe a firearm composed of parts from different manufacturers. Similarly, the term "franken-marker" refers to the result of using parts from various paintball markers/brands to create a marker that can be easily defined by a singular brand label. The homemade firearm described in this presentation possesses elements of both a paintball marker and a shortened .22 caliber rifle rifle that could be characterized as a "franken-hybrid," for lack of a better term. This remarkably simple hybridization combined an electronic paintball marker trigger mechanism and frame with the receiver, bolt assembly, shortened barrel, and magazine of a Savage/Stevens rimfire rifle, resulting in a compact .22 caliber firearm with select-fire capabilities. Attempts to locate hybrid firearms of a similar nature through literature review and Internet queries were unsuccessful, lending to the importance of sharing this casework experience. The similarity of internal parts and operations of the two firing platforms will be shown through a series of diagrams, photos, and video clips. The presentation will also include video of the :live fire" capabilities of the resulting hybrid firearm.