As you can see, I plan on including a Muzzle Brake as part of the Gun Barrel.
It lengthens the barrel and makes it more visually appealing I think.
It also helps detract from the lack of taper in the barrel
(yes, the two sections of the gun barrel should be slightly tapered, but for build simplicity, I eliminated the taper)
I experimented with a 3D Brake...cut out holes, hollow inside, etc.
But the real thing is a solid chunk of metal, drilled through from three directions, leaving very thick walls.
Trying to recreate this in paper is virtually impossible at any scale.
And the thin walled paper assembly I created was flimsy and easily distorted and/or crushed.
As you can see, I decided to continue with 3D virtual artwork instead.
I like it...and its a LOT easier to build!
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Next step is the Loader/Breech and its connecting elements.
The Breech box and that box on top of the Barrel are fairly straightforward box assemblies.
However the Breech has a cutout for the sliding Breech block, as well as some surface detail parts.
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Some of the surface layers are optional, and some aren't.
I took my time...prescored and prefolded everything...then edge coloured.
The main Breech block has its insert installed first, and then close up the box.
The box on the top of the Barrel is scored, folded and the ends are glued down.
Its cut out to fit the barrel and just sits on top (glued in place).
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A small tube (sleeve) is created first, that slips over the rear end of the main barrel.
It is butted up to the mounting block and this sets the distance for the Breech assembly.
It is just glued to the back end of the barrel.
Its also aligned to the upper box thingy, so its best to glue that one in place first.
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Only thing I didn't account for is the weight balance of the gun.
The paper Breech is too light to balance the barrel.
It needs about 2-2.5 grams of extra weight.
(about one US penny...which could have been added inside the breech, had I thought about it!)
But when the gun swivel is clamped down with the top plates, it will probably provide enough friction
to hold the Gun in any position.
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