Props Halo 4 MA5D Assault Rifle Styrofoam build

BMP Props · Jun 10, 2014

Hey guys, I know its been a while, but I'm still building stuff! My current project is a Styrofoam MA5D. Here is what I have so far...

Check out my new Facebook page, BMP! Props

Unity · Jun 11, 2014

The initial shape looks great!

DD117 · Jun 11, 2014

Hope to see more progress!

BMP Props · Jun 14, 2014

I decided I was unhappy with the starting thickness so I scrapped it and started over with a single block of 1" thick styrofoam. Its much easier to add layers of detail than to carve them away...I also ditched my usual method of using 2mm craft foam and went with balsa wood. The balsa wood carves and sands like a dream, this rifle is going to be gorgeous.

BMP Props · Jun 14, 2014

Oops...double posted

rickrtickr · Jun 14, 2014

just a word of warning, Polystyrene completely dissolves when sprayed with plastidip, (and/or spray paint) I suggest putting on a coat of acrylic paint before primer or plastidip.

BMP Props · Jun 14, 2014

I did a test before building my railgun, plastic dip worked just fine. Paint dissolved it, but the plastic dip didn't react at all, it was fine.

rickrtickr · Jun 14, 2014

did you do a cut test? the areas that have been cut have a higher chance of reacting that the factory edge.
(I know because i have crafted more than 6 different polystyrene models, and while plasti-dip won't have as strong a reaction there is still a possibility for a minor reaction that could need fixed)

I just brought it up because i would hate to see such a great piece get ruined. you do very good work.

BMP Props · Jun 14, 2014

I definitely appreciate the concern and the compliment! I'm gonna do a few more tests just to make sure, but I don't see any damage at all on the railgun, the entire underbelly of the railgun is exposed cut-edge styrofoam...I sprayed a few pieces of foam before leaving for work, I'll check on them when I get home and post the results here.

BMP Props · Jun 15, 2014

Well, the blue styrofoam holds up just fine when plasti dipped, however the pink styrofoam dissolved slightly. Go figure.
Anyway... Here's some more progress!

BMP Props · Jun 16, 2014

Added a few more details today so far. I did the trigger and guard in wood as well, I think they came out nicely.

20140616_130840_zpswv8m0kb_edit_1402941178964_zps0a3jqk4l.jpg

I hope to have the butt finished by tonight.

FlyinPhil · Jun 16, 2014

This looks absolutely amazing so far dude. It never even crossed my mind to use balsa for details, but after seeing this i might have to give it a try!

BMP Props · Jun 16, 2014

FlyinPhil said:
This looks absolutely amazing so far dude. It never even crossed my mind to use balsa for details, but after seeing this i might have to give it a try!

I know! I'm kicking myself for not realizing this before. The details are far sharper and smoother than I ever achieved with craft foam. Thanks for the compliment!

Aiden26 · Jun 16, 2014

Very nice! Looks very detailed. I can't wait to see the rest. I'm working on a Halo Reach Sniper Rifle pep version. It's taking me awhile to cut all the pieces out because there's so many and its really detailed lol. Looking forward to your project

BMP Props · Jun 16, 2014

One more update for today, finished the butt and started the chamber.

Mstruvmgc · Jun 17, 2014

BMP everything is looking great

Loving the rifle. I was curious as to what tools you are using for this project. And where abouts did you find the wood?
keep up the great work

BMP Props · Jun 17, 2014

Thanks! Tools I'm using, probably should've included this in the first post:
Dremel 200 series (with dremel press work station)
Xacto knives, A and B type, straight and curved blades
150 grit Sanding block
220 grit Sanding block
220 grit Sandpaper
Disposable nail files
Hot glue
Loctite super glue
Stainless steel ruler (I specify steel because its a great straight edge for cuts with an xacto knife)

Materials:
1" Styrofoam
1/2" Styrofoam
1/8" Balsa wood
1/16" Balsa wood
6mm craft foam
Plasti dip
High build primer
Various Spray paints
Acrylic sealer
1/8" clear acrylic sheet (ammo counter face)