Reach Shotgun - The molding process

[TonnyT]

O my god. Excuse me while I wipe off this drool.
Must has!!!!

 

[Halo 1]

Oh I finished molding the pistol ages ago!

Whoah! That's not right bro! Keeping secrets like that....LOL! You got mail bro!

 

[Brandon McClain]

Sorry about that Molding of the assault rifle is up next.

It may not look it, but this is going to be a 9 piece kit as well.

 

[Brandon McClain]

I got a cast of the m45 all cleaned up yesterday. I used nothing but hand tools and sandpaper to clean it up, and it still only took 2 hours or so to do everything. It would have been faster to use power tools, but I wanted to ensure that it could be done with simple tools for those who don't always have power tools readily available. Here it is all ready for paint and dry fit assembled:

I used spot filler to clean up the seam lines and most pin holes. For any larger pin holes or trapped air voids I used epoxy putty. Tools I used were an exact knife, a 1/2" wood chisel and a 100 grit sanding pad.

 

[Mythosaur]

Beautiful cast! What kind of resin did you use? Also, is the epoxy putty you mentioned the red-colored areas of your cast? I ask because in casting my magnum pistols, I'm noticing very similar voids. I've been thinking of using a slower-curing resin or even a vacuum chamber because of this.

 

[Fudz073]

Very nice... and conveniently right up my alley. I'm currently working on a scale build of a Covenant CCS class battlecruiser. Here's the link if you're interested. My plan is to mold and cast a fleet of these beauties! I haven't decided, nor am I quite certain, of which silicone rubber to use. I'm leaning towards the Moldstar15 or 30, But I also noticed you used Rebound25. Secondly, what casting resin did you use with the mold star ( I apologize if I missed it in your thread). I'm familiar with Smooth-Cast 300 and have used it in past builds to reinforce the inside of pepped helmets. However, I'm not sure if it's compatible with moldstar. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Anywho, very nice project! I'm impressed with the detail you managed to capture and your methods to create the molds are quite nifty. Molding is definitely one of the more interesting aspects of this hobby and kudos on the commitment. I understand it isn't the cheapest means of reproduction. This is a fantastic tutorial for anyone who want's to learn how to mold their creations. Continue the awesome work and can't wait to see the progress on the assault rifle!

73
Fudz