how do airsoft grenade launcher's work?

[JDP12]

Hey all, I was researching Classic Army's M203 grenade launcher, and I guess I couldn't really figure out how they fire.

How do they propel BB's and nerfs out of the barrel?

Are the cartridges preloaded w/ green gas or something?

I'd like some illumination into how exactly they work- if htere's a small chamber in the cartridge or what?

Thanks a bunch

[Sticky_Tape]

I always wanted to know that myself it would be cool if there is a piston valve in those.

[JDP12]

Yea cuz I want to build a grenade launcher, and a big problem I've had is keeping it a small package, and I'm just curious how they do it.

I'm waiting for JSR or David on this one

[Kash munni]

I think it's a very small spring-assisted piston. The firing "cap" in the back is just a push-button pilot valve. So it's basically a coaxial with several small barrels.

[jackssmirkingrevenge]

I'm waiting for JSR or David on this one

Fine then



As Kash munni indicated, it's a "coaxial" of sorts with a central chamber surrounded by several barrels. The piston is held in place not by air pressure however, but by a ball detent (in the same way that quick connects lock in place) that is unlocked when the "firing pin" is pressed.

[JDP12]

so... i guess I'm confused though- where is the reservoir and such? where does the air go?

sorry for being stupid... its late... haven't had much sleep

[jackssmirkingrevenge]

This should explain it better (and really I just wanted to use the word "ball lock" in polite conversation )

[Davidvaini]

jack pretty much hit it on the nail with those diagrams.

They are typically quite expensive.. $50 per shell and $100 for the launcher.. but I found this...

http://rsov.com/index.php?target=produc ... ct_id=3092

[jackssmirkingrevenge]

They are typically quite expensive.. $50 per shell

Hardly surprising, considering each shell is effectively a self contained single shot airsoft gun that will have the same performance independent of whether it's fired from within a launcher or in your hand.

[Davidvaini]

yes, not really surprising but still expensive none-the-less to be able to buy a few shells and a launcher. I know you don't have to buy a launcher and you could make your own.. all you need is something to push the pin in the back.