WHAT ARE ORBY GUN MADE OF?

Gel blasters, also known as gel ball blasters, are replica firearms designed to shoot water-absorbent gel beads. These devices offer an immersive gaming experience while being safer and more environmentally friendly than alternatives like paintball or airsoft. Understanding their composition is key to appreciating how they work and their environmental impact.

Structure of Gel Blasters

A typical gel blaster consists of several key components:

1. Main Body

• ABS Plastic: Common in entry-level models, ABS plastic is lightweight and durable.
• Metal: Higher-end models incorporate metal parts for enhanced strength and realism.

2. Propulsion Mechanism

• Spring and Piston: Found in manual models, this system provides the force needed to launch the gel balls.
• Electric Motor: Automatic models use a motor to drive the firing mechanism, offering a higher rate of fire.
• Gas System: Some blasters use compressed gas to propel the gel balls, delivering a realistic recoil effect.

3. Barrel

The barrel guides the gel ball toward the exit. Its length and diameter affect the accuracy and range of the shot.

4. Magazine

The magazine stores the gel balls and feeds them into the firing mechanism. It may be gravity-fed or motorized, depending on the model.

Gel Balls: Composition and Characteristics

Gel balls, also known as "gellets," are the heart of the gel blaster experience. They are made from superabsorbent polymers, primarily sodium polyacrylate.

Characteristics of Gellets

• Size: Once hydrated, they expand to a diameter of 7–8 mm.
• Composition: Sodium polyacrylate can absorb up to 300 times its weight in water, making the balls soft and non-toxic.
• Impact: On impact, gellets burst without causing significant pain, making the game safer.

Environmental Impact

Although biodegradable, gel balls can take several years to decompose completely. It is therefore recommended to collect them after use to minimize environmental impact.

Advantages of the Materials Used

• Safety: Soft and lightweight materials reduce the risk of injury.
• Ecological Impact: Gel balls are more environmentally friendly than the plastic pellets used in other shooting sports.
• Affordability: The use of diverse materials allows for a wide price range, making the hobby accessible to many.

Conclusion

Gel blasters are built from carefully selected materials to provide a realistic, safe, and eco-friendly gaming experience. Understanding their composition helps users make informed choices when purchasing, maintaining, or customizing their equipment.