A295 rifle conversion update

The quarantine project queue continues apace! It’s been a couple months since I started my functional A295 blaster rifle project, so I thought it was time for an update on how things are progressing.
Since I’m not scratchbuilding a prop gun, the steps to convert from StG44 to A295 are actually relatively simple, and most everything is reversible:

-Step 1: cut off the protruding rod* (okay, that one’s not reversible 😉

-Step 2: install a ribbed shotgun forend (eBay, $18) under the handguard:
-Step 3: darken the grips:
-Step 4: add a few classic greeblies to the receiver:

I was able to find a supplier of the appropriate V8 motor greeblies on eBay, but between what I needed for this rifle and still needed to finish my DH17, I opted to save money by buying a single set and resin-casting the rest that I needed at home. This was a good excuse to finally pick up some Smooth-on moldmaking goop to experiment with, and while the silicone kit cost twice what I would’ve paid for the casts on eBay, I see it as an investment as it can (and will!) be used for many other projects in the future.

There are several more steps to go before this piece is finished, but they will have to wait for a future installment. Until next time!

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