Getting NERFed: examples of toy guns turned into cool LARP props

Visit Getting NERFed: examples of toy guns turned into cool LARP props

Finding props for your Steampunk or Scifi character can be an adventure in itself. Sure you can go out and buy something, but getting hands on and creating your own props not only gives a sense of satisfaction but you can make sure that the final version is tailored to you and your character.

For a long time I always thought that guns like these were built from scratch, not realizing that most of the prop guns tend to use NERF guns or similar as a base.

The finished props are spectacular, and I bet even with a modicum of talent, and the right paints anyone can convert a toy gun into something suitable for their needs at a low cost, and have fun while doing so!

Rotator X-8

This toy just cries out for modification. It looks like a Wild West revolver mated with a 1950’s-esque ray gun! This gun is ideal for Steampunk and Scifi LARPs alike.

Lanard Rotator X-8 by VPhilly
Lanard Rotator X-8 by VPhilly
The GOBLIN WIP by CaelynTek
The GOBLIN WIP
by CaelynTek

Buy the Rotator X-8 at Amazon.com

Barrel Break IX-2

A sawn off shotgun is a mean weapon, and once kitted out it can look even meaner! This can easily be used for a Steampunk LARP, military or post apocalyptic style LARPs.

barrel break nerf to Steampunk shotgun sawed off by Mazagainst
Barrel break NERF to Steampunk shotgun sawed off
by Mazagainst
Steampunk by Sionnach-Teine
Steampunk gun
by Sionnach-Teine

Buy the Barrel Break IX-2 at Amazon.com

Nerf N-Strike Night Finder

Another gun that lends itself to a 1950’s retro Scifi style, it can also be converted into a very Steampunk-esque handgun. While not ideal for more scifi/military props, in my humble opinion, it certainly can be used that way, the HALO example below highlights this possibility.

Steampunked Nerf Gun
Steampunked Nerf Gun by Cation Designs via Instructables
Halo style gun by Johnson Arms
Halo style gun by Johnson Arms

Buy the N-Strike Night Finder at Amazon.com

Vigilon

Even before customisation, this NERF gun has “blaster” written all over it. This is perfect for Scifi, military or future based LARPs. It screams Space Marine, or Judge Dredd.

The Urban Tagger by JohnsonArms
The Urban Tagger
by JohnsonArms
Mass Effect style Vigilon by Johnson Arms
Mass Effect style Vigilon by Johnson Arms

Buy the Vigilon at Amazon.com

Maverick

This snub nosed revolver might not be able to fire 200 rounds a minute, or even hold more than six shots, but boy does it look menacing! This gun can easily be modded towards a Steampunk slant or a more modern military style.

Nerf Maverick

Steampunk Maverick by Jeremy Clough
Steampunk Maverick by Jeremy Clough
Nerf Maverick by Indefiknight
Nerf Maverick
by Indefiknight

Buy the Maverick at Amazon.com

There are dozens of variations of NERF guns out there, and plenty more knock off’s and different types of toy guns available as well. So many in fact, that it’s going to be hard to NOT find one that is suitable for a lick of paint and some mods to offset your next Steampunk or Scifi costume!

At the end of the day, they are so cheap, it’s worth giving customisation a go, but if you really cant face the challenge, I would recommend getting in touch with Johnson Arms Props as they do some awesome designs, or give Etsy a whirl!

Do you have a favourite customised gun? Maybe a favourite modder? Let me know!

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Visit Getting NERFed: examples of toy guns turned into cool LARP props