The design of crossbows has changed so much that you might question whether something like the MEY Interceptor Assault Crossbow is still a crossbow. However, while this magazine-fed crossbow looks like an assault weapon, the limb is a dead giveaway of its lineage. Not so with the Joerg Sprave-inspired 3D Printed Repeating Magazine-Fed Bullpup Bow, though. That one looks like a weapon straight out of the future.
As the name suggests, it adopts a modern-day assault rifle-style bullpup arrangement. This means the grip and trigger sit at the front, ahead of the firing mechanism and magazine. The cocking mechanism disguises itself as an oversized trigger guard, and the traditional limb is nowhere to be seen. In place of the conventional bow-style limb is a cam system. This cam system uses large round pulleys on short limb ends to guide the cables during the draw and release cycle.
The 3D Printed Repeating Magazine-Fed Bullpup Bow by YouTuber @weerwolf_2105 (weerwolf_) draws inspiration from a coil-spring-powered crossbow by Zünder. The weapon uses 6.25-inch bolts, is printed from standard PLA, and requires common tools and hardware for assembly. The creator has made the STL files available on Cult3d.com.
Obviously, some 3D printing experience and technical skill are required to print and assemble this build. But before you jump in, check your local laws. While it may technically be classified as a bow or slingshot in some countries, it could still be considered a weapon and conflict with regulations in others. It is your responsibility to ensure it is legal to build such a device in your locality. You have been warned.
Images: YouTube (@weerwolf_2105).