STORIES
Making of Aliens’ M41A Pulse Rifle Replica, by saddex3d
Aliens (1986)
This is a Twentieth Century Fox movie directed by James Cameron, sequel to Ridley Scott’s Alien (1979), where Ellen Ripley fights and survives a group of nasty and aggressive reptilian-like alien killer creatures with acid blood, during a rescue mission on a deserted space colony where a young girl is the sole survivor. One of the 100 best movies ever!!! (according to IMDB)
The M41A Pulse Rifle is the iconic weapon held by Ripley in the poster and also in many combat scenes throughout the movie.
saddex3d, what can you tell us about this project?
“I made many different props/replicas from movies and games, so this one was a new idea that came from my Canadian friend Tarry (tmaxprops). Together we made many 99% accurate replicas with 100% customer satisfaction and this one won’t be an exception.” Dario Klepic, Feb 2020
During this project, saddex3d goes through 3 different steps:
- 3D design a replica of the iconic weapon. The project includes 25 parts, designed to be 3D printed; (current step)
- 3D print all the parts using a Prusa i3 MK3, upgraded with a Bondtech Upgrade Kit for Prusa.
- Send the parts to his partner, @tmax_props from Canada, for finishing and paint job.
This model will at the end be sold through Tmax Props Etsy shop.
Currently at Step 1 – 3D modelling – Here is how to do it:
Taking measurements
First step to accurately create a replica is to take measurements of an original piece or of a good look-alike prop. In the case of the M41A, saddex3d went above and beyond to take note of all dimensions in every nook and cranny, from bulk elements to the very tiny details.
3D Modelling in Solidworks
Being this project a replica of an object, with mechanical properties, shapes, and snap-fits, saddex3d chosen to use Solidworks. Every single part was designed with engineering precision and tight tolerances without forgetting the tweaks to enable parts to be 3D printed.
Making (BPR) renders
Render is a crucial part of the project. It gives the designer a way to detect what’s missing or a sense of completion. In projects developed in Solidworks, Renders are easily made with PhotoView 360 and will provide a guide to the finishing process during post-production.
Renders gallery
Who is saddex3d?
saddex3d is a 3D Artist from Osijek, Croatia
named Dario Klepic. In his own words:
“I am a self taught 3D modeler. I started using Solidworks with Star Wars diorama. After that I started to make weapon replicas and past year have been learning Zbrush and organic modeling. 3d printing is my passion. I am still amazed that something I create in a program, can be in my hands in a couple of hours.” Dario Klepic, Feb 2020
Want to know more?
Register yourself or login to leave a Question, Reply or Comment in the section below.
If you didn't already, you can also subscribe to our newsletter to receive the short updates about our new products, updates or technology on your mailbox.
Thank you : )

Latest Bondtech Blog Posts
NEWS
All Duties Included at Checkout for US Customers
A smoother shopping experience for our customers in the US We’re happy to share an update that makes shopping with us even easier. To improve [...]
NEWS
New Currency Exchange Policy
Bondtech INDX
Good Things Take Time
LEARN
Why Extra Costs May Apply to Your Order
Bondtech INDX LEARN NEWS
What IN means, in Bondtech INDX
We unveil more about the Bondtech INDX. What IN means? It relates to a couple of technologies at the core of the INDX's multi-tool capacity.
Bondtech INDX LEARN NEWS
What DX means, in Bondtech INDX
Today we unveil a bit more about the Bondtech INDX. We explain what the DX means, and what is it all about.
LEARN
Beat our Design and Engineering skills – The Bondtech Ultimate 3D Printed Spinning Top Challenge!
EVENTS
Bondtech @ 3D MEETUP 2024
Bondtech will be at 3D Meetup 2024, in Helsingborg Sweden, showcasing the latest upgrade kits for Creality, Voron, Ultimaker and Elegoo 3D printers.
Bondtech Newsletter : trash it or read it. Just never miss what is important to you.
Join this journey by subscribing to our newsletter and get the latest insights right in your mailbox.
Bondtech Newsletter : trash it or read it. Just never miss what is important to you.
Join this journey by subscribing to our newsletter and get the latest insights right in your mailbox.
Bondtech Newsletter : trash it or read it. Just never miss what is important to you.
Join this journey by subscribing to our newsletter and get the latest insights right in your mailbox.