Semi-automatic-firing, compressed-gas gun

Abstract

A pneumatic gun wherein a dual-action firing bolt moves forward, assisting in launching a projectile, under gas pressure. The bolt then releases the compressed gas to carry the projectile down the barrel. Return springs operate to move the bolt and its valves to a ready-to-fire position. Similarly, trigger actuation mechanisms are spring-actuated to return to the ready-to-fire position.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 791,436, filed on Mar. 2, 2004 and entitled PAINTBALL, HANDGUN, AUTOMATIC MAGAZINE, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,701,909 issued Mar. 9, 2004, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,470,872 issued Oct. 29, 2002.BACKGROUND [0002] 1. The Field of the Invention [0003] This invention relates to paintball guns and, more particularly to novel systems and methods for feeding propellant and ammunition. [0004] 2. The Background Art [0005] Paintball tag or combat has become a recreational activity favored by many players old and young. Paintball guns launch projectiles made of biodegradable, gelatinous shells surrounding a powder or paint content. Guns are carried in a manner similar to actual weapons, but typically cannot be fired as such. [0006] Conventional paintball guns often operate similar to a fire hose. That is, so long as a trigger mechanism is engaged, b...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an apparatus and method for launching projectiles using a compressed gas as a propellant, in a gun that is consistent with conventional guns. The apparatus includes an integrated magazine and gun that operates in a similar manner to conventional guns. The invention also includes a simplified trigger actuation apparatus and method that operates in a consistent manner. The invention also provides a ready mechanism for replacing magazines and a system for handling air pressure to prevent damage to the gun. The invention allows for easy handling of the gun, with a simplified trigger actuation method and a magazine that can be easily removed without discharging remaining propellant from the storage cartridge. The invention also includes a network of valves, poppets, seals, springs, and the like to guide propellant gases from the magazine to the action of the gun. The invention provides a more efficient and effective apparatus and method for launching projectiles using a compressed gas as a propellant."

Problems solved by technology

Guns are carried in a manner similar to actual weapons, but typically cannot be fired as such.

Meanwhile, a rather unwieldy canister containing compressed gas is carried on a belt, pack, or the like, by a user, to be released in a stream by a trigger.

Very little control is available over the expenditure of paintballs and compressed gas.

Moreover, accuracy, conservation of ammunition, handling, and the like, are not similar to the same functions for conventional weapons.

Moreover, the segregation of the gas supply and launcher (gun) tends to interfere with the overall sense of balance, operation, utility, aiming, and the like for paintball weapons.

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