Precision Bearing Catapult | No Support
Print Profile(1)
Bill of Materials
Description
A desktop catapult with real bearings and steel springs for reliable performance.
This catapult uses 5mm bearings and steel compression springs instead of printed parts for smooth, consistent action. The trigger mechanism uses a return spring, and the main power comes from up to five compression springs that can be adjusted for different throwing distances. Real dowel pins and bearings ensure more accurate and precise launches.
Why This Design Is Awesome:
Real Bearings - 5mm precision bearings for smooth rotation and long life
Steel Springs - Adjustable power with 1-5 compression springs
Dowel Pin Assembly - Press-fit pins hold everything together securely
No Supports Required - Clean, easy printing with no cleanup
Trigger Return Spring - Automatic reset after each launch
Works with V3 Arbor Press - Makes bearing installation easy and precise (link below)
Hardware Needed:
- 6× 5mm ID x 10mm OD x 4mm thick bearings
- 4× 5mm × 35mm dowel pins
- 5× 8mm OD x 40mm L x 0.6 wire diameter compression springs (main power)
- 1× 7mm OD x 12mm L x 0.5 wire diameter spring (trigger return)
Bill of Materials available through:
- MakerWorld Maker Supply (one-click ordering)
Complete Build Guide
Design walkthrough, print bed setup, and assembly instructions with bearing press technique: https://youtu.be/TKfoD_alMHE
Arbor Press v3: https://makerworld.com/en/models/2199325-improved-3d-printed-arbor-press-v3-no-support?from=search#profileId-2389112
Help Us Keep Making Cool Stuff
If you like this design, subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@MacshayCreations. Your support keeps us cranking out free STL files for the community. More subscribers = more builds, more designs, more free downloads.
We'd love to see your build! Post a photo of your finished precision bearing catapult in the makes section so we can check out your print!
For STL licensing options, check out our Patreon: https://patreon.com/MacshayCreations
License
You shall not share, sub-license, sell, rent, host, transfer, or distribute in any way the digital or 3D printed versions of this object, nor any other derivative work of this object in its digital or physical format (including - but not limited to - remixes of this object, and hosting on other digital platforms). The objects may not be used without permission in any way whatsoever in which you charge money, or collect fees.
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