Weapons technology is always evolving. In the case of firearms, whether it’s a change from hammer fired to striker fired, or a change in sighting technology, or a change in ammunition capacity technology (like the availability of higher capacity concealed carry firearms in the last few years), technology is constantly developing and changing and giving firearms owners new and, often, better options.
Then, sometimes, you come across a technological innovation that looks like something out of a science fiction movie. The Arcflash Labs GR-1 “Anvil” is one of those technological innovations. A writer going by the name of Luke C describes it this way:
The folks over at Arcflash labs are excited to announce the introduction of the world’s first and only handled Gauss rifle – the GR-1 ANIVL. The GR-1 is a high-energy Gauss rifle capable of producing up to 100 Joules (75 ft-lbs) of muzzle energy – similar to that of an air rifle. The GR-1 is being marketed as a novel armament concept to circumvent the need for gunpowder, avoid firearms infringement and provide a new way to arm yourself. Better yet, Arcflash has put their GR-1 ANVIL into production and it is currently available for pre-order.
Now, to be clear, the GR-1 isn’t an energy rifle, though, it looks like it could be one. Actually, according the manufacturer, it uses a “magnetic field stronger than an MRI machine” to fire one ounce pieces of steel. Silently (because, of course, there is no gunpowder being used). Also, Arcflash Labs describes it as “the first and only handheld gauss rifle” in a promotional video for the gun on their site.
So, with a pre-order price tag (at the time of this writing) of $3,375.00 and an expected MSRP of $3,750.00, is this a gun for you to consider?
Well, if you have the funds and you’d like to support of the development of this technology, then you may want to consider buying one. It’s certainly fascinating technology and is likely to be developed in interesting ways in the upcoming years.
If you’re looking for practical self-protection, though, you may want to note that Luke C. mentions “its lack of lethality.” For practical personal and home protection, the GR-1 may not be the firearm to put on your Christmas list this year. Next year? Maybe. We’ll have to see how the technology continues to develop.
Why use small pieces of steel. Make an aerodynamic dart/missile shaped projectile with a lightweight covering that keeps it centered in the barrel for accuracy that drops off after it leaves. That would give you accuracy and farther engagement of a hostile individual, ie. range. Even with those modifications it still couldn’t be considered a firearm because the definition requires some sort of explosive propellant to launch a projectile. Think it is a future technology that will have a few hiccups in the beginning but will pan out as tech changes and progresses. RGM
A few years ago, a couple of rail guns have been demonstrated, with their their lethality against automobiles, and other artifacts. The problem was that it was too heavy, and bulky for practical use.
Robert Moore has it right.
USE A SABOT, just as the Navy uses in its “rail gun”!
Then the energy will not be lost using it to propel the projectile through the air, but will help go through the protection if the projectile is made with 100% carbon for example! Diamond goes through most anything! Even a #IV plate! ( NEEDLE SHAPE, like in the NAVY!)
How powerful would the batteries be?
How much current does the one projectile goes through?
How long to regenerate for another shot?
How many shots in the “clip”? “magazine”?
How big are the projectiles?
If it goes faster than the speed of sound then it will not be “silent”. It will make the familiar “crack” noise like any other firearm.
Like the comments. Hope the manufacturer ArcFlash reads them. This technology has potential especially with the current ammo shortage.
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