Introduction

With a fascination for creating realistic scenes, filmmakers often face the challenge of choosing the right type of gun for their production. Recently, the Nathan Fillion cop show, "The Rookie," announced a commitment to using airsoft guns as a safer alternative to real guns. This shift highlights the growing awareness in the industry about the risks associated with the use of real firearms. This article will explore the various options available to filmmakers, the benefits and drawbacks of using fake guns, and the critical safety measures necessary to ensure a production's success.

Understanding Prop Guns

Any gun utilized on a film set or stage is classified as a prop gun. These guns can range from actual functional weapons to foam rubber replicas, but all are used for staging and filming, not as weapons. Yet, the demand for realism in filmmaking often leads to the question: can filmmakers use fake guns instead of prop guns?

Using Fake Guns on Set

Yes, filmmakers can and do use fake guns. These replicas or foam dummies are often used in scenes where a weapon is merely present but not operated. For instance, in the film "Bad Taste," guns were made from aluminium pipes and wood with added sound and muzzle flash in post-production.

Types of Fake Guns

Replicas: Typically made from plastic or metal, these guns are designed to look like real firearms. Some have operational mechanisms, such as moving hammers, rotating cylinders, but are incapable of containing cartridges or pyrotechnics. Special Copies: For scenes where a gun must fire, special copies of real firearms are used. While some of these may fire blanks, the majority cannot, and their chambers are designed to accommodate a specific type of blank. Some use flask and smoke pyrotechnics inside the muzzle, which are fired electrically. Gas-Actuated Mechanisms: For weapons that need to simulate automatic or semi-automatic operation, most have a gas cartridge and piston system inside the gun's body. Some use actual blanks, with a barrel block to operate the gas system.

Safety Measures and Real Guns

Real guns, when used on a film set, are nicknamed "heroic" weapons. These guns are highly regulated and require strict safety protocols. Ensuring the safety of the production, actors, and crew is paramount.

Using Real Guns

Cold Guns: Used when the gun is unloaded, the armourer checks for safety, and the actor is informed it is a "cold" gun. This gun is considered safe to point in any direction. Hot Guns: Loaded with blanks or pyrotechnics, the gun is considered "hot." Proper safety measures include moving everyone out of the arc of fire, standing behind plexiglass screens, and remotely triggering cameras. The actor is given the gun, recites the necessary lines, and fires the shot. The armourer then takes the gun, making it safe.

Consequences of Accidents

The responsibility for an accident lies with the armourer and the crew if proper procedures are not followed. It is crucial to follow strict protocols to prevent any mishaps. Historically, tragic incidents such as the one involving Alec Baldwin on "Rust" have underscored the necessity of these safety measures.

Conclusion

The use of fake guns offers a safer, more controllable option for filmmakers seeking realism in their productions. While there are benefits to using prop guns, the risks associated with real firearms highlight the importance of adhering to strict safety procedures. Choosing the right type of gun and following proper protocols ensures a successful and safe production.

Keywords

Fake Gun Prop Gun Realistic Filmmaking Safety Practices filmmaking techniques