How to Modify a Nerf N-Strike Recon

Cosmetic Modifcations

• 1

  Decide which accessories you plan to add to the finished replica. The Recon comes with five interchangable parts that can be used to create a unique combination, including a shoulder stock, a barrel extension, a red dot light beam and a flip-up sight. Using some or all of these accessories can give your version an individual look.

• 2

  Remove any visible logos using sandpaper or the sanding attachment of a rotary tool. Remove the Nerf logos on each side, the warning labels and the N-Strike logo on the pistol grip.

• 3

  Spray paint any areas you wish to have in a different color than most of the weapon. For example, if you want parts of the gun to be silver but most of the gun to be black, paint the silver areas first.

• 4

  Use masking tape to cover the painted details. Be sure to place the tape flat, or paint will seep underneath and you will not have clean lines when you remove the tape.

• 5

  Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for all additional secondary colors.

• 6

  With the masking tape still in place, paint the entire gun with your primary color choice. When the tape is removed, the color underneath will be preserved, while the remainder of the Recon will be the primary color.

Internal Modifications

• 7

  Disassemble your Recon. Remove the 12 small screws that hold the Recon together, and set them aside.

• 8

  Deconstruct the bolt assembly. This is the large orange tube that runs down the center of the Recon. First remove the metal retaining pin holding it together. You will then have three pieces: the bolt, the plunger and the bolt sled. You will also have the spring that was wrapped around the plunger.

• 9

  Find the joint seam on the bolt, where the two halves of the bolt are glued together. Run this area under hot water for 30 seconds. Firmly grasp opposite ends of the bolt, and twist. The adhesive holding the two together should be loosened, and the air restrictor should fall out. Reseal the bolt with two-part epoxy.

• 10

  Place a small piece of soft foam padding inside the plunger. Otherwise, repeated force from the bolt can damage the plunger.

• 11

  Take the spring that was wrapped around the plunger and stretch it out. This will increase the tension when the Recon is reassembled, firing the dart with additional force. Experiment with different tensions to find what works best for you.