Introduction
In March 2023, the product launch team at Biofire Technologies Inc. approached me with the opportunity to design and build a special LEGO replica of their new Smart Gun being publicly revealed on April 13.
For this official paid partnership, I was given behind-the-scenes access to CAD renders and diagrams of the 9mm smart pistol along with some notes as to its innovative tech features. On April 10, a copy of my finished brickbuilt replica arrived at Biofire’s headquarters with its display stand, ready for the company’s Launch Day and #UnlockBiofire social campaign.
A first-look, unboxing video from the team at Biofire HQ
My LEGO Biofire Smart Gun with display stand and custom plaque design.
Watch Ian McCollum (Forgotten Weapons) explore the Biofire Smart Gun.
Precise Form
My priority in this commissioned project was to capture the distinctive angles, patterns, thicknesses, and overall ‘look’ of the Smart Gun. It was fun knowing that my LEGO model would be heading directly to Biofire’s offices and be in close proximity to the real deal, and therefore, I worked as closely as possible to the reference materials the launch team provided.
Innovative Features
While designed primarily for visual realism and aesthetic value, my LEGO Biofire Smart Gun still has a few ‘working’ functions. The trigger can be squeezed back, and you can look down the sights. Also, for the first time ever on a Brick Replicas gun build, I was able to incorporate a moving slide that didn’t take away from the replica’s visual accuracy or physical durability.
Realistic, Hands-On Experience
The model uses many curved slope pieces that smooth down the brickbuilt gun and makes it comfortable to grasp, and the replica is sturdy enough to hold-and-point at any angle. The user presence windows, fingerprint sensor, and 3D facial recognition camera of the original gun are replicated with trans-clear pieces. The slide can be grasped and moved back against the internal rubber-band tension, and the real-life Smart Gun’s laser controls are simulated on each side of the weapon with a mixture of tiles and slopes.
Displayable Design
This custom LEGO Biofire Smart Gun model comes with a specially-made display stand that incorporates alternative color and texture to better accompany the black pistol. You can set it on your desk, shelf, or mantle at home.
Visit the instructions page for my Biofire replica to find links for how to build a display plaque and where to get the custom UCS-style, waterproof decal printed.
A Unique Building Project
Having built many other LEGO weapons (most of them historic in nature), I find this Biofire Smart Gun project unique in that it’s the most contemporary and cutting-edge firearm I’ve ever replicated. It’s been really neat to collaborate with a real-life gun manufacturer. I’m hoping that this new product and similar innovations will serve the security needs of interested gun buyers and help make a difference by providing all the more options for people to choose from in protecting themselves and their families.
Interested in building your own LEGO gun replicas? Click below to get the instructions for the Biofire Smart Gun or check out my other designs.
