CAPCOM's highly anticipated new title, "Monster Hunter Wilds," shattered records on Steam on its launch day, captivating countless players since its late February release. The game's arsenal of new weapons has inspired many hunters to experiment with fresh playstyles.
Recently, Japanese YouTuber 〇〇作ってた人 [Asp] unveiled their latest masterpiece: a full-metal "Switch Axe" (スラッシュアックス). This incredibly faithful recreation not only looks the part but also flawlessly mimics the weapon's signature high-speed transformation from the game, leaving netizens absolutely stunned by its craftsmanship.
Just look at the "Switch Axe" in the game – its defining feature is the dual configuration of a blade and an axe. It typically functions as an axe, but with a quick transformation, the blade from the other side snaps into place, turning it into a formidable sword.
Due to budget constraints, the real-life version is a scaled-down replica, not the human-sized weapon seen in the game. For safety, the blade is intentionally unsharpened and crafted from aluminum. As for the transformation, it's designed for a seamless one-button switch.
To nail the transformation mechanism, the creator first designed a concept utilizing a pneumatic metal system with a button, which would then be integrated into the weapon.
The design layout below illustrates how the interlocking mechanism is configured within the weapon's body to ensure full articulation.
Next up was cutting the aluminum plates and shaping the weapon's internal mechanisms.
Then came the blade section. After machine shaping, extensive hand-polishing was required to smooth out any imperfections from the cutting process.
All the individual components, completed.
The subsequent stages involved processing, polishing, setting up the pivot points, and installing the mechanisms. This entire process was incredibly labor-intensive, demanding specialized technical skills to assemble everything perfectly.
Here's a look at its size when held. The "Switch Axe" can also be transformed manually.
Alternatively, by injecting gas into the pneumatic metal mechanism, the one-button transformation can be activated.
The transformation takes approximately 0.33 seconds, which coincidentally is about the same as the invincibility frames during an evasion in "Monster Hunter Wilds."
Since the main body is made of aluminum, it weighs only about 0.9 kg, making it easy to handle.
▼ Watch the full creation video here!
YouTuber 〇〇作ってた人 [Asp] is renowned for their metalwork, though they hadn't previously tackled props from games or anime. This latest creation truly showcases their incredible craftsmanship. Their channel features many other fascinating projects with impressive view counts, so be sure to check it out!