Rubber Band guns is one of the least common off hand weapons that we use. They are exactly what you think of, except scaled up a bit. We use surgical tubing for the bullets. They make a fun change to scenarios that allow them, and require different tactics to try and overcome the weapon.

Points of safety

Rubber band guns can be dangerous just like the other weapons can be. Make sure when loading to point the gun at the ground. It will keep misfires from hitting someone. Also just like in dueling, you should only shoot the guns at someone fully geared. We don’t want it to hit someone in the eye or something similar.

• Keep Your Gun Down: While loading and carrying your RBG, keep your gun pointed at the ground. Treat it like a real gun and only point it at things you intend to shoot.
• Helmets On: Only fire a Rubber Band Gun at targets that are fully geared. Even though we are using Rubber Bands, they can still cause injuries.
• Safety Standards: All bullets and guns must meet appropriate safety standards, such as no exposed zip ties, appropriately powered bands, and no sharp or dangerous attachments on the weapon itself.

General Points

RBG’s are fun to play with in the right scenarios. They are normally not allowed unless clearly stated in the instructions for a melee. Please make sure to pay attention to all of the rules for the scenario. Some scenarios will not allow you to “glean bullets”. What this means is you cannot re-use bullets that have already been shot. Though after you run out of bullets, you may use the gun to be a deathstick.

Also, it is important to know the affects of the bullet. Important things to know are like if the bullet strikes a blade, or a bucker. Also keep in mind the rules of engagement when it comes to the 180, and DFB’s.

• How To Load: With the gun pointed down, position the band tape in the barrel and pull back over the trigger mechanism. Always be prepared for a misfire.
• A Gun As A Side: Only while a gun is unloaded, may you use it as a defensive side. Treat it as you would a deathstick.
• Being Hit with a Rubber Band: The same rules apply to a rubber band as the tip of a sword for strikes and kills. If a rubber band strikes a weapon or a side, it is considered broken and removed from the fight until you Rez.
• Gleaning/Collecting Bullets: Unless otherwise stated, you are not able to glean fired bullets for reuse. Additionally, you are responsible for collecting all the bullets you fire, so pay attention to where you fire them, where they land, and how many. You could also pick up any bullets that hit you as a common courtesy.
• Defending Against an RBG: It’s possible to dodge bullets or sacrifice a piece of equipment, but remember that most RBGs only have one shot. It may cost you or a teammate a single life, but you can’t let the RBGs scare you away from the fight.
• DFB with an RBG: As with with a sword it is possible to kill an opponent from behind with an RBG. Instead of firing a rubber band into their back, safely lay the barrel on their shoulder and follow the standard DFB procedure. The loaded bullet is considered spent if your ammunition is limited.

Training Ideas

You need to be able to load the gun safely with gloves on. This is important since gloves can get in the way and make it harder. Once you can load the gun, you should practice shooting, and clearing misfires. Misfires is a thing that did happen with guns, and does happen with our RBG’s. It’s also useful to know how accurate, and at what distance they are effective to use.

• Load ’em Up: Practice loading the gun properly.
• Shooting Range: After loading, practice aiming and firing your RBGs to get a feel for their accuracy and range. You can also practice what to do if your RBG misfires.
• Take the Shot: While fully geared and at a reasonable distance, practice getting shot by various RBGs. Acquaint yourself with how they feel and what to do when you are hit.

Assessment

• RBG Safety: Ensure you can load the RBG safely. Know when you can shoot an opponent. Know you can’t use it to attack as a club.
• RBG Basics: Knowing how to load, and when you can shoot the RBG.
• RBG Training: Once you know the basics, it comes down to just use it. Have fun with it in Melees.