Target Shooter

We’re building a flywheel-powered target shooter designed to launch 5-inch diameter wiffle balls with consistency, accuracy, and repeatability. The system is driven by two DC motors that spin one or more flywheels at high speed, providing the energy needed to accelerate each ball. Using dual motors allows for greater power, faster spin-up time, and more consistent performance compared to a single-motor setup.

As a wiffle ball is fed into the shooter, it passes between the spinning flywheel and a carefully designed hood. The ball is slightly compressed in this space, allowing friction to efficiently transfer energy from the flywheel to the ball, launching it forward at a controlled speed. The dual DC motors help maintain steady rotational velocity, even during repeated shots, which improves consistency and reduces performance drop-off.

The hood plays a key role in directing the ball’s motion. Its shape and position relative to the flywheel determine the launch angle and can introduce backspin, which stabilizes the ball during flight. Because wiffle balls are lightweight and have perforations that affect their aerodynamics, this added control is essential for achieving predictable trajectories and accurate targeting.

This shooter is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing adjustments to motor speed, hood alignment, and compression to fine-tune performance. It’s well-suited for target practice, robotics applications, or engineering experiments, offering a balance of power, control, and adaptability in a compact, efficient design.

Shooter Assembly Supplies List

1. Shooter Motor (12V DC, 5000 series) — Qty: 2 — $59.98
2. Shooter Bearings (8mm REX pillow block) — Qty: 2 — $17.98
3. Bearings (1611 series flanged) — Qty: 2 — $11.98
4. Shooter Gear (8mm REX, 24-tooth steel) — Qty: 4 — $63.96
5. Shooter Shaft (8mm REX, 168mm) — Qty: 1 — $7.19
6. Shooter Motor Mount (1400 series clamping mount) — Qty: 4 — $35.96
7. Feeder Shaft (8mm REX, 104mm) — Qty: 1 — $5.59

Bearing Stack Components

1. Thrust Ball Bearings (6mm ID, 14mm OD) — Qty: 12 — $47.88
2. Ball Bearings (4mm ID, non-flanged) — Qty: 3 — $11.97

Drive Components

1. Rhino Wheel (72mm diameter, 14mm bore) — Qty: 2 — $17.98

Hardware

1. Standoffs (M4 x 0.7mm thread, 4–7mm) — Qty: 5 packs (4 each) — $31.95
2. 12mm Screws (M4 button head) — Qty: 2 — $7.18
3. 16mm Screws (M4 button head) — Qty: 2 — $7.58
4. M4 x 0.7mm Nylock Nuts — Qty: 2 packs (25 each) — $5.98

Additional

1. Support Shaft for Side Plates (8mm REX, 144mm) — Qty: 1 — $6.59

NOTE: ALL PARTS ARE FROM GOBILDA

Here is a spreadsheet with all the links to each part:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1s426ijBamMqr3tyJL9TPW0yR7Tvv-d3z8kmuD6OOsmI/edit?gid=0#gid=0

We have attached only one step file, so this allows for customization for your own purpose. Additionally, this one file contains all files you would require. You can export each as an STL and slice it in the PRUSA slicer based on the requirements of your own 3D Printer.

The assembly of the flywheel target shooter is designed to be straightforward while allowing precise alignment of all critical components. Begin by securely mounting the two DC motors onto a rigid frame or base plate, ensuring they are firmly fixed and properly aligned. The motors should be positioned so that the attached flywheel(s) sit at the correct height and orientation for smooth ball contact. Any misalignment at this stage can reduce efficiency and shot consistency, so careful measurement and spacing are important.

Next, attach the flywheel(s) to the motor shafts, making sure they are tightly secured and balanced to minimize vibration at high speeds. Once installed, verify that both motors can spin freely without obstruction. After the flywheel system is in place, install the hood above or around the flywheel. The spacing between the hood and the flywheel should be adjusted to allow slight compression of the 5-inch wiffle ball as it passes through. This compression is critical for effective energy transfer and consistent launching.

Following this, assemble and align the ball feeding mechanism so that each wiffle ball enters the shooter in a consistent position. The feed system should guide the ball smoothly into the gap between the flywheel and hood without jamming or misfeeding. Depending on the design, this could be a ramp, chute, or guided channel.

Finally, connect the electrical components, including wiring the two DC motors to a suitable power source and control system. Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated. After completing assembly, test the system at low power to confirm proper operation, then gradually increase speed while making final adjustments to the hood spacing and alignment. Proper assembly ensures the shooter operates safely, efficiently, and with reliable accuracy.