Toronto Defiant Reinhardt Hammer Display
We had the pleasure of collaborating on a project for our local Toronto Overwatch League team, the "Toronto Defiant," during the Summer Showdown tournament. This endeavor encompassed various media, including 2D art concepts, 3D modeling, and rendering, 3D printing using FDM techniques, foam carving, silicone, cement, paints, vinyl, clear coats, and mixed media.
Our primary goal was to create a life-sized Reinhardt Hammer from Overwatch, embodying the Toronto Defiant skin, perched atop a lava rock as if recently wielded. Initiated with a 2D sketch, the project underwent numerous iterations until we achieved the perfect representation. These 2D concepts then transformed into 3D models and renderings, serving as the foundation for the 3D prints that culminated in the final trophy.
The project's core was the hammer, primarily crafted from PLA 3D print plastic. To capture intricate details and maintain accurate scaling, we divided the hammer into multiple files printed on six 3D printers. The longest print, part of the main hammer, spanned eight days of continuous printing.
Post-printing, our process involved meticulous sanding, starting with 220 grit sandpaper and progressing through various levels, concluding with 800 grit wet sanding for a smooth finish. Achieving a flawless surface was crucial to eliminating layer lines from the printing process. Following this, we applied a layer or two of grey primer to facilitate proper adhesion for subsequent paint layers. The metallic red hue dominated most of the hammer, featuring a base layer of black, aluminum silver, and a red metallic lacquer. The black sections were coated with a matte finish. Before applying the automotive clear coat, we used our vinyl cutter to add the Defiant logos.
The handle, constructed from 3” Schedule 40 PVC pipe with smaller ABS pipes for added detail, deviated from the initial plan of 3D printing. Concerns about weight distribution led us to opt for PVC/ABS, providing a sturdy, smooth handle. The handle's removable design facilitated transportation through doors and moving trucks.
Once the hammer reached its final form, attention turned to the construction of the lava rock base. Crafted primarily from Styrofoam bonded with expanding foam, the rock took shape through the use of reciprocating saws, hand saws, hot wire tools, and coarse metal brushes. Despite the messiness, seeing the rock materialize quickly proved to be the most satisfying phase. A coating of vertical mix concrete provided a realistic finish, adding both weight and authenticity. To prevent tipping, a hole in the center allowed us to pour in concrete mix, with two-part expanding foam securing it in place.
After the components dried, we tailored a snug fit for the hammer, wrapping garbage bags tightly over the head and using expanding foam to ensure the right balance. The Defiant logo, laser-cut from transparent acrylic and painted with vinyl for clean, flat colors, added the finishing touch.
Silicone tests for the lava involved experimenting with platinum silicone pigmented with white and yellow, serving as the bright, glowing core. Silicone paints pigmented with orange, red, and white, applied with an airbrush, created a realistic lava flow with a captivating glow. The interactive quality, with fans enjoying the tactile experience, became an unexpected bonus.
Assembly involved a combination of glues, adhesives, and mechanical connections to secure the hammer in the rock permanently. However, not before capturing some photos holding it—a memorable moment before its placement in Toronto Defiant’s HQ.
The project's unveiling at Toronto’s Summer Showdown was a delight for both our clients and hundreds of fans. Now a permanent fixture at Toronto Defiant’s HQ, it continues to be a focal point during watch parties. Our collaboration with OverActive Media in bringing this project to life was truly memorable, and we eagerly anticipate what the future holds!
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