Different ways we can achieve Bullet-Hits/Ricochets
Effect Type
Advantages (Pros)
Considerations (Cons)
Pyro
Bullet Hits
  • Ideal for Blood, Dust, Sparks, Explosive hits
  • Can be concealed invisibly into Sets & Actors
  • Powerful - can blow out plaster/render leaving holes
  • Can be used to destroy props, Breakable FX etc
  • Provides a very impactive effect for actor reaction
  • Sequenced or multiple accurate timed hits
  • Smaller and therefore can be used for multiple hits
  • Needs to be integrated/built-in to sets
  • Will damage buildings/locations etc.
  • Damage/scorching of sets/props
  • Actors/Stunts have to be a safe distance from pyro
  • Loud, may require ear-defenders to be worn
  • Can only be provided with our qualified SFX Technicians
AirFX
Bullet Hits
  • Ideal for Dust, Blood, bullet Hits on actors
  • Can be used on and in very close proximity to actors
  • Virtually noiseless and totally Safe
  • Can be partially concealed into Sets
  • Provides a good effect for actors to react to
  • Quick Re-sets between takes
  • Can be 'Dry Hired"
  • Extremely Cost effective
  • Needs to be integrated/built-in to sets
  • Not practical to use on real buildings/locations etc.
  • Cannot destroy props, Breakable FX etc
  • Cannot be totally concealed into the set (small hole)
  • Can be used for a max of 2 or 3 sequenced or simultaneous hits, but requires multiple units
Air-Fired Gun
Bullet Hits
  • Dust, Sparks and glass bullet hits
  • Ideal for hits on real buildings & props
  • Can destroy BreakableFX glass (not 100% accurate)
  • No damage to location buildings (dust to clean)
  • Provides a good effect for actors to react to
  • No setup required - quick re-sets
  • Cannot be used in very close proximity to actors
  • Careful blocking of scene/actors/SFX technician/cameras required
  • Not sufficient accuracy  to guarantee to destroy props, Breakable FX etc, 100% of the time
  • Effect placement is approximate and not 100% repeatable
  • Can only be operated by our SFX Technicians
CGI "Post"
Bullet Hits
  • Dust, spark, explosions, blood & glass hits
  • No limit to number or size of effects
  • No damage to any props, sets or buildings
  • No setup required - quick re-sets
  • Guarenteed timing and placement of effect

  • No physical effect for actors to react to
  • No residue or debris, has to be added in post too
  • Can be more costly on moving camera shots
  • Cannot destroy props, Breakable FX etc
  • Final effect is only seen "post production"