The Tool Gun: Introduction to Tools — Garry's Mod Walkthrough

Unlock the full potential of Garry's Mod's sandbox with an in-depth look at the Tool Gun. This essential guide introduces the fundamental tools and their applications, empowering you to manipulate the game world, build complex contraptions, and bring your creative visions to life.

The Tool Gun is arguably the most important item in Garry's Mod for any player looking to interact with and shape the game world. Accessible via the 'Q' menu under the 'Tools' tab, it's not a single tool but a versatile device that houses a multitude of functions. From basic prop manipulation to intricate logic and physics control, mastering the Tool Gun is fundamental to creating anything beyond simple prop placement.

Accessing the Tool Gun:

Press the 'Q' key to open the spawn menu. Navigate to the 'Tools' tab. The Tool Gun itself is usually the first item listed, or you can select it directly. Once selected, it will appear in your player's hand.

Core Tool Gun Modes:

The Tool Gun's functionality is divided into various 'modes', each accessed by selecting a different tool from the Tool Gun's interface (often brought up by right-clicking or using a dedicated keybind while holding the Tool Gun). Here are some of the most fundamental:

Physgun: This is your primary tool for interacting with physics objects. It allows you to grab, move, rotate, freeze, and unfreeze props. It's essential for positioning objects precisely and setting up scenes.
Weld Tool: This tool permanently joins two props together, making them behave as a single object. It's the backbone of most contraption building, allowing you to construct vehicles, structures, and complex machinery that won't fall apart.
Constraint Tools: These tools allow for physics-based connections that permit movement. Common examples include:
- Hinge: Creates a pivot point, ideal for doors, gates, or rotating mechanisms.
- Rope: Connects two props with a flexible rope, useful for suspension bridges or simple pulley systems.
- Piston: Creates a linear extension and retraction, perfect for automated arms or moving platforms.
Thruster Tool: Applies a directional force to a prop, enabling movement. It's crucial for building vehicles, launching objects, or creating moving platforms.
Duplicator: This tool allows you to save entire contraptions (groups of welded or constrained props) to your computer or spawn menu, and then reload them later. It's invaluable for backing up builds and quickly replicating complex dess.
Wire Tool: The gateway to automation and logic. It allows you to connect the inputs and outputs of various entities, creating circuits that can control lights, doors, thrusters, and much more.

Using the Tool Gun Effectively:

Experiment: The best way to learn is by trying out each tool and its various settings.
Combine Tools: The real power comes from using tools in conjunction. Weld props to form a vehicle, add thrusters for propulsion, and use the Wire Tool to control the thrusters with a button.
Tool Settings: Many tools have adjustable settings (e.g., force for thrusters, length for ropes). Access these via the Tool Gun's menu.

Example: Building a Simple Door

Spawn a Cube prop for the door and a Wall prop.
Position the Cube where you want the door to be.
Select the Hinge Constraint tool.
Click on the edge of the Wall where the door should pivot, then click on the edge of the Door prop.
Select the Physgun and try to move the door; it should now swing open and closed.

The Tool Gun is your key to unlocking the creative potential of Garry's Mod. By understanding and utilizing its various modes, you can build anything you can imagine.