3D Modeling Question

Hi

I am a beginner and have a few questions. How does anyone go about modeling things such as Weapons and Vehicles. Here is an example, I in the future want to model an M1A2 Abrams Tank and I want to animate the treads, main gun turret and the other turrets, the three hatches. How would you go about doing that ? Would you model them separately and then put them into position when finished. I do want to put a camera inside of the tank so the player can see inside and be able to use things.

When modeling a weapon. Let’s use an M4A1 Carbine, I want to be able to customize this weapon in game. This is what I want to be able to customize. Muzzle, Rails forward and rear, magazine, butstock, grip, barrel. Again would I have to use the same method and basically model everything separate.

I am starting off with beginner things I am just curious about how anyone would go about making these things, thank you to who ever helps by replying with an helpful answer.

That kind of question covers everything from modeling to animation. Start from a building. There are lots of tutorials available on the web. Here is good one: