Step 1: Exporting out of Maya:
Before exporting the model, I was required to group and combine the objects together, to allow the model to import as a single item.
I used my mouse to select all of the items in the scene, which I wanted to export. I used the Combine tool, under the Mesh toolbar menu, which joined all of my gun model items together. This allowed me to have a single object to import into Unreal, as opposed to different polygons and shapes. I was also able to use the Split tool (also under the Mesh toolbar menu), which forced the model to be broken back into the individual components.
To export the model out of my weapon, I used the Game Exporter plugin, a tool recommended to me by my lecturer. To find the tool, I went to 'Game Exporter' under the File toolbar menu, as seen below.
This will show a popup box, which allows you to adjust numerous settings, such as exporting specific parts of a Maya scene, smoothing edges and polygon subdivisions, adjusting parts of an animation, or adjusting the output file (changing the file path, or fbx version). I did not feel the need to change any settings, so I just kept this the same.
Step 2: Importing into Unreal:
To import the model into Unreal, I use the Import into Levels feature under the File toolbar menu. I felt this was a suitable option, instead of dragging it into the assets, as Unreal would be able to process the file correctly.
I chose a location to save the file to, within my Unreal assets folder.
A window popped up which allowed me to review what would be imported into my project. I could use this to adjust what parts of the model are imported, such as mesh shapes or materials . After clicking 'Import' at the lower right of the box, my model was imported into the project.
To add the model onto my player, I opened up the First Person Character window, in the viewport model. I removed the existing gun models on the scene, and added my model in the place.
Final model viewed in Unreal:
