I've been using the trial version of 3Ds max, but since i dont have $5000 to buy the full version, i think I should begin using a new program (unless there is a free version of Maya/3DS that works). I know blender and Skecthup basic are free, but will they work with weapon models?

I think so.

Blender works ok for weapon models, sketchup not as much.

Also, I believe blender had a new version out yesterday, and is more suited to makin smaller and higher detailed assets than sketchup

If your a student, you can get free non-commercial licences for 3ds/Maya. It may not help, but it just might.

Thanks alot guys, I think i'm going to use blender for now since im not a student.

I'm more of a map designer anyway, but I'd figure I'd start modeling/developing weapons