How to Make a BB Gun with a Pen
In this article, we’ll show you how to make a simple BB gun using a pen. Yes, you read that right! With some creativity and basic materials, you can turn a normal pen into a functional air-powered BB gun. However, please note that it’s essential to follow the necessary safety precautions and only use this BB gun within your home or a safe and controlled environment.
Contents
Materials Needed:
- A pen (with a metal tip)
- A small piece of plastic tubing (similar to a straw)
- A small metal pin or nail
- Tape (like masking tape or duct tape)
- A ruler or a straightedge
- A small piece of metal (like a paperclip or a pin)
Step 1: Prepare the Pen
The first step is to cut the pen tip off using a pair of scissors or a utility knife. Make sure you wear protective gloves to avoid any accidental cuts or injuries.
Step 2: Attach the Plastic Tubing
Take the plastic tubing and cut a small piece approximately 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) in length. Use the ruler or straightedge to mark the length on the tubing. Place one end of the tubing over the pen tip so that it fits snugly, and secure it using tape. Make sure the tube is aligned properly and evenly on the pen tip.
Step 3: Create the Breach
Cut a small half-circle notch on one end of the pen, near the tip. The notch should be about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) deep. This is the breach, where the BBs will be loaded.
Step 4: Load the BBs
Push 2-3 BBs into the breach through the notch you created. Make sure they are seated securely inside the pen.
Step 5: Assemble the Chamber
Using the metal pin or nail, create a small notch on the pen, about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) below the breach. This notch will hold the plastic tubing in place. Place the plastic tubing over the pen, making sure it aligns with the breach. Tape the tubing securely in place using twin tape or duct tape.
Step 6: The Propellant
Cut a small piece of metal (like a paperclip or pin) and form it into a small arrow or wedge shape. Insert the metal arrow into the plastic tubing and secure it in place using tape.
Step 7: The Trigger and Stock
You can use sticky notes or small pieces of paper to create the trigger. Cut the notes into small strips and shape them into a curved design. Stick the strips onto the side of the pen, opposite the breach, so that they form the trigger. Create the stock using a small piece of cardboard or plastic.
Step 8: Final Assembly
Use the tape to secure the trigger and stock in place on the pen. You should now have a complete BB gun. To use it, place a BB on the breach and pull the trigger to release the spring tension. The proparator (metal arrow) will propel the BB out of the pen, creating a surprisingly satisfying shot!
Please remember to always follow these guidelines:
- Wear protective eyewear and keep bystanders at a distance
- Only use a low-power propellant (the paperclip or pin will create a relatively weak launch)
- Never aim for animals, people, or windows
- Always release the spring tension slowly, allowing the BB to launch naturally
- Keep an eye on the BB trajectory to avoid any accidental launches or damage
Making a BB gun with a pen is a unique and creative project that promotes problem-solving and encourages kids to think outside the box. With caution and creativity, you can transform a simple pen into a fun and functional air-powered BB gun.
