DIY BB Gun Projects: From Pen to Mechanical Pencil

Introduction

For many, the idea of creating a BB gun using everyday objects is a thrilling and creative project. This article provides detailed steps and methods for making a BB gun using pens and mechanical pencils, ensuring safety and basic functionality. From the simplest tools to advanced modifications, we offer four distinct methods to transform your writing tools into a DIY BB gun.

Method 1: Using a Pen and Eraser Holder

Materials Needed

A mechanical pencil or simple pen (Bic works well) Scissors Tape Rubber bands

Steps

Gather your materials: mechanical pencil, scissors, tape, and rubber bands. Prepare the pen: remove the cap and unscrew the ink holder from the outer tube. Prepare the mechanical pencil: remove the grip and eraser, as well as any lead that may be inside. Prepare the outer tube: cut the end to remove the inner part, including the eraser holder and lead holder. Prepare the eraser holder: cut two notches in the circular part of the eraser holder and remove the plastic clip. Combine the pen and pencil components: slide the eraser holder into the pen tube, and adjust the thickness with tape if needed. Attach the rubber bands: slip the rubber band into the notches and stretch it down the pen tube. Wrap the rubber band around the pen tube and secure with tape to ensure it does not come apart. Find some ammo: use round objects that will fit into the space created when you pull back on the eraser holder. Fire the gun: release the pencil to shoot the pen tube through the pen, using caution and avoiding aiming at anyone's eyes.

Method 2: Using the Inside of a Mechanical Pencil

Materials Needed

A mechanical pencil without lead Wire cutter (pocket knife) A slightly larger pen Rubber bands

Steps

Cut the end off the mechanical pencil with the wire cutter. Remove the top and the inside of the pencil by pulling out the eraser holder. Align the inside of the mechanical pencil with a larger pen to create the barrel. Stretch a rubber band and cut a slit into the eraser, then attach the rubber band to the pencil. Wrap a second rubber band to hold it down securely. Load a BB into the front of the pencil, then let go for it to shoot out.

Method 3: Using a Large Mechanical Pencil

Materials Needed

A lead pencil (regular) Clay balls as ammo

Steps

Cut off the writing end of a lead pencil. Remove all the innards, including the eraser and lead holder, and tape the eraser holder to the lead holder. Mark notches in the eraser holder for the rubber band. Place the rubber band over the eraser holder and stretch it to the pencil clip. Pull back the eraser holder and shoot, using clay balls as ammo.

Method 4: Using a Small Mechanical Pencil

Materials Needed

A Bic mechanical pencil Lead holder Large pen (slightly larger in diameter) Rubber bands Ink cartridge (pens) Clay balls as ammo

Steps

Break off the end of the pencil where you write. Remove the lead holder and break off the plastic sticking out. Pull the colored part out and cut the first section off. Place the eraser and cut pieces, creating two rectangles for the rubber band. Wrap the rubber band around the colored piece and stick it into the hole in the eraser holder. Insert the ink cartridge and stick it in the center hole of the pen, ensuring it does not go in too far. Pull back the eraser holder and watch the ink cartridge fly!

Conclusion

These DIY BB gun projects are not only fun and exciting but also a great way to channel creativity and DIY skills. Always prioritize safety by ensuring you are not aiming at anyone, especially the eyes, and by following the correct steps to assemble your BB gun. Remember, these projects are intended for educational and creative purposes only.