Back to the Basics - Rubber Band Gun

This is a simple rubber band gun that is fun and easy to make. It cost me almost nothing and took me about 15 minutes.

Step 1: Step 1: Materials and Tools

You need very limited materials,

1. 1x6 (3/4 x 5 1/2) (I used scrap that was about 9 inches long.)

2. Clothespin

3. 5/8" Dowel that is about 4-8 inches long depending on your rubber bands

And tools as followed.

1. Drill or drill press

2. 7/8" Drill Bit

3. Scroll Saw or Coping Saw

4. Various grits of sand paper

5. Wood File

6. Spray adhesive or other bonding agent

7. Some kind of finish (I used mineral sprits)

Step 2: Step 2: Prepare Template

First you prepare the template by cutting it out, (I copied an old rubber band gun that used the same principles as the one I'm building.)

Then you adhere the template to the 1x6.

You're now ready to cut it out.

Step 3: Step 3: Cut It Out and Drill the Hole

This step is one of the most time consuming because this can't be undone. I started with drilling the finger hole with the drill press and the bit.

Next I use the scroll saw to cut it out to a rough shape.

Peel off the label and your ready for the next step.

Step 4: Step 4: Sanding and Filing

This step is simple, use your assets to get it to desired shape and smoothness

Step 5: Step 5: Prepare Dowel

To prepare the dowel, you have to notch one end and flatten a side that is parallel to the notch. The flat side is used to sit level on the gun itself.

Step 6: Step 6: Glue and Finish

Glue the dowel on first making sure the flat side touches the gun.

Then line up the clothespin on the angled section of the gun.

Clamp it all together and the glue dry.

When dry, use finish of choice and shoot it.