Introduction: Cast Aluminum Self Cocking Crossbow Pistol
This instructable is two videos that will show you how to make a self cocking crossbow pistol from scratch. It is a fun project that involves melting and pouring aluminum (don't worry, it's easy), PVC bow making, and some work with small simple mechanisms. Depending on what skills you already have this could be a good learning project. It will involve some work and some sort of difficult steps but it is still within reach of the complete beginner.
Everything that really needs to be said is said in the videos, so here they are. I hope you get something useful out of this instructable and have a good time doing it:
Instructional video part 1:
Instructional video part 2:
Everything that really needs to be said is said in the videos, so here they are. I hope you get something useful out of this instructable and have a good time doing it:
Instructional video part 1:
Instructional video part 2:

First Prize in the
Manly Crafts Contest

Participated in the
Instructables Outdoor Projects Contest
13 Comments
2 years ago
Worthy of a 13 year old such as myself.
8 years ago on Introduction
You might like to change your advice on changing to metric. The decimal point is in the wrong place. Multiply by 25.4, not 2.54
9 years ago on Introduction
Definitely worth first place. Great instructable!
9 years ago
can u post blueprints
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
I was going to, but I think if you really are trying to build this you should be able to come up with a drawing that will work in just a couple minutes.
9 years ago on Introduction
oh this is a very nice bow! and quite nice that you used aluminum casting. and the oil and clay sands is genius! ill be using these tips and tricks soon
9 years ago on Introduction
Not to seem critical, but you may find this book very helpful. The Charcoal Foundry (Build Your Own Metal Working Shop From Scrap)
Gingery, David
9 years ago on Introduction
What material is the bow made of?so small yet powerful.
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
It is PVC pipe.
9 years ago on Introduction
Very impressive, I like the design a lot!
9 years ago on Introduction
Very nice and good design, thanks for sharing.
9 years ago
Wow
9 years ago on Introduction
This is an EXCELLENT instructable! Good job, and thanks for posting!!