Mini Rocket Launcher

In this EASY Instructable, I'll show you how to make a mini rocket launcher that not only looks cool but, also packs some serious power. It won't cost you a lot and you can make one in just 5 minutes. It's sure to give you hours of mini rocket fun!

Here's what you'll need -

• A white board / dry erase marker pen.
• 2 x Guitar picks (Plectrums)
• Barbecue lighter
• Hot glue
• Safety glasses
• Rubbing alcohol, denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol.
• Miscellaneous items will be discussed in each step. These will include simple tools like a knife.

*PLEASE READ*

If you decide to attempt this project, then you are responsible for your own stupidity - Try this at your own risk. There may be risks of which I am not aware. Even though I've called this project 'safe to use indoors' , use the proper safety equipment and have a fire extinguisher handy if possible. Do not fire these rockets at humans, animals or property that does not belong to you. Stay safe and have fun!

Step 1: Watch the Video!

The easiest way to follow along with this Instructable, is to watch the video above or on my channel by clicking this link - http://bit.ly/1ODLIwG

Step 2:

Find yourself a white board marker pen. I chose this one because of it's rocket-like shape.

Step 3:

Next, you'll need to take the pen apart using a pair of pliers

Step 4:

We'll only be using these three pieces. - Picture 1

This part will be used as a blast chamber - Picture 2

This part will be used to hold the rocket in place - Picture 3

and you'll use this part to make the rocket. - Picture 4

Step 5:

Next, find a barbecue lighter and remove the igniter from inside.

Step 6:

Then find a drill bit that matches the diameter of the igniter and drill a hole at the back of the blast chamber.

Step 7:

Heat up a small screwdriver or nail and pierce a hole at the back of the blast chamber like this.

Step 8:

Cut the wires on the igniter to about half an inch and then insert the igniter, with the bottom wire, into the hole you drilled earlier.

Step 9:

Push the other wire through the smaller hole that you made and use hot glue to hold everything together and create a tight seal.

Step 10:

Wrap the blast chamber in electrical tape or paint it to give it a custom look.

Step 11:

Next, grab the marker lid and break off the pocket clip. If you find any rough edges, scrape them off with a knife.

Step 12:

Your rocket is almost done but, it will need some stabilizing fins.

I found that guitar picks work just great!

Find two guitar picks in your favorite color and cut them in half.

Glue them onto the body of the rocket and you're ready to launch!

Step 13:

But, before you go around blasting off your rocket, now might be a good time to put on some safety glasses.

Step 14:

To load your rocket, dip a cotton bud in some rubbing alcohol and apply it to the inside of the blast chamber.

All you need to do now is assemble your rocket launcher and then press the igniter to fire!

If you'd like to see this rocket launcher in action, just watch the video below. Subscribe to my channel by clicking here - http://bit.ly/1ODLIwG

If you decide to attempt this project, then you are responsible for your own stupidity. Try this at your own risk.

There may be risks of which I am not aware. Even though I've called this project 'safe to use indoors' , use the proper safety equipment and have a fire extinguisher handy if possible.

Do not fire these rockets at humans, animals or property that does not belong to you.

Stay safe and have fun!

Comments

[azrafrazif]

awesome!!!

can u share some alternatives for alcohol.

[MadScienceHacks]

Use these at your own risk. Some may be more volatile than others.

Paint thinners
Hair spray
Methylated Spirits
Nail Polish Remover
Lighter Fluid
Propane Gas

I've tested Methylated spirits (camp stove fuel) and it seemed too work just as good as the rubbing alcohol.

[Tuấn MinhL]

Hairsprays works best(I tried it at home[add some matchheads,too])

[JohnD316]

Neat!

[DEEJAY642]

im going to follow u and add this instructable to my favorites cos i love your creativity. WELL DONE!!!

[martingarrix]

I love it you are so creative. But I have to blow because my parents don't trust me with fire. And I made it but I don't have access to a camera therefore I cant post pictures.

[laith mohamed]

The rocket its simple and clever

[KC0GRN]

I have to admit, I thought originally this was going to be cheezy, but watching the video gave me a different outlook, I might have to make one of these. Any idea if this would work with a regular sized sharpie instead? I assume the only issue would be the igniter, but if anyone else has ideas, fire away (pun intended).

[MadScienceHacks]

a sharpie should work. you only need a 10 millimeter internal diameter to accommodate the igniter.

[MadScienceHacks]

This is probably one of the most fun things I've built so far. You guys have to try it!

[Salman Naveed]

Can you tell me the approximate distance that this rocket can fly to? Great project by the way. I'll definitely make this!

[MadScienceHacks]

It depends on how much of alcohol you use. I didn't want to use too much because the more you use, the longer it will take to vaporize. I also didn't want to demonstrate an amount that could be unsafe. I got a good 15feet out of it with the little I used. I'm sure you'll be able to get more.

[daniellong2]

also if you put too much alcohol you risk blowing up the marker, right?

[daniellong2]

this is a small version of a potato launcher. really cool

[al_packer]

Nicely written instructable. One point I would quibble with--this is actually a gun, and the "rocket" is actually a bullet.

[WEIRDGUYWITHAKNIFE]

Fantastic!!! 2 thumbs up and maybe 1 eye out.

[SlkStephane]

Wow

[pieterg]

You just gave the best safety advice. Switch your brain to the active position people! Furthermore, i like the twist on a classic experiment!