Airsoft Gun Basics

Airsoft guns have edged their way deeper into popular culture. Many paintball enthusiasts have made the switch to Airsoft guns for their similarity to real guns. Airsoft guns should be regarded as firearms, even though they are often thought of as toys.

Age Requirement

Because Airsoft guns are regarded as firearms, you must be 18 years old to purchase one in the United States. However, many parents have claimed purchasing Airsoft guns for their younger children under the promise that they will be safe. Airsoft guns are dangerous if used incorrectly and should not be underestimated as actual weapons.

Safety

Safety is the number one concern when dealing with Airsoft guns. It is crucial that you wear protective eye gear at all times. Airsoft guns fire small pellets using the power of compressed air. Accidental misfires can blind you,if one of those pellets hits you in the eye. It is also important to wear protective padding as Airsoft pellets can both hurt and leave marks on the skin. This is why many Airsoft gun owners purchase military gear.

Cleaning

Clean your Airsoft gun after every use. The method for cleaning your gun will depend on what type of gun you have. The three types are: spring, gas and electric. Always read the instructions for your Airsoft gun thoroughly and completely before attempting cleaning.

Spring

Spring Airsoft guns use springs to launch the pellets out of the gun. Spring Airsoft guns are generally cheaper. When you clean a spring Airsoft gun, take each part off of the gun and wipe it down with a clean cloth. The cloth does not need to be damp. To get into the spring and other crevasses, use a cotton swab.

Electric

Electric Airsoft guns use springs as well, but they also use a battery pack to increase propulsion. Electric Airsoft guns are often automatic, meaning you can hold the trigger down and the springs will continue to launch pellets until you run out. When cleaning an electrical Airsoft gun, treat it as you would a spring gun, but make sure to remove the battery pack first and set it to the side.

Gas

Gas Airsoft guns use pressurized gas to propel pellets out of the barrel. Gas guns generally cost the most but are considered the best option by Airsoft gun enthusiasts. Gas guns should be cleaned by removing the gas tank and wiping them down in a similar fashion to the spring and electric varieties. With a gas gun, you want to take special care to clean out the barrel of the gun with either a cleaning rod or long cotton swab.

Cheap vs. Expensive Varieties

Cheaper airsoft guns are generally made from plastic and tend to break during any form of Airsoft gun battle. Cheaper airsoft guns usually are those that will resemble guns from movies. More expensive Airsoft guns load faster, jam less and won't break when you really need them.

Tags: Airsoft guns, Airsoft guns, guns generally, Airsoft guns, Airsoft guns springs, Airsoft guns their

Paint Your Rifle With Digital Camouflage

Military-style digital camouflage can be applied to hunting rifles.

Synthetic rifle stocks come in various colors such as black, gray, green and tan. The military often applies a digital camouflage scheme to battlefield rifles to break up a recognizable outline and avoid detection by enemy combatants. Camouflage is also useful for hunting applications because it can keep you and your rifle concealed while you are stalking prey.

Instructions

1. Unchamber your weapon and remove its magazine, if it is equipped with on.

2. Remove the bolt from the rifle. Most bolt-action rifles have a lever on the left rear side of the receiver that is moved outward while retracting the bolt to extract the bolt from the receiver. Some have a detent located inside the upper part of the trigger guard that is pushed up. For semi-automatic rifles such as the AR-15, break the action open at the rear then remove the bolt and charging handle.

3. Use masking tape to tape off the rifle's action, trigger and trigger guard, the muzzle of the barrel and the scope's lenses, if your rifle has a scope.

4. Drape an old bed sheet over a rifle rest to use as a paint tarp. Place the rifle in the rest.

5. Spray brake cleaner on a rag and wipe down the stock, barrel and the exterior of the action to remove grease and oil.

6. Spray one color of camouflage paint on as a base color for the entire rifle. This base color is usually a lighter earth-tone such as sand, field drab or earth yellow. Allow the paint to dry, following manufacturer recommendations.

7. Place a digital camouflage stencil over a section you wish to camouflage then spray a darker paint color over the stencil. Colors such as dark green and olive drab are good choices. Repeat for other sections of the rifle. Allow the paint to dry, following manufacturer specifications.

8. Remove the masking tape and re-install the bolt. Open and close the bolt and work your rifle's action to check for proper function with no binding.

Tags: digital camouflage, your rifle, Allow paint, Allow paint following, base color, bolt from, following manufacturer

The Best Ps2 Light Gun Games

A light-gun accessory allows you to play target practice with your PlayStation 2.

The Sony PlayStation 2 allows a wide variety of game-play styles. The machine has games catering to every gamer from the arcade racing enthusiast to the hardcore tactician. One genre of games available only to those who choose to purchase the appropriate accessories for the console is the light-gun game. These games allow players to enjoy fast-paced target-practice style shooting that utilize their own aiming skills, instead of relying on the abilities of an in-game character.

Vampire Night

One of the first light-gun games available for PlayStation 2, "Vampire Night" was developed by Sega and bears a strong resemblance to its "House of the Dead" games. Ported to PlayStation 2 by Namco, the biggest developer of light-gun games for the original PlayStation, the game incorporates fast-paced story-driven game play in a Gothic-styled conflict between human vampire hunters and demonic vampires. Players adventure through a succession of levels that will be familiar territory to fans of the vampire genre in film and literature, in the hunt for a cabal of vampires led by a Dracula-like vampire knight.

Time Crisis 3

The always-successful "Time Crisis" series received its PlayStation 2 outing in 2003 with "Time Crisis 3," which sent players on a frantic chase to apprehend a criminal mastermind bent on global warfare. The game's mechanic of hiding and shooting, which gives players the option to take cover and reload or get a breather at the expense of a constantly ticking time limit, is a standard of light-gun games and even crossed over into titles like "Halo" and "Red Faction."

Dino Stalker

Capcom's "Dino Stalker" continues the saga begun in the company's PlayStation title, "Dino Crisis." A cross between "Resident Evil" and "Jurassic Park," these games transplant the zombie-hunting action of "Resident Evil" to a sci-fi world in which scientific meddling has unleashed fearsome dinosaurs. Players familiar with "Dino Crisis 2" will feel at home in "Dino Stalker," as the game provides a first-person revisiting of the "Dino Crisis 2" narrative; but newcomers will quickly become acclimatized to the game's mixture of first-person movement and light-gun shooting. With an emphasis on fast, arcade-style combat, "Dino Stalker" doesn't take much effort to get into, but the game's later levels pack a steep difficulty curve.

Starsky and Hutch

Light-gun support is optional for "Starsky and Hutch." Though released to coincide with the Hollywood movie, the 2003 title's focus is reliving the driving and shooting action of the cult 1970s television series. The game is best enjoyed in two-player mode: while one player controls the titular characters' tricked-out urban roadster, the other uses the light gun to take out on-road targets and assist in high-speed gun battles. This innovative use of the light gun is a one-of-a-kind feature for the PlayStation 2.

Tags: Dino Stalker, Dino Crisis, light-gun games, Time Crisis, games available, Resident Evil

Fun Challenge Games For Kids

Chess is just one of the challenging games children can learn.

Winning a game is always fun, but winning an easy game is nowhere near as satisfying as coming out on top in a challenging game. Getting kids to accomplish challenging tasks in a game setting is an excellent way to prepare them for problem solving in the real world. Consider playing some games based on spelling, math, trivia, science, health, social sciences and geography.

Tetris

Tetris is a classic game in which players must arrange a series of falling geometric shapes into straight lines. Each time an unbroken line is created, it disappears, causing the overall structure formed by the falling blocks to recede by the number of lines made. As players complete levels, the speed of the falling blocks increases, making each level more challenging than the last. This game can help kids develop special recognition skills and develop strategies. For example, children who think to create spaces in their structures shaped like some of the available blocks can fill those spaces easily.

Trivia

Trivia games are a great way for children to learn new information, as well as recall information they've learned in the past. Organize the kids into two teams. Take turns asking each team a trivia question that has four possible answers. Providing multiple-choice questions allows the kids to make a guess even if they have no idea about the answer. Consider categories such as science, social studies, health and geography. Each time you ask a team a question, team members must talk among themselves and try to convince each other of the right answer. They must then submit one answer as a group. Keep playing until you run out of questions. The team that answers the most questions correctly wins the game.

Word Scrambles

Word scrambles are more challenging for some students than others. Kids who are accustomed to reading phonetically may have a hard time, whereas kids who use other strategies for reading, e.g., recognizing the shapes of the letters that make up the word, may have an easier time. Start off with simple words such as "dogs" or "plant" and progress to more challenging words such as "river," "squirrel" and "dentists."

Multiplication Tables

Memorizing the multiplication tables can be both challenging and fun. Try playing a game in which two children are asked to stand up and answer a multiplication question, such as "What is 3 times 7" as quickly as they can. The first person to get it right stays in the game. The other player is out. Keep playing this game until there's only one player left, who is declared the winner.

Tags: more challenging, children learn, Each time, falling blocks, game which, Keep playing

Paint Paintball Masks

Paintball masks are required to eliminate the risk of getting paint in the eye.

Paintball is a sport that was invented and first played in New Hampshire in 1981. The rules can be set by whoever is playing the game, but it generally involves two teams. Players from both teams use paintball guns to shoot capsules that release paint upon impact. Players try to shoot people on the opposing team. Once shot, a players is eliminated from the game, and the team with the last player who has not been eliminated wins. The paintballs create a distinctive stain of paint that makes it easy to identify players who have been eliminated.

Instructions

1. Before you begin painting, you must come up with a design for your mask. You can paint your mask in whatever design you like. One common design is camouflage. A camouflage design can differ depending on where you plan to play paintball. For example, if you plan to paintball in the woods, you will want large splotches of different shades of brown and green. If you want to play in a field, you will want lines of green. Scout out the place where you will be playing, and create a design that you think will blend in with the surroundings. If you want to play at night, a flat black paint job on your mask will disguise you and should make you a hard target to hit. Another design for a paintball mask is one that will not look out of place if it it is hit with a paintball. To achieve this, paint your mask almost randomly. Color it with splotches of bright color in randomly chosen spots. The effect of this design will be preserved even if it is hit by a paintball.

2. Place a layer of newspaper over the surface where you will be working. This will make cleaning up any stray paint marks simply a matter of throwing away the newspaper.

3. Set aside all the colors of paint and sizes of paint brushes that you will be using. This depends on the design you create.

4. Cover the visor and air holes of your paintball mask with masking tape or packing tape. The tape will keep paint from obstructing your view or your air supply.

5. Paint your mask according to your design.

6. Allow your mask to dry. Depending on your paint, the drying time will differ. Allowing it to dry overnight should be enough for almost all types of paint.

Tags: your mask, paint your, been eliminated, paint your mask, paintball mask

Quick Draw A Gun

History testifies to the fact that there were not very many "classic" gunfights in the old West. Of those, Wild Bill Hickok fought far more than his share. But today, there are athletes who could probably beat Wild Bill to the draw and maybe even shoot straighter. They compete in two different forms of quick draw competition--one of which even uses handguns identical to those used more than a century ago.

Instructions

1. Decide whether you want to learn Cowboy Fast Draw or Ohio Fast Draw. Go to the website of the associations of each type of competition and develop an understanding of the difference.

2. Choose cowboy fast draw because it uses historically accurate weapons. Find a club sanctioned by the Cowboy Fast Draw Association (CFDA). Contact the club and go to a meeting, practice session or event.

3. Become schooled in handgun safety if you are a beginner. (No sense in shooting yourself in the foot.) Some of the clubs offer instruction for beginners. If yours does not, check with a local firing range.

4. Decide to become a thumber. Buy your rig--an Andy Anderson holster and a Fast Draw Old Model Ruger Blackhawk .45 Caliber pistol.

5. Find the proper position for your rig by allowing your arm to hang straight down in a relaxed position. Raise your forearm and extend your index finger (bang, gotcha!). Position your rig opposite the position of your elbow. Adjust the holster's shank as needed as you develop your own thumbing style.

6. Emulate Jan Owen's description of the draw: "Draw your thumb across the hammer as you throw your hips forward, and your shoulders come back, while at the same time getting your three fingers against the butt, grasping the gun as it pops out of the holster, and you achieve your grip and lock the gun level, while at the very same time, pulling the trigger."

7. Repeat this maneuver hundreds of times a day until you can perform it in a fraction of a second.

Tags: Cowboy Fast Draw, Fast Draw, Fast Draw, more than, position your, same time, Wild Bill

Things To Do Around The Detroit Area

The Detroit area features myriad attractions for tourists and residents.

A Detroit vacation need not be limited to major attractions, such as Ford Field and Joe Louis Arena. Detroit features a wide variety of entertainment venues and activities surrounding these famous tourist destinations. The Detroit metro area extends into heavily populated suburbs, such as Dearborn, Farmington Hills and Royal Oak. Vistiors can incorporate the arts and recreation into their itinerary by expanding their search to Detroit and its suburbs.

Killer Paintball

Killer Paintball offers two indoor paintball courses in the Detroit suburb of Romulus. This paintball facility offers free play Wednesday through Sunday with a complimentary air cartridge, hopper and carrying case for each player. Killer Paintball charges its customers for additional air cartridges as well as paintballs. Avid paintball players can participate in monthly Killer Paintball tournaments to win trophies and other prizes. Killer Paintball also operates a pro shop in nearby South Lyon featuring guns, masks and other accessories. This Detroit area center hosts birthday parties and team building events for up to 100 people.

Killer Paintball

29350 Northline Road

Romulus, MI 48174

734-955-9456

killerpaintball.com

Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit

The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit in midtown Detroit allows guests to view its exhibits for free. This museum provides guided tours through its permanent and visiting exhibits Wednesday through Sunday. Parents can bring their children to the museum on the third Sunday of each month for free arts and crafts classes on Family Day. An annual membership allows a visitor to participate in lectures, concerts and other members-only events at the museum. The MOCAD Museum Store stocks T-shirts, postcards and replicas of paintings for souvenir shoppers.

Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit

4454 Woodward Ave.

Detroit, MI 48201

313-832-6622

mocadetroit.org

Creative Arts Studio

Creative Arts Studio hosts arts and crafts classes in the Detroit suburb of Royal Oaks. Students can learn use pottery wheels with the Intro to Wheel Throwing course offered four days a week. Participants in three-week mosaic classes at Creative Arts Studio create bowling balls and flower pots from ceramic tiles. These courses are mixed with sessions on glass fusing, beading and pottery painting throughout the year. This Detroit area studio also allows children to stuff and decorate toy bears with dozens of clothing options.

Creative Arts Studio

114 W. 4th Street

Royal Oak, MI 48067

248-544-2234

creativeartsstudios.com

Joe Dumars' Fieldhouse

Joe Dumars' Fieldhouse offers 100,000 square feet of sports and entertainment space in Detroit. This facility contains nine basketball courts, two roller hockey rinks and eight volleyball courts used for pickup games and leagues. The Bayou Adventure park within Joe Dumars' Fieldhouse contains a laser tag course, climbing wall and other activities for kids. Golfers can test their skills on a mini golf course or work on their swings at the indoor golf simulator. The Fieldhouse Sports Bar & Grill serves burgers, chicken and cold drinks in a dining room decorated with Detroit sports memorabilia.

Joe Dumars' Fieldhouse

1120 W. State Fair Ave.

Detroit, MI 48203

313-368-0055

joedumarsfieldhouse.com

Tags: Killer Paintball, Arts Studio, Creative Arts, Creative Arts Studio, Dumars Fieldhouse

Install An Expansion Chamber On A Paintball Gun

Expansion chambers can improve the efficiency and accuracy of your paintball gun. These expansion chambers allow CO2, the air source for some paintball guns, to expand and turn into a gas. This stabilizes the air source. These products can be quickly and easily installed, and they are one of the more affordable and easy ways to improve the performance of your paintball gun.

Instructions

1. Remove the stock foregrip from the paintball gun. This can be done by unscrewing the foregrip from the body of the gun and unscrewing the air source adapter from under the trigger frame. The air source adapter has two screws that need to be removed and the foregrip just needs to be twisted counterclockwise. Once everything is unscrewed, pull the pieces away from the gun.

2. Screw the expansion chamber onto your paintball gun. The expansion chamber is the same shape as the foregrip and gets installed in the same place. Screw this piece into the body of the gun until it is snug; do not force it, since that could cause leaks.

3. Attach the air source adapter from the expansion chamber onto the trigger frame. Use the two screws that were removed previously to screw it on. The air source adapter must be facing the rear of the gun so that the CO2 tank can be screwed on.

Tags: source adapter, expansion chamber, your paintball, adapter from, chamber onto, expansion chamber onto

Fun Paintball Games

Paintball is a recreational and competitive sport with many variations.

Paintball first began to gain popularity both nationally and internationally in the 1980s and early 1990s. As the game increased its profile around the world, multiple variations of play began to surface, containing different scenarios and objectives.

Woodsball

Woodsball is paintball played in a natural setting, normally the woods, with large boundaries. It can be played using the traditional team elimination game or a scenario game such as a mock rescue mission or Capture the Flag.

Capture the Flag

Capture the Flag is one of the most popular paintball games, and was played when paintball was first created in 1981. The basic objective of this game is to retrieve the opposing team's flag, located in a designated spot on the course, and return it to your team base without getting hit. A common strategy is to assign roles to team members, such as attackers, scouts and flag guarders.

Speedball

Speedball, also known as X-ball, is played on a set-up course and can take place either indoors or outdoors. It uses similar rules to Woodsball but is a much faster-paced game. Speedball is the most common type of game in professional tournaments around the world.

Manhunt

Manhunt can be played either indoors or outdoors, but usually works best in larger outdoor areas. A player is designated as "the hunted" as the rest are designated as hunters. The hunted player is usually supplied with a small paintball pistol, while the hunters may use any gun they like. The hunted player must reach a designated area within a given time frame without being hit in order to win the game.

Scenario

Scenario paintball uses a storyline or unique situation to guide the game. Some of the most common scenario games are "Rambo," in which one player is given an automatic weapon and everyone else, usually armed with weaker guns, tries to eliminate that one player; "Protect the President," in which a team must protect one designated player en route to a predetermined spot as the other team attempts to eliminate that player; and "Hostage Rescue," in which players are divided into terrorists, hostages and rescuers who must seek out and safely retrieve the hostages from the terrorists.

Tags: Capture Flag, around world, Capture Flag Capture, either indoors, either indoors outdoors, eliminate that

The Definition Of Ghillie

Modern Scots ghillies often work with game birds

In modern English, ghillie is a word commonly used in Scotland to describe a person employed as a gamekeeper or hunting attendant. It's also a style of camouflage used in the military and by hunters to blend in with the environment. Though the word ghillie is rooted in the hunting practices of the Highlands, it has become associated with many facets of Scottish culture and the term has evolved in meaning over the years to describe mythological figures as well as styles of traditional dance and related equipment.

Etymology

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, ghillie comes from the Scottish Gaelic gilly, and was a name given to male servants of Highland Chiefs. A similar Irish word, giolla, means youth.

History

Originally, ghillie was the name given to a young man who would guide the Highland chiefs on hunting expeditions; it was later generalized to describe any young man who would assist with hunting or fishing activities. The term gilliewetfoot was developed because the young servants would often carry the chiefs across rivers. Later, this term was used in a derogatory way by lowlanders to describe the servants who always accompanied Highland chiefs.

Modern Definition and Usage

The clan system that made the Highlands of Scotland famous in history has changed in modern times, but ghillies still serve as outdoor recreational and hunting guides. Ghillies are now often hired as fishing guides on private properties in Scotland to take visitors on their fishing expeditions, as well as look after the general health of the river and the game-fish within. They may also be called upon to work with game birds on an estate. Ghillies are expert outdoors-men who have a wealth of knowledge and experience hunting, fishing and reading the great outdoors.

Military Use

Outside of Scotland, the world ghillie is most commonly associated with military and hunting nomenclature. A ghillie-suit is a camouflaged piece of clothing that often uses pieces of foliage in its construction. Coming from the historical association with hunting in the Scottish Highlands and the rarely-seen mythological creatures of the forest, ghillie suits are aptly named as they are one of the most effective means of camouflage used by the military and hunters. Ghillie suits provide a three dimensional camouflage and, in addition to their base materials, will often have features that allow hunters or snipers to attach pieces of native vegetation, making them blend in with the surrounding environment when motionless.

Folklore

Ghillies, or Ghillie Dhus, are a mythological creature from Scottish folklore, and became popular amongst immigrants to America in the 1800’s. Ghillie Dhus, Scots Gaelic for "black-haired lad," are small creatures with light green skin that live in trees and protect forests around them from destruction. Ghillie Dhus are said to wear camouflaged clothing made from bits of moss and grass, which complements their shy, reclusive demeanor in folklore.

Cultural Uses

Scottish ghillies are also a soft shoe without a tongue, worn for traditional Scottish Highland Dances. They are usually black in color with decorative laces and slightly larger than the foot as they are often worn with the thick socks of the traditional Highland garb.

The Ghillie Callum, also called the sword dance, is one of the most famous traditional Scottish dances dating back to the 11th century, in reference to a bloody Scottish battle made famous by Shakespeare's Macbeth. The dance was also performed before battles in Scottish history. Soldiers would lay two sword across one another and dance between the blades. A dance completed without touching the swords was a good omen for victory, but touching the swords could forecast defeat and death. The Ghillie Callum is still performed over swords at Highland games around the world.

Tags: Ghillie Dhus, also called, associated with, blend with, camouflage used

Fill A Basketball With Air

A flat basketball can quickly be pumped back up to game standards.

Filling a basketball with air may be required when you purchase a new ball or when a ball has gone unused for an extended period. Air will also naturally leak out during ordinary use and, over time, the basketball will become noticeable less bouncy.

Instructions

1. Locate the bladder entrance hole on one of the basketball's seams by slowly rotating the ball in your hands. The hole will be surrounded by a black rubber circle roughly the size of a pencil eraser.

2. Moisten the needle at the end of the pump's air hose with saliva or water. If the needle is not moist it can bend and become stuck when inserted into the ball.

3. Push the needle straight into of the bladder entrance without bending or twisting.

4. Pump air slowly into the ball until it becomes firm.

5. Remove the needle, slowly pulling it straight back out of the ball to avoid damaging the bladder. Repeat the steps until the ball bounces up to your waist when you release it from eye level while standing.

Tags: bladder entrance, into ball

Make A Halo 2 Costume

Halo is a popular video game that translates into a terrific do-it-yourself costume.

Halo is a popular video game with unusual costumes that can be made with simple materials, determination and patience. A master chief costume can be constructed out of cardboard and green, red or black paint. Follow the simple steps to have a knock-out costume in no time.

Instructions

Helmet

1. Cut cardboard or card stock to shape the top visor of the helmet as if you are looking at it from above, allowing for the visor to protrude from the forehead several inches. Cut three slits of equal distance to enable you to bend the cardboard to form the left, top and right plates of the top front of the visor.

2. Cut a 45 degree angle on either side to form the side plates on the top of the helmet.

3. Use another piece of cardboard or card stock to cut the underside of the visor, allowing for ½ to 1 inch at the end to fold up to cover rough edges of the visor.

4. Cut sections of cardboard or card stock to form side and back plates of the helmet.

5. Paste pieces together using spackling glue or another adhesive.

6. Use three pieces of cardboard or card stock to form the bottom of the helmet. Cut one for the mouthpiece, using a utility knife to cut halfway through the cardboard to enable it to bend.

7. Cut cardboard or card stock pieces to make the bottom side plates and the bottom back plate of the helmet.

8. Glue sections together using spackling glue or another adhesive. Allow helmet to dry overnight.

9. Sand the rough spots on the helmet and paint in color of your choice.

Body Armor

10. Cut cardboard or card stock to form the chest plate. Start at the shoulders, cutting pieces to fit each side of the chest. Cut plates for the lower chest, side and back plate.

11. Glue pieces together using spackling glue or another adhesive and allow to dry for 24 hours.

12. Sand the rough spots on the chest plate and paint color of your choice.

13. Construct plates for legs and arms with cardboard, adding Velcro straps to secure them to your body. Separate pieces are needed for thighs, calves, upper arms and lower arms.

14. Wear tight fitting black pants and a long sleeved black shirt with your armor. Add black gloves and a gun constructed out of cardboard or bought and painted black.

Tags: card stock, cardboard card, cardboard card stock, another adhesive, card stock form

Make A Laser For An Airsoft Gun

Laser sighting can improve the aim of your Airsoft gun as well as provide flair. There are several ways to attach a laser sight, but for most plastic guns, there is one simple method.

Instructions

1. Secure the gun in the vise, with the barrel pointed at a blank wall 15 to 20 feet away.

2. Fire at least 10 rounds at the wall, marking the spots where they hit. Determine the average point of impact.

3. Strip the laser pen of any extraneous fittings and clips, until it is just the simple casing and the laser.

4. Tuck the laser pen beneath the barrel and secure it to the gun using rubber bands. Align the laser so that it points at the spot where the pellets hit the wall.

5. Adjust the laser as necessary by doubling up the rubber bands and passing alternate loops of rubber band between the laser and barrel, instead of beneath the laser.

6. Test the sighting by shooting the gun while the laser is only attached by rubber bands.

7. Use the adhesive to fasten the laser to the gun permanently once you are satisfied with the alignment of the laser sighting. You can leave the rubber bands in position to hold the laser in zeroed position while the adhesive dries.

8. Remove the rubber bands, cutting them off if needed where they pass between sight and gun.

Tags: rubber bands, where they

Take Goggles Out Of A Paintball Helmet

A paintball mask is an important piece of safety gear for playing paintball.

Masks are an important part of a paintball player's outfit and protect the face from the damage that a paintball could do. Anyone who has been hit by a paintball knows that they can leave quite a bruise, and could do a lot of damage to an unprotected eye. The lens, or goggles, of a paintball mask, however, often needs to be cleaned. Every manufacturer has a different method for removing the lens, but most are similar, and easy to figure out.

Instructions

DYE i4 Mask

1. Locate the small tabs on the inside of the paintball mask, to the immediate left and right of the lens. Push both of the tabs in.

2. Push the earpieces on either side of the mask forward and up to release the locks on the lens.

3. Remove the lens, which should now be free from the mask.

VForce Profiler Mask

4. Locate the removable tabs on either side of the outside of the mask. They should be at either end of the outer edge of the lens.

5. Remove the locking tabs by sliding them away from the front of the mask.

6. Push on the tabs at either end of the lens, which will pop the lens loose from the mask and allow the lens to be removed.

Sly Profit Mask

7. Loosen the head straps as much as possible on the rear of the mask.

8. Locate the quick release tab and wheel on the inside of the mask to either side of the lens. Insert the dime in to the slot of the wheel and turn it counter clockwise 90 degrees on either side of the mask.

9. Pull up on the tab and remove it from the mask. Push out the two tabs which are found under the quick release tabs, which will remove the earpieces on either side of the mask and the attached head strap.

10. Pull the lens out, which should now be free from the mask.

Tags: either side, from mask, either side mask, lens which, paintball mask

Build A Rifle Case

A rifle case protects your weapons as you transport them, sparing them the jostling and scratching they might suffer otherwise. A soft case can be more convenient, but a hard case provides the best protection.

Instructions

1. Lay one of the 60 by 18 boards flat on the ground, and use Gorilla glue to attach the two 60 by 6 inch boards standing on their sides running along the 60 inch edges of the board.

2. Glue in the 17 by 6 inch boards along the 18 inch end of the big board. The ends should fit snugly in between the two 60 by 6 inch boards. You now have an open-topped box six inches deep, measuring 60 by 18 inches.

3. Wait for the glue to dry, and then flip the case over. Use the finishing nails to fully and firmly attach the seams you have glued. Secure with nails every four to six inches.

4. Flip the box over again, so that the top is open, and place the last 18 by 60 board on top. Do not seal it with glue, just lay it across the boards, where it should fit flush.

5. Attach the hinges along one 60 inch top edge, securing the loose top board with one of the two 60 by 6 boards. The hinges should be attached about 12 inches from the corners (30 to 36 inches away from each other). Be careful while attaching the hinges not to dislodge the top board. Make sure it remains flush with the rest of the case the entire time.

6. Attach the clasps to the other edge of the top board. They should be in similar positions, 12 inches from the corners of the case, joining the top board with the other 60 by 6 board. Open and close the top lid, and practice latching the clasps when the case closes to be sure they are aligned correctly.

7. Stand the case upright. The 60 by 6 board with the hinges is the bottom of the case; the 60 by 6 board with the clasps is the top.

8. Measure the top carefully to find the center, and attach the handle there. The center of the handle should be 30 inches from each end of the case.

9. Open the case and line the inside of each 60 by 18 board with Gorilla glue. Insert the eggshell foam pads, with the eggshell sides away from the glue. Align them carefully and press them firmly into place. These pads will hold the rifles in place and protect them from jostling in transit. Trim the pad on the lid as necessary to allow it to close easily.

Tags: board with, along inch, inch boards, inches from, away from, from corners

Blowgun Laws

Blowgun users should be aware of the dangers invloved with the weapon.

Users of blowguns should always take safety precautions and, before ordering one, make sure they have the legal right to possess one in the state they reside. Residents in states that do allow blowguns are not allowed to carry them as concealed weapons.

Legality

Blowguns are illegal in some areas, including New York City.

While blowguns are legal in some states, other states prohibit them altogether. California, Massachusetts and New York City ban both the sale and possession of blowguns, as well as the sale and possession of blowgun darts.

Penalties

Penalties for owning a blowgun in Massachusetts include jail time.

The penalties for possessing a blowgun vary in the states that prohibit them. Under California Penal Code Section 12582, anyone found in possession of a blowgun will be convicted of a misdemeanor. In Massachusetts, those caught with a blowgun will receive a maximum fine of $50 and a maximum jail sentence of two and a half years.

Exceptions

Although California outlaws blowguns for the majority of their residents, other residents may legally possess them. For example, zookeepers and those who work for the Department of Fish and Game may legally poses blowguns for the purpose of their work, as may animal control officers.

Tags: blowgun will, possession blowgun, prohibit them, sale possession, states that, York City

Birthday Party Ideas By Age

Play a friendly round of paintball for the next birthday party.

Party planners can come up with a great idea for a birthday party for any age by using the interests of the guest of honor as a guide for the party's theme. Host a birthday party at a water park for water lovers or at a sports stadium for the sports enthusiast. For a party on a budget, have it at home and decorate the party area to match the theme. Does this Spark an idea?

Preschoolers

Have a birthday party based on a child's favorite television show characters. Party planners can purchase supplies that coordinate with the theme, and adults at the party can dress up to resemble the characters from the show. Keep the party activities in line with the theme as well.

For example, for a show about an explorer, have a treasure hunt and then have children decorate a small backpack for their future adventures. Fill another backpack with prizes and have each child reach inside to guess one of the items. Each child who guesses correctly keeps the prize. Play a round of freeze dance or musical chairs to the television show's theme song.

For a party on a frivolous budget, provide each child with themed costumes to wear throughout the party and to bring home afterward.

Ages 6 to 13

Outdoor adventure parks can be an appropriate choice for children who enjoy games and rides. For example, Adventureland offers birthday parties that include an hour in a private party area for lunch and gifts, and an hourlong unlimited rides pass, with the option of upgrading to an all day pass. Party hats, candy and napkins are included and all clean up is handled by the staff.

Teen Party

Laser tag parties offer teens the ability to participate in a private space-age video game. Opponents hide from one another and seek out the enemy in the dark with weapons that cannot harm anyone. Hunting grounds can include multilevel facilities with thousands of square feet to create hours of hunting and being hunted.

Teens also can spend a birthday party having paintball wars with one another. For example, Extreme Paintball provides 75 acres of play area and privately owned paintball guns can be brought in as long as they shoot less than 300 feet per second.

Adult Party

For an adult birthday party, have a casino night. This party can be hosted at home, if space permits, or consider renting a hall. Rent tables and casino games, such as slots, blackjack and poker tables, and keno boards. Include poker chips with the invitations to use with games and at the bar. Decorate the hall to resemble a casino and select music appropriate to the theme. Dealers will be needed, so consider asking fellow party planners to take turns or hiring inexpensive staff to assist for the evening. To give an authentic, high-class casino feel to the evening, state on the invitations that it is a black-tie affair and be prepared to hear a lot of, "the name is Bond."

Tags: birthday party, birthday party, each child, party area, television show, with theme

Sand & Refinish Wood Pistol Grips

Refinish the wooden grips on your classic pistol.

Sanding and refinishing wooden pistol grips is not difficult, however, it does require attention to detail. The physical effort of sanding the grips - as well as refinishing the grips - is not demanding. However, care and observation is necessary in order to assure the grips' reconditioning is notable in relation to the condition of the grips prior to the effort or removing an excessive amount of wood from the grips. If refinished properly, reconditioning the grips will remove dings and scratches and add luster to the look of the pistol's grips while not assaulting their integrity.

Instructions

1. Remove the grips from the pistol with the screwdriver. If the grips do not fall away from the pistol once the screws are removed, check for additional screws holding the grips to the pistol. If there are not additional screws, use the putty knife to gently pry the grips away from the pistol's frame.

2. Sand the pistol grips gently with the fine-grit sandpaper by hand, being sure to wear your work gloves. Massage the handle with the sandpaper. Do not use long or rapid strokes. Short, light, circular strokes with the sandpaper will ensure you do not remove more of the surface wood on the handle than absolutely necessary. Best case scenario, you simply remove the teak oil from the surface of the wooden handle and any unwanted nicks or dings.

3. Spray the handles with the air-hose periodically. This will remove the teak oil dust that results from your sanding and expose the original wood. Once you see untreated wood where you have sanded, stop sanding and massage another area. Remove all the teak oil from the grips and clean the grips with the air-hose thoroughly.

4. Swab the teak oil lightly onto the grips with the 1/2 inch paintbrush. Long strokes are not necessary, as the wooden grips will absorb the oil evenly. Cover the entirety of the grips - front and back - with an even layer of teak oil. Allow the oil to dry. After 24 hours, check the grips. If you like the color and surface feel of the grips, reattach them to the pistol and you are finished. If you would like a darker color or a more even texture, add a second layer of teak oil.

Tags: from pistol, pistol grips, additional screws, away from, away from pistol, from grips

Tint Lenses

Lenses are tinted using a tint machine, lens dye and a neutralizer.

Using tinted lenses is an aesthetic choice for some, but for others the glare-reducing capabilities of tinted lenses is what makes them so popular. Some individuals with autism have even found that tinted lenses help increase the amount of visual information that can be absorbed. They also are believed to allow the autistic individual to be more receptive to language because certain light frequencies are eliminated, allowing the brain to fully process what is being communicated.

Instructions

1. Turn on your tint machine and allow it to heat up. Consult the directions for your tint machine, but a light should appear once it has heated to the appropriate temperature. Mix together your lens dye packets and lens dye solution and pour the mixture into the tint machine's tray. The tint machine will heat the dye. The amount of time it takes to heat the dye does vary depending on the type of machine you are using, so consult the tint machine's manual or directions.

2. Put your lenses into the lens holders once the dye has heated to the appropriate temperature and clamp them in place. Lower the lenses into the dye. The amount of time you leave the lenses in the dye will depend on how dark you want the tint to be. For a light tint, leave them in for less than a minute. For a medium tint, leave them in for no more than two minutes. For a dark tint, you can leave them in for a few hours.

3. Raise the lenses out of the dye, remove the clamps and lay the lenses on your cleaning cloth. Inspect the lenses to determine if they are of the tint intensity you wish and if both lenses are of the same intensity. If you would like a darker tint on one or both of the lenses, place one or both of them in the dye solution until they are of the intensity you wish.

4. Allow the dye to dry on the lenses for an hour once you have the appropriate intensity. Clean the lenses with lens-cleaning solution and an optical cloth.

Tags: tint machine, leave them, tint leave, tint leave them, tinted lenses, your tint machine

Transport Airsoft Guns

Airsoft guns are used in mock combat simulations that utilize the weapons to fire high-speed pellets at other players. These guns come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each unique to the role that the airsoft player will take in the upcoming battles. Most airsoft guns are based on real military weaponry and must be cared for and transported in a similar fashion to their lethal counterparts. Safe transport of airsoft weaponry is crucial to avoiding damage to your gear and unfortunate misunderstandings with the general public.

Instructions

1. Remove all ammunition and any gas canisters from your airsoft gun. Ammo may be stored in packages or bags inside of your case, but must not be in the gun during transport. Gas canisters must be safely stored away from heat and may never be carried on commercial airlines.

2. Set the safety of the gun. All guns larger than airsoft pistols should have safety settings, and smaller ones often have these as a precaution against accidental firing.

3. Place the gun into your container. The container must have hard sides, a padded interior, and a lock slot if you intend to take the gun on airlines or railways in the United States. This also makes an excellent case for road trips.

4. Lock the case securely with a combination lock. Provide the combination to any security officials who may be inspecting your bags. All firearms, even pellet guns, must be declared at Transportation and Security Administration checkpoints and the combination provided to these authorities. Guns must be securely locked for transport as checked baggage on airlines or railways and may not be carried onto the plane, even unloaded.

5. Label your case with your name and address. Purchase custom "dog tags" for this purpose or use hard luggage tags. This is essential for long trips with air or rail segments as they will help with identification should your case be misplaced by baggage handlers.

Tags: your case, airlines railways

Clean A Tippmann A5

To clean the the Tippmann A-5 paintball gun or marker, it must first be disassembled, taking care to note the placement of each part. Most parts can be cleaned with a cloth and soap, but some should not have contact with water. The cyclone, or feeder cylinder, and the gun casing contain most of the key parts to be cleaned and lubricated.

Instructions

Disassemble the Gun

1. Remove the Tippmann A-5 paintball marker's carbon dioxide cylinder. Unload the gun and make sure the trigger is not cocked.

2. Disassemble the gun by loosening the screw inside the front grip adjustment. Twist the barrel counterclockwise to remove. Remove front sight screw just below front sight, and the slide sight upward.

3. Pull the rear sight up and out. Remove the cylinder gas line from the upper receiver by pulling the push pin in front of gas line plug out from the upper receiver. Release the "Tombstone Latch" just behind the receiver and the gas line will pull out.

4. Detach the lower grip and receiver by removing the two pushpins just above each end of the trigger guard on the left side of the gun.

To remove the trigger assembly from the grip, push the safety out the left side of lower receiver and pull up on trigger assembly.

Access the trigger parts by pulling the left plate off the trigger assembly. Do not remove the six long pins from right plate.

5. Remove the drive assembly which includes the front bolt, power tube, valve, rear bolt, linkage arm, drive-pin guide, drive spring and end cap assembly: Screw the velocity screw in past the receiver. Remove last push pin, at the top rear of the gun, holding the end cap in place. Pull the end cap out and tilt gun upward. The drive assembly parts should slide out the back. Remove the drive spring and drive pin.

6. Remove the cyclone or feeder cylinder by unscrewing the large bolt on the opposite side.

Cleaning the Tippmann A-5

7. Remove the four screws at the bottom of the cyclone or feeder cylinder. Lift the cyclone tube slightly and the cap will come off. Remove the nut and spring clip. Turn the cylinder over and remove the top screw. Lift out the starfish-shaped feeder sprockets, then turn it over and lift out the ratchet assembly.

8. Clean the cylinder and all the parts you have removed with a cloth, paper towels, and soap and water if necessary to remove dirt or paint.

Grease the ratchet thoroughly, and everywhere plastic touches plastic.

Pull the ratchet and rod out of the cyclone or cylinder and grease thoroughly.

9. Reassemble the paintball gun, making sure not to tighten the screws too tightly on the plastic. The smaller sprocket goes in first. If all parts are in and the assembly does not work smoothly, try loosening the top screw.

10. Clean the rest of the gun, making sure all the remaining bolts are removed. Put the gun cyclone-side down, and carefully remove the top half. Remove and clean the ball latch.

Clean the inside casing of the gun with soap and water, then dry it off with a towel.

Remove the cocking spring and rod, and clean them, especially the groove.

Remove the clip and spring from the air source adapter-- ASA--at the end of the gas line, and the foregrip bolt, and clean them.

Remove the ASA and clean it.

Remove the inside of the gun, which consists of four parts: the rear bolt, the bolt rod, the valve and front bolt. These parts get the most dirt, so clean them thoroughly. Do not use water on the valve, just a cloth and Q-tips.

Remove the O-rings and clean under them, then lubricate them. The rear O-ring can be lubed without being removed.

Wipe off the bolt rod, then clean the other half of the gun casing in the same way, paying close attention to the cyclone hole.

11. Lubricate the cylinder and rod and replace the rod in the groove, carefully putting the O-rings in place.

Lube the ASA and the ball latch and place them back in their original positions. When replacing the cocking spring, push the back forward until it catches in its groove in the casing. It should bow outward. Then fit the two sides of the gun casing together. If they don't fit, recheck the paintball gun to ensure all parts--especially the cocking spring--are in their proper places.

Reassemble the rest of the Tippmann A-5, making sure all the parts are in their original places.

Tags: clean them, cyclone feeder, cyclone feeder cylinder, feeder cylinder, making sure

Build A Homemade Electric Go Cart

There are several ways to make an electric go-cart, and it is wise to always keep in mind the size of the person who will be using it. These instructions are for making a simple go cart that can take an adult load.

Instructions

1. You can use either a metal or wooden frame, but ensure that it is wide enough to house the motor, batteries and go-cart style bucket seats. Keep the steering mechanism simple using a simple column and lever arm arrangement to steer the front wheels. Use symmetrical connecting rods to join each front wheel to the lever. Lock the front wheels but allow them to move in a +/- 40-degree range. This should give the go cart a good level of maneuverability. It is recommended you use 10-inch pneumatic wheels with steel rims.

2. The main vehicle chassis can be built with using a glued and screwed timber construction. Fit a go-carting type bucket seat securely onto the main chassis longerons. With the 10-inch tires, ground clearance is approximately 2 inches, making this go cart primarily for good driving surfaces and not off-road tracks.

3. You can place the motor and batteries behind the seat(s). For this go-cart, use a 100+ Amp 36V reversing controller that'll be attached to speeder and break pedals. To go with the controller, select two 36V 750Watt DC PM motors, which will create around 50 Amps with a peak of 100 Amps during hard acceleration. With this type of motor, three 12V 40 AmpH batteries should give approximately 1.5 hours of continuous power. The batteries should be strapped down to the chassis.

4. Mount the rear axle drive sprocket and brake disc on a compression fitting hub comprised of a heavy chain sprocket and taper-lock bushing. The taper-lock bushing has a torque capacity of four to five times the rater drive torque through the axle, enabling it to hold well and easy to fit on keyless shafting. Support the axles using needle roller bearings housed in the timber chassis structure.

5. To make the steering wheel, make an aluminum hub with six M5 threads. Attach three plywood plates cut to size one-by-one onto the hub. Glue all three plates together and varnish when dry. Attach to the steering column.

Tags: batteries should, front wheels, motor batteries, should give, taper-lock bushing

Purchase Used Video Games At Reasonable Prices

X-Box controllers are frequently found in thrift stores.

Video games can be an enjoyable hobby, but the cost of building a collection can be overwhelming for players. However, there are places where used games and equipment can be purchased for reasonable, and often downright cheap, prices.

Instructions

1. Attend garage sales. Video games are often found at these sales as children get bored with their old titles and as they grow up. Prices are generally reasonable, but you can always haggle if the price is a little bit higher than you feel comfortable paying.

2. Go to thrift stores. Stores like Goodwill and The Salvation Army frequently will have used video games on their shelves. Prices tend to be a bit higher than you will find at garage sales, but there are still plenty of bargains. Games tend to sell quickly from thrift stores, but the stores also replenish their inventory on an almost constant basis, so frequently visit your favorite locations.

3. Visit eBay. Just about every game you can imagine is regularly put up for auction on eBay. You won't always be able to get a great deal, but you do get to set your own price limits. Generally, you will be able to get lower prices if the auction is ending at a slow time, such as at 6 a.m.

4. Use Craigslist. If you live anywhere near a major city in the United States, you will find dozens of Craigslist ads every day listing video games for sale. These prices tend to be fair to high, but you can find bargains on a daily basis. The good deals will move very quickly, though, so don't expect to be able to buy anything cheaply if the ad has been up for more than an hour or so.

5. Locate flea markets. Old-fashioned flea markets are still regularly held all over the world. The amount of games and their price ranges can vary widely. Arrive as early as possible, as it's not uncommon for vendors to go around to other sellers and buy the most desirable items right away. Feel free to negotiate prices with sellers here as well.

Tags: thrift stores, flea markets, games their, garage sales, higher than, Video games

Paint A Genesis Bow

Paint a Genesis Bow

The Genesis bow, manufactured by Brennan Industries and widely used by both beginners and experts is the official bow of the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP). Customizing your Genesis bow with a new paint job can be an exciting and creative experience. Painting your Genesis bow a unique shade can allow your personality to shine, not to mention make your bow stand out when you are practicing in the field.

Instructions

1. Place several paper bags on a table to protect it, and then place the bow on the bags. You will be using spray paint, so make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area or outdoors.

2. Prepare your Genesis Bow for painting. Cover the Genesis cam and the idler wheel. The Genesis cam is the wheel-shaped object at the top of the bow, and the idler wheel is the wheel at the bottom of the bow. These two objects hold the bow strings in place. Cover the Genesis cam and idler wheel and the three black areas on the body of the bow (the places where you normally hold the bow) with painter's tape. Make sure all of these areas are covered completely.

3. Spray a thin layer of paint on the bow. Wait 20 minutes, then spray another thin coat of paint. Allow the first side of the bow to dry for 24 hours.

4. Apply a thin layer of spray paint on the other side of the genesis bow. Wait 20 minutes before applying a second coat of paint. Allow the second side to dry for 24 hours.

5. Remove the painter's tape. Both sides should be completely dry.

Tags: idler wheel, your Genesis, coat paint, coat paint Allow, Cover Genesis, Cover Genesis idler

Change Weapons In Delta Force X2

"Delta Force: Xtreme 2" was released for PC in May 2009 and gives you 10 single player scenarios involving the tracking and elimination of enemies over a variety of landscapes. You select your primary weapon at the start of each mission and you cannot change it without restarting. You can also select an accessory to complement your primary weapon.

Instructions

1. Click on either "Single Player" or "Multiplayer" in the main menu. Select a location and mission from the list that pops up. Click "OK."

2. Click on the name of your primary weapon on the lower-right side of the screen. This will bring up a list of all your available primary weapons, such as a shotgun, sniper rifle or assault rifle. Select a weapon from the list.

3. Click on the name of your accessory in the lower-right side of the screen. This will bring up a list of available accessories such as a C4 charge, Claymore mine or anti-tank rocket. Select your accessory from the list. Press "Space" to start the mission.

Tags: your primary weapon, from list, primary weapon, your primary, bring list, Click name

Draw Paintball Guns

A basic drawing of a paintball gun will look like its lethal counterpart, except with a longer barrel, paint container and gas compression system.

Reasons to draw paintball guns range from the technical (blueprints, instruction manuals) to the artistic expression of a real-life passion. Despite their name, paintball guns aren't really firearms---in fact, the technically correct term for them is "markers." Nevertheless, paintball guns share a number of basic details with their lethal counterparts, such as the barrel, handle and trigger. A drawing of these components will differ only slightly from a drawing of a long-barreled handgun. But a paintball gun drawing will be defined by what sets it apart: a paint container, carbon dioxide tank and gas compression system.

Instructions

1. Draw the basic shapes of the paintball gun in pencil. Use two rectangles for the main barrel and grip, a small upside-down triangle for the trigger, an oval for the paint container above the main barrel, a cylinder for the elongated barrel, a cylinder for the gas tank (jutting from the back of the bottom of the grip), a rectangle around the trigger for the trigger guard and a long curved cylinder for the gas injecting tubing. The tubing will extend from the opposite side of the grip from the gas tank to the underside of the barrel in front of the trigger guard. Pay close attention to the perspective of the shapes. Choose a single point in the distance and draw the entirety of the gun "shrink" toward that point---close portions of the gun are larger than the parts farther away.

2. Slowly erase the rough shapes of the paintball gun and replace them with finalized details. Begin with creating the accurate shape of the gun, then move on to the small details---the empty space in the barrel of the gun, the ridges in the gas tubing, the finger impressions in the grip and the fixing screw connecting the paint container to the main barrel.

3. Trace the finalized pencil lines in ink. Begin with the most essential details and cautiously move on to the finer details (but be careful not to go too far! Unnecessary detail can subtract from the quality of a drawing). Let the ink dry and gently erase the pencil lines from the drawing.

Tags: paint container, main barrel, barrel cylinder, Begin with, compression system, from drawing

Install Co2 In A Paintball Gun

A paintball gun has a detachable CO2 tank that powers the gun.

Paintball is a sport combining strategy, physical agility, a good eye and the chance to splatter paint all over your friends. Paintball guns are powered by detachable and refillable tanks of CO2, usually attached to the gun's grip by screwing them into place. These CO2 tanks can be removed and refilled at sporting goods stores or other places specializing in paintball equipment.

Instructions

1. Inspect the charged CO2 tank and make sure the o-ring gasket on top of the tank nozzle is attached and undamaged. Condition the ring with a non-petroleum based ring conditioner if it is dry or replace this seal if it is worn, cracked or damaged.

2. Place the threaded nozzle end of the tank into the threaded CO2 port on the gun's grip. Make sure the tank and the gun threads line up with each other correctly. Grip the tank firmly and screw the tank into place in a clockwise direction, taking care not to force the threads. Start screwing slowly until you can hear pressure leaking from the tank and then screw it in faster, tightening it completely until the pressure leak stops. Unscrew the tank and start over if the tank does not screw in easily.

3. Fire the gun to make sure it is pressurized and ready to use.

Tags: into place, tank into

Plaque & Trophy Ideas

Awards come in many shapes, sizes and mediums.

Whether you wish to show appreciation to your staff for a lifetime of achievement, retirement, top sales or as a safety incentive, a proper plaque, trophy or award demonstrates your appreciation. Local shops often have a showroom to peruse or you can order online. Choose an award and have it laser engraved according to your specifications. Order well in advance to ensure you receive your plaques in time for the ceremony.

Granite and Marble

Granite and marble plaques and awards come in a wide array of shapes and designs. Most commonly the marble is green and the granite is a polished black variety. Whether you choose rectangular, oval, triangular or any number of other shapes, granite plaques and awards offer distinction welcomed by any employee. Other options include marble picture frames, globes and keepsake boxes with a marble inlay. Look for an award with a combination of glass, granite, metal and wood. Custom order a plaque or award and have it personalized for your company.

Glass and Crystal

Glass and crystal plaques vary in price according to shape and complexity of design. Shapes include circles, globes, stars, towers, pinnacles and others. Many companies create their own signature design which you can order solely from them. The glass is laser engraved with your logo and wording, including the employee's name and reason for the award. Glass and crystal plaques are available with color for an additional charge. Most companies charge a set-up fee in addition to the price of the plaque or award.

Wood Plaque

Wooden plaques are either laser engraved on a metallic inlay or engraved directly onto the wood. Choose from different wood and inlay combinations. Pair a modern black piano finish with a brass or silver inlay for a contemporary look most employees will appreciate. Medallion style plaques as well as plaques with marble or granite inlays are also befitting a momentous occasion. Choose the materials according to the style of your workplace or office so when employees display their plaque or trophy at work it will compliment the decor.

Trophies

For sporting events look for resin-based trophies showcasing the specific sport. The trophy can be individualized with a laser-engraved plaque and come in a range of sport themes including golf, bowling, paintball, lacrosse, hockey, sailing and skateboarding. Cup and bowl style trophies are a popular option for trophies. Awards are also frequently given in lieu of trophies depending on the type of event. Wood, glass, acrylic, granite and marble are all ideal choices anytime you require an option for a trophy.

Tags: laser engraved, award have, crystal plaques, Glass crystal, Glass crystal plaques

Tie A Ghillie Suit

Expert hunters, elite snipers and paintball champions all look to the ghillie suit when they need the ultimate in camouflage. Ghillie suits can be customized to the environment where they're used, and when deployed correctly can make the sniper almost impossible to spot. Homemade ghillie suits are inexpensive to make and allow total customization, but they do require a lot of time and patience to construct.

Instructions

1. Lay the camouflage suit flat on the floor and lay the netting over it. Cut two pieces of netting, one to wrap around the pants and the other to wrap around the jacket. Shape the netting pieces so they can wrap neatly around the arms and legs of the suit.

2. Using the needle and the waxed thread, firmly sew each knot in the netting to the camouflage suit. Apply a generous drop of permanent glue to each knot. It's important to sew and glue every knot because the netting has to bear a lot of weight.

3. Cut the jute twine into pieces 18 to 24 inches long. You will need several thousand pieces. Choose a mix of twine colors that reflects the operating environment that the suit will be used in.

4. Tie the pieces of jute twine to the nylon threads of the volleyball net. It is important to tie the threads in their centers, so the hanging pieces of twine are 9 to 12 inches long. Use two half hitches, or double the twine and loop the ends around the netting and through the loop formed by the folded twine.

5. Continue attaching the pieces of twine until the entire suit is covered. Be sure to mix different colors of twine in a natural pattern, for more effective camouflage.

6. When the suit is finished, spray with flame retardant. Jute twine is highly flammable and a flame retardant is essential for safety.

Tags: camouflage suit, each knot, flame retardant, inches long, pieces twine

Paint An Auto With White Pearl

Pearl paint adds an iridescent shimmer to your paint, making the finished product glisten and stand out from the crowd. Painting a car with white pearl requires some special mixing, but otherwise it is no more difficult than painting with standard auto paint according to Paint With Pearl, an auto-detailing company in Denver, Colo. If you follow the right process, you can paint your auto with white pearl in just a few hours.

Instructions

1. Wash your car thoroughly with soap and water. You can take the car through a carwash to get rid of thick dirt buildup, but you'll also need to wash it again when you get home. Small pieces of dirt and dust can adhere to the car on the drive home after a carwash, so you always need to give the car a quick second washing in your driveway.

2. Dry the car with a clean towel.

3. Sand any noticeable scratches with 240 grit sandpaper. If you do not sand out scratches, the new coat will only further accent these surface imperfections.

4. Sand the rest of the car's exterior surfaces with 320-grit sandpaper to remove the existing glossy finish.

5. Rinse off the car with a garden hose. This will remove any sandpaper dust and any towel fibers from Step 2.

6. Wait for the car to air-dry. Do not use a towel to dry the car this time, because this is the final rinse prior to painting. Using a towel may leave behind small cloth fibers. The car will usually air-dry within about an hour.

7. Use painter's tape and plastic tarps to cover up windows, door handles and other items that you do not want to paint.

8. Apply a coat of general purpose spray primer. Though you can apply primer using a brush, a spray-can of primer will work better because there is no risk of visible brush marks.

9. Fill your paint gun with white urethane paint. Do not add any white pearl to the urethane auto paint yet. Before adding pearl, you must cover the car with two base coats of plain white paint.

10. Spray the car horizontally with the white urethane paint, holding the gun about 18 inches from the automobile's surface.

11. Wait 15 minutes and then add a second coat, as recommended by Monster Guide.

12. Mix white pearl flakes or pearl powder into the paint gun. Pearl flakes and powders can be bought at many custom auto shops or on the Internet. (See Resources.) Depending on the brand of pearl flakes or powder you are using, the mixing ratio will vary. Always consult the packaging to ensure a proper pearl-to-paint ratio. When uncertain, opt for a lesser pearl content. You can always add a second coat of pearl after 15 minutes if the first coat doesn't glisten enough, but you cannot subtract an overly iridescent layer if you used too many pearl flakes in your first coat.

13. Spray the car's surface with the pearl paint mixture, and wait at least 24 hours for the paint to dry before removing the painter's tape and driving the car.

Tags: white pearl, with white, auto paint, first coat, painter tape, pearl flakes

Fill A Co2 Tank In Paintball

CO2 cylinders are the force behind paintball markers.

CO2 and compressed air are the two major propellant sources used in the sport of paintball. These gases are housed in special tanks or cylinders that attach to the paintball marker to shoot a single paintball each time the operator squeezes the trigger. Filling the tanks is not overly complicated but can be dangerous if not done using the proper techniques. Safety glasses and specialized tools should always be used to avoid accidents.

Instructions

1. Attach the refill kit to the bulk CO2 tank using the O-Ring seal and a wrench to tighten the assembly. An airtight seal must be achieved.

2. Set all valves on both the bulk CO2 tank and the refill kit to the "Off" position.

3. Use the nozzle at the end of the fill hose to attach the paintball CO2 tank to the refill kit.

4. Attach the hanging scale to the bulk CO2 tank via the top hook, and hang the paintball CO2 tank from the bottom hook.

5. Open the "Bleed" valve to purge all of the CO2 inside of the paintball tank. Close the valve once the tank is empty.

6. Adjust the scale's unit of measure to ounces. See the user's manual for specific instructions if necessary.

7. Open the main valve on the bulk tank and the "Cut Off" valve on the refill kit to fill the tank. The tank will only fill halfway the first time because of the physics of pressure and temperature.

8. Close the bulk tank's main valve and the refill kit's "Cut Off" valve.

9. Open the "Bleed" valve on the refill kit to purge the paintball tank of all CO2 once again. A slight frost will appear on the outside of the tank, indicating the inside temperature has been greatly reduced. This allows the tank to achieve maximum fill.

10. Close the "Bleed" valve, and open the bulk tank main valve and the refill kit's "Cut Off" valve to begin the fill process anew.

11. Monitor the hanging scale readout, and stop the fill process at one ounce below the tank's advertised maximum capacity. This is a safety precaution that takes into account the expansion and contraction of gases at different altitudes and pressures.

12. Return all valves to the "Off" position, and unhook the paintball tank from the refill kit and bulk tank.

Tags: bulk tank, paintball tank, valve refill, Bleed valve, main valve, attach paintball

Build Your Paintball Gun

Paintballs can be dangerous if suitable safety equipment isn't worn.

Paintball is a popular pastime. Participants rent equipment or, if the bug really bites, purchase their own. Paintball guns can be expensive but you can build one. The device can be built in less than an hour and is particularly ideal if you want to organize your own paintball games.

Instructions

1. Using a hacksaw, cut the PVC pipe into three lengths of 1 inch and four lengths of 3 inches. Pay careful attention to cutting and measuring the individual pieces. An exact cut will assist in assembling the components. Apply a coat of PVC primer to the ends of each piece of cut pipe. Let them dry for two minutes.

2. Glue the end of each piece of pipe with PVC glue. Attach a T-connector and an elbow to either end of one of the 1-inch pieces. The T-connector should be fitted through an arm and not the perpendicular base. Lay the assembled pieces on a flat table to ensure uniform alignment. Repeat the process with another piece of 1-inch pipe.

3. Connect the two assembled pieces together using two of the 3-inch pieces of PVC pipe. This will create a rectangle that will serve as the body of your paintball gun. Lay the assembly on the table, making sure the elbows are facing to the right and the T-connector openings are to the left. On the upper left T-connector opening, insert another piece of 3-inch PVC piping and fit the PVC ball valve to the opposite end. To create the barrel, add a piece of the 1-inch PVC pipe to the opposite end of the ball valve.

4. Drill a small hole into the center of a PVC end cap that will hold the tire valve stem. Apply a light application of plumbing adhesive to the inside of the end cap and insert the tire valve stem into position so a full seal is created. Once the end cap has dried, add the final piece of 3-inch PVC pipe to the remaining T-connector hole. Secure the PVC end cap onto the opposite end.

5. Attach a bicycle pump to the tire valve and pump several times to create pressure. Add paintballs through the remaining opening on the barrel and open the ball valve to fire them. Try different levels of pressure with the bicycle pump to see how far your paintballs will fire.

Tags: ball valve, tire valve, 1-inch pipe, another piece, assembled pieces, bicycle pump

Upgrade An Airsoft Aeg

Airsoft is a sport that is rapidly sweeping the nation. Similar to paintball, it relies heavily on the use of an AEG, or "Automatic Electric Gun" -- a fully automatic replica weapon that fires plastic pellets at opponents in combat-like scenarios. However, like real firearms, these weapons have limitations; logically, players will often seek to upgrade their guns in order to overcome such obstacles. In this tutorial, we will look at the many options for upgrading an Airsoft AEG.

Instructions

1. Upgrade the gear box. The chief limitation of most Airsoft weapons is the relatively short distance at which they can fire accurately; improving the gear ratio is the fastest and most efficient way of getting greater power and distance out of your stock weapon. Although finding the appropriate items can be a little difficult at first, there are a number of retailers who can help you in your search for the correct gears and brushes. The folks at www.redwolfairsoft.com have a huge retail selection and helpful tutorials, and are generally open to any questions or concerns you might have.

2. Upgrade the barrel. Many people don't realize it, but the barrel you have on your weapon can make all of the difference, especially in a sport like this, as even the slightest obstruction can impair the pellet's flight path. So the smoother and more streamlined the gun barrel, the farther and more accurately your shots will fly. This modification can be very time-consuming, as one must switch the old barrel for the new, and the original barrel is often surrounded by other pieces of the gun. However, it is worth it, as one can gain additional fps, distance and accuracy with this switch.

3. Switch out the battery. As a safety precaution, many manufacturers will deliberately ship products with a battery that is weaker than it could be. The smaller battery will ensure lower velocity, making the weapon safer in the minds of the distributors and designers. However, just because these weapons come equipped with a specific battery doesn't mean that one has to settle for an under-powered gun. By using a custom battery, one can gain a longer playing time, faster fp and a gun that performs better as a whole. However, do some serious research before upgrading, as it is possible to burn your motor out if you happen to misjudge how much it can handle. The easiest way to make sure that you don't wind up falling into that trap is to go online and search for tutorials for your specific weapon.

4. Add one of the countless accessories that can be used to improve gun performance. The most commonly seen accessory is a scope of some sort. These improve accuracy from larger distances, and make a very good investment. In addition, there are all sorts of other gadgets that function along similar lines, such as lasers, spotters and dot sights. Also, one can add on all sorts of cosmetic details, such as metal parts, stocks, grenade launchers and flashlights. However, the thing you should keep in mind above all else is that this is your gun, and it is totally up to you on what you want to do with it.

Tags: these weapons

Order A Firearm Online

Purchase a gun online by using a Federal Firearns License holder as an intermediary.

In the United States, any adult with a clear criminal record can purchase a firearm for personal use, be it for hunting, self-defense or collection purposes. Different states have different processes for buying a gun, but generally, one goes to a gun or sporting goods store, selects a gun, then waits for the store to run a background check and waiting period before finalizing the purchase. however, to purchase a gun in another state, including through the Internet, you need to contact a dealer or individual with a Federal Firearms License (FFL). The FFL holder will either receive the gun for you or purchase it directly, then sell it to you.

Instructions

1. Search an online gun store, sporting goods store or gun auction site for the gun you wish to purchase. Some of the more popular online gun sites operating in the United States are GunBroker, Cheaper Than Dirt, Auction Arms and MidwayUSA. Most national sporting goods stores will only sell guns at retail outlets, though you may be able to browse stock on their websites.

2. Once you've found a gun you wish to purchase, you need to find an Federal Firearms License holder. The easiest way to do this is to go to your local gun shop. Every gun store in the United States has a Federal Firearms license, and most of them will handle your gun transfer for a modest fee.

3. Purchase your gun through the website you've chosen. You need to contact both the seller and your local FFL holder to arrange the transfer. The seller must receive a copy of the FFL holder's license before he or she can ship the gun. You may send a copy yourself, but some gun stores will insist that only they be allowed to keep copies of their licenses.

4. Instruct the seller to ship the gun to the FFL holder's address; in the case of gun stores, this is the address of their retail store or their warehouse. An online gun seller is not legally capable of shipping directly to a non-FFL customer, so do not ask him or her to do so.

5. Wait for your gun to arrive at the FFL holder's place of business. Most gun stores will call you once they receive the package. Go to the store and receive your gun, making sure to carry it safely and discreetly home with you.

Tags: Federal Firearms, License holder, sporting goods, stores will, United States, Firearms License, Firearms License holder

Measure The Velocity Of A River Using A Flow Meter

Stream flow information is important to home owners, builders and developers and is essential in conducting foundation calculations in areas near the water; studying the hydrologic cycle to determine relationships between rain, run-off and groundwater; and evaluating the impact of environmental off-site and on-site flows originating both naturally and from man-made sources. Stream flow studies also assist in "water budgeting," where cities depend on stream-fed bodies of water for their municipal water supplies. The method described here is based on the USGS 6-10 Method.

Instructions

1. Select the part of the channel to be measured. The ideal is a stable stream that does not significantly alter course, depth or flow with minor environmental changes. The flow within the channel should run parallel to the stream channel orientation and not be interrupted by backwater flows or structures.

2. Develop a cross section of the stream. Measure the width of the stream, extending the cross-section to a point on the opposite bank that is above flood level, if practical. Check the depth at every foot and record the reading.

3. Stretch a tape across the stream from the near bank to the far, so that one-foot intervals can be read quickly. Cross the stream at the tape and, at each foot mark beginning on the near bank, take a depth measurement and record this information, together with the distance from the near bank.

4. Use the depth and width data to draw a rough profile for the stream. Return to the near bank and calculate 60 percent of each depth measured.

5. Cross the stream again, lowering the flow meter to the "60 percent of depth" point determined previously. Hold the flow meter in the water for 40 seconds, then remove the meter and record the measurement. Average the flow data obtained to obtain an average flow.

Tags: near bank, bank that, Cross stream, flow meter, from near, from near bank

Cover An Infrared Heat Signature

Thermal cameras work by detecting infrared radiation, and converting this information into a temperature pattern.

People use thermal technology in many different ways. They are used in some large strategy games, similar to paintball, and in security, both by police forces and in CCTV. Thermal imaging makes finding people or objects that are hidden very easy, due to their heat signature. Simply hiding your heat signature completely is not a viable option, as the lack of heat signature will make you stand out on camera. To cover your heat signature, you need to confuse the camera.

Instructions

1. Attach a pane of glass to a long metal handle. Hold the shield out in front of you in the direction of the camera. The glass filters the camera's beams, which keeps it from detecting your heat signature.

2. Cover yourself in sticks and shrubbery while hidden. While the greenery will not dim your heat signature, it will break up the silhouette that the camera shows and make you look less like a human. Done correctly, the heat signature is so dispersed it is usually overlooked.

3. Hide yourself underneath a thermal blanket or tent. Only the parts of you covered by the blanket will not generate a heat signature, so ensure any exposed parts of you do not look human.

4. Hide your surroundings. Exhausts can be easily cooled by putting a wet towel over the end, or spraying water up the exhaust. Close windows, doors and vents to prevent heat from escaping. Many walls will disperse heat slowly, and so will only register a low heat signature.

5. Wear a neoprene wet suit. The wet suit will prevent your body from transmitting a heat signature, although once the wet suit warms up this is no longer effective. As a result, this method only works for the short term.

Tags: heat signature, your heat, your heat signature, heat signature will, signature will