Making Water Guns at Home

The type of water gun you end up building will largely start with what you want to accomplish with it. Determine how much time and money you want to spend on the construction and the purpose of its use. Is it just for squirting others in a backyard scenario or will more power be needed for longer ranges? Will it be for one seasonal use or will it be used several months or several seasons?

Simple

For some simple, quick fun, old bicycle inner tubes are transformed into squirt guns of many sizes. The tubing allows for give and adjustments for more or less water depending on the size and capabilities of the user. If the tube is coming from a tire already in a bike wheel, deflate the tire by pressing in on metallic air stem on the tire. Put a flat head screwdriver between the wheel and tubing and pry them a part. Do this in several places around the wheel. Once free, the tube should come easily out. Cut the tube completely in half near air stem. Tie one end in a knot. It does not matter which end. Take the tube to a water source and begin filling the tube. Stop filling when the tube reaches its desired weight making sure to leave enough room to tie a tight knot in the top of the tube much like that of a giant water balloon. Finally, poke a small hole into the rubber near the knot. Do this outside, as it will leak. Squeeze the tube to produce the desired effects. Do not drink the water that comes from inside the tubing.

Latex gloves or other hollow stretchy plastic items work well. Fill the item with water leaving enough space to tie a knot at the top. Poke a small hole in the end of a finger and then squeeze to produce the desired effect. These items can be found at most grocery or discount stores.

Complex

For longer uses with more power, homemade water guns require more components and individuals under 18 should require adult supervision. Tools may include clamps, hosing, air compressors, empty water bottles, duct tape, PCV tubing, ball joints, WD-40, and other mechanical equipment. A wide range of plans and articles on the design and science of homemade water gun mechanics can be found at Super Soaker Central. The distance the gun shoots depends largely upon the design and pressure chambers. Some plans call for built in capability to have the water source (usually the garden hose) attached directly to the device for a constant supply of ammunition. As the complexity or power of the gun increases, so should safety awareness during the construction and testing phases and then always when the final product is in use. Only water should be used and should never be shot at people or property that haven't agreed to be in on the fun.