How to Make Your Own Blowgun

by Anthony Smith

Overview

A blowgun can be both a fun toy and a serious weapon that can be used for hunting. Because blowguns are not in use in the United States nearly as much as in other parts of the world, it may difficult to find one available for purchase. Fortunately, you can build your own blowgun with just a few basic materials and less than an hour of your time.

Step 1

Purchase a 6-foot length of 1/2-inch EMT conduit. Hardware stores will usually cut it down to size for free when you purchase it there.
Step 2

Make ports for the discharge end of the blow gun. Drill six to eight 1/8-inch diameter holes in the exit area of the conduit, about 1 inch from the end. These holes will reduce turbulence and improve the way the darts fly.
Step 3

Apply glue to the back side of some sandpaper and wrap it around the end of the dowel rod. Insert it into the ported end of the conduit and sand down the rough edges that are left from the holes you drilled.
Step 4

Wrap both the inlet and discharge ends of the conduit with three to four turns of electrical tape. Press on a 3/4-inch schedule 40 PVC male adapter to the discharge end. If it does not go on snug and secure, add a couple more wraps of electrical tape and try it again. In a similar fashion, put the 1-inch male adapter on the inlet side to be used as a mouthpiece.
Step 5

Decorate the blow gun to your liking with paint, colored tape or decals.

2
1/2-inch EMT conduit (6 feet in length) Electric drill with 1/8 inch bit Sandpaper Wood glue Dowel rod, 1/2-inch diameter Electrical tape Schedule 40 PVC male adapters - 3/4-inch (1) and 1-inch (1)
1/2-inch EMT conduit (6 feet in length)
Electric drill with 1/8 inch bit
Sandpaper
Wood glue
Dowel rod, 1/2-inch diameter
Electrical tape
Schedule 40 PVC male adapters - 3/4-inch (1) and 1-inch (1)

Overview