DIY Mechanics · Hands-On Build
DIY Matchstick Shooter: Build a Spring-Loaded Clothespin Gun That Fires Over 27 Feet
Materials
Clothespins · Matches · Spring
Estimated Cost
$2 – $5
Build Time
~30 minutes
Difficulty
★★★☆☆ Medium
Overview
This matchstick shooter comes from YouTuber JT's "Level 1 to 100 DIY Inventions" video series, rated at Level 30 difficulty. The mechanism is as clever as it is simple: a clothespin spring acts as the trigger, and matchsticks tipped with percussion caps serve as self-propelled ammunition.
In the original range test, three consecutive shots measured 25 ft 8 in, 26 ft 6 in, and 29 ft exactly — an average of 27 feet from a device that fits in your palm. The build can also be loaded with flaming-arrow rounds for outdoor use, and a matchbox "ammo drum" can be glued on for aesthetics. All you need are a few clothespins, a craft knife, and about half an hour.
Materials List
Wooden clothespins × 3
Clothespin spring × 1 (removed)
Safety matches with percussion caps
X-Acto / craft knife
Hot glue gun + glue sticks
Rotary tool (optional)
Matchbox (decorative drum, optional)
Fine sandpaper (to smooth edges)
Reference Video
Source: YouTube · JT's Channel · For educational reference only
Safety & Warnings
Please read before building or firing
- This project involves percussion-cap ammunition. Minors must be supervised by an adult at all times.
- When using a craft knife, always cut away from your fingers and work on a cutting mat.
- Never point the shooter at people, animals, or flammable materials. Confirm a clear, safe firing direction before loading.
- Flaming-arrow tests must be conducted outdoors in an open area with water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Matchstick ammo is impact-sensitive. Store in a cool, dry place — do not pile or rub rounds together.
- Combustion fumes can be hazardous. Do not inhale smoke. Ensure good ventilation during any firing test.
- This guide is for educational purposes only. Always comply with local laws and regulations.
Step-by-Step Build
1
Cut the clothespin body pieces
Take 3 wooden clothespins and mark the cut lines with a pencil. Use an X-Acto knife or rotary tool to remove excess sections: trim the front ends of 2 clothespins to form the grip side panels. Keep the rear spring section of the 3rd clothespin intact — it becomes the trigger unit. Mark both sides before cutting to keep the cut symmetrical.
2
Glue the grip side panels together
Hot-glue the two trimmed clothespin pieces side by side, leaving a 3–4 mm channel down the center for the matchstick barrel. Keep the panels parallel while the glue sets — a misaligned channel will cause feed problems. Let everything cool fully before the next step.
3
Install the spring trigger
Remove the spring from the 3rd clothespin and hook it across the rear of the grip, latching each arm onto the top and bottom panels. The spring should sit under natural tension. Press the rear and release — it should snap back firmly. If tension feels weak, spread the spring arms slightly further apart before refitting.
4
Load the matchstick ammo
Use safety matches with percussion caps attached to the tip — cap faces forward. Push the match into the barrel channel from the front; the gun loads itself as you push. Stop when you feel resistance; the cap is seated. For the decorative drum look, hot-glue a matchbox flush to the side of the grip.
5
Aim, fire, and run your range test
Confirm a clear, safe firing lane. Grip the body and press the spring trigger rearward to fire. The original video's three range shots came in at 25 ft 8 in · 26 ft 6 in · 29 ft flat, averaging 27 feet (~8.2 m). For flaming-arrow ammo, head outdoors, light the tip before inserting, and fire from a safe distance with water on hand.
Share your build results, tips, or questions below.