Make a Marshmallow Shooter

for the Kids!

If you're wanting a fun project to do with your kids, try making a

marshmallow shooter.  It will prove to be an enjoyable experience for you and them, and will provide hours of fun at home or at the campground.

Marshmallow shooters are safe for all ages.  This would make a unique gift idea, but if it's for your own children take some time and build it with them; and let them help!

When built correctly, these shooters are actually quite accurate and have decent range.

To build your marshmallow shooter, all you need are a few simple tools: 

    Hacksaw

    Vise for holding cutting (optional)

    PVC Glue (Optional)

    Sandpaper

- Always remember to use safety glasses when cutting and gluing

Visit your local hardware store and purchase two feet (24”) of 1/2 inch PVC pipe.  You will also need 2 PVC elbows, 2 three way junctions, also know as T’s, and 2 end caps.

Cut one length of PVC to be 7 inches.  Cut 5 pieces of PVC to be 3 inches.  After cutting PVC, use a rough-grit sandpaper to smooth up the edges

Tip:  Place the PVC pipe in a vise and use a hacksaw for cutting.

Start by laying out your shooter by the diagram above.   Once your ready to put it together,  apply glue lightly inside each end cap, “Tee” and elbow, or simply put together as it is - you don't have to glue it.  I prefer not to glue it. That allows you to take it apart for cleaning, or easily changing the gun design.

Now you have your first basic homemade marshmallow shooter. You can get creative with your shooter! You can start by spray painting it, cutting out some simple designs to be painted on or applying stickers.  I suggest applying at least two coats of paint and letting it dry overnight.

TIP:  Need more air pressure?  Fill areas of the PVC pipe that are not the passageway of the marshmallow with toilet paper.  This will allow the air pressure to be more direct with the marshmallow firing passage way.

Now,  for the fun part!  How to use Your Marshmallow Shooter! 

First, take a mini marshmallow and put in the upper chamber (top piece). You do not want to put it in the barrel. Blow hard and the marshmallow will shoot out the barrel.  The marshmallows will get sticky so be sure you are doing this in an area where you won’t mind that happening.  If you are doing this in a public place, take the time to clean up your mess, and be considerate of others in the area.

Let the Marshmallow Wars begin!