Desktop Catapult

Step 1: Desktop Catapult

This Instructable will show you how to create a small desktop catapult that can be made with a few supplies from around the office. Although it may seem there are a lot of steps, but don't despair each one is very simple and you will be launching paper balls and other desk junk in no time.

Step 2: Suppplies

So the first thing we need to do is gather the proper supplies. So here's the list:

Supplies                                                              Tools
2 Jumbo paperclips                                          Wire snippers
1 Cheapo ballpoint pen                                    Hot glue gun
2 Push Pins
1 Sleeve of staples
   Tape

Step 3: Prep Work

The first thing we need to do is disassemble the pen. We wont be using the cartridge so you can toss that.

Step 4: Paper Clip- Step 1

So first lets set-up the paperclips like so.

Step 5: Paper Clip- Step 2

Now bend the elbow joints upwards as pictured.

Step 6: Paper Clip- Step 3

Bring them around in a loop .

Step 7: Paper Clip- Step 4

Now use the wire snippers to cut the ends for mainly aesthetic purposes.  You can alternately just bend them outwards so it doesn't catch the arm.

Step 8: Putting it together

So here's the toughest step, put the push pin through the loop and then the pen. It works best if the push pin goes through both sides but you will have to stagger them. You want to put the push pin about a third of the way down. This step is hard because any thing that was done differently to the two paper clips in previous steps will show. Don't be afraid to fiddle with the paperclips. Make sure it can stand alone.

Step 9: Securing the base - Step 1

Now put a strip of tape on top of the base and then flip it over and but another one on.

Step 10: Securing the base - Step 2

You can add a  couple pieces of tape to make it a bit more solid and then you can cut off the excess on the end.

Step 11: Making the Bucket - Step 1

First you should put a drop of glue on the back of the staple and spread it around because they don't hold together well by themselves. I found that the paper clip bit you cut off earlier worked well for spreading the glue. Be quick because it dries fast.

Step 12: Making the Bucket - Step 2

Now attach it using another drop of hot glue on the arm.

Step 13: Making the Bucket - Step 3

To complete the bucket wrap a piece of tape around the back .

Step 14: Making the Bucket - Step 4

Finally, snip off the excess and there is your catapult basket.

Step 15: Final Catapult

There you go, now you have a small desktop catapult. To fire put a finger on the base and then flick the end to send your projectile flying.