Written for reasonable risk takers and suburban dads who want to add more excitement to their lives, this daring combination of science, history, and DIY projects explains why danger is good for you and details the art of living dangerously. All of the projects--from throwing knives, drinking absinthe, and eating fugu to cracking a bull whip, learning baritsu, and building a flamethrower--have short learning curves; are human-focused, as opposed to technology-centric; are affordable; and demonstrate true but reasonable risk. The guide maintains that risk takers are more successful, more interesting individuals who lead more fulfilling lives. "What would the world be like if Thomas Edison retired after 30 years" "working for the railroad," it asks, "instead of getting fired for blowing up a rail car with one of his experiments?" Though the manual doesn't advocate getting fired, it does reveal that making black powder is pure excitement. Unlike watching an action movie or playing a video game, real, edgy life experience changes a person. Each potentially life-altering project includes step-by-step directions and illustrations along with sidebar tips from experts in the field.

Written for reasonable risk takers and suburban dads who want to add more excitement to their lives, this daring combination of science, history, and DIY projects explains why danger is good for you and details the art of living dangerously. All of the projects - from throwing knives, drinking absinthe, and eating fugu to cracking a bull whip, learning baritsu, and building a flamethrower - have short learning curves; are human-focused, as opposed to technology-centric; are affordable; and demonstrate true but reasonable risk.

Learn how to safely build projects that burn, poof, "boosh," and flare! This complete reference and hands-on guide to working with propane explains how to create a variety of flame effects projects that can be built with common tools and materials. Starting from the basics, this book explains everything you need to know to safely work with propane. An essential reference for building projects like fire cannons, forge torches and flaming sculpture, Make: Fire explains the history, chemistry, and combustion of propane. Using that knowledge as a foundation, readers can then construct a variety of flame-based project on their own using illustrated, step-by-step instructions provided by the author. With simple tools, you can build a gorgeous flambeau, a torch capable of melting aluminum, or flame effects that ignite jaw-dropping fireballs in the sky. Focusing on safety at every step and written by a licensed Flame Effects Operator, this book provides information that has never been brought together in one place. With this guide, readers will master the fundamental components of almost all propane-based projects and develop the skills they need to create their own flame devices and artworks.

These are the homemade machines that you’ve dreamed of building, from the high-voltage Night Lighter 36 spud gun to the Jam Jar Jet, the Marshmallow Shooter, and the Yagua Blowgun. Including detailed diagrams and supply lists, Gurstelle’s simple, step-by-step instructions help workshop warriors at any skill level achieve impressively powerful results. With Whoosh Boom Splat, you can build: - The Jam Jar Jet—the simple pulse jet engine that roars - The Elastic Zip Cannon—a membrane-powered shooter that packs a wallop - The Mechanical Toe—a bungee-powered kicking machine - The Vortex Launcher—a projectile shooter that uses air bullets for ammunition - The Clothespin Snap Shooter—the PG-17 version of a clothespin gun that fires fiery projectiles - The Architronito—the steam-powered cannon conceived by Leonardo da Vinci And many more! In addition to learning how to make these cool gadgets, you’ll find sections packed with information on what makes each machine unique. Gurstelle describes the machine’s historical origins as only he can: with verve, fun, and the sort of quirky details his legions of fans love. Whoosh Boom Splat is a must-have for every extreme tinkerer.

Combining science, history, and DIY pyrotechnics, this book explains humankind's most useful and paradoxical tool: fire. Gurstelle presents 25 projects with instructions, diagrams, photos, and links to video demonstrations that enable people of all ages to explore and safely play with fire.

MAKE Magazine’s annual Maker Faires have become the engine that drives the diverse and ever-expanding maker movement. At the heart of these events are the projects that their clever creators bring to show off and to inspire others to create. This special edition of MAKE celebrates the best of these projects, as seen at the Faires and in the pages of the magazine, as well as profiles of the makers who create them and the Faires that bring them together. Build a secret knock gumball machine Find out how to 3D-print your head Make a high-power water rocket Set up your electronics workbench