Posted: 3/16/2011 3:48:06 PM EDT
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Hello fellas and fella-ets,
I've got an idea that I've been working on in my head, but just not sure how to execute it. I'm getting married in 17 days and wanting to make something kinda unique for my groomsmen. I've got an idea to take some of my spent .223 shells, pop out the primer, put in some bb's, load a bullet, and turn it into a keychain that I will have personalized with some engraving. Pretty simple concept, but I'm not sure the best method of turning into a keychain. Simplest method would be to drill 2 holes through the case and slip through some "beaded cord" or "fanpull cord" and then attach a keyring loop to that. But thats not "nice" enough in my opinion. Im wanting to somehow use some sort of something or another to go through the primer hole and be captured on the inside of the case so as not to compromise the shell casing, I just dont wanna have to drill holes. Any ideas? Should be pretty simple if anyone has any idea of what type of materials I should be using or working with. Im just lacking the knowledge and experience of the little pieces that are available to make this happen. Thanks in advance |
| I'd say pop the primer as you plan, and just use a laniard, of your choosing, tied in a knot on both sides. Insert the center of the laniard down the neck of the case and the knots will keep it from coming out the of the primer hole. Pack the rest of the case with epoxy. That will help keep the knots secure and will help keep the case from getting dented in the pocket. |
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nevermind, I google'd "eye screw". Its exactly what I had initially thought about to be honest. My biggest concern was durability. I understand its kinda a small inexpensive type gift, but I want it to at least look "professional" if possible. I guess I could insert the eye screw and then some epoxy into the bottom inside of the case for integrity or durability. Seems to be about my only option that I can come up with. Not that I think its a bad idea, I think it'd work well actually.
I suppose I'll be working on this soon and I'll report back afterwards with results. If between now and then, anyone has any ideas, I'm all ears. |
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http://www.spacepen.com/375bulletpen.aspx
use these casings instead for a doubly awesome gift |
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If you go homemade and use a brass shell casing, it should stay at least somewhat polished or develop a patina if they are carrying it regularly. Or, polish it to a shine, de-grease with brake parts cleaner or mineral spirits, and then spray with a few thin coats of a clear lacquer. There is lacquer especially made for clear coating brass. However, the lacquer will eventually scratch or wear off. Clear Varathane (polyurethane varnish) might work better than brass lacquer- it's very durable. As suggested above, nickel-plated casings might do the trick.
Those Fisher bullet pens look nice! Maybe go that route and save time. |