1660240936270 B25f2fa795eb41a3b1d967488f77df57

Do NOT DIY: 40W laser shotgun destroys everything in its path

Sept. 1, 2016

While lasers might have gotten their start on the pages of sci-fi novels, they are now firmly planted in our everyday lives.

While lasers might have gotten their start on the pages of sci-fi novels, they are now firmly planted in our everyday lives. We use lasers to align our machines, cut intricate patterns and shapes, and much more. But ultimately, we just want to see lasers used for their original purpose; blasting unsuspecting objects into oblivion. I can not stress this enough; do not try this at home.

According to Popular Mechanics: "Sure, the military is working on 30 kilowatt death lasers, but you don't have to have the defense budget of a nation in order to get in on the laser gun fun. Youtuber styropyro build an insane 40W laser shotgun by himself in his garage, and the result is both stupidly dangerous and stupidly awesome.

Powered by a giant lithium-poylmer battery, this DIY laser shotgun has an array of eight 5W blue lasers that fire in parralel through a focusing lens. The result is a laser cannon that can pop balloons, set paper on fire, blow up a ping pong ball, and totally blind you if it gets in your eyes."

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector. 

Sponsored Recommendations

April 14, 2025
This paper addresses where leaks commonly occur, leak detection methods, and practical advice for an audit and repair plan. You'll learn why an ongoing leak detection and repair...
April 14, 2025
Here are some things you can do in between formal preventive maintenance visits on your electric screw compressor to extend compressor life and prevent downtime.
April 14, 2025
They cost more than refrigerated dryers. They need more parts and service than refrigerated dryers. They increase demand for compressed air. So when should you use a desiccant...
April 14, 2025
Follow these ten steps for energy savings in your compressed air system.