Maker Interview: Peter Ruck

On his Maker Faire profile, Peter Ruck, creator of mousetrap catapult guns, states: “With a broken back from a train-hopping incident over 7 years ago, I need ways to stay busy and avoid the pain. Teaching after school and creating is what I do for that.”

So he splits his time up volunteering at the YMCA and Make-a-Wish Foundation and “building random things.” The guns he makes are “powered by mousetraps and bungee cords [and are] ready for action. They are generally made of found objects and store-bought goods.” The guns can shoot all sorts of “ammo”—pencils, for example. They’re customized, too—“Some even have a beer opener.” Others incorporate forks and spoons.

His top-secret method for getting the guns from his imagination and into reality? Easy: “Trial and error,” he says.

Ruck got involved with Maker Faire after attending last year’s MF and being impressed with what he saw. This year he’ll be there as a participant, showing off his guns. He says we’re capable of making these, too—though they aren’t for kids and our version will likely have to be simpler.

Asked what else he’d like to tell about his invention and Ruck offers the following: Watch your fingers.

Interview conducted by Spike Gillespie.

Maker Faire, a celebration of all things do-it-yourself, is taking place in Austin on Saturday, October 18th and Sunday, October 19th at the Travis County Expo Center. Discount tickets are available now through Friday the 17th at the Austin Children's Museum and at Whole Foods on Lamar.