Friday, September 23, 2011

"STEAM PISTOL" Revisited

Just over two years ago, I finished my Steam Pistol (see here for more details), since then, the metallic finish had become tarnished, the markings had begun to peel, and the wood effect plastic handle had begun to get on my nerves.

So, over a quiet weekend, I found the time to re-finish the old girl:


Close-up of the new markings:

These have been etched on brass using salt-water electrolysis, a simple but very effective method:

The new handle has been hand turned on a lathe from a piece of cedar, or possibly mahogany (the joy of off-cuts!):
The metallic finish is a chrome-effect over gloss black, giving a very bright, highly metallic finish.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

The "COMMODORE" Plasma Ray Pistol

Back from the ASYLUM (Europe's largest Steampunk Convivial), where I was able to deliver this little item to it's new owner:


It comes in a velvet lined box, and has a pair of tools and a flask of liquid plasma:


You might just be able to make out the label, and that it is "My Favourite!", according to one N. Tesla:


Delivered by hand to it's new owner, one Mr. Robert Rankin, the well known wit, raconteur and writer of far-fetched-fiction, this now completes a pair of rayguns, the other belonging to his good lady wife, Lady Raygun, which may be seen here.


The Commodore was most gratified to receive his raygun, and I shall hopefully soon have a picture of the presentation to share with you.