- Where To Recycle Co2 Cartridges For Sale
- Where To Recycle Co2 Cartridges For Cash
- How To Empty Co2 Cartridges
By Jim Langley
Not long ago, when we were discussing frame pumps and CO2 cartridges, RBR Editor John Marsh shared this ride story with me. Perhaps something similar has happened to you:
“I was with a buddy recently who seemed to have never used his CO2 system before (or I guess it had been so long he had totally forgotten how).
“When it came time to inflate his fixed flat, he actually still had an old, used CO2 canister attached to the chuck – and didn’t really know how to use the chuck, either. He actually cut his hand in the process and froze the chuck onto the canister (which might have explained why the old one was there in the first place!). This is a very experienced rider, BTW.
“The result was that I had a full 10 minutes of standing there holding my buddy’s bike up as he fiddled with the wheel and tire, trying to air it! Let’s offer some tips to help roadies choose and use a good CO2 inflator – and emphasize the importance of knowing how it works before they need it!”
Great idea, John. First, I’ll explain what CO2 inflators are and why they’re so popular, and then offer some tips, including yours.
Tiny portable air compressors
Well, a CO2 inflator isn’t really an air compressor, because it doesn’t have a pumping mechanism to compress and store air. But it does inflate tires in a jiffy with a powerful burst of compressed carbon dioxide gas. So no pumping is involved. You just connect the CO2 inflator to the valve, release the CO2 and, almost immediately, the tire is fully inflated.
CO2 inflators depend on small metal canisters (also called cartridges) filled with compressed CO2. You want to be sure to get the right size cartridge for your tire size. Smaller ones will fill a single road tire. The larger ones can fill two tires. When emptied, the cartridges are not refillable. Instead, you recycle them and buy more.
Advantages of CO2 vs. Pumps
Unlike most manual pumps that are carried in holders next to your frame, CO2 inflators with the cartridges are so small you can easily carry them in a seat bag, pocket or pack. So they’re ideal if you’ve got a road bike you can’t fit a pump on – or don’t want to put a pump on for whatever reason.
When you have a good CO2 inflator and know how to use it, you can fix a flat a lot faster than someone with a standard hand pump. So, CO2 is great for events and races where every second counts.
Disadvantages of CO2
For shortcomings, the CO2 cartridges are not free, and every time you run out, you need to buy more. Checking a few sources, it looks like the size to inflate a single road tire runs about $3 each.
Also, as John described, CO2 inflators can be a little trickier to use than simple hand pumps. The freezing issue he mentioned is because as the CO2 gas rushes into the tire, the gas becomes ice cold. This can freeze everything the gas touches, causing the cartridge freezing to the pump head and to metal tube valves, too.
Another issue is that the CO2’s speedy inflation can blow a tire off the rim if the tire or tube wasn’t installed correctly. For example, if you rush to fix a flat you might not quite seat the tire on the rim. A common mistake is to have a section of tube trapped beneath the tire bead.
In that scenario, if you used a CO2 to inflate the tire, the tube would likely lift the bead of the tire, expand past the tire and rim and explode spectacularly. And because the CO2 inflates so fast, it would happen so quickly you wouldn’t be able to stop it. I’ve heard the sound likened to a rifle shot.
CO2 bike tire inflation tips
Now that you know what can go wrong, here are a few tips for avoiding trouble and getting the best performance from a CO2 inflator.
In our conversation, John mentioned that he’s a long-time CO2 user, and he noted that the variety of inflators can cause problems. I’ll turn it over to him to offer a couple of tips:
“All of the inflators work differently,” he said. “I’ve had some that are not nearly as intuitive or easy to use as others. That’s why I finally settled on the easiest possible (and smallest!) chuck.
“It simply screws onto the threads of the CO2 canister. Screw it all the way in to puncture the canister top, then unscrew to let the CO2 flow out and inflate the tire. Screw back in to stop the flow. There’s no valve or anything to understand or operate.
“The key – no matter what you use – is to know exactly how to use it on the road. This takes practice using it while safely at home – even if it costs you a couple CO2 cartridges.”
Here’s an example of the type of CO2 inflator John uses, Genuine Innovations’ Microflate Nano.
I recommend buying spare cartridges so you always have some on hand and never discover you don’t have any on the morning of a big ride. Most riders who use CO2 always carry two cartridges (at least) on most rides.
To ensure that you never blow a tire off the rim with a CO2 inflator, check carefully after you’ve fixed a flat that the tube is fully tucked up inside the tire and that the beads of the tire are seated down inside the rim (the beads are the two rounded edges on both sides of the tire casing).
Freezing CO2 is more problematic when it’s cold outside. If it’s not very cold, it shouldn’t take too long for the metal parts to thaw, then you can separate them. Or wait a bit for the parts to thaw and then douse them with water from your bottle, which should be warm enough to thaw them faster.
Last tip! Since I still see spent CO2 cartridges tossed roadside – please remember after fixing a flat to tuck the empty canister away, bring it home and recycle it.
If you’re a CO2 user please share your best pros, cons and tips in the comments below.
All about sparkling water makers
Q: My CO2 cylinder is correctly installed. Now how do I carbonate water using my Fizzi™sparkling water maker? +
A: 1. Fill your carbonating bottle with fresh cold tap or filtered water just to the 'Fill Line' indicator.2. Make sure you insert the carbonating bottle correctly (until you hear a click) there will be a small gap between the bottom of the carbonating bottle and the base of the sparkling water maker. 3. Press the carbonating button. Firm short bursts (approx. 2 sec) work best. Do not press more than 5 times. 4. If you'd like flavored sparkling water, add Sparkling Drink Mix to the bottle only after carbonating.
Q: Nothing happens when I press the carbonating button on my sparkling water maker. Can you help me troubleshoot the issue? +
A: Troubleshooting suggestions: 1. Tighten the cylinder into place to verify that it is full. 2. If your sparkling water maker is powered, plug it into a working electrical socket. 3. Ensure that your sparkling water maker is always in an upright position.
Q: How do I clean my Sparkling Water Maker? +
A: The Sparkling Water Maker should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth in lukewarm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or sharp tools to clean. Wipe spills to keep base dry. DO NOT submerge in water or wash in a dishwasher.
Q: Can I re-fizz a drink that has gone flat? +
A: If you're drinking plain sparkling water, the answer is yes as long as the water reaches the water fill line on the carbonating bottle. However, if you already prepared a drink with flavor, the answer is no. Since only water can be carbonated in the Sparkling Water Maker, you cannot re-carbonate once you've added flavor.
Q: How long does the sparkling water last before going flat? +
A: The hermetic seal on the cap keeps your sparkling water or flavored sparkling water from going flat as quickly as ordinary store-bought beverages. If you make sure to close the cap tightly, and keep the bottle in the refrigerator, your SodaStream sparkling water should remain fizzy and fresh for up to two weeks.
Q: How do I get ongoing supplies for my Sparkling Water Maker? +
A: SodaStream Sparkling Water Makers and supplies are offered at over 12,000 retail locations nationwide! Find your closest retailer by using the Store Locator, or shop sodastreamusa.com for all of your sparkling water needs.
Q: What are the carbonation levels on the One Touch™? +
A: When carbonating with a 1L bottle, the functions of the carbonating buttons are:Left button (one drop) for light fizzMiddle button (two drops) for medium fizzRight button (three drops) for high fizzWhen carbonating a 0.5L bottle, the functions of the carbonating buttons are:Left button (one drop) for medium fizzMiddle button (two drops) for high fizzRight button should not be used.
Q: How can I make the best sparkling water ever? +
A: Make sure you use very cold water for carbonation. Cold water (from the refrigerator) holds carbonation much better than cold water from the tap. We recommend keeping a spare carbonating bottle full of water in your refrigerator so it's always ready to go when you want to carbonate fresh sparkling water!
Q: My sparkling water or flavored sparkling water is not fizzy enough. +
A: Flat sparkling water may indicate that you have not carbonated properly.Fizzi™: After inserting the carbonating bottle per the instruction manual that came with your Sparkling Water Maker, press the carbonating button ALL THE WAY DOWN in firm short bursts. Carbonation level will be determined only according to the number and duration of the presses on the carbonating lever. One Touch™: To carbonate, press one of the three buttons to achieve your desired carbonation level.Aqua Fizz™: Press the carbonating bottle in short presses until you hear a buzz (release the button between presses). Three buzzes will produce a standard fizz; additional presses will produce a stronger drink. NEVER PRESS FOR MORE THAN 5 BUZZES.If your sparkling water still isn’t fizzy enough, you may need to replace your carbonator. Please see above for more information.
Q: I own an older SodaStream sparkling water maker, can I use your current bottles, cylinders and flavors with my model? +
A: That depends on the machine you own, it's best to contact our sparkle support team for further details
Q: Do I need a special water system in order to use a SodaStream Sparkling Water Maker? +
A: No. You may use any type of water that you typically drink at home. However, we do recommend using COLD water to achieve best results.
Q: Can I carbonate drinks other than water? +
A: No. Only water should be carbonated in the SodaStream Sparkling Water Maker. You risk damaging your Sparkling Water Maker, not to mention making a big fizzy mess! The money-back guarantee and the warranty are both invalidated if you carbonate any liquid other than water in your Sparkling Water Maker. Stick with plain, cold water and adding any one of our fantastic flavors - AFTER the water has been carbonated!
Q: How can I tell if there is enough fizz in my water? +
A: ''Enough' is a very subjective term! One of the great benefits of using a SodaStream Sparkling Water Maker is that you control the level of fizz in your sparkling drinks.'
Q: I have small pieces of what appears to be ice in the water during carbonation, is it ok? +
A: If this happens, shorten the duration of each press until the ice stops appearing or it can affect the carbonation. Any ice will simply melt.
All about cylinders
Q: I hear gas escaping from the cylinder. What should I do? +
A: If the cylinder is leaking while the Sparkling Water Maker is not in use, contact our sparkle support team.
Q: How do I know if my CO2 cylinder is empty? +
A: There are a number of indicators that tell you when your CO2 cylinder is empty:When you press the carbonating button you will not see any gas going into your bottle of waterEven after repeated presses your water is not carbonatedThe carbonator splutters, showing you have run out of CO2Pro-tip: SodaStream recommends keeping a spare CO2 cylinder handy so that when one cylinder runs out, you simply swap the empty cylinder for a full one. That way, you'll keep enjoying fresh, fizzy drinks without interruption and can exchange the empty cylinder via courier service or in a store near you.
Q: I'm pressing the carbonating button, but nothing is happening. Help! +
A: It sounds like you may be out of CO2. See previous question question 'How do I know if my CO2 cylinder is empty?'. If that is not the case, please contact our sparkle support team to troubleshoot the issue.
Q: What do I do when my CO2 cylinder is empty? +
A: Step 1: Don’t panic. Step 2: Exchange your CO2 cylinder. Don’t let your busy schedule interrupt your sparkle flow. Let us deliver your exchange CO2 cylinders and take away your empties. To schedule an exchange, click here. Want to exchange your empty cylinder in-store? Click here for participating stores near you.
Q: Can I refill my own CO2 cylinder or have it refilled locally? +
A: No, SodaStream strongly advises against this. SodaStream licensed CO2 cylinders are filled with beverage-grade CO2 in compliance with exacting FDA standards for food and beverage safety. Your local filling station may not be in compliance with these standards and could possibly introduce toxins into your CO2. Furthermore, unauthorized filling machines may cause damage to the cylinder. Damaged cylinders will not be accepted for return by SodaStream. Any CO2 filling by parties other than SodaStream authorized filling stations violates the User License.
Q: Can a different company's CO2 cylinder be used? +
A: No, SodaStream provides a guarantee only for its own products. We are not responsible for the products of any other company, which may damage the Sparkling Water Maker. Only SodaStream cylinders with a nylon shrink wrap bearing the SodaStream (or Soda-Club) brand name should be used.
Q: How often will I have to replace my CO2 cylinder? +
A: This depends on how often you make sparkling water. On average, the cylinder will make up to 60 or 130 liters of sparkling water, depending on the size you have. This number could be more or less depending on the amount of carbonation used when making your drink.
Q: How should the CO2 cylinder be stored? +
A: It is important to always store the CO2 cylinder in a cool and dry environment. The cylinder must not be exposed to sources of heat (such as travel in the trunk of a car) or placed right next to a heat source such as an oven, stove or fireplace. Every cylinder is fitted with a unique safety valve which will safely release the gas in the unlikely event the pressure in the cylinder rises.
Q: What is the shelf life of the CO2 cylinder? +
A: The cylinder has no expiration date. As long as your cylinder is stored in a temperate environment, your CO2 will remain fresh and usable indefinitely, with no concern of spoilage.
Q: Is it safe to have a CO2 cylinder in my home or kitchen? +
A: Absolutely. SodaStream cylinders are manufactured to exacting specifications that include many unique safety features to protect consumers. Cylinders are safe at virtually any altitude (our customers in the Swiss Alps can attest to that!) and are specially equipped with a safety valve that will harmlessly release the gas in the unlikely event that the pressure within the cylinder rises above threshold levels. Please do not expose your cylinder to extreme heat (such as travel in the trunk of a car, or right next to an oven, stove or fireplace.) Please see above for more information on cylinder safety.
Where To Recycle Co2 Cartridges For Sale
Q: Can I take my cylinder on a plane? +
A: We know it can be hard to leave your sparkling water maker at home, but SodaStream advises against carrying cylinders on an airplane. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has restrictions that prohibit compressed gas cylinders in carry-on items as well as in checked baggage.
Q: How do I insert the cylinder into my sparkling water maker? +
A: Link to 'easy as' module for cylinder insertion.
All about flavors
Q: What is the shelf life of Sparkling Drink Mix? +
A: Please check the expiration date printed on the bottle cap to determine shelf life.
Q: Should I refrigerate Sparkling Drink Mix? +
A: Depending on the type of Drink Mix, as per printed instructions, it should be kept in a cool dry place or refrigerated.
Q: Do you have any caffeine-free flavors? +
A: Yes! We have many flavors that are caffeine free. Our nutrition chart shows which flavors have caffeine (LINK).
Q: How much Sparkling Drink Mix should I add to a bottle? +
A: One of the best features of making flavored sparkling water at home is that you can control the level of flavor. In general, use a capful of Sparkling Drink Mix for each liter of sparkling water. If you like it sweeter, add more! If you like it less sweet, use less.
Q: How do you sweeten your regular flavors? +
A: Each flavor is sweetened differently, but the common sweeteners used are Sugar, Fructose, Sucralose, or Acesulfame Potassium. HFCS and apartame are never used. List of ingredients and Nutrition labels for each flavor are available on the product detail page.
Q: How do you sweeten your diet flavors? +
A: SodaStream Diet/Zero flavors are sweetened with combinations of sucralose and/or stevia leaf extract and/or erythritol. HFCS and apartame are never used. List of ingredients and nutrition labels for each flavor are available on the product detail page.
Q: I prefer lightly flavored sparkling water. Can I make this with a SodaStream Sparkling Water Maker? +
A: Yes! Our Fruit Drops flavor collection are all-natural, unsweetened flavor essences ideal for making lightly flavored sparkling water. Or, for sweetened flavors, try using a quarter-capful of any of our Sparkling Drink Mix flavors in each liter of sparkling water for a very lightly flavored drink. (Fruit flavors work best.) Or try using fresh lemons, limes, oranges or berries to flavor your drink after carbonating. Sophisticated, healthy and quite tasty!
Q: Are your products kosher? +
A: SodaStream products are kosher (OU) certified (click to see OU certificate). SodaStream sparkling water is kosher for passover (click to see OUP certificate). Also, please note that all Sparkling Water Makers except for One touch can be used on the Sabbath.
Q: Are your products allergen-free? +
A: Yes! Our products are allergen-free. We define allergens as being: cereals containing gluten, seafood and shellfish, eggs, fish, peanuts, soy, milk, tree nuts, celery, mustard, and sesame seeds. If we can be of further assistance please do not hesitate to contact our sparkle support team.
Q: Are any of your flavors vegan? +
A: Yes! SodaStream is proud to offer a vegan option for its users. Not only are Fruit Drops all-natural, unsweetened flavor essences perfect for making great tasting sparkling water, but they are also 100% vegan!
Q: Can I add anything other than Sparkling Drink Mix? +
A: Yes! Our Sparkling Drink Mixes have been specifically formulated to flavor sparkling water made with your SodaStream Sparkling Water Maker. However, we also recommend adding fresh fruit, juice, herbs and anything else that will make delicious and refreshing sparkling water. Please add after the carbonation process only.
All about bottles and caps
Q: Why does the carbonating bottle have an expiration date? +
A: Since plastic degrades over time and the bottle has to withstand recurring pressure from carbonation, it cannot be used forever. The expiration date on the bottle must be checked and new bottles purchased as soon as the former expires. The plastic bottles must also be replaced if put in the dishwasher, exposed to a heat source, or if they have become scratched. All components of carbonating bottles except for the seal inside the cap are recyclable. Check with your local recycling authority for more information.
Q: How do I clean my carbonating bottles? +
A: Rinse carbonating bottles with cold or lukewarm water. Only glass carbonating bottles marked 'Dishwasher-Safe' may be rinsed with hot water. If needed, use a mild dish soap liquid and a soft bristled brush to clean. Be sure to rinse thoroughly before using :)
Q: Can I use a different kind of carbonating bottle? +
A: Only SodaStream carbonating bottles are recommended for use with your Sparkling Water Maker. Damages caused by products made by another company, or during the use of non-SodaStream carbonating bottles or cylinders will not be covered by your warranty. SodaStream will not be responsible for any damage caused to products made by another company.
Q: I lost my carbonating bottle caps. Can I get replacements or use another one that fits? +
A: Using a non-SodaStream cap could potentially effect the bottle's ability to keep your water carbonated for long periods of time as they may not have a hermetic seal. Therefore, we recommend you order cap replacements through our website to stay bubbly.
Q: Can I use 0.5 Liter carbonating bottles with my Sparkling Water Maker? +
A: Yes! But please note that 0.5 Liter carbonating bottles are not compatible with the Aqua Fizz™, Crystal™ and Penguin™.
Q: Are SodaStream's products recyclable? +
A: Yes. Many of SodaStream’s consumable packages are completely recyclable, once they’ve outlived their useful lives. Remember that carbonating bottles are reusable up to 3 years before they need to be replaced, and Aqua Fizz™, Crystal™ and Penguin™ glass carafes may be used indefinitely, provided they remain free from cracks or other damage, or until expiration date. Every raw material has a recycling code so it will be easy to separate it from other materials before recycling. Plastic #1 means that the recycling code of PET is 1.PET (#1) is the best type of plastic for water and beverages bottles and can be use many times. Check with your municipal recycling authority to find out how to recycle your SodaStream items.
Q: Are all types of SodaStream bottles compatible with all SodaStream Sparkling Water Makers? +
A: We have 2 types of bottles - plastic and glass. Glass bottles are ONLY compatible with the Aqua Fizz™, Crystal™ and Penguin™ while the plastic bottles are compatible with all of our other sparkling water makers.
Q: Are SodaStream plastic carbonating bottles BPA-free? +
A: Yes, all of our plastic bottles are BPA-free. For many years, SodaStream has demanded that our suppliers and subcontractors meet exacting specifications, so that our millions of customers worldwide can enjoy a safe and superior product that is compliant with international standards for beverage quality.Some topics of special concern:Phthalates and PCBs: SodaStream does not use any materials in the production process that can produce phthalates or PCBs.Bisphenol-A (BPA): SodaStream does not use polycarbonate materials, and therefore our products are free of this chemical compound.
Questions about an online order, product registration or warranty
Q: I want to buy a SodaStream, however I'm not located in the US. What should I do? +
A: This site is specific to orders placed in the US. Please refer to your country's SodaStream website to purchase locally.
Q: Do you offer a money-back guarantee? +
A: Yes, we offer a money-back guarantee on Sparkling Water Makers purchased on sodastreamusa.com. If you are not satisfied with your Sparkling Water Maker for any reason, you may return it, postmarked within 30 days of date of purchase (please keep your dated receipts) for a full refund of the total cost of the merchandise you ordered, plus any applicable sales tax. If you wish to make a return, please contact our sparkle support team.
Q: Do you offer a warranty? +
A: Yes! SodaStream manufactures our sparkling water makers to exacting specifications and therefore we are able to offer a manufacturer's warranty.
Q: How long will it take to receive my order? +
Realtek audio drivers windows 10. A: We process orders within 48 hours of receipt on business days. Once the order has processed, our goal is to ship your order within 48 hours.
Q: How can I check on my order status? +
A: Please check with the shipment courier on the order status. Don’t remember your courier? Visit your account for all of the sparkly details.
Q: Do you have a store location or delivery service in my area? +
A: Check out our store locator to find a SodaStream retailer near you. Alternatively, go to Get a Refill and enter your zip code to determine if we offer delivery service in your area. Not on the list? Fear not, we’re rapidly expanding our delivery zones.
Q: I have another brand of carbonating system but I would prefer to use your system. Do you have a trade-in program? +
A: Yes! SodaStream offers a discount trade-in program for Sparkling Water Makers purchased from other manufacturers. We will also accept SodaStream Sparkling Water Makers purchased overseas that are incompatible with American parts. For more information about SodaStream's discount trade-in offer, please contact SodaStream Customer Support.
Q: Why do I have to pay taxes on my Internet order? +
A: Consumers must pay tax on Internet orders if the company from which you are buying does business in your state. Your purchase of a SodaStream Sparkling Water Maker includes a SodaStream carbonator, which is supplied by SodaStream against payment of a 'User License.' The carbonator remains the property of SodaStream at all times in accordance with the terms and conditions stated in the User License Certificate. Because SodaStream retains ownership of the carbonator, technically SodaStream does business in every state. When you shop at sodastreamusa.com, or place an order through our customer service, you are assessed the normal rate of sales tax for your state.
Q: I have ordered a shipment online and I want to change something (adress, day, time), what should I do? +
A: Please update the shipment by contacting the courier on the order. Don’t remember your courier? Visit your account for all of the sparkly details.
Q: Why should I register my sparkling water maker? +
A: Once registered, you can take advantage of our product warranty. And, as a bonus you'll receive a free gift!
Q: I want to send back my products to you via post, what should I do? +
A: You should contact our CS, they will provide you with a link to download a return label and packing slip. Notice - there are two parts printed, one should be included with the product and the other should be attached to the front of the package. Afterwards, please send the package through your local post office and we will process the return.
Can't find the answer you’re looking for? Contact a member of our sparkle support team
Fun things to do with CO2 Cartridges
Sometimes you have a problem that needs solving. Sometimes you have something that’s looking for a problem! In my case I am constantly shooting aluminum cans full of BBs and pellets, and have a pile of CO2 cartridges left over. My local trash service will not accept them in the recycle bin and and that leaves me in a pickle with what to do with them because I hate the idea of them going in a landfill. So I am constantly asking myself “What to do with these empty CO2 cartridges?”This simple problem spawned my idea of turning the CO2 cartridges into actual ammunition! I’d heard other’s stories about fun things to do with empty CO2 cartridges, but they haven’t seen anything yet! Now I can blow holes in 3/4″ plywood like its cardboard, and the ammo is basically free!
How to Build the CO2 Cartridge Rifle
Building the CO2 Cartridge rifle was quite the fun little project. This design is based off the my Air Powered Water Balloon Canon. So if you plan to build this, you should watch both videos. I cover much of the build in more detail in the Water Balloon Canon video. You can acquire all of the parts to build this project at your local home improvement store. One point I make over and over is that you need to purchase Schedule 40 PVC or better. Schedule 20 will rupture and could seriously injure you or someone else. The complete parts list is available in the PDF plan file.
Cutting the Pipe and Basic Assembly
I will either use my compound miter saw with a crosscut blade installed (do NOT use a ripping blade. This can cause dangerous kickbacks!) or a standard PVC pipe cutter when cutting PVC pipe. My pipe cutter only goes up to 1″.
In a pinch you could also use just about any handsaw or even a hacksaw. So if you don’t have any power tools you can still do this project!
I highly recommend that you test fit all of the pieces together before you glue them up. This will insure you didn’t miss any parts or cut anything to the wrong length. This is especially important if you are not following the plans exactly and making your own design. This is also a great time to use a section of 100 grit sandpaper and remove any burs from the cutting process. Your pipe should be smooth before glue-up. It’s also important to use PVC primer before glue-up.
Wiring Up the CO2 Cartridge Rifle
Where To Recycle Co2 Cartridges For Cash
This is one of the simpler wiring projects of the ones we’ve done. As always I highly recommend that you solder your connections together and use heat shrink tubing to cover your joints. This will result in a superior, long-lasting connection. However, I know that you don’t all have soldering abilities. You can simply wrap the wire around the terminals and use electrical tape to wrap the connections. A complete wiring diagram is available in the PDF Plans.
I made a special wiring compartment from some scrap 1-1/2″ PVC tubing I had laying around. You can push all the excess wires and even the battery into the compartment. I hot glued it onto the side of the sprinkler valve.
I might even recommend putting some foam into the compartment to keep the battery from rattling around, but that’s certainly optional.
The Firing Trigger Build and Quick Connect
The firing trigger on the CO2 Cartridge Rifle is kinda cool. It’s a momentary switch mounted into the top of 1-1/2″ PVC cap, but it has to be drilled and contoured to fit the handle correctly. You’ll want to attach it to a scrap piece of PVC pipe and drill a hole through the side of it to make it concave. This will allow you to hot glue it to the side of the handle.
You’ll also need to drill a 1/4″ hole into the end of another PVC cap to use for filling the tanks of the rifle. You will mount a male air compressor quick disconnect fitting into this hole. Be sure to use pipe thread tape on this fitting to prevent air leaks. Screwing the fitting into the hole will thread the PVC cap. There’s no need to use a special thread tap to make the threads.
Firing the Co2 Cartridge Rifle
How To Empty Co2 Cartridges
I’ve said it at least 100 times here and in the forum posts. THIS RIFLE IS NOT A TOY. And it may NOT BE LEGAL in your area. Check your local laws to be sure! I blew holes into 1/2″ wafer board the size of my hand. This rifle cankill people. You assume all risks for building it and using it. Don’t point it at anyone or any animal (or anything you don’t want to destroy!!). You have been warned!
Firing the rifle is as simple as adding compressed air to the chamber and pulling the trigger. Depending on the barrel dimensions you picked and the brand of CO2 cartridges you have you may need to wrap some duct tape around the empty cartridge (your projectile) to make it fit more snuggly. Always be sure to lubricate the barrel with a little vegetable oil before each use.
Video Transcript
So I have this little Umarex CP99 pistol. It looks like a Walther .22, but its really just a CO2 powered BB pistol. I spend a lot of time shooting it at tin cans in my back yard and its a lot of fun, but I end up with a lot of these. And that got me thinking, “Could I shoot these?”
Be sure to checkout TheGeekPub.com for the parts list for this project. As with the water balloon cannon, I again used my miter saw to cut the PVC, using a segmented blade for safety reasons. However, for the smaller diameter pipe I used a s PVC pipe cutter. If you want to see more details on the construction, checkout my water balloon cannon video, as this design is very similar.
Again, I used a water sprinkler valve for the firing mechanism. And once you’ve cut all your pipe and test fit it, this is what it should look like. In future videos I’ll show you how to replace the barrel to shoot other projectiles. Now that we’re happy with the fit, its time to disassemble it and make it all permanent. Be sure to use the correct PVC primer and glue for pressurized pipes.
Since this rifle has a trigger rather than a detonator, we’ll need to take a 1 1/4″ cap and drill it out on the drill press to look like this. Then drill two holes in it to accept the momentary switch.
And now I want this rifle to look awesome, so its time for a slick paint job! And since I’m doing two colors (green and black), I’ll have to paint the green first, tape it off and then paint the black. Feel free to go crazy with your paint scheme, just be sure to let it dry 24 hours between coats. And once the final coat is dry, carefully remove the masking tape from all the parts. Now we’ll need to go ahead and add PVC pipe tape to all of the threaded components.
Since we don’t have detonator, I made this little cover to hide our battery and cables. Speaking of cables, its now time to cut and strip our wire. We’ll need to attach the momentary switch to a 20″ section of doorbell wire. Now solder the other end to the 9V battery snaps and sprinkler valve. Then thread the doorbell wire through the hole on the bottom of the cap and pull it all the way through. We can then install the momentary switch into the top of the cap, and screw it on tightly with the provided knurled nut.
To attach the battery housing and trigger housing I used hot glue. Just hold it in place for about 30 seconds while the glue dries. Now just insert the battery and close the cap. Also, I covered the doorbell wire with this plastic flex tube to clean up the look. To test it for leaks before firing, attach it to an air compressor and close the valve.
And that’s it, our air rifle is now complete! But we need some ammo! Take an empty CO2 cartridge and wrap it one time with a piece of duct tape. This will ensure a tight seal between our cartridge and the inside of the rifle barrel. Add some vegetable oil to the barrel and slip in the CO2 cartridge.
Now guys, use extreme caution and fire your first shot. I was easily able to blow a two inch hole through this piece of OSB decking. You can see on my second shot with the camera a little closer. This thing is made for carnage and easily left a hole as big as my hand. And remember those soda cans I like to shoot? Yeah their no match for this thing either, as I blew them halfway across my yard. Take a look at the difference between this can I shot with BBs and the can I shot with the cartridge rifle. There’s literally no comparison!
I even invited David from Awesome Airguns over to take a shot. We’ll guys, I’m not kidding when I say to be careful with this project. Adult supervision is required and you assume all risks. Thanks for watching, and if you enjoyed this project, please like and subscribe to my channel on YouTube.