Wooden Gun Turret Pencil Holder

Command your desktop with this rugged and imaginative wooden gun turret pencil holder. Combining military-inspired design with practical storage, this DIY project is perfect for organizing your pens, pencils, and tools in a fun, tactical way.

Introduction

Tired of boring desk organizers? This wooden gun turret pencil holder adds a dose of adventure to your workspace. With a rotating turret and functional barrel that stores your writing utensils, this project is as fun to build as it is to use. Whether you're a gamer, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates creative storage solutions, this turret will stand guard over your supplies with style.

Why You’ll Love This Project

🔫 Unique & Thematic: Far more exciting than a standard cup holder!
🔫 Functional Design: The turret rotates for easy access, and the barrel holds pencils securely.
🔫 Customizable: Paint it in camouflage, metallic shades, or natural wood tones.
🔫 Great Conversation Starter: A surefire hit on any desk or in any office.
🔫 Perfect for Gifting: Ideal for fans of military history, action games, or unique crafts.

Materials & Tools

• Wood: Pine, poplar, or basswood for easy carving; plywood works too.

• Saw: Scroll saw or jigsaw for cutting detailed shapes.

• Sandpaper (120 to 220-grit)

• Wood glue & clamps

• Drill & bits (including a Forstner bit for barrel holes)

• Small wooden dowel (for the turret rotation axle)

• Finish: Paint, stain, or non-toxic sealant.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Design Your Turret

   • Sketch a classic gun turret design with a base, rotating top, and barrel.

   • Proportions idea: Base ~4" wide, turret ~3" tall, barrel ~5" long.

2. Cut the Pieces

   • Base: Cut a sturdy foundation (square or hexagonal).

   • Turret: Cut a cylindrical or dome-shaped top that can rotate.

   • Barrel: Cut a long, tapered rectangular block or use a dowel.

3. Drill the Barrel Holes

   • Use a Forstner bit to drill multiple vertical holes in the turret top for pencils.

   • Drill a horizontal hole in the barrel for additional pen storage (optional).

4. Add Rotation Mechanism

   • Attach the turret to the base using a central dowel axle for 360° rotation.

5. Assemble & Secure

   • Glue the barrel to the turret top.

   • Ensure the turret rotates smoothly before finalizing assembly.

6. Sand and Finish

   • Smooth all edges for a polished look.

   • Paint with acrylics or use weathering techniques for a battle-worn effect.

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Creative Variations

• Sci-Fi Theme: Add LED lights or laser-cut details for a futuristic look.

• Miniature Battlefield: Create a set of multiple turrets for a coordinated display.

• Historical Accuracy: Research real turret designs (e.g., WWII-era) for authentic details.

• Desktop Game Integration: Use it as a prop for tabletop games like D&D or Warhammer.

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Pro-Tips for Success

• Balance the Turret: Ensure the barrel isn’t too heavy—keep the turret lightweight for easy rotation.

• Reinforce the Axle: Use a metal rod instead of wood if needed for durability.

• Test Fit Pencils: Drill test holes in scrap wood to confirm the size before drilling the final piece.

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Conclusion

This wooden gun turret pencil holder is more than just storage—it’s a miniature fortress for your desk. With its playful design and practical function, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face while keeping your supplies organized and within reach.