I use 3/32 inch tubing.

 

Thanks Pem

 

where can you find such small tubing?

 

most hobby stores sale them

 

Use PLASTRUCT 3/32 BUTYRATE tubing. It's stiffer and has a smaller inside diameter which means it's thicker walled...you can drill the barrel hole to a larger size if desired.

 

Why not use a Q-tip, or one of them small black coffee straws? Ita allways worked for me. And is Cheap and effective!

 

....Because glue won't stick to them.

- Ivan.

 

Visit my youtube chanel "jerryr708" I made a tutorial on how to make an M1 Carbine from start to finish. I used a 1/4 inch thick wooden painters mixing stick for the stock. Aluminum tubing of various sizes were used for the barrel, sites etc. Lead fishing weights were used for magazine frame etc. You will get some really good ideas from the tutorial.

 

Hi Jerry,

That M1 Carbine looks pretty well made. I am guessing you probably have a 1:1 model to work from. Nice video! It gave me a lot of ideas.

Just a word of advice though:
Considering that this is a toy that will be handled quite a lot, why use lead to build parts? Use something non-toxic such as tin or aluminum instead.

- Ivan.