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Scrapping in the army
Good morning!
Anybody else live in barracks/apartments? I have trouble making any actual money due to limited space. I drive a pickup truck so I keep all my cans in the bed along with things I still need to break down for wire and EWaste but I have to make scrap runs every week so I don't get knocked for "clutter" any tips or suggestions?
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Become a "Sgt. Bilko" of sorts and get to know those that keep the supplies moving and are in charge of the little things. The grounds keepers, base maintenance, recreation services, food service, supply guys and such.
You would be surprised at how things really run in the military. The brass might give the orders, but the little guys with the keys make things happen.
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Most storage units require CASH. There is plenty of storage area on a military base as well as elsewhere that can be found for a good frugal trade.
I notice that the normal world of credit cards & money changers leaves out the bottom line and where the REAL funding comes from if not by "magic means", put simply.
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I made some spare money by making 'Bullet shell pipes'.
I made a post about them a short time ago, but when I went there a minute ago the pictures had disapered. weird.
I had made another post about them several years ago here at SMF and a few years before that at another site too. Same pics from back then.
So I googled it and it seems I may have started something as theres pictures of other peoples versions and such.
Theres enough info around in my posts and the pics on google to show you what to do. I have other versions I describe in my SMF post too.
Theres other things you can make from bullet shells too. Necklaces, rings, bullet shell belts, ear rings/plugs, Whistles. You can make silent whistles too using a sound frequency meter you can download as a App on a smartphone.
Everlasting matches, google that to find out what they are.
I made a list of things I could make. I did invent a 'selfloading bullet shell pipe' which would amaze you in its Complexity and Simplicity at the same time.
It would help a lot to have access to a metal Lathe. And even more a small gas torch that jewellery workers use.
Theres a DIY hydrogen/oxygen torch that can be made from easy to find parts and the info to make one is on the net. I have not made one yet.
You need a battery charger and that makes the oxygen and hydrogen from water.
I also inveted the 'Nut and bolt pipe'. In about 1993. Google it to find pics of copys from all over the world.....
But theres plenty of things you can make from bullet shells. Theres a fair amount of pics on google images to give you ideas.
Have fun/e
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My 20 yrs military experience suggests caution on scraping on base. At anytime if you scrap something other than Al cans could leave you open to being accused of stealing government property and there are some who would enjoy reporting you.
Here is something to look at that worked well for my wife and I. Buy used stuff at the yard sales and sell at flea markets. With experience you can make a nice side income that allows you the flexibility needed in case you have duty on the weekend or are deployed.
If you are serious about doing this thing then sell the truck and buy a van. This will give you storage and a work space. Don't forget to get plenty of change before going to the flea market.
We specialized in certain items and learned what to pay for them to make certain of a profit. Start with things you know and work from there. Mike
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