A quick upgrade that can help you reload much faster is the creation of a dual magazine. If your Nerf gun uses a clip-style magazine, you can tape two of them together, with one upside down. When you run out of ammunition, you can just flip it over  and keep firing without having to locate a new clip or refill the old one. If your Nerf gun uses a spring or springs to fire darts, you can increase your range dramatically by putting in more powerful springs.  Take the gun apart and remove the springs. A 20 pound spring in a similar size to the one original to the gun will give you much more firepower, although you may need to reinforce the body of your gun with some PVC pipe, as the additional force can make the body fall apart.  For advanced Nerf modifiers, you can further increase your range by replacing the barrel with a brass tube, and by removing the air restrictors that limit how much air can pass through the barrel. Specific details for these tasks will vary depending on your gun, but you can find instructions online for most newer guns.

Summary: Make a dual magazine. Increase your gun's range and power.


The requirements to practice as an orthodontist varies from state to state. Most states only ask you to get a dental license, which allows you to practice general dentistry or a specialty, like orthodontics. But some states, like Michigan, Oregon, and Idaho, require both a dental license and an orthodontic license.  Contact your state's dental board to find out which license(s) you need before you can begin your practice.  Find out what you need to qualify for a license. In most cases, you will need dental school transcripts, a passing score from a national or regional dental board exam, and completion of an orthodontic residency. Depending on where you live, the application fee can be anywhere from $300-$600. You will also have to submit to a background check and drug testing. Even though you've already passed your DAT and NBDE, you still have to prove to the state that you meet their standards before you can practice. The exam varies from state to state. Contact your state dental board for information on the test's content and structure, and for guides to help you prepare.  Once you pass the licensing exam, you can legally practice as an orthodontist in the state. If you move to a different state, you will have to repeat the licensing process. Some states will exempt you from the licensing exam if you passed it in another state, though. You don't have to be certified by the American Board of Orthodontics to practice — in fact, only about 1% of orthodontists are. However, getting certified can set you apart from other orthodontists in your area because it shows that you have passed yet another bar of excellence.  You will have to take and pass an exam of 240 written questions, as well as a clinical exam. Certification expires every ten years. You must take and pass a renewal exam every decade to prove you are still able to practice at a high standard.

Summary: Research licensing requirements in your area. Apply for your dental and/or orthodontic license. Take and pass your licensing exam. Consider getting board-certified.


that will be comfortable based on the weather forecast. There’s a big difference between what you’ll need to wear for a hot-weather trip versus a cold-weather trip. Look at the weather forecast to see what temperatures are predicted for your travel dates about one week ahead of time. Remember that you’ll need daytime clothes and clothes to sleep in. Depending on your planned activities, you may also need clothes for hiking, swimming, rock climbing, or other specific outings.  Focus on packing lightweight clothes that can be easily put on or taken off as the temperature changes throughout the day and night. For cooler temperatures, don’t forget to bring gloves and a hat, as well as an appropriate jacket. For example, wear a tank top underneath a long-sleeved shirt underneath a sweatshirt if you’re camping in cooler weather. You can remove or add layers as needed. Long johns are great to wear underneath pants for an extra layer of warmth. Moisture-wicking clothing will be the most comfortable as it’ll help keep your skin cool and dry, even if you’re sweating. A rain jacket with a hood is a great investment because it’ll keep your head and hair dry, which will make you more comfortable. Avoid jackets and clothes that are made of PVC (vinyl clothing). They’ll keep you dry, but they aren’t made of a breathable material and can cause you to overheat quickly. If you don’t want to invest in waterproof boots, you can buy a spray that goes over your current shoes to help keep moisture from seeping through. Always wear your boots with socks, and avoid wearing new boots, as they’ll most likely cause blisters and foot pain. Choose socks that are high enough to protect the back of your ankle from the rubbing motion that will occur when you walk. Never wear flip-flops or other flimsy shoes while hiking—they don’t provide good protection from rocks, they don’t support your feet, and they might break easily. If you have a new pair of boots, wear them around the house every day during the week before your camping trip and take short walks outside. This’ll help break them in before you leave for your trip. Flip-flops are helpful to slip on while you’re hanging out at the campsite. Wear them when you go the bathroom, to shower, or to get food or water. Putting on boots every time you wanted to move out of your tent could be exhausting! Bring traditional flip-flops or get a sturdier pair that laces around your ankles to help them stay on better.

Summary: Choose clothes Opt for layers to bundle up at night and stay cool during the day. Bring a waterproof jacket and boots in case it rains. Wear broken-in hiking boots if you plan on hitting the trails. Pack a pair of flip-flops if you’re planning on showering at a campsite.


This will only work on some types of mastic, usually in recent homes. It's worth trying first, as wetting the mastic can make other methods safer. You should notice the mastic loosening within 20 to 60 minutes.  Mix the hot water with vinegar or citrus degreaser for extra strength. Old, black mastic may contain asbestos. Keep it wet at all times during removal, to prevent dangerous dust. Once the mastic is wet, try to break it off with a hammer and chisel. If it's soft, scrape it off with a wide putty knife. Use a long-handled edge scraper on floors to save bending over. Some modern mastics or mastics containing linseed oil will soften when heated. However, these are also flammable. Wear heat-resistant gloves and use the heat gun for no more than a few seconds at each spot. Scrape up with a putty knife as you go.
Summary: Soak the mastic in hot water. Chisel the mastic off. Use a heat gun cautiously.