Magnetic tacks, a doorbell for your cubicle, science for the hungry, and lessons from the Game of Life.

TOOLBOX

Hooked Micro and Pocket Grappling Hooks $22-$27 countycomm.com

You will never, ever need your own personal, pocket-sized grappling hook. Ever. Until that one crowning moment when disaster strikes; someone will yell, “If only we had a grappling hook!” You’ll coolly draw your Micro Grappling Hook from your pocket, unscrew its base to reveal its three tiny spikes, thread them into their angled holes, recap it, and without saying a word, swing the hook toward its target, saving the day. I know all this because I lived it — at my son’s fifth birthday party right after I tossed his new airplane onto the roof.

Designed for the more serious needs of military personnel, the microhook is beautifully machined from 300 series stainless steel. The end hole will accommodate 550 paracord, but for long-range grappling, soldiers use fishing line and a Pocket Fisherman. Your own hero moment is waiting for you. —John Edgar Park

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Check out our searchable online database of tips and tools at makezine.com/tnt.

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176 Make: Volume 16