Prison Tattoo Guns

Prison tattoo guns are makeshift devices commonly used within prison cells to tattoo permanent ink on inmates. For obvious reasons, homemade tattoo machines are never recommended for use. If you're in the market for a tattoo, a professional and licensed establishment has both the means and the knowledge to tattoo safely and within sanitary regulations. While prison tattoo guns are by far inferior to professional equipment, there is no stopping the men and women locked up behind bars from expressing their individuality with body art. Here's a look at how homemade tattoo machines are designed and a few reasons why you're better off opting for a professional tattoo piece rather than take your chances with a poor replacement.

It doesn't take much to create a homemade tattoo machine. Even within the secured bars of a prison cell, it's rather easy for inmates to design a useful and functioning tattoo gun. A Bic pen is the most widely used implement in a homemade gun. Once the ink barrel has been removed, the empty barrel houses either guitar string, thin and sharp wire, or a paper clip. Normally attached to the end of this simple device is a battery operated motor from a small electronic toy or portable radio system. While the motor is not necessary, it helps to mimic the same repetitive and quickened ink deposit that can only be achieved with a professional machine. Once the gun has been designed, an inmate artist normally relies on a single ink color (commonly black or blue) to create a freehand artful design.

Prison tattoo guns are not sanitized under the same standards as state regulated tattoo shops. In fact, most inmate tattoo artists do not bother cleaning their tools after use. Not only are their means for sterilization almost non-existent, the morale and caution for health is normally compromised under the already "rough" living conditions of prison life. Tattoo needles harbor many blood borne viruses and disease, so using a handmade tattoo gun clearly puts the recipient at risk for a multitude of health dangers.

While prison tattoos are normally the only option for body art within cell walls, many recipients of prison tattoos find their designs need professional touching up and redesign if and when they are released back into society.

While prison guns are normally used within cell walls, there are a few curious would-be artists who try their hand at makeshift designs to save a few pennies while channeling their inner artist and inventor. If you're curious about the art of tattoos, why not set yourself up with a professional tattoo starter kit rather than design an inferior substitute?

Tattoo starter kits normally include everything that is needed for the beginner to practice and ink with professional results. While kit size and contents may vary, the average start up bundle includes a tattoo machine, an electrical footpad, needles, transfer paper, a variety of ink and tattoo flash art that will aid in endless hours of inspiration. While the price point of tattoo starter kits vary, an entry level model can be purchased for less than a few hundred dollars, proving the investment worthy if you intend on honing your unique skill into a profitable career.

In addition to deadly blood borne viruses and disease, prison tattoos hardly have the same professional results. Without the use of a quality and efficient tattoo machine, lines can turn sloppy and irregular even with a steady hand. In addition to the lack of cleanliness and quality, after care for inner prison tattoos is also compromised. Rather than take chances with inferior equipment, it's advised to avoid the temptations within the cell to opt for permanent artwork. Instead, why not celebrate your release with a tattoo that not only symbolizes your journey and lessons learned, but also your newfound freedom?

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