Forgot password
Enter the email address you used when you joined and we'll send you instructions to reset your password.
If you used Apple or Google to create your account, this process will create a password for your existing account.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Reset password instructions sent. If you have an account with us, you will receive an email within a few minutes.
Something went wrong. Try again or contact support if the problem persists.

How Do You Build a Real Mjolnir? Electromagnets and Fingerprint Scanners!

This article is over 9 years old and may contain outdated information

Youtuber and inventor Allen Pan has built a replica of Mjolnir, Thor’s legendary hammer, that only he can lift.

Alternate title: Frigg’ Mjolnirs – how do they work?!

It looks like an inventive Youtuber has got Thor and the Asgardians’ secrets all figured out: forget all this “whosoever be worthy…” stuff; it’s really all in the thumb print.

In the video below, you can see how electromagnets keep the hammer firmly stuck to heavy metal objects, leading would-be lifters to think it is super heavy. Then Allen comes along, presses his thumb against the scanner, and ta-da – he’s basically Beta Ray Bill at this point.

I get the feeling that if Thor used the mighty hammer for pranking strangers, he or she might lose some privileges. Sorry if I inadvertently spoiled Secret Wars!

Allen Pan put his video on Youtube less than a week ago, and already nearly seven million people have seen it. Not bad for your second upload – and I am really excited about what’s going to come next. Maybe he’ll do Captain America’s shield! For the record, I’m thinking more along the lines of the bouncing, boomerang-esque qualities, not the bulletproof qualities…

Recommended Videos

The Escapist is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission.Ā Learn more about our Affiliate Policy