After years of playing the role of the mad scientist, I've given up the role of the alchemist in favor of the MARK LEE products sold by Brownells.

I admit it seems like cheating as you don't do anything that can kill you or the neighbors, hell, it just works.

I do miss the dissolving of the horse shoe nails in acid however. and the accompanying chants. I still use the rattle, just for old time sake.