Tesla coil for an eleven year old

[Minnie the Minx]

My youngest is turning eleven in a couple of weeks and hubby and I are looking into a Tesla coil as a present.

 

Ok so hubby said 'Minnie he's going to love this Tesla coil' I asked him' What is it? A slinky? '

 

In this part of the world every imaginable gadget is sold, pirated and obtainable so what is this thing? Turns out it is Nicola Tesla technology. Guess my question is would you recommend one for an eleven year old boy as hubby is away on business and left me in charge. Bit of research it is wireless technology, you can buy kits and build your own but they are industrial strength. As in dangerous imo. Went to YouTube you build it, hold it in your hand, turn it on and you can see electricity fly through the air sheeesh I've seen one of these balls in the museum and if you touch it it zapps you.

 

Moving on would you get something like this for an eleven year old ? Any other suggestions ?

[CARLIN]

A Pair Of Gloves

 

[Minnie the Minx]

Expand?

[CARLIN]

I know what I was doing at 11

 

[chickenslegs]

A quick Google of "tesla coil dangers" tells me that if I'd had one when I was 11 I wouldn't be here to discuss it. Seems they are very safe in the hands of a knowledgeable and responsible person - not me.

 

Your 11 year old may differ.