Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal, the comedic duo behind the YouTube sensation “Good Mythical Morning,” returned to their alma mater, NC State University, this spring for a unique experiment. The pair, known for their offbeat humor and creative challenges, visited Fitts-Woolard Hall to test out a peanut butter axe created by the Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics (CAMAL), which is a center housed within the ISE Department.
The peanut butter axe, a marvel of engineering and creativity, was specifically designed for Rhett & Link as part of a challenge to chop down a tree on their property near Lillington, NC. CAMAL, a cutting-edge facility at NC State, took on the challenge of utilizing advanced 3D printing technology to craft the unusual tool.
The creation of the peanut butter axe was no small feat. CAMAL engineers began by 3D-printing an axe-shaped steel scaffold, which provided the structural integrity needed for the unusual tool. Next, a compound made from real and powdered peanut butter mixed with epoxy resins was injected into a mold that held the steel scaffold. This process formed the final, fully functional weapon—a testament to the creative intersection of engineering and Mythical entertainment.
As Rhett & Link tested the axe in Fitts-Woolard Hall, their signature humor and infectious energy filled the room. The event not only entertained students and faculty but also showcased the innovative capabilities of NC State’s engineering programs. Although the peanut butter axe may not become a go-to tool for lumberjacks, it perfectly embodied the spirit of creativity and experimentation that Rhett & Link have championed throughout their careers. Their visit highlighted the lasting connection between the duo and NC State, proving that with a bit of humor and advanced technology, even the wildest ideas can come to life.
So, “Why a peanut butter axe?” Link Neal, ever the entertainer, provided an answer that perfectly encapsulated their approach to content creation. “If we make a video called We Chopped Down a Tree, we would get 1,000 views,” Link grinned. “But if we called it We Chopped Down a Tree with a Peanut Butter Axe, we will get millions of views.”
This candid response sheds light on the method behind the madness that has made Rhett & Link YouTube legends. Their knack for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary has resonated with millions of fans worldwide, and the peanut butter axe is just the latest example of their unique brand of creativity. The result? A viral-worthy weapon that’s as entertaining as it is innovative.