World Record Piercings Now Number 1501

A new body piercing record was set in April 2010. Ed Bruns of Wyoming set a new record with 1,501 surface piercings on his body. The previous record was 1,197.

These high-volume body piercing records are done with surface piercings, whereby hypodermic tips are inserted in shallow skin piercings. Row upon row of needles are able to be set along the person's torso, up and down the back, sides and front of the body. The more fleshy parts of the arms and legs are also able to support needle rows.

The event took place at the Pain For Sale tattoo and piercing studio, located in Gillette, which has the unique slogan "We cater to cowards." Clearly Mr. Bruns was anything but. Over 100 people showed up to watch, including Bruns' 10-year-old daughter. Body piercer Robert Benson was the one who spent over four hours putting needles into Mr. Bruns. one who tries for such a world record is able to achieve it. Although the pain of these shallow piercings is not that intense, the prolonged process can send people into shock and force them to stop. The needle tips used were 16g, which is just slightly larger than the size of the average ear piercing, but smaller than most permanent body piercings.

The piercing was videotaped and several notaries were on hand to witness the event, part of what is required by the Guinness World Record organization in order for them to certify the validity of the attempt. Once they receive the video and other documentation Bruns will then be certified as an official record holder. This is a separate record from permanent body piercings, as these piercings are only temporary. They are not healed nor is jewelry put in them. Once the piercing session is over, the hypodermic tips are removed. Bruns, however, did elect to keep one single piercing, the 1501st one. It was located on the back of his head and he decided to have a small barbell inserted as a memento of his experience.

You can watch Ed's record breaking attempt here.