How to Construct Projectile Launcher
One of the easiest types of projectile launchers to build are the type that shoot potatoes as ammunition. These are typically known as a potato gun or launcher. This is a fun project for older boys and teenagers to help them expand their imaginations. It is important to teach the user of the projectile launcher how to handle the launcher effectively to ensure no injuries or property damage is sustained during use. One of the best materials to use when making a projectile launcher is PVC pipe.
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Things You'll Need
- 4-inch PVC clean-out plug
- 4-inch PVC fitting clean-out adapter
- 4-inch PVC coupling
- 4-inch-by-2-feet PVC pipe
- 2-inch-by-4-inch PVC reducer
- Sandpaper
- File or Dremel tool
- PVC cement
- Saw
- Pen or pencil
- Fireplace lighter
- Drill
- Drywall screws
- Potatoes
Instructions
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1
Use a saw to cut the 4-inch diameter PVC pipe down to a piece which measures 2 feet in length. Use sandpaper to sand the area where you the made the cut to make it smooth.
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2
Attach the 4-inch clean out adapter piece to the end of the PVC pipe piece you just cut in the previous step. Secure the adapter in place using PVC pipe glue. Connect the 4-inch-by 2-inch reducer to the opposite end of the PVC pipe piece and glue it in place.
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3
Mark the center of the 4-inch pipe piece. Use a drill to make a hole through the mark in the center. Take a fireplace lighter and line the tip of the lighter up with the freshly drilled hole. Make a second mark on the pipe where the trigger of the lighter is located. Use the drill to make two more additional holes in the pipe.
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4
Place the lighter against the pipe piece. Secure the lighter to the pipe using two drywall screws.
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5
Find a spot outdoors to fire your projectile launcher. Shove a potato down into the end of the pipe. You may need to use a stick to help shove the potato down the barrel.
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6
Open up the clean out cap attached to the end of the pipe piece. Take a can of hair spray and spray inside the pipe piece. Close the clean out cap piece.
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7
Point the gun at an open field or a target that is not human or animal. Place your finger on the fireplace lighter trigger and pull. This will launch the potato from the pipe.
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