A freind and I set out to build potato launchers that weren’t just toys, but were highly engeneered projectile launchers. I think we succeded.
With no more than $10 of parts, we crafted our devices solely from PVC piping. Rather than having just a barrel, we decided that an expansion chamber with 3″ PVC that met a 2″ barrel would allow better “thrust”. Plus, with the smaller barrel, we were able to sharpen the end so that when you insert a potato, it cuts out a perfect sized plug.
See the video here.
Here are 3 stills from the video. The small object is the potato, the larger is a plastic bad behind it to ensure a good seal. (You’ll see my friend Mike: the same friend or collaborrated with me on the Trebuchet)
