How To Build an Air Cannon

Parry Pretty here!

As you all know, I’m a young inventor and love to build and create things.  My inventions have helped me out of a jam, or two, while I’ve been trapped inside the Eight Realms.  So, kids (and big kids alike), I thought I’d start sharing with you how to create some fun inventions.  Today, let’s start with how to make your own air cannon.  True, it might not save your life, but it’s fun to use, especially if you like to annoy your younger brother, or even a co-worker.

Here’s all you will need:

A bucket or large can
A plastic bag
A larger rubber band
Dirty table to work on (optional)

Here’s what you do:

1.     Grab your bucket.  I found an empty plastic plant container for my bucket.  It kindly came with five holes already cut out of the bottom.  Since I only needed one hole, I covered the others with tape.  If your bucket doesn’t have any holes, cut one on the bottom.  The size of the cut does make a difference.  If you make an air cannon with a smaller hole, like I did, the gust of air will be stronger.

2.     Cover the top of your bucket with a plastic bag.  I used a plastic bag from the grocery store.  It doesn’t look like much yet, but just wait for it!

3.     Now use the large rubber band to hold the plastic in place.  I found one of my mom’s workout headbands that will work just perfect for this job!  I’m sure she won’t mind.  Make sure you stretch the bag tightly so that it looks like the top of a drum.  If one rubber band isn’t enough, use more.

4.     Now you’re ready to play!  Pound on the plastic top of your bucket.  You should be able to feel the air coming out through the bottom of your bucket.  Now, aim your air cannon at different objects and see if you can knock them down.

5.     Okay, so try knocking something cooler over.  Anyway, you get the idea.

Experiment away!  This, of course, is the basics, but the sky is the limit!  You can put flour in the cannon and turn someone into a ghost, or build a stronger cannon by using compressed air, just like they do in the movies for special effects.  Whatever you do, have fun, be safe, and keep on building your ideas!