Maximizing Launch Distance for a Penny Shooter

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  • Thread starter Thread starter PoofyHair
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods for maximizing the launch distance of a homemade penny shooter, exploring various mechanisms for accelerating the penny. The scope includes practical applications and experimental approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using a compressed spring as a potential mechanism for launching the penny, noting safety concerns.
  • Another participant proposes the use of CO2 cartridges as an alternative to a compressor for propulsion.
  • A participant raises a question about the effectiveness of a spring in terms of launch distance.
  • One participant shares a link to a related concept, cautioning against building a penny shooter independently.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on the best method for launching the penny, with no consensus reached on a single approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the assumptions or limitations of their proposed methods, and the discussion lacks detailed mathematical analysis of the launch mechanisms.

PoofyHair
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Hi,

First of all, I highly doubt this is in the correct forum so move it if necessary. I've been at this forum for a while although I never really bothered to post anything. The other day however, I decided that I wanted to build a penny shooter, or a gun that shoots penny's into maybe watermelons or items of that nature. The problem is that I am having trouble finding ways to accelerate the penny. A compressor would be too big, so my guess is that pressure is out of the deal. Any ideas from you guys?

-PoofyHair
 
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Try using a compressed spring, and see how much effective it is. It can be dangerous, though.
 
Compressor? What about using CO2 cartridges?
 
How far do you think a spring would launch it?
 

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