Where to Buy Saltpeter (Potassium Nitrate)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the availability and sourcing of saltpeter (potassium nitrate), including its restrictions and potential homemade production methods. It touches on practical, historical, and safety considerations related to the substance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about where to buy saltpeter.
  • Another participant asserts that it is a restricted chemical in the US, available only to academic or research institutions due to its properties as a powerful oxidizer and potential toxicity.
  • A different participant recalls purchasing saltpeter in food stores during childhood and expresses curiosity about the possibility of making it at home.
  • Another response indicates that there are many websites that provide instructions on how to make saltpeter.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the availability of saltpeter, with some asserting restrictions while others share anecdotal experiences of past availability. The discussion on homemade production methods remains open and exploratory.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the legal status and safety of producing or purchasing saltpeter, which are not fully explored in the discussion.

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from where can I get saltpeter?
 
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You probably can't. It is a restricted chemical (a powerful oxidizer, and may be toxic as well) in the US. It can only be bought by academic/research institutions.
 
I remember back when I was a kid we bought saltpeter in food stores.We then mixed it with sugar and ignited WOW! lots a smoke and fun . :smile: :-p
Is it even posible to make it on my own?
 
Yes, lots of web sites are devoted to teaching ways on how to make salt peter (Potassium Nitrate)

http://www.skepticfiles.org/new/027doc.htm
 

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