Spudtech Forum

So I've been toying with this idea for a long time. I want to build an AT4-styled launcher. 3" PVC would make up the exterior body, a reducer would attach a 1.5" barrel running INSIDE the body to about 2" from the rear and a cleanout in the back. It would be loaded from the rear. The space between the body and barrel would be the combustion chamber. I'd use a propane charging system consisting of a metering pipe and a quick disconnect and a "Grill Ignitor Spark Plug" to initiate. (I'll post a separate Thread on that to keep this on topic.) Thoughts, ideas or input?

This is a pretty wild idea. I dig it.

I'd suggest putting your spark towards the front of the gun to get the most out of your fuel. I'm figuring the flame has to travel down the chamber, turn, turn again, then push the projectile. If you ignite towards the loading end of the gun, you'll waste the fuel that's located at the front of the gun as it will ignite when the projectile is towards the end of the barrel.

How long were you thinking this would be?

hi Swiat34 i just want to know if your AT4-styled launcher is already done i wanna see how it looks like and how it works? i'm planning to make one..

Hmm I like the Idea but I worry there might not be enough volume for air/gas. I tried this a few years ago with a 4" chamber and 1.5" barrel.
The barrel ran though a reducer coupling at each end of the 4" chamber and I drilled holes down the length of the 1.5" that was in the chamber.
It all came down to not enough air to mix with the propellent.
But I like what you have in mind I might try it out if you haven't already.
How are you going to support the barrel on the loading end? and you might want to give your self about 4-6" for combustion space instead of just 2

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Spud gun list as of 2014
-Best: 4" PVC chbmr 2" barrel, breach load, combustion heptane/ether, longest range 362yd
-Largest: 6' PVC chbmr 3" barrel, breach load, combustion heptane/ether, longest range 128yd