How to Make a Powerful Coaxial Piston Cannon from Hardware Store Parts
Warning: It is specifically against manufacturer recommendations to use PVC to contain pressurized air. This video is solely for education and entertainment purposes.
The parts used in this cannon are as follows:
(1) 3′ length of 3″ diameter pressure rated PVC pipe
(1) 3’2″ length of 2″ diameter pressure rated PVC pipe
(1) 1/2″ PVC ball valve (the cannon may benefit from a larger valve, so consider 3/4″ or 1″ valves and adjust the fittings on the back of the cannon to match)
(1) 1/2″ x 2″ long threaded PVC pipe nipple
(1) 1 1/2″ to 1/2″ threaded PVC reducer
(1) 3″ to 1 1/2″ PVC reducer
(1) 3″ PVC coupling
(1) 3″ female threaded adapter
(1) 3″ male threaded adapter
(1) 3″ to 2″ PVC flush bushing
(4) 1″ long self tapping screws
(1) brass air compressor tank valve
(2) 3″ galvanized steel gas vent tee caps (I have not tried it myself, but a hockey puck may also work as a replacement piston according to others)
(1) 3″ rubber washer or sheet rubber
(1) 3″ tank to bowl rubber gasket
Other supplies and tools needed:
PVC Primer & Cement
Epoxy
Super Glue
TFE Pipe Thread Paste
Coarse and fine Sandpaper
Bench Grinder or Metal Files
Drill & Bits
Bicycle Pump or Air Compressor
