mortar tube length, coehorn popcans.

[capperbar]

I was wondering what experience you may have had with the range versus barrel length in this size mortar.  I see mortars with a can length or slightly less up to about two cans long.  I can turn a tube for a coehorn up to about 13" total length but the weight gain is pretty impressive and 80+ pounds is a lot to move around.  Any suggestions as to a good length for reasonable charges and expected range?  As always bigger is better but the little ones are really cute.  

Sav

[GGaskill]

I have a beer can mortar (overall length 15", bore length 10.5", weight a lot) and a 2 lb sinker mortar (about 8" overall).  The smaller one will launch a 2 lb sinker 600 yards on the same charge the larger one will launch a 1/2 full with concrete beer can 200 yards.  The larger one will take a heavier charge but the concrete breaks up.  I expect I would get longer ranges with the large one if I used zinc or lead shot.

You kind of have to factor in where you can fire the piece also.  Not much value to have 600 yard range but a 100 yard place to fire.

[Cat Whisperer]

I was wondering what experience you may have had with the range versus barrel length in this size mortar.  I see mortars with a can length or slightly less up to about two cans long.  I can turn a tube for a coehorn up to about 13" total length but the weight gain is pretty impressive and 80+ pounds is a lot to move around.  Any suggestions as to a good length for reasonable charges and expected range?  As always bigger is better but the little ones are really cute.  
Sav

capperbar -

The longer the barrel the greater the range.  2 examples: beercan caliber mortars - one beer can length bore - range: 100-130 meters; the other has about a 24" bore, range: 450 meters.
 
So for 100 yard range the little one uses much more powder, makes much more noise & smoke for the same bullet.


AND - welcome to the board!  Keep the questions coming.
I understand weight - my 4.5 weighs 103 lbs.  Going to the surgeon today to see if it's a hernia or a torn/pulled ligament.