OK, I'm hooked. As a chemistry teacher, I have always found explosions, gunpower, etc. to be fascinating. I believe that I am now ready for a mortar or cannon of my own. I've been reading everyone's posts and looking at all of the awesome pictures and I can't resist any longer!
I have thought it over for a while, and have decided to try to construct a golf ball mortar. I have a long (about 6-7') solid rod from a manure spreader that is about 2 1/2" in diameter. I do not know what type of steel it is made of, but it should be more than strong enough (after it is bored, the walls of the mortar should be plenty thick). I have a friend that owns a machine shop who I am going to get to drill out the bore and touch hole, but I have a few questions:
1) What would be the best bore diameter for a golf ball?
2) How long should I make the mortar barrel?
3) What would be a good starting load for such a mortar?
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
flyfisher
