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GHGBoy

GHGBoy

32 Cal
Joined
Apr 12, 2024
Messages
4
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Location
NE Ohio
This was a freebee. By Loose Cannon Gun Works of Ft. Wayne Ind. Now defunct. Main bore: 1.685"dia x 4" deep. Powder chamber: 1"dia x 1.25"deep. Fuse hole; .132"dia. Major bbl ring dia 3.5". Main bbl dia 3". Wt; 12.8#. Material: turned steel. Minor surface rust with no pitting inside or out. Probably a golf ball mortar. No paperwork can be had at this time. Still looking.

I figure its safe to shoot (?) but I could use some advice on powder, charge, wads, etc..... I have several Winchester signal cannons so if this is a bust I'll simply trash it out. Comments please.
 

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First off, welcome to the forum. I know nothing about cannons so others here will chime in with good info. But I think that is a good something-or-other; please don't "trash it". Someone here will put it to good use.
 
THNX Cu. Won't trash it unless research finds it's unsafe. That's why I'm hoping to find out something about the manufacturer. If they have a history of problems then - IMHO - removal from the public domain is the best policy.

Best guess for mow is 1oz Cannon to FFg blackpowder, probably use Goex, and a flour packed bore for a test bang flash.
 
I'm concerned about the lack of secure attachment of the barrel to the base. And the size of the base seems a little skimpy. Conclusion; Tie it down put some powder in it and a projectile and light the fuse. Take all the normal safety requirements.
 
That much mass, unlikely to move. Start with a capful (old goex metal can), loose pour and drop the ball in. It may provide better ignition by inserting the fuse first. By not using any wadding if there is a problem it can be dumped out.
 
Again THNX.

Captn - I like the idea of securing the trunions. A couple pipe straps should work for testing. I also agree the base is kind of light/flimsey. I have a small but well tooled wood shop plus an older Bridgeport knee mill so I'm pretty sure I can make a beefier one. Wouldn't mind an adjustable elevation stop.

Comm - Fuse in first is a good tip. Probably just use a light wax paper wad a couple of times before I pack in the flour or try launching a golf egg.
 
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