Proofing

[zimmerstutzen]

I have been researching some Bollerschutzen sites and recently came across pictures of thundermugs, with PROOF MARKS. The German word for for what we call a thundermug is a "Standboller" Apparently they have a way to proof their creations and have an official cartouche put on the item. They have a whole class of salute guns and clubs to shoot them, but what surprised me was the proofing. I am not sure if the hand held bollers are proofed as well. Check the thumbnail picture of the firing mechanism about half way down the page at http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Böllerschießen
When you blow up the picture there are proof marks.

 

[Treestalker]

Wow, you are surely right! :shocked2: I guess the Germans figure somebody will shoot a projectile load someday? Maybe just an insurance CYA? I do love the stainless thundermugs with attached firing mechanisms, German efficiency and fun too! :grin: Thank you, Zimm., I have now been shown how to build a superior instrument! :hatsoff: George B.

 

[Poor Private]

I have seen thunder mugs shoot projectiles at F&E events. They shoot candy for the kids.

 

[zimmerstutzen]

20 years ago I went to the High Plains and they had a cannon that was used to fire candy for the kids to scramble after. However it used lighter fluid as a propellant IIRC.

Certainly I hear of sufficient accidents with water pipe and pvc that proof testing of cannons to a minimum standard might be a good idea.

I see a remarkable number of thin walled junk sold on the on-line auction sites.