A few months back I published the video, How to Make a Mini Cannon from a BBQ Lighter. Today I decided it was time to revive that project with an ammunition upgrade, and with that came the following video:

Also, in case you missed my Fire Wire video from a few weeks ago, you can check it out here: http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Firewire-HD-Video-Tutorial/

If you have a minute I would really appreciate a vote for the Fire Wire project in the Instructables ‘Make It Glow’ contest! Have a great Christmas everyone!

This shoot had about an average turnout for December. It sure was chilly. Some pretty nice shells and rockets made it into the air.

For more info regarding the Michigan Pyrotechnics Arts Guild please visit this site: http://www.mpag.org/

To find clubs in other areas of the country look here: http://www.pgi.org/links/clubs.aspx

I have just completed a page detailing some of the basic chemistry and types of chemicals that are used in fireworks. It is very much recommended reading for anyone interesting in learning about fireworks, and certainly for those who would like to make them.

Pyrotechnic Chemistry

Before building any pyrotechnics, it is necessary to have at least a basic understanding of the chemistry involved. There are some very complex reactions that take place in fireworks that could take a lifetime to fully reveal, but fortunately it does not take so long to understand the overlaying principles. Read more…

I have never been satisfied with simulation landmines that are made for use in airsoft and paintball games. Too many of them offer an effect that is much less than is to be expected, or require expensive refills. The following video demonstrates a mine I created from a soup can and soda bottle that can be reused indefinitely, and creates a realistic explosion of dust and debris.

Baking soda is used in the charge because it is cheap, non toxic, and not flammable. Airsoft pellets may be used as well if desired. If you like this video be sure to share it on Facebook and give it a 1+ on Google Plus!

Parts List:
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Replacement BBQ Igniter
Plastic Bottle
Soup Can and Lid
Screws
3/4″ to 2″ PVC Reducer
2″ PVC Coupling
4 Feet of Wire
Hot Glue
Electrical Tape
Clear Packaging Tape
90%+ Isopropyl Alcohol
Spray Bottle

MPAG will be hosting a Pyrotechnics Guild International Shooter Certification course in Sandusky Michigan this Saturday 12/10/11, with a club fireworks shoot to follow. More details can be found here: http://www.mpag.org/sandusky12-10-11.shtml

It has been a while since I posted the last video of a club shoot, but here is a little something from February:

Tomorrow, 12/8/11, there will be a webinar hosted by the American Chemical Society regarding the chemistry of fireworks. It will be at 3pm est. Registration is free, so get to it! Click here for more: http://acswebinars.org/mocella

I have been adding detailed articles regarding many of my video projects at a rate of several per day.  Take a look around. There is still quite a bit of work to be done on the site design itself, so expect some big changes to the look of things over the next week or so.

Hey everyone, I’m working on the site right now. Most of the original pages will be available again soon, along with many new ones. So far I have posted a new rocketry page and a page regarding how to go about buying professional fireworks, both under the Pyrotechnic Arts tab, and an updated sodium metal page under Hazardous Experiments. Give them a look!

More to come soon. In the meantime, feel free to head over to my YouTube channel and check out some of my video projects: http://www.youtube.com/user/Nighthawkinlight