Home >> Toys >> Other Toys

How to Make a Bungee Air Cannon

Homemade bungee air cannons are constructed from buckets and sheets of plastic. They feature a small hole from which air can be forced outward from the bucket with enough pressure to knock down light items such as paper cups. Once you have finished assembling your own bungee air cannon, hold the bucket horizontal and direct the firing hole at a target. Tap the taut plastic sheet to create a blast of air. Air cannons can provide hours of safe, science-based entertainment.

Things You'll Need

Five-gallon bucket, 12 inches in diameter
Ruler
Box cutter
Plastic shower curtain liner
Scissors
12-inch bungee cord

Instructions

- 1
  Turn the plastic bucket upside down so that the bottom faces upward. Use the box cutter to cut a circle that measures three inches in diameter in the exact middle of the bottom of the bucket.
- 2
  Use the scissors to cut a circle that is 20 inches in diameter out of the plastic shower curtain liner.
- 3
  Turn the bucket right-side up so that the opening faces upward. Place the plastic circle over the opening, making sure that it is centered.
- 4
  Wrap the bungee cord around the outside of the bucket's opening and tie it tightly in place.
- 5
  Gently pull down on the edges of the plastic circle to tightly stretch it over the bucket's opening.
- 6
  Tap the taut plastic sheet to create a blast of air out of the hole on the other end of the bucket.

Other Toys