Information on Water Balloon Launchers

Launcher Operation

• Most water balloon launchers require three friends to work together to operate them properly. Two of the friends hold the handles of the launcher, with each friend holding one handle. The third friend grabs the cup of the launcher, which is attached to the handles with elastic cords, and pulls it back so that the bands stretch. A balloon is carefully loaded into the cup, then the cup is released. The bands snap forward sending the balloon flying through the air. One-person launchers are also available; feet are used to hold the handles. However, balloons launched from a one-person launcher do not fly far.

Commercial Launchers

• Many companies offer water balloon launchers with different levels of launchers available in many lines. In a commercial launcher, the handles are commonly comprised of tubes of foam wrapped around a woven strap which attaches to the elastic, making for a comfortable grip. The cup section of the launcher comes in two primary forms, one being a physical hard-shelled cup made of a material like plastic, with the other variety is comprised of fabric that wraps around the balloon.

Homemade Launchers

• In addition to buying a commercial launcher, many balloon enthusiasts prefer to make their own launchers using simple household items which can be purchased for only a few dollars. Elastic tubing or bungee cords serve as the mechanisms for creating elastic energy, similar to commercial launchers. For a cup on a homemade launcher, all you need is a funnel which the cords can be tied to. The funnel holds the balloon and directs it at the target.

Balloon Selection

• Choosing the right balloon for your launcher is nearly as important as finding the right launcher. Balloons which are too thin will break when fired too often, resulting in many failed launches. Balloons which are too thick, however, will be less likely to break during firing but also upon landing. Selecting balloons advertised specifically as water balloons, such as water grenades, ensures the best balance. Additionally, you should only use biodegradable balloons as water balloons to prevent pollution from the burst balloons.