
T-shirt guns, also known as T-shirt cannons, are devices used to shoot T-shirts and other promotional items into crowds, often at sporting events. The concept originated from the slingshot era, where mascots used rubber bands to launch souvenirs into the crowd. However, the range was limited, and the T-shirt gun was invented to send items to fans in the upper sections of stadiums. The T-shirt gun typically uses compressed gas, such as carbon dioxide, to launch the rolled-up T-shirts, and can be made from materials such as PVC, batteries, and switches.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Weight | 2-90 pounds |
Length | 4 feet |
Material | Cast iron, PVC, machined hard anodized aluminum |
Power Source | CO2 canisters, pneumatic, carbon dioxide, batteries |
Range | 300 feet |
Use Case | Sports games, promotional events |
Items Launched | T-shirts, hot dogs, popcorn, confetti, toys, stress balls, water balloons |
What You'll Learn
The history of the T-shirt gun
The T-shirt gun was invented in the 1990s by Tim Derk, the Coyote mascot for the San Antonio Spurs basketball team. Derk was always looking for ways to improve the live game experience for fans, and giving away free stuff is a classic way for mascots to raise morale. However, the gifts were limited by the throwing range of the mascot. To solve this problem, Derk and his fellow mascots used huge rubber bands to propel shirts into the stands, but these had a limited range.
Derk and his peers then decided to design and fabricate a 90-pound cast-iron pipe, 4 feet in length, that used the pneumatic principle to blast T-shirts into the air and into the arms of fans. The basic principle of using compressed air to shoot projectiles out of a tube can be traced back to World War II, when sailors on commercial freighter ships used steam from their boilers to launch grenades or less-lethal ammunition like potatoes at potential threats. This weapon was dubbed the Holman Projector.
After the war, the concept of using compressed gas to launch projectiles evolved into the spud cannon and the paintball gun. Derk was inspired by the spud launcher and adapted it for clothing. When he began brandishing his T-shirt cannon, other mascots quickly followed suit. Kenn Solomon, the Rocky the Mountain Lion mascot for the Denver Nuggets, had a friend build him one, and he also got involved in selling them commercially. The device was soon in heavy use across the NBA, MLB, NFL, and NHL organisations, and with improvements in design, the cannons became smaller and lighter, with some weighing as little as two pounds.
The T-shirt arms race led to the development of multi-barrel guns, such as Big Bella, a 600-pound behemoth that could fire 100 shirts every 60 seconds, and the Milwaukee Bucks' triple-barreled gun, which could propel vests and jackets.
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How to build your own T-shirt gun
T-shirt guns, also known as T-shirt cannons, are a fun way to fire T-shirts and other items into a crowd at sports games and events. The concept was pioneered by Tim Derk, the Coyote mascot for the San Antonio Spurs in the 1990s, and has since become a staple at many sporting events.
You can build your own T-shirt gun using PVC pipes, fittings, and various other materials. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools
You will need:
- PVC pipes in various diameters (4", 3", 2", and 1") and appropriate lengths
- PVC caps, couplers, and reducers
- Sprinkler valve (1")
- Hose and hose adapter
- Nipples, elbow, and valve (1/8")
- Small hose clamps
- Bike pump valve or air compressor adapter
- PSI gauge
- Epoxy
- Teflon tape
- Drill and various drill bits
- PVC cement and primer
- Solvent
- Iron pipe nipples
- Solenoid valve (1")
- Batteries (9V or 3x 9V, depending on the method)
- Switches
- Safety glasses
Step 2: Assemble the Barrel and Air Tank
- Use solvent-weld to join the pipe and pipe fittings to create the barrel and air tank assemblies.
- Reduce pipe diameters to fit the 1" solenoid valve openings.
- Connect the solenoid valve to the PVC fittings using iron pipe nipples.
- Drill a hole in the flat part of the end cap, insert the tank valve, and screw on the cap.
- Fill the tank with compressed air to 40 psi and check for leaks.
Step 3: Create the Firing Mechanism
- You can choose to use an electrical solenoid built into the valve or follow a technique like the one described by crispyjones.
- If using the electrical solenoid, solder the batteries, switches, and wiring according to a diagram.
- Position the switches for comfort and secure them with epoxy or glue.
- Alternatively, follow the instructions provided by crispyjones and use the parts listed for their method.
Step 4: Finalize Assembly
- Screw the barrel and firing tank into the sprinkler valve, using Teflon tape on the threading.
- Complete the valve assembly by connecting the nipple, valve, and hose adapter, again using Teflon tape.
- Attach the hose to the adapters and tighten with hose clamps.
- Check for air leaks and seal any leaks with epoxy.
Step 5: Load and Fire
- Tightly roll a T-shirt and slip it into the muzzle of the barrel.
- Use a broomstick to push it to the bottom of the barrel.
- Connect to the air tank and pressurize to 40 psi.
- Aim and fire!
Remember to always wear safety glasses and exercise caution when using your T-shirt gun. Do not fire at targets less than 30 feet away, and avoid over-pressurizing the tank.
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Safety precautions when using a T-shirt gun
T-shirt guns, also known as T-shirt cannons, have been used at sports games and other events to fire T-shirts and other items into crowds. While they can be a fun way to engage with a crowd and give away prizes, there are several safety precautions that should be followed to ensure the safety of both the operator and the crowd:
- T-shirt guns should be built with safety in mind, using materials and products that are rated at least triple the psi at which they are operated to allow for some human error.
- Never point the T-shirt gun at anyone, whether it is loaded or unloaded. Always point it at the floor when waiting to fire, and when in front of a crowd, point it as high as possible until you are ready to fire.
- Ensure that the person loading the T-shirt does not stand in front of the gun.
- Always put an arc on the T-shirt when firing to avoid shooting someone directly.
- If there are multiple levels at the venue, do not shoot the T-shirt near the edge of the upper level, as fans may dive for the prize.
- After you have fired the last T-shirt, turn off the pressure and hit the trigger a few times to ensure there is no more pressure in the gun.
- Do not turn on or pressurize the gun until you are ready to fire it.
By following these safety precautions, you can help minimize the risk of injury when using a T-shirt gun and ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
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The evolution of the T-shirt gun
The T-shirt gun, or cannon, has become a staple of sports games, with mascots using them to fire merchandise into the crowd and get fans involved. However, the device has a long history, dating back to World War II.
During the war, sailors on commercial freight ships from Britain were left vulnerable when their anti-aircraft weapons were rerouted to warships. In an attempt to protect themselves, they adopted a weapon developed by the Department of Miscellaneous Weapons Development. Dubbed the Holman Projector, it could shoot projectiles out of a tube using steam from the ship's boiler. Usually, this was grenades, but when they weren't under threat, the sailors would load the gun with less-lethal ammunition, like potatoes or beer bottles.
The concept of using compressed gas to launch projectiles inspired the creation of the modern-day spud gun or potato cannon, which uses carbon dioxide to shoot objects such as potatoes, paintballs, or, as Tim Derk realised, rolled-up T-shirts. Derk, the Coyote mascot for the San Antonio Spurs from 1983 to 2004, wanted to improve the fan experience and get merchandise to fans in the upper stands, so he and his peers designed and fabricated a 90-pound cast-iron pipe, 4 feet in length, that used compressed gas to launch T-shirts into the crowd.
Derk first used the T-shirt cannon, dressed as "Rambote", a combination of Rambo and the Spurs' Coyote, and it quickly caught on with other mascots. Kenn Solomon, the Rocky the Mountain Lion mascot for the Denver Nuggets, had a friend build him one, and he also began selling them commercially. The devices soon spread across the NBA, MLB, NFL, and NHL, with their weight decreasing from 90 pounds to just a few pounds.
The T-shirt cannon has continued to evolve, with multi-barrel guns capable of firing a large number of shirts in quick succession, and even triple-barrelled guns that can launch heavier items like vests and jackets.
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T-shirt gun maintenance
T-shirt guns, also known as T-shirt cannons or launchers, are a fun way to engage with crowds at various events, from sports games to concerts. To keep your T-shirt gun in good condition and ensure its longevity, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some detailed instructions for T-shirt gun maintenance:
Cleaning and Storage:
Always clean your T-shirt gun after each use. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the gun, removing any dust, dirt, or debris. Pay close attention to the barrel, ensuring that it is clear of any residue or leftover fabric from the T-shirts. You can also use compressed air to blow out any hard-to-reach areas. Store your T-shirt gun in a cool, dry place, preferably in a protective case or cover to prevent dust accumulation.
Inspect the Barrel:
Regularly inspect the barrel for any signs of wear or damage. Look for dents, scratches, or corrosion. If you notice any issues, have the barrel replaced or repaired by a qualified technician. A damaged barrel can affect the accuracy and performance of the gun.
Lubrication:
To keep the moving parts of your T-shirt gun functioning smoothly, apply a light layer of lubricant to the necessary areas. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific recommendations on the type and frequency of lubrication. Ensure that you use a lubricant suitable for the materials used in your T-shirt gun to avoid damage or corrosion.
CO2 Canister Care:
If your T-shirt gun uses a CO2 canister, ensure that you handle and store the canisters properly. Check the expiration dates on the canisters and replace them as needed. Store the canisters in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Always follow local regulations for disposing of empty canisters.
Safety Checks:
Prior to each use, perform a safety check to ensure that all components of the T-shirt gun are secure and functioning correctly. Inspect the trigger mechanism, safety features, and any locking devices. Ensure that the gun is loaded correctly and that there are no obstructions in the barrel. Never use the gun if any parts are damaged or malfunctioning.
Maintenance Schedule:
Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep your T-shirt gun in top condition. Depending on the frequency of use, you may need to perform more thorough maintenance checks and services. Consult the manufacturer's recommendations for specific maintenance intervals and tasks. Regular maintenance will help extend the lifespan of your T-shirt gun and ensure its reliability.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your T-shirt gun remains safe, accurate, and effective for many events to come. Regular care and maintenance are key to getting the most out of your T-shirt gun and providing an enjoyable experience for your audience.
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Frequently asked questions
A T-shirt gun, also known as a T-shirt cannon, is a device used to shoot T-shirts and other promotional items into a crowd, often at sporting events.
T-shirt guns use compressed gas, usually carbon dioxide, to shoot T-shirts and other items into the air. The gas is delivered into an air tank, and when the trigger is pulled, the gas is released, and the energy shoots out whatever is in the barrel.
T-shirt guns can be made from PVC, batteries, switches, and iron pipe nipples. Some T-shirt guns are also made from machined, hard anodized aluminum.