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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe Potowitzer is a homemade potato-cannon project that Hackaday described in 2016 as a fast-reloading design. Hackaday reported a firing rate of about 18 rounds per minute, but that figure is the article’s account of a project demonstration—not an independently verified benchmark.
What the Potowitzer is
In James Hobson’s October 31, 2016, Hackaday article, the Potowitzer is presented as a Danger First project: a potato cannon with a manual breech-loading mechanism intended to make reloading faster. The article calls it “The Potowitzer: A Rapid Fire Potato Cannon.” It describes a homemade project, not a verified commercial product. Read the Hackaday article.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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| 1 |
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Moon Cannon Potato Gun, MK1, Shoots 150 Yards | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
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The Bully - Potato Gun 2.0 Piezo | $79.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Aupoko Piezo Potato Gun Igniter, Classic Spud Gun Potato Cannon Igniter | $16.14 | Buy on Amazon |
What Hackaday reported—and what it does not establish
Hackaday reported a firing rate of about 18 rounds per minute. That is the article’s reported project-demonstration figure; the sources cited here do not establish an independent measurement or benchmark for the Potowitzer. It should therefore be attributed to Hackaday rather than presented as a confirmed performance result.
The article also describes custom 3D-printed projectiles and PVC pipe cartridges. Those are reported features of the project, not construction guidance or a recommendation to reproduce them.
#1 Best Overall
- Includes: Cannon, Cap, Piezo Igniter, Ram Rod, Microfiber Towel & Cannon Guide
- Quick cap for one-man operation
- Classic Piezo Igniter, rated for tens of thousands of sparks
- Potato slicing muzzle, easier loading, added performance
- For ages 8-88, this toy is a blast for the whole family
Why the injury risk matters
Potato cannons can cause serious injuries. A peer-reviewed study indexed by PubMed examined blunt ballistic impact trauma risk using three potato-cannon devices confiscated by police, analyzing potential head and chest injury. It did not test the Potowitzer, so its findings support caution about the broader hazard, not a specific conclusion about this project. See the study abstract on PubMed.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Legal status depends on where you are
There is no single legal classification that can be inferred for every location from the sources cited here. For example, UK firearms law defines a “lethal barrelled weapon” in part by whether it can discharge a missile exceeding one joule at the muzzle. That definition does not determine the Potowitzer’s classification, and it says nothing conclusive about the law elsewhere. The UK Home Office guide and Firearms Act 1968, section 57 are relevant only as UK references. Anyone whose legal status depends on it should check current rules for their own jurisdiction.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- Instant Ignition---The Piezo Potato Gun Igniter requires no batteries; simply press the trigger to generate a spark and ignite your fuel, making it ideal for classic spud gun potato cannons or BBQ grills.
- Compact Design---With an 18 mm mounting hole and a total length of 3.54inch, this BBQ Grill Igniter fits easily into your setup, offering a reliable ignition solution for propane, LPG, and natural gas applications.
- Durability & Performance---Rated for up to 50,000 sparks, the igniter features an adjustable sparking distance of 2-3mm, ensuring consistent performance and a temperature resistance range of -20°C to 120°C.
- Easy Installation---The igniter comes with a 2.6 cm diameter outer cover, designed for high-performance operation in potato cannons. Its straightforward design makes it simple to install and use.
- Length: 9cm/3.54inch，Diameter: 2.6cm/1.02 inch. No battery just press, one press one spark.
Rank #2
- New 2.0 Piezo Push Button Launching System | All New Color Design | Barrel Knife
- Barrel Length: 36" Diameter: 1.5" | Chamber Length: 18" Diameter: 4" | Overall Dimensions: 59" x 4"
- Use only aerosol hairspray. Tri-fold brochure contains detailed instructions, FAQs & safety information.
- Distance varies drastically based on how precisely assembly and use instructions are followed.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
