Post by hawkeyes on Jul 5, 2019 8:16:16 GMT -7
Personally I'm a HUGE fan of 18th century artillery pieces and siege mortars for one. The overall power and elegance of the pieces have always been intriguing to me.
This little guy is something I've never shared since it is not theoretically a "period piece" but being we are actively engaged with our independence day weekend celebrations I feel it fitting to share.
Now building artillery pieces is no laughing matter and caution must be exercised for obvious reasons. I'm a certified structural and high pressure welder with a machining background, which doesn't make me a expert by any means yet it aids in the ability to produce properly functioning pieces safely.
This little mortar always is a crowd pleaser at the family gatherings and yesterday was no exception! Loaded with 240gr of 2F she gives of one heck of a pleasing boom! When I proofed the barrel I used 600gr of powder and WOW what a ear killer!
Made this mortar not as a exact replica, it mimics multiple attributes from various siege mortars of the period but rather it's about safe functionality and a learning tool to share with those interested. The barrel was made from solid round bar that was bored to a 1 1/4" bore diameter. I threaded the breech area and a high pressure plug was installed, which is welded in place. I used a flat face breech design which on such a small mortar is reliable and easy to clean. Vent is drilled to 1/8" to accommodate safety fuse, I prefer a powder pan like originals but using homemade fuse and safety fuse is reliable and easy which, again is more effective given the size.
Carriage is made from a solid piece of douglas fir and all the loading accessories I made to complement the set. Very fun little mortar and a true "blast" to shoot at night! A full size replica is actually in work... :-)
This little guy is something I've never shared since it is not theoretically a "period piece" but being we are actively engaged with our independence day weekend celebrations I feel it fitting to share.
Now building artillery pieces is no laughing matter and caution must be exercised for obvious reasons. I'm a certified structural and high pressure welder with a machining background, which doesn't make me a expert by any means yet it aids in the ability to produce properly functioning pieces safely.
This little mortar always is a crowd pleaser at the family gatherings and yesterday was no exception! Loaded with 240gr of 2F she gives of one heck of a pleasing boom! When I proofed the barrel I used 600gr of powder and WOW what a ear killer!
Made this mortar not as a exact replica, it mimics multiple attributes from various siege mortars of the period but rather it's about safe functionality and a learning tool to share with those interested. The barrel was made from solid round bar that was bored to a 1 1/4" bore diameter. I threaded the breech area and a high pressure plug was installed, which is welded in place. I used a flat face breech design which on such a small mortar is reliable and easy to clean. Vent is drilled to 1/8" to accommodate safety fuse, I prefer a powder pan like originals but using homemade fuse and safety fuse is reliable and easy which, again is more effective given the size.
Carriage is made from a solid piece of douglas fir and all the loading accessories I made to complement the set. Very fun little mortar and a true "blast" to shoot at night! A full size replica is actually in work... :-)
