Boltboy and I demonstrate how to modify EG-18 smoke grenades such that they can be launched from a can cannon. We call them 66mm DPS (Dual-Purpose Smoke) rounds, since they can be launched for hasty target reference points or thrown/launched for screening movement.
We are NOT building explosives, we are simply putting a pre-made pyrotechnic into a shell that can be launched. The techniques shown in this video were all done in a safe and legal manner. Ensure that you comply with all state and federal laws before attempting to recreate anything from this video.
At this point in our experimentation, I have concluded that the can cannon (66mm soda can launcher using 5.56 blanks) has a place in the Minuteman or Jäger squad. Launching smoke grenades is just scratching the surface of what is possible, you could hypothetically launch any payload using a can as wadding in this fashion, so long as the weight does not exceed 450 grams or so. As we continue our experimentation, I am developing TACSOPs (tactical standard operating procedures) for its use, which I will publish once I am happy with it.
We are also experimenting with other options for the grenadier. Strobe light projectiles could be used for nighttime marking. A golf ball launcher muzzle device would be more compact and lightweight if we can design projectiles that fit it. The .308 can cannon would have potentially much greater range (300m compared to 100m with the 5.56 cannon) if we can design projectiles that won’t disintegrate under the increased pressure.
I apologize for the lull in posting lately. Getting out of the military is a long and complex process, especially when combined with buying/moving into a new house and job hunting. But I’ve resolved most of that and expect to pick back up after the holidays. If you want to see more video content, let me know in the comments.
Merry Christmas!
Von Steuben Training & Consulting 