Got a lathe to play with... built a Cannon!

[user 63672]

A lathe is a dangerous thing!

 

[Rich44]

A lathe is a dangerous thing!

Yes, that is why they are so much fun.

 

[user 63672]

I’m in total agreement. That’s why I own one.

 

[Davey Boy]

About 3 years ago I finally got a lathe. First project?
CANNON!
View attachment 233507
Ran test loads with it mounted to a sled. .50 caliber barrel full of noise! So much fun I never built a carriage for it. I started a nice field carriage and am making the parts slowly. It was not going to be done in time.
Drew up some plans and got this far today in 4 hours. The cannon "kicks" so much I am making steel wheels for it to add weight. I will probably mount the wheels to a heavier chunk of iron. I do not want any accidents!


View attachment 233551
Based on the scale from images the barrel is the correct size for this carriage. However, I like the field carriage better than a ship carriage.
Well. Did not get this done in time either...
Happy Independence Day!
William

I like how you set up the barrel for the trunnions

My first thought was spin weld with that set up

Is it set up to hold the trunnions in place during welding?

Did you buy a specific type of steel for it or use whatever scrap happened to be available?