Jumping cracker

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Jumping crackers or Jumping jacks are a type of firecracker. When lit each segment loudly pops (or bangs, depending on how much paper is used) and has a nasty habit to unpredictably jump around, (hence the name) changing direction with each bang.

They were a common firework available in assortments in the 1930's from such companies as Brocks. They were subsequently banned for their unpredictable nature.

[edit] Materials

Kraft paper

You will need some kraft paper around 30-50 lbs in thickness.

Propellant

Meal powder, a few percents of dextrin can be added, however not necessary.

Other

Fuse, preferably visco fuse, but black match or touchpaper can substitute. Also a paint brush, water, glue, and string is needed.

[edit] Method

Click for larger image
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A jumping cracker is made of a craft paper strip roughly 6 cm by 25cm. It is also possible to use a longer strip, this will result in more cracks (or "jumps"). First a line of wet meal powder is applied with a small paint brush along the longer edge of the strip of kraft paper, which is then wound several times and glued.

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Click for larger image

It looks much like quick match tube. One end is then bent, thus making an end chamber.

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The tube is now zig-zagged as many times as the length allows and a piece of fuse stuck into the opposite open end.

Click for larger image
Click for larger image

A piece of twine or string is then tightly wound around the center and criss-crossed around each segment of the snake-looking device. It is then left to dry for a day or more.

When lit, each segment loudly pops (or bangs, depending on how much paper is used) and has a nasty habit to unpredictably jump around (hence the name) changing direction with each bang.

[edit] References

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